Matthew B. Brady

PORTRAIT OF ULYSSES S. GRANT

March 9, 1864

During the war, generals such as Grant were considered celebrities. Many photographs of them were taken and collected by the public. This photograph presents an ‘image’ of Grant. How does he appear in this picture? Is he tired? Does he look serious? What can you tell by looking at his facial expression? What about his pose? Is he relaxed? Confident or nervous? There is an empty chair next to him. Does Grant look ready to sit? Why would the photographer put this in the picture?