Book SummaryGrant Takes Command, by Bruce Catton

1-Page Summary1-Page Book Summary of Grant Takes Command

Grant's ascent to prominence reached its zenith when he was named the chief commander of the Union forces.

Bruce Catton describes Ulysses S. Grant's ascent from obscurity to assume leadership over the Union forces. Catton highlights the factors that propelled Grant to the forefront and illuminates how his strategic acumen and political savvy made him the clear choice for Lincoln to lead the Northern forces to victory.

Catton highlights how Grant's early successes in the western battles were instrumental in forging his distinguished reputation. His combat skills were evident in these victories, which also highlighted his unwavering commitment and meticulous nature, establishing his reputation as an extraordinarily devoted warrior and strategist. Furthermore, Catton emphasizes how Grant's rise to prominence was a result of his battlefield victories as well as his shrewd navigation of political complexities. Grant consistently demonstrated adeptness in balancing the requirements of military conflict and the subtleties of political dynamics, which in turn strengthened his alliance with President Lincoln and secured support from key figures within the government hierarchy. Grant's rise to the position of Lieutenant General was solidified through his outstanding strategic military prowess and keen political understanding, positioning him as the Union's preeminent military leader.

He quickly gained a reputation for being a tireless and tenacious worker and combatant.

Grant's tactical operations to the west of the Appalachian Mountains established the foundation for his widespread recognition.

Catton emphasizes that Grant's early successes on the battlefields of the West laid the foundation for his broad recognition. The victories that Grant secured at Forts Henry and Donelson were of strategic importance and also demonstrated his steadfast resolve to confront the enemy, solidifying his status as a commander who favored decisive measures. Grant consistently demonstrated an unwavering resolve to build upon his victories, maintaining an offensive stance rather than becoming complacent after achieving success. His steadfast dedication to constant activity solidified his reputation for being a leader with exceptional vigor and assertiveness, setting him apart in the view of the authorities from other commanders who were perceived by the President as excessively cautious and slow.

Moreover, Catton emphasizes Grant's inclination to act independently, often proceeding without guidance from the nation's capital, which became particularly noticeable throughout the Vicksburg campaign and greatly enhanced his emerging prestige. In contrast to commanders who seemed reliant on instructions from Washington, Grant exhibited a proactive approach to strategy, skillfully adapting to the evolving circumstances of battle and achieving significant victories on his own. Lincoln, worn out by leaders who seemed to prioritize shirking their duties over seizing opportunities, saw this independence as fully aligned with his own viewpoint.

Context

• The Appalachian Mountains served as a natural barrier during the Civil War, and operations west of them were crucial for controlling key territories and supply lines, impacting the overall strategic landscape of the war.
• Fort Henry and Fort Donelson were located in Tennessee, controlling key rivers—the Tennessee and Cumberland—which were vital for transportation and supply lines during the Civil War. Their capture opened pathways for Union advances into the Confederate heartland.
• In military strategy, maintaining an offensive stance involves continuously applying pressure on the enemy, which can prevent them from regrouping or launching counterattacks. This approach often requires bold decision-making and a willingness to take risks.
• Grant's determination and resilience were key personal traits that contributed to his ability to maintain an offensive stance, even in the face of setbacks or challenges, which was crucial for his long-term success.
• During the Civil War, communication between field commanders and Washington was slow and unreliable, often relying on telegraphs and couriers. This delay meant that commanders like Grant had to make quick decisions without waiting for instructions.
• His ability to act independently and achieve results contributed to his growing reputation as a bold and effective leader, which was crucial for his later promotion to General-in-Chief of all Union armies.
• Before the Civil War, Ulysses S. Grant had served in the Mexican-American War, which provided him with valuable combat experience...

Grant Takes Command Summary Grant's strategic methods and leadership skills were crucial in key battles across both the western and eastern fronts.

Catton portrays Grant as a strategist who consistently aimed to exploit the weaknesses of the Confederacy, focusing particularly on attacking their fragile logistical support, while doggedly chasing his foes, unaffected by hindrances or political pressures. Catton highlights the pivotal conflicts and tactical movements, including the engagements at Brown's Ferry and Chattanooga, along with the Wilderness, Spotsylvania, and Cold Harbor, to demonstrate the evolution of Grant's military tactics and the considerable challenges he faced, such as resistance from Confederate forces and internal strife within his Union ranks.

The author highlights the steadfast belief held by Grant in the necessity of relentless attacks and the targeted destruction of crucial Confederate rail networks. Catton depicts how Grant's approach not only led to victories on the battlefield but also strategically cut off the Confederacy's access to vital resources, leading to its eventual collapse. The pinnacle of this strategy was demonstrated through a deep understanding of military maneuvers and the severe impact on the resources and strongholds of the Confederacy, highlighted by Sherman's progression toward...

Grant Takes Command Summary The newly appointed senior commander skillfully navigated the complexities of dealing with subordinate officers, political figures, as well as the challenges inherent to his prominent role and the broader public.

Catton delves into the complex duties associated with Grant's role at the helm of the Union's military, highlighting the challenges he faced in aligning military strategies with political necessities, managing a diverse and occasionally contentious group of subordinates, and fulfilling the expectations of a populace weary from conflict. Catton portrays Grant as having a natural knack for politics, successfully establishing a solid relationship with Lincoln, and being frustrated by Washington's habit of ignoring key strategic areas, choosing instead to focus on less significant conflicts.

Catton portrays Grant as a leader who consistently prioritized military objectives, ensuring that his strategic decisions remained uninfluenced by political considerations. He maintained adaptability when necessary, particularly in managing commanders like Butler, who benefited from political protection, but his primary focus was always on achieving victory.

The Complexities of Leading Political Generals

Navigating the intricate political landscape was essential when addressing command challenges, such as those presented by McClernand, as well as issues related to figures like other...

Grant Takes Command Summary The relentless determination of Grant to continue the offensive against the Confederate troops, his tactical choices, and the final stages of the battle that led to Lee's surrender.

Catton illustrates the final stage of the war as an unequivocal demonstration of Grant's steadfast determination, highlighting his strategic decision-making and tactical adjustments that secured a decisive edge for the Union. Catton emphasizes that Grant's relentless attacks throughout the Overland Campaign, which concluded with the siege that effectively crippled Petersburg, strategically weakened the already struggling Confederacy, leading to Lee's surrender at Appomattox, despite the heavy losses suffered.

The author highlights Grant's unwavering commitment to adaptability and his willingness to alter his strategies as the situation in combat evolved. He rejected the notion of settling into static siege formations and continuously sought out weak points, adapting his strategies for assault, culminating in a decisive maneuver at Five Forks that breached Lee's defenses, forcing the Confederates to retreat.

Grant showed a willingness to adapt his strategies in response to evolving situations.

The search for weaknesses persistently moved its attention to the area surrounding the James River.

Catton highlights how Grant was flexible in his capacity as a commander,...