The life of General Ulysses S. Grant. Containing a brief but faithful narrative of those military and diplomatic achievements which have entitled him to the confidence and gratitude of his countrymen. By: John S. C. Abbott: Ulysses S. Grant, born Hiram Ulysses Grant, (April 27, 1822 - July 23, 1885) was the Commanding General of the United States Army at the end of the American Civil War.