The Tragic True Story Behind 'Death by Lightning'
The series, starring Michael Shannon and Matthew Macfadyen, chronicles the assassination of President James Garfield. Garfield was shot on July 2, 1881—just four months into his presidency—and succumbed to his injuries a few months later at age 49.
Death by Lightning, released on Netflix on November 6, begins with the contentious 1880 Republican National Convention in Chicago. U.S. Senator John Sherman (Alistair Petrie) selected Ohio congressman and farmer James Garfield (Michael Shannon) to endorse his presidential bid, knowing Garfield was a compelling speaker.
Delegates, split between Sherman, Maine’s U.S. Senator James Blaine (Bradley Whitford), and the former 18th President Ulysses S. Grant (Wayne Brett), remained deadlocked after 36 ballots. They ultimately nominated Garfield due to the impact of his inspiring speech.
Garfield was inaugurated on March 4, 1881, with Chester Arthur (Nick Offerman) as his vice president, becoming the 20th President of the United States.
The series also follows Charles Guiteau (Matthew Macfadyen), an eccentric man obsessed with Garfield after the 1880 speech. Guiteau sought a position in Garfield's administration but, after repeated rejections, his admiration turned into deadly obsession.
"Here's what to know about the short-lived Garfield presidency and how Guiteau went from adoring Garfield to killing him."
Death by Lightning therefore provides a gripping portrayal of political intrigue, ambition, and the tragic downfall of a president whose time in office was tragically brief.
Author's summary: The miniseries explores James Garfield's brief presidency and the dark transformation of Charles Guiteau from admiring supporter to assassin, highlighting a pivotal moment in American history.