He relied heavily on former Army associates , who had a thin understanding of politics and a weak sense of civilian ethics .
Rather than develop a cadre of trustworthy political advisers , Grant was self - reliant in choosing his cabinet .
Grant relied heavily on former Army associates , who had a thin understanding of politics and a weak sense of civilian ethics .
Rather than develop a cadre of trustworthy political advisers , Grant was self - reliant in choosing his cabinet .