In the Introduction, Chernow explicitly states his arguments and goals in writing this book. What are they? How does this affect the narrative as a whole? Do you find his position to be convincing?

This draws the reader's attention to Chernow's central arguments and encourages them to consider how his perspective may color the rest of the text.

Describe the community in which Grant was raised. How did this affect his perspective on slavery and the South during and after the Civil War?

This relates to the view that Grant took a conciliatory attitude toward the South throughout his life. It allows the reader to consider how this attitude developed from Grant's earliest experiences.

Compare and contrast Grant’s behavior during his military posting in upstate New York and rural California. What was the key difference between these pots? How did that affect Grant’s alcoholism?

This...