Allegations of anti-Semitism were an issue for Grant during his 1868 presidential compaign, when prominent Jewish community leaders stood up on his behalf.

Accusations of Grant's anti-Semitism are largely based on General Order #11, which was issued in his name on December 17, 1862. The order stated,

"The Jews, as a class, violating every regulation of trade established by the Treasury Department, and also Department orders, are hereby expelled from the Department (comprising areas of Tennessee, Mississippi, and Kentucky)."