Ulysses S. Grant was the 18th President of the United States, serving from 1869 to 1877. Although he is often overlooked in the annals of American history, Grant made significant contributions to the country during his tenure as president, and his reputation has steadily improved over time. Here are some interesting facts about this consequential but sometimes underrated figure.

1. He was originally named Hiram Ulysses Grant but had his name changed when he entered West Point. The mistake stuck, and he became known as Ulysses S. Grant for the rest of his life.
2. He was a decorated Civil War general who played a pivotal role in the Union victory. He is credited with devising many of the strategies that ultimately led to Confederate surrender, including the siege of Vicksburg and the destruction of Robert E. Lee’s army at Appomattox.
3. Despite his military success, Grant was shy and insecure in public. He was often accused of lacking charisma and was frequently the target of unflattering caricatures in the press.
4. He was the first President to publicly endorse the 15th Amendment, which granted voting rights to all men regardless of race.
5. He was also an advocate for Native American rights, signing the Indian Appropriations Act of 1871, which granted greater protection for indigenous peoples and their lands.
6. He vetoed a bill that would have increased the salaries of lawmakers and government officials, arguing that it would be overly costly and would perpetuate corruption in politics.
7. He helped to establish the United States’ first National Park when he signed the Yellowstone National Park Protection Act in 1872.
8. He struggled with alcoholism throughout much of his life, and some have speculated that this may have contributed to his bouts of depression and lack of confidence.
9. He was an avid horseman, and his favorite mount was a horse named Cincinnati.

10. He published his memoirs shortly before his death in 1885, which were widely praised for their honesty and insight into the Civil War era. The book was a commercial success, and the proceeds allowed his widow to live comfortably in her later years