I didn't have a lot of expectations going into this, but I hoped since the History Channel was showing it the content would be factual. It is, and much more, it is interesting, compelling, and uses both modern actors and period photos. I am do impressed I've ordered the Chernow biography of Grant. Grant seems to have been born for the task of saving the nation. He went to West Point with most of the other high ranking officers on both sides and had the ability to know what they would do and effectively counter it. He not only fought the war, he also fought the incompetence of his superior officers, and his erroneous reputation as being an alcoholic. This miniseries does an excellent job of dealing with all aspects of his life, in a very short 3 parts. It could easily have been double and I would have watched it. I highly recommend it.