Key Highlights
- The tragic murder of President James Garfield in 1881 is explored in a new Netflix miniseries called “Death by Lightning.”
- Michael Makowsky wrote the screenplay for the series, which stars Michael Shannon as James Garfield and Matthew Macfadyen as Charles Guiteau.
- The show delves into the political climate of the late 19th century and the events leading to Garfield’s assassination.
- Garfield was elected in 1880, but his presidency was cut short by an assassin’s bullet just four months after his inauguration.
The Tragic Presidency of James Garfield
In the late 19th century, the United States faced significant political and social challenges. President James Garfield, elected in 1880, promised progress and reform. However, his presidency was tragically cut short by an assassin’s bullet just four months after his inauguration.
Garfield’s Rise to Power
In June 1880, at the Republican National Convention, James Garfield delivered a speech that resonated with delegates, leading to his nomination for president. Despite his humble origins and military service during the Civil War, Garfield’s path to the White House was marked by unexpected support.
The Assassination of President Garfield
On July 2, 1881, Charles Guiteau, a man obsessed with becoming a key figure in Garfield’s administration, shot the president at the Baltimore and Potomac railroad station. The assassination took place just four months after Garfield’s inauguration.
The Impact of the Assassination
Garfield’s death led to significant changes in U.S. history. His presidency was brief but marked by ambitious goals, including expanding trade with Latin America and appointing Frederick Douglass as recorder of deeds for the District of Columbia. However, his legacy is often overshadowed.
The Netflix Miniseries “Death by Lightning”
Netflix has produced a miniseries titled “Death by Lightning,” which explores Garfield’s life and the events surrounding his assassination. The series aims to bring this tragic chapter of American history to a wider audience, offering insights into the political dynamics of the time.
Characters and Performances
The show features Michael Shannon as President James Garfield and Matthew Macfadyen as Charles Guiteau. Both performances are praised for their authenticity and depth:
- Michael Shannon’s portrayal of Garfield is described as capturing his brilliance, dignity, and especially his decency.
- Matthew Macfadyen’s performance as Guiteau is seen as bringing to life the delusions and madness of this historical figure.
Historical Context and Analysis
The miniseries provides a detailed look at the political landscape of the late 19th century, including:
- The factionalism within the Republican Party.
- The debate over the spoils system versus merit-based appointments.
- The use of antiseptic methods in medical practice during Garfield’s time.
Legacy and Implications
Garfield’s presidency, though short-lived, had lasting impacts. The nationwide grief over his death led to increased demands for civil service reform. President Chester A. Arthur, who succeeded Garfield, renounced the corrupt spoils system and signed the Pendleton Act into law in 1883.
The series “Death by Lightning” not only retells a significant moment in U.S. history but also offers viewers an opportunity to reflect on the potential consequences of political decisions and the importance of reforming systems that can lead to tragedy.
