Lincoln appoints Ulysses S. Grant general-in-chief of Union armies

Background. Ulysses S. Grant had established a strong reputation through the Vicksburg campaign in 1863, which secured Union control of the Mississippi River. This strategic victory dealt a significant blow to the Confederacy. In March 1864, Lincoln promoted Grant to lieutenant general, giving him command of all Union Armies.

Promotion and Command. On March 2, 1864, Lincoln promoted Grant to lieutenant general, a rank previously held only by George Washington. This promotion gave Grant command of all Union Armies. Grant was summoned from the Western Theater to Washington, D.C., to assume this new role, effectively becoming the general-in-chief of the Union forces.

Strategic Context. Prior to Grant's appointment, Lincoln had managed various general-in-chief transitions, including removing McClellan and elevating Halleck. On March 2, 1864, Lincoln promoted Grant to lieutenant general, giving him command of all Union Armies.

Commissioning and Strategy. Grant arrived in Washington on March 8 and was formally commissioned by Lincoln the next day at a Cabinet meeting. He developed a good working relationship with Lincoln, who allowed Grant to devise his own strategy. Grant chose to make his headquarters with the Army of the Potomac, although Meade retained formal command of that army.