Grant, Julia Dent (1826-1902), was the wife of Ulysses S. Grant, who served as president of the United States from 1869 to 1877. Mrs. Grant enjoyed the role of first lady. She held elaborate banquets and many other social functions in the White House. Her style and enthusiasm made the White House a lively place. The marriage of her daughter Nellie in a White House ceremony in 1874 attracted international attention. Julia Grant became a highly popular national figure.