The Origin and Evolution of Ulysses S. Grant’s Name

Ulysses S. Grant, the 18th President of the United States and a renowned military strategist, is known to many as the man who led the Union to victory in the Civil War. However, the story behind his name is less well-known, and it involves a series of interesting and somewhat humorous events. Let’s delve into the origins of his name and how it evolved over time.

Original Name and Birth

Ulysses S. Grant’s full given name at birth was actually Hiram Ulysses Grant. He was born in 1822 in Point Pleasant, Ohio, and during his youth, his friends and family called him ‘Ulyss’ or ‘Ulysseus’ as he was referred to in official records. Unlike many other children, he chose to be called by his middle name ‘Ulysses’ during his youth in Ohio. In some documents, he went by the initials ‘H. U. G.’

The Naming Mistake and Admission to West Point

Grant’s name took an unexpected turn when he was nominated to attend the United States Military Academy at West Point. In 1838, Congressman Thomas L. Hamer, who nominated Grant, mistakenly wrote his middle name as ‘Simpson’ instead of ‘Simpson’ during the registration process. However, it was Grant’s friend’s younger sister Virginia who penned the correct middle name, ‘Ulysses,’ on the nomination form with a note that said, “He prefers Ulysses.”

When Grant received an acceptance letter from West Point, it read ‘Ulysses S. Grant,’ which seemed like a mistake but it was too late to correct it. Grant never tried to change his name back to Hiram Ulysses, as he did not like to be known as ‘HUG.’ In fact, the list of cadets posted at West Point simply listed him as ‘U.S. Grant,’ which could be seen as a play on his initials and also an un-intended nickname.

The Nickname ‘Uncle Sam’ and ‘U.S. Grant’

Upon his arrival at West Point, the nickname ‘U.S. Grant’ was further cemented. In the cadet dorm rooms, Grant’s initials ‘U.S.’ became a nickname indicative of his standing as the representative of the Union. This nickname was popular amongst his peers and the faculty alike.

Grant, with a sense of humor, began to use his new nickname in his correspondence. In a letter to his future wife, Julia Dent, in 1844, he joked, 'Find some name beginning with “S” for me. You know I have an “S” in my name and don’t know what it stands for.' This playful reflection on his name suggests his acceptance and likely affection for the nickname.

The ‘No Terms Except Unconditional Surrender’ Moment

A significant moment in Grant’s life solidified the ‘U.S. Grant’ nickname and his standing as a national hero. In February 1862, during the Battle of Fort Donelson, he ordered and accepted the unconditional surrender of Confederate General Simon Buckner. The order was delivered by a staff officer who instead of delivering a message under a white flag, took a different form. Later in the war, after this victory, Grant sent a note to the Confederate General, ‘No terms except those of unconditional surrender to be accepted.’ This famous message has since become entwined with his legacy as a formidable military leader.

Grant, with his new name and newfound recognition, began to rise to national prominence. The name ‘U.S. Grant’ became his formal recognition, and it was used in official capacities, such as his appointment as Commanding General of the United States Army and later as the 18th president of the United States.

As we can see, Ulysses S. Grant’s name journey from Hiram Ulysses to Ulysses S. Grant and further to U.S. Grant, illustrates the power of a well-preserved mistake and the importance of acceptance in one’s personal and professional life. The evolution of his name reflects the changing times and the recognition he received for his service and leadership.