Introduction of a Comparison of Ulysses S. Grant and Robert E. Lee Grant and Lee: the titans of the American Civil War. It's difficult to compare their merits, because prejudice enters into the equation, rendering judgments that are tainted with passion. The cult of personality that has enveloped Lee frequently obfuscate his more mortal qualities. Such veneration Grant experienced in his own lifetime (in abundance) but his 20th century reputation is not of the caliber of Lee's. His checkered Presidency and perceived "slovenly demeano ....