And frankly, at least according to Chernow, the narrative we have of Grant — a ragged alcoholic who was fortunate to be the last general standing when the Union inevitably won the war, and rode that to the White House — couldn't be farther from the truth.

He had a genius for big-picture logistics that outclassed the leadership on either side of the war, his magnanimity as the war ended was essential, and he proved to be one of the most literate presidents we have had.