Few Civil War events produced more important strategic results for the Union than the taking of Vicksburg and Chattanooga. Along with the Federal triumph at Gettysburg, these gains were decisive in bringing about final Union victory.

Ulysses S. Grant was the man in charge of the Federal forces. His solid competence and willingness to take calculated risks enabled him to overcome the twin challenges of difficult terrain and heroic Confederate resistance at Vicksburg, and to prevail against seemingly unassailable enemy positions at Chattanooga. This book is the story of the courage and determination that accompanied the triumphs and blunders of both sides.