Personal Memoirs of Ulysses S. Grant · Chapter
Return of the Army—Marriage—Ordered to the Pacific Coast—Crossing the Isthmus—Arrival at San Francisco explained
Grant reflects on the value of his Mexican War experience and the personal acquaintance he gained with future generals on both sides of the Civil War.
What happens
Grant reflects on the value of his Mexican War experience and the personal acquaintance he gained with future generals on both sides of the Civil War. He describes the ratification of the peace treaty, the evacuation of Mexico, his marriage to Julia Dent, and subsequent postings to Sackett's Harbor and Detroit. The chapter details the 4th Infantry's transfer to the Pacific Coast via the Isthmus of Panama, the hardships of the transit including cholera outbreaks, and the eventual arrival in San Francisco.
Themes in this chapter
Personal Integrity and Self-Reliance
Grant takes initiative to dismiss a failing contractor and secure mule transport at Cruces, demonstrating self-reliance under crisis.
The Horrors and Cost of War
The cholera outbreak on the Isthmus, with one-seventh of the regiment dying, underscores the human cost beyond battle.
The Role of Providence and Fate
Grant's reflection on knowing Lee's mortality and the chance meetings at West Point suggest a sense of fate in his later command.
Characters to notice
- Ulysses S. Grant
Narrator; reflects on his Mexican War service, marriage, and command of the 4th Infantry during the Isthmus crossing.
- Robert E. Lee
Mentioned as a fellow officer known in Mexico, later a Confederate commander.
- Joseph E. Johnston
Mentioned as a Confederate general known from the Mexican War.
- Zachariah Chandler
Elected Mayor of Detroit while Grant was stationed there; noted as a Whig candidate.
- Julia Dent
Married to Grant on August 22, 1848; referred to as 'Mrs. Grant'.
Key passages
“My experience in the Mexican war was of great advantage to me afterwards.”
Grant says his time in the Mexican War helped him later.
Grant emphasizes the practical and personal benefits of his Mexican War service.
“I had known him personally, and knew that he was mortal; and it was just as well that I felt this.”
Grant knew Lee was not superhuman, which helped him as a commander.
Grant's personal acquaintance with Lee demystified his opponent.
“I did not offer mine, however, as I did not wish to consider myself a citizen of Michigan.”
Grant chose not to vote in Detroit because he did not see himself as a Michigan citizen.
Grant declines to vote in a local election, reflecting his sense of identity.
“About one-seventh of those who left New York harbor with the 4th infantry on the 5th of July, now lie buried on the Isthmus of Panama or on Flamingo island in Panama Bay.”
One in seven soldiers from the regiment died during the Isthmus crossing.
The cholera epidemic caused heavy losses among Grant's regiment.