American Experience Season 14 Episode 11 Ulysses S. Grant (Part 1)

The episode titled "Ulysses S. Grant (Part 1)" is the eleventh episode of the fourteenth season of the American Experience. It delves into the life of one of America's most celebrated military figures and president, Ulysses S. Grant.

The episode begins by introducing Grant as a young boy growing up in Ohio in the early 19th century. It explores his early life, including his education, his relationship with his father, and his experiences working on his family's farm. The audience learns how Grant's upbringing and experiences helped shape him into the man he would come to be.

The documentary then moves on to Grant's time at West Point, where he excelled academically but struggled with disciplinary issues. Despite these difficulties, Grant persevered and graduated from West Point in 1843. The audience is shown how the skills and knowledge he acquired at West Point would prove vital in his future military career.

The episode then delves into Grant's early military career, starting with his experiences during the Mexican-American War. The audience learns how Grant's bravery and strategic mind helped him rise through the ranks, eventually leading to his appointment as a general in the Union Army during the Civil War.

Throughout the episode, the audience is given a glimpse into Grant's personal life, including his marriage to his wife Julia and his struggles with alcoholism. His relationship with President Abraham Lincoln is also explored, with the audience being shown how the two men worked together to bring the Civil War to a close.

The documentary concludes with Grant's election as the 18th president of the United States in 1868. The audience is left with a sense of the incredible journey that Grant went through, from a young boy growing up on a farm to one of America's most revered military and political leaders.

Overall, "Ulysses S. Grant (Part 1)" is a fascinating exploration of an important figure in American history. Through interviews with historians and experts, archival footage, and dramatic reenactments, the episode provides a comprehensive look at Grant's life and legacy.