History that doesn't suck is a bi-weekly podcast, delivering a legit, seriously researched

hard-hitting survey of American history through entertaining stories.

If you'd like to support HTT-S or enjoy some perks, like ad-free early releases or patron-exclusive

many episodes, please consider giving at patreon.com-forward-slash-history-that-doesn't-suck.

To keep up with HTT-DS News, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.

It's Thursday, March 4, 1869.

The late morning is cold and wet, but such gloomy weather won't keep the residents and visitors

of Washington City inside today. American flags wave and crowds cheer as eight divisions

of soldiers, white and black, parade through the streets of the federal capital. At the center of

this martial fanfare, the man whom the spectators have come to see is there soon to be inaugurated

18th President of the United States, former General Elyseez-S Grant.

Accompanied by friends like his old chief of staff, John Rawlings, the famous Civil War

commander rides in an open carriage, and he's looking dapper. Trim and still blessed with a full

head of chestnut brown hair, the 46-year-old bearded gent looks like exactly what he is,

the youngest executive in American history to date. But he feels out of place.

Elyseez isn't a politician, he's a soldier, exchanging a blue uniform for a black suit

doesn't change who he is, and on some level, he feels that. Elyseez arrives at the US Capitol during

the 11 o'clock hour. First, his square jawed and bearded vice president, outgoing speaker of the

House of Representatives, Skylar Kohlfax, is inaugurated in the Senate chambers. The august,

rectangular room, including its gallery seating, is packed. From General William to come

to Sherman to Admiral David Farragut, fully uniformed Union War Heroes sit to the right of the

presiding officer. Everyone is soon settled. Shortly after 12 noon, Skylar gives a polished speech

...