USA HISTORY

Detailed explanation-1: -Way back in June 1843, twenty-one-year-old Ulysses S. Grant graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point and entered the “real world” as an officer in the United States Army. Of those who survived the rigorous four years at West Point in the class of 1843, Grant graduated 21st out of 39 cadets.

Detailed explanation-2: -Ulysses S. Grant (1822-1885) had never wished to become a soldier, but in 1839 his father sent him to the U.S. Military Academy primarily because it provided him with a free education. Grant was not an outstanding cadet, but he finished 21st out of 39 in his 1843 graduating class.

Detailed explanation-3: -He found military training ‘wearisome’-but loved novels While critics would later exaggerate Cadet Grant’s poor performance, he actually graduated in the middle of his class (21st of 39), had an aptitude for math and displayed an unequalled proficiency in horsemanship.

Detailed explanation-4: -The U.S. Military Academy at West Point is the preeminent leader development institution in the world. USMA produces commissioned officers of character and intellect who internalize the ideals of “Duty, Honor, Country” and the Army Ethic.

Detailed explanation-5: -West Point has trained most of the great American military commanders since the first half of the 19th century. Among its graduates have been Robert E. Lee (class of 1829), William T. Sherman (1840), James Longstreet (1842), and Ulysses S. Grant (1843).