Personal Memoirs of Ulysses S. Grant · Question
How does Personal Memoirs of Ulysses S. Grant develop the theme of Personal Integrity and Self-Reliance?
Answer
Personal Memoirs of Ulysses S. Grant by Ulysses S. Grant develops Personal Integrity and Self-Reliance across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.
Grant repeatedly demonstrates honesty, modesty, and a refusal to seek political favor, as seen in his rejection of self-promotion and his straightforward, unvarnished account of his own failures and successes.
Grant's father's self-education and hard work, and Grant's own labor from a young age, illustrate self-reliance and integrity.
Grant's determination to face the Academy despite his fears of failure, and his honest reflection on his own mediocrity as a cadet.
Grant reflects on his opposition to dueling and his commitment to self-improvement through study.
Evidence in the book
- I
Grant's father's self-education and hard work, and Grant's own labor from a young age, illustrate self-reliance and integrity.
- II
Grant's determination to face the Academy despite his fears of failure, and his honest reflection on his own mediocrity as a cadet.
- Army Life—Causes of the Mexican War—Camp Salubrity
Grant reflects on his opposition to dueling and his commitment to self-improvement through study.
- Corpus Christi and the March to the Rio Grande
Grant's anecdote about his fall into the sea and his ability to swim and recover without injury demonstrates self-reliance and a sense of humor about personal mishaps.
- Trip to Austin—Promotion to Full Second Lieutenant—Army of Occupation
Grant's self-deprecating account of his lack of hunting skill and his honest handling of the mule and horse incidents reflect personal integrity.
- Advance of the Army—Crossing the Colorado—The Rio Grande
Grant's resourcefulness in breaking the wild mustang and his self-reliance during the march illustrate his personal integrity.
- VII The Mexican War—The Battle of Palo Alto—The Battle of Resaca De La Palma—Army of Invasion—General Taylor—Movement on Camargo
Grant emphasizes Taylor's willingness to do his best with available resources and his refusal to publicly complain about difficulties.
- The Battle of Monterey
Grant's decision to join the charge despite orders, his resourcefulness in obtaining a horse, and his volunteer mission for ammunition demonstrate personal initiative and moral courage.
