“Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation, but it was Grant who actually freed the slaves.”

Historian Christy S. Coleman examines Ulysses S. Grant’s role in liberating American’s enslaved people, his battle to abate the terror of the Ku Klux Klan and the influence of his upbringing in the abolitionist hotbed of Brown County, Ohio.

Ulysses S. Grant is known for being an exemplary military tactician and the general who won the Civil War, resulting in the emancipation of millions of enslaved people in the United States. As president, Grant signed into law The Civil Rights Act of 1875, guaranteeing Blacks full and equal enjoyment of the accommodations, advantages, facilities and privileges of public venues including inns, hotels, theaters and public transportation.

Grant, The Civil Rights General & President is part of Ohio’s U.S. Grant Bicentennial Birthday Celebration and is presented in partnership with the US Grant Homestead Association, Ohio History Connection and Cincinnati Museum Center.

This program is free and open to the public, but registration is required.

Proof of COVID-19 vaccination is required for entry.