The Tragic True Story Behind "Death by Lightning"
The four-episode series Death by Lightning, released on Netflix on November 6, follows the assassination of President James Garfield. Garfield was shot on July 2, 1881, just four months into his presidency, and died from his wounds a few months later at age 49.
Origins of Garfield’s Presidential Nomination
The story begins at the heated 1880 Republican National Convention in Chicago. U.S. Senator John Sherman (Alistair Petrie) selected Ohio congressman and farmer James Garfield (Michael Shannon) to speak on his behalf because of his captivating oratory skills. The convention was divided among Sherman, Maine’s Senator James Blaine (Bradley Whitford), and former President Ulysses S. Grant (Wayne Brett).
After 36 inconclusive ballots, the delegates chose Garfield as a compromise nominee inspired by his powerful speech.
Presidency and Assassination
James Garfield was inaugurated as the 20th President of the United States on March 4, 1881, with Chester Arthur (Nick Offerman) as his vice president. One man deeply affected by Garfield’s 1880 speech was the eccentric Charles Guiteau (Matthew Macfadyen), whose obsession with Garfield and desire for a government position led him down a dark path.
The series chronicles Guiteau's transformation from supporter to assassin, exploring the brief and turbulent Garfield administration.
“One man who became obsessed with Garfield after his 1880 speech was the eccentric Charles Guiteau, and the series follows his attempts to get a job in the administration.”
President Garfield’s assassination shocked the nation and highlighted the dangers of political violence in a divided America.
Additional Context
- The series also touches on contemporary issues such as airport flight cancellations due to government shutdowns and emerging medical technologies involving computer chips.
Death by Lightning provides a gripping portrayal of a president whose life and term were tragically cut short by an obsessed assassin.
Author’s summary: This series reveals the tragic rise and fall of President Garfield, whose brief leadership was ended by an obsessed assassin, uncovering a dark chapter in American history.
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