The Importance of Family (Senior Ranger Activity)

Instructions: Read about the importance of family in Ulysses S. Grant's life and answer the following questions. This activity is designed for adults completing the Senior Ranger Program but all ages are welcome!

Gen. Grant and His Family, painted from life by Wm. Cogswell, engraved by John Sartain

Library of Congress

Ulysses and Julia Grant had a long, healthy and devoted marriage, lasting from 1848 until his death in 1885. They were the parents of four children, Fred, Ulysses Jr., Nellie, and Jesse. Despite their happy marriage, life was not without its challenges. Ulysses's career in the army often separated him from his family. He would have to juggle his feelings of service to his country versus his strong desire to be with his family.

1. Have you ever faced a time in your life where your career interfered with your personal life? (family, hobbies etc)

2. Have you ever had to make a choice between family or a career? If so, what led you to make your decision?

3. If you are separated from your family because of work, how do you cope with this situation? What advice would you give Ulysses, if you had the opportunity, on how he could deal with absences from his family while serving in the army?