The True Story Behind Netflix’s ‘Death by Lightning’ and the Assassination of James A. Garfield
Charles Guiteau’s bullet did not directly kill the 20th president of the United States. Instead, it was a combination of ignorance, pride, and the very medical tools intended to save his life that led to President James A. Garfield’s death. Garfield had been in office less than four months when he was shot by Guiteau, a disgruntled supporter. Over 120 years later, the consequences of that assassination attempt continue to influence both politics and medical practices.
Netflix Series Overview
The new Netflix limited series Death By Lightning, which premiered on November 6, traces the events surrounding Garfield’s assassination and the botched medical treatments that followed. The four-part series features Michael Shannon as Garfield and Matthew Macfadyen as Guiteau. It delves into the moments leading up to the shooting, the assassination itself, and the misguided efforts of doctors to save the president.
Background on Charles Guiteau
Born in 1841 in Freeport, Illinois, Charles Julius Guiteau’s early life was marked by difficulty. His mother, Jane, suffered from psychosis and died when Charles was about 7 years old. After her death, he was raised by his abusive father, Luther.
Key Themes Explored
- Guiteau’s motive for the assassination
- The inadequate medical care that contributed to Garfield’s death
- The broader implications for U.S. politics and medicine stemming from the tragedy
“Charles Guiteau’s bullet didn’t kill the 20th president—it was ignorance, pride, and the tools meant to save his life.”
Death By Lightning is part of Biography.com’s exploration into the true story behind President Garfield’s assassination and its lasting effects.
Author's summary: The series reveals how President Garfield’s assassination was shaped by Guiteau’s motives and fatal medical errors, highlighting a pivotal moment in U.S. history and medicine.