Personal Memoirs of Ulysses S. Grant · Chapter
The Battle of Monterey explained
Grant recounts the Battle of Monterey during the Mexican-American War, describing the assault on the city, the heavy losses suffered by Garland's brigade, the capture of the east and west ends, and the eventual surrender of the Mexican garr
What happens
Grant recounts the Battle of Monterey during the Mexican-American War, describing the assault on the city, the heavy losses suffered by Garland's brigade, the capture of the east and west ends, and the eventual surrender of the Mexican garrison. He reflects on the humane treatment of prisoners and the fraternization between soldiers and Mexican civilians.
Themes in this chapter
The Horrors and Cost of War
Grant vividly describes the heavy casualties in Garland's charge, the death of Adjutant Hoskins, and the wounded soldiers left behind, emphasizing the human cost of battle.
Personal Integrity and Self-Reliance
Grant's decision to join the charge despite orders, his resourcefulness in obtaining a horse, and his volunteer mission for ammunition demonstrate personal initiative and moral courage.
Reconciliation and Magnanimity
Grant notes the fraternization between U.S. soldiers and Mexican civilians, and the humane parole of prisoners, reflecting a spirit of reconciliation after the battle.
Characters to notice
- Ulysses S. Grant
Serves as regimental quartermaster, participates in the charge despite orders to stay in camp, loans his horse to Adjutant Hoskins, and later volunteers to ride for ammunition.
- Zachary Taylor
Commanding general at Monterey; his humane policy toward Mexican civilians is noted.
- John A. Rawlins
Not mentioned in this chapter.
- Winfield Scott
Not mentioned in this chapter.
- William T. Sherman
Not mentioned in this chapter.
Key passages
“My pity was aroused by the sight of the Mexican garrison of Monterey marching out of town as prisoners, and no doubt the same feeling was experienced by most of our army who witnessed it.”
Grant felt sympathy for the Mexican prisoners, and believed most of the U.S. army shared that feeling.
Reflects Grant's empathy and the shared humanity between enemies.
“I thought how little interest the men before me had in the results of the war, and how little knowledge they had of 'what it was all about.'”
Grant observed that the Mexican soldiers had little stake or understanding of the war's causes.
Highlights Grant's awareness of the disconnect between common soldiers and war aims.
“I volunteered to go back to the point we had started from, report our position to General Twiggs, and ask for ammunition to be forwarded.”
Grant offered to ride back to report their position and request ammunition resupply.
Demonstrates Grant's initiative and willingness to take risks for his unit.