The Real Story Behind Netflix
The new limited series dramatizes the brief tenure of the 20th commander in chief, James A. Garfield, who was fatally shot by Charles J. Guiteau, a lawyer convinced he had secured Garfield's election.
Guiteau's Campaign Efforts
Before the 1880 presidential election, 39-year-old lawyer Charles J. Guiteau handed out printed copies of his speech that originally endorsed the favorite at the Republican National Convention: two-time former President Ulysses S. Grant. However, Grant lacked sufficient votes to secure a third nomination.
Guiteau then replaced Grant's name with Garfield's, recently elected as Ohio's senator, believing his speech was so persuasive it could help either candidate win.
Election and Expectations
Garfield narrowly defeated Democratic Civil War General Winfield Scott Hancock to win the presidency. Guiteau expected to be rewarded with a prominent diplomatic post.
“I hereby make a formal application for the Austrian Mission,” Guiteau wrote to Garfield and incoming Secretary of State James G. “I feel I have a right to do it on account of my services during the canvass.”
Rejection and Consequences
Guiteau’s request was never fulfilled. Garfield and his Secretary of State, Blaine, did not know Guiteau and had no intention to appoint him.
This rejection ultimately led to tragic consequences.
Would you prefer the summary to be more formal or conversational?