Grant, Ulysses S. (Ulysses Simpson) (1822-1885) to Simon Buckner
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC04450 Author/Creator: Grant, Ulysses S. (Ulysses Simpson) (1822-1885) Place Written: Fort Donelson, Tennessee Type: Autograph letter signed Date: [after 16 February 1862] Pagination: 1 p. ; 19.9 x 12.3 cm. Order a Copy
Souvenir autograph copy of Grant's famous February 16, 1862, letter to Buckner demanding "unconditional surrender" of Fort Donelson, Tennessee, one of the best-known of Grant's wartime letters. This copy was written by Grant, probably in the late 1870's or early 1880's. Grant often signed copies of this letter for friends but this is only one of two copies known to be entirely in Grant's own hand. Misdated 1863. When the Confederates' breakout attempt failed, Buckner, an old friend of Grant's, asked what terms of surrender he would offer. Grant replied "No terms except unconditional and immediate surrender can be accepted. I propose to move immediately on your works." This move helped Grant attain his reputation for bold action, and earned him the nickname, "Unconditional Surrender Grant."
Simon Bolivar Buckner was a Confederate brigadier general, later Governor of Kentucky.
Head Quarters in the Field
Fort Donelson Feby 16th 1862
Gen. S. B. Buckner;
Sir:
Yours of this date proposing an armistice and the appointment of Commissioners
to settle on the terms of capitulation, is just received.
No terms except unconditional and immediate surrender can be accepted.
I propose to move immediately on your words.
I am, very respectfully, your obt. [inserted: srvt.]
U. S. Grant
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