September 5

"Labor disgraces no man; unfortunately, you occasionally find men who disgrace labor."

Ulysses S. Grant, 18th President, 1869-1877 Remarks at Birmingham England to the Midland International Labor Union on October 10, 1877. Grant was very much the popular Civil War hero around the world. His Presidency, however, was marked by scandal and he was seen as an ineffectual leader. Despite his political shortcomings, he did secure some rights for African and Native Americans. After his two terms in office were over, Grant and his family embarked on an around the world trip and they would be greeted by the national and local leaders. On most stops, the dignitaries would make their remarks and Grant would reply in kind. Birmingham, England is the second most populous city in England; London having the largest population. Birmingham was known as the "City of a thousand trades" and was a center of innovation as well as manufacturing. Hence, it would have been an appropriate site for Grant to visit while in England.