Ulysses S. Grant's Military Record Against the Confederacy: A Comprehensive Analysis

Ulysses S. Grant, the 18th President of the United States, was a military strategist and Union General during the American Civil War. Despite early setbacks and controversies, his strategic mind and determination proved instrumental in leading the Union to victory. This article delves into Grant's win-loss record against the Confederacy and evaluates how the scores are calculated.

Early Setbacks and Controversies

Grant's early military career was marked by significant defeats and controversies. After his first battle at Belmont, where he faced a Confederate force under the leadership of Nathan Bedford Forrest, Grant was criticized for his handling of the situation. He was relieved of duty for negligence at the Battle of Shiloh, and his first attempt at the Vicksburg Campaign ended in defeat at Holly Springs. Additionally, Cleburn's ambush at Ringgold Gap and Forrest's attack on his supply lines further hindered Grant's early campaigns.

Key Victories and Strategic Wins

Despite these challenges, Grant emerged as a successful Union Army Commander. His strategic victories began to turn the tide of the war. Notable among his successes were the capture of three Confederate armies at Fort Donelson, Vicksburg, and Appomattox Court House. None of these Confederate generals managed to capture an entire Union army, with George H. Thomas decimating the Army of Tennessee at Nashville, making his performance a close second.

Significant Battles and Campaigns

Grant's first significant victory came at the Battle of Belmont, where he engaged and defeated a Confederate force. He went on to capture forts Henry and Donelson, securing important river ports. His victory at the tactical battle of Shiloh, despite initial setbacks, demonstrated his ability to adapt and win. Other notable successes included Champion Hill and various skirmishes during the Vicksburg Campaign, culminating in the capture of Vicksburg itself. Grant’s men, under his command, routed the Confederates at Missionary Ridge outside Chattanooga, a critical moment in the campaign.

The Overland Campaign of 1864-65

The Overland Campaign of 1864-65 is often considered the most challenging part of Grant's military career. While he suffered significant losses in his push towards Richmond, he successfully kept General Robert E. Lee's Army of Northern Virginia (ANV) tied down, thus weakening it over time. The Battle of Cold Harbor, despite being counted as a clear loss, was a strategic move that forced Lee to commit resources to defend rather than launch a counterattack. Despite this, the majority of the battles in the Wilderness and Spotsylvania were carried out in wooded areas, turning into a general slug match. The Union forces, under Grant's command, were on the attack, resulting in higher casualties but achieving greater strategic victories.

Final Push and Surrender

Grant's relentless pressure finally stretched the Confederate army thin. The Siege of Petersburg, where Grant forced Lee into a box, continued with intermittent successes, albeit criticized for the Crater operation which resulted in a debacle. However, Grant's persistent pressure and strategic decisions ultimately led to the capture of Richmond and the surrender of the ANV. This forced Lee to flee westward, with his army disintegrating, leading to eventual cornering and surrender by Union cavalry and infantry.

Evaluating Grant's Record

Depending on how one scores the battles, Grant's overall record against the Confederacy can be considered to have more wins than losses. A fair assessment might place him at about 10 wins, two losses, and one draw. However, Grant himself never believed he was ever beaten, despite setbacks like Cold Harbor, where he acknowledged a significant tactical and strategic loss.

Conclusion

Ulysses S. Grant's military career, marked by a mix of early setbacks and ultimately significant victories, played a crucial role in the Union's ultimate victory in the American Civil War. Understanding his win-loss record against the Confederacy reveals the complexity and strategic brilliance required to lead a nation to victory in one of the most tumultuous periods in U.S. history.