Julia Dent Grant was born on January 26, 1826, in St. Louis, Missouri. She was the daughter of a wealthy plantation owner and grew up in a privileged environment. Julia met Ulysses S. Grant, a future U.S. president and Union general, while he was stationed at her father's estate. They married on August 22, 1848, and had four children together. As the wife of the 18th president of the United States, Julia played a significant role in the social life of the White House during his presidency from 1869 to 1877. She was known for her hospitality and support of her husband, especially during the challenging times of the American Civil War. Julia Grant passed away on December 14, 1902.