This Library of America edition includes Grant's classic memoirs, written as he was dying of throat cancer in 1885. He recounts his boyhood, his study at the United States Military Academy at West Point, and his experiences in both the Mexican War and the Civil War. An essential chronicle of the campaigns and battles of the Civil War, as well as a primer on leadership, Grant's writings were best sellers in his time, and were highly regarded by none other than Mark Twain. Also included in this edition are over 170 of Grant's letters, as well as scholarly commentary. Copyright (C) Muze Inc. 2005. For personal use only. All rights reserved.