Who Was Chester Arthur and His Connection to James Garfield?
When President James Garfield was shot in July 1881, his Vice President, Chester A. Arthur, faced widespread skepticism. Known primarily as a New York Republican party insider linked to machine politics and patronage, Arthur had little public trust. Despite this, after Garfield’s death later that year, Arthur unexpectedly became the 21st President of the United States.
Arthur's Reputation Before the Presidency
Initially, Arthur was seen as a party bureaucrat deeply involved in political corruption. His rise to the presidency was met with doubt because many believed he lacked the ability to handle the crisis following Garfield’s assassination attempt.
Portrayal in Popular Culture
Arthur’s story is featured in Netflix’s 2025 drama Death by Lightning, which depicts the assassination of Garfield by Charles Guiteau. In the film, Garfield is portrayed by Michael Shannon, Guiteau by Matthew Macfadyen, and Arthur by Nick Offerman. The portrayal shows Arthur as a reluctant figure elevated to power, known for his role as a political enforcer and his reputation for carousing.
"Chester Arthur is portrayed as something of a low man pushed into high office, a Republican enforcer famed for his carousing."
Despite initial doubts, Arthur’s presidency surprised many, shifting perceptions of his character and leadership.
Author's summary: Chester A. Arthur, once doubted as a corrupt party insider, defied expectations when unexpectedly becoming U.S. president after Garfield’s assassination, surprising the nation.