General Grant Bars Jews from His Army (1862)

Name: General Grant Bars Jews from His Army (1862)
Start: 1822-11-09
Location: Unspecified

Overview of General Grant's Orders

General Ulysses S. Grant's Controversial Decision

In December 1862, during the height of the American Civil War, General Ulysses S. Grant, commander of the Union forces, issued a directive that would have lasting repercussions. This order prohibited Jewish people from serving in the military under his command. The reasoning behind this controversial action was tied to the perceptions of war profiteering among Jewish traders, particularly in the area of the Mississippi River.

The Context of Grant's Order

At the time, Grant was embroiled in a series of military campaigns aimed at pushing back Confederate forces. As part of this effort, he became frustrated with the large-scale black market activities and was influenced by regional sentiments against Jewish traders. Hence, his orders reflected a moment of deep-seated anti-Semitism in the military and society at large during the war.

The Aftermath and Reversal of Grant's Order

Public Backlash Against the Order

The issuance of this order sparked significant backlash. Prominent Jewish leaders, including Isaac Mayer Wise, protested vehemently, arguing that Grant's peremptory action was baseless and discriminatory. They highlighted the contributions of Jewish soldiers to the war efforts, calling for a retraction.

Revocation of the Order

Ultimately, due to mounting criticism and advocacy from influential individuals and organizations, Grant rescinded his order in early 1863. He acknowledged the unjust nature of his decision, leading to a recognition of the rights of Jewish Americans to serve in the military without discrimination.

Fun Fact

Ulysses S. Grant's Later Change of Heart

Years later, Grant became an advocate for Jewish rights. During his presidency, he supported legislation aimed at preventing discrimination against Jewish citizens, and he reflected on the mistakes of his past actions. This change signified a significant personal and societal evolution regarding tolerance.