America: Facts vs. Fiction Season 2 Episode 5 Patton and Grant

In season 2 episode 5 of America: Facts vs. Fiction titled "Patton and Grant," viewers explore the lives and legacies of two of America's legendary military leaders: General George S. Patton and General Ulysses S. Grant.

The episode delves into the popular myths and misconceptions surrounding both men. It begins with a look at General Grant, who is often portrayed as a drunkard and a failure prior to the Civil War. However, the show reveals that Grant was actually a successful businessman and family man before the war, and that he also had a strong reputation as a military leader in the Mexican-American War. The episode explains that Grant's struggles with alcoholism didn't occur until after the Civil War, a period during which he faced significant personal and political challenges.

As the episode turns to General Patton, the show explores the many myths and legends that have grown up around the man often dubbed "Old Blood and Guts." The episode reveals that many of these myths are rooted in the general's own propaganda efforts, which he used to rally his troops and intimidate his enemies. However, the show also reveals that Patton often exaggerated his own accomplishments and was not always as successful a military strategist as he is often portrayed.

The show features interviews with historians and military experts who provide context and perspective on both men. They also share little-known facts and insights that challenge popular perceptions of Grant and Patton. For example, viewers learn that Grant was actually a very disciplined and strategic commander during the Civil War, earning him the nickname "the Butcher" among his men. On the other hand, Patton's aggressive tactics often put his soldiers at unnecessary risk and his tendency to pursue personal glory over the safety of his troops sometimes resulted in disastrous outcomes.

Throughout the episode, viewers are invited to consider the enduring appeal of these two military legends, both of whom have become larger-than-life figures in American history. The episode asks whether our desire for heroic figures and simple narratives has led us to exaggerate the accomplishments of these men and downplay their flaws and weaknesses. It also examines how the myths surrounding these two figures have been perpetuated through popular media, including movies, books, and television shows.

Ultimately, the episode offers a nuanced and complex view of Grant and Patton, two men who played pivotal roles in American military history. By separating fact from fiction, the show invites viewers to reconsider these two figures and to challenge our assumptions about the nature of heroism and leadership.