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Ulysses S. Grant | Image Gallery

U.S. Grant: In His Shoes

Although many kids never went to formal schools in the early 19th century, the Ulysses was lucky to go to school more than most of his peers. Ulysses's father believed in education, and he knew a U.S. Military Academy degree would give his son some advantages in life. As for Ulysses, he wanted to travel, and a military career would offer plenty of opportunities to see the world. But he was terrified he might fail his classes. After an exciting trip through the Midwest, Philadelphia and New York City, a nervous Ulysses arrived at West Point in May 1839.

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  • A midwest farm.

     Credit: Library of Congress

  • The advocate office

     Credit: Library of Congress

  • Home

     Credit: Library of Congress

  • A family portrait

     Credit: Library of Congress

  • Life on the frontier

     Credit: Library of Congress

  • A midwest farm family.

     Credit: Library of Congress

  • A classroom in the 1800s.

     Credit: Library of Congress

  • A class photo with the horses and carriages used to get to school.

     Credit: Library of Congress

  • Young children working in the yard.

     Credit: Library of Congress

  • A class photo.

     Credit: Library of Congress

  • West Point cadets, Dewey Land Parade.

     Credit: Library of Congress

  • Cadets performing a Siege Battery Drill.

     Credit: Library of Congress
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