Personal Memoirs of Ulysses S. Grant · Chapter
The Vicksburg Campaign: Running the Batteries explained
Grant reflects on his reluctance to seek command through influence, his strategic planning for the Vicksburg campaign, and the daring naval operation to run the Confederate batteries.
What happens
Grant reflects on his reluctance to seek command through influence, his strategic planning for the Vicksburg campaign, and the daring naval operation to run the Confederate batteries. He describes the cooperation with Admiral Porter, the passage of the fleet, and the subsequent movement of troops under McClernand, Sherman, and McPherson.
Themes in this chapter
Leadership and Humility
Grant declines to seek command through influence, believing that his responsibility ends with doing his best; he credits Lincoln and Halleck for their support.
The Horrors and Cost of War
The night passage of the batteries is described as 'magnificent, but terrible,' with the burning transport Henry Clay and the constant threat of enemy fire.
Personal Integrity and Self-Reliance
Grant keeps his plans secret even from his staff until necessary, and he refuses to use political influence to advance his career.
Characters to notice
- Ulysses S. Grant
Narrator and commander of the Department of the Tennessee; plans and oversees the movement against Vicksburg.
- David D. Porter
Admiral commanding the naval fleet; cooperates with Grant and prepares steamers to run the batteries.
- John A. McClernand
Major-General commanding the Thirteenth Army Corps (right wing); leads the advance through Louisiana.
- William T. Sherman
Major-General commanding the Fifteenth Army Corps (left wing) in the movement.
- James B. McPherson
Major-General commanding the Seventeenth Army Corps (center) in the campaign.
- Abraham Lincoln
President and Commander-in-Chief; Grant notes Lincoln's constant support despite political pressure.
- Henry W. Halleck
General-in-Chief; Grant acknowledges Halleck's support during the campaign.
Key passages
“I said that I would give anything if I were commanding a brigade of cavalry in the Army of the Potomac and I believed I could do some good.”
Grant expressed a strong desire to lead a cavalry brigade in the main eastern army, feeling he could make a difference there.
Grant's personal ambition and humility are evident; he later rejects the idea of seeking a transfer through influence.
“The sight was magnificent, but terrible.”
The spectacle of the fleet running the batteries under enemy fire was awe-inspiring yet horrifying.
Grant's description captures the duality of war's beauty and destruction.
“I had no more authority to command Porter than he had to command me.”
Grant acknowledges that he and Admiral Porter were equals in their respective services, requiring cooperation rather than orders.
Highlights the necessity of joint army-navy collaboration for the campaign's success.