Netflix’s ‘Death by Lightning’ Reopens the Shocking Assassination of President James A. Garfield
The Netflix mini-series Death by Lightning explores the gripping true story of President James A. Garfield, the 20th President of the United States. The show follows Garfield’s rise as the Republican presidential nominee and his narrow victory in 1880, portrayed by Michael Shannon.
The Tragic Assassination
Just months into his presidency, Garfield was shot in July 1881 by Charles J. Guiteau, played by Matthew Macfadyen. Guiteau, a disgruntled office-seeker, believed he deserved a government position for supporting Garfield’s campaign. However, Garfield’s strong stance against the patronage system and his commitment to civil service reform denied Guiteau’s demands.
Political Context and Consequences
Guiteau’s rejection led him to assassinate Garfield, paving the way for Vice President Chester A. Arthur, portrayed by Nick Offerman, to become the 21st President of the United States.
“The idea of civil service reform and waging a battle to clean up the grift in our government—this is something that Garfield very much stood on the front lines of in his time,” said Mike Makowsky, creator of Death by Lightning.
The series highlights how politics, pride, and medical malpractice turned Garfield’s push for reform into a largely forgotten tragedy.
Author's Summary
Death by Lightning vividly recounts the complex interplay of politics and personal ambition that led to one of America’s most tragic assassinations, emphasizing Garfield’s fight for civil service reform.
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