General Grant, formally known as Ulysses S. Grant, was a prominent military leader during the American Civil War. He served as the commander of the Union Army and played a crucial role in securing victory for the North. His strategies and leadership were instrumental in major battles, including the Siege of Vicksburg and the Battle of Appomattox Court House, where he accepted the surrender of Confederate General Robert E. Lee. After the war, Grant became the 18th President of the United States, serving from 1869 to 1877. His presidency focused on Reconstruction and civil rights for freed slaves, although it was also marked by political scandals. Grant's legacy includes his efforts to promote equality and his commitment to preserving the Union.