Yes, Ulysses S. Grant had several nicknames throughout his life. The most well-known nickname is ‘Unconditional Surrender’ Grant, which he earned during the Civil War. This nickname came about after his demand for the unconditional surrender of Fort Donelson in 1862.
Another nickname he was known by was ‘Sam,’ which was derived from his birth name, Hiram Ulysses Grant. This nickname was used by his friends and family. His middle name became ‘Sim’ due to a clerical error when he entered the U.S. Military Academy at West Point.
Additionally, his soldiers sometimes affectionately referred to him as ‘Grant the Butcher’ due to the high number of casualties during some of his campaigns. While the moniker was critical, it also indicated his determination in pursuing victory at any cost.
Overall, these nicknames reflect different aspects of his personality and leadership style, as well as the perceptions of those who worked with or against him.