A Presidential Historian Explains What to Know Before Watching 'Death by Lightning'
The series explores the assassination of President James A. Garfield, bringing attention to two overlooked U.S. presidents: Chester A. Arthur and Garfield himself. These figures rarely receive focus in presidential history, which usually highlights well-known leaders like Washington, Jefferson, Lincoln, and the Roosevelts.
Death by Lightning is a limited series now streaming, offering a fresh perspective on a turbulent period in American history.
The 1880s: A Decade of Decline and Political Corruption
Post-Reconstruction America was marked by political corruption and moral decay. It was during this period that James Abram Garfield emerged. A former classics professor, Civil War hero, and nine-term congressman from Ohio, Garfield was known for his courage and intellectual rigor.
“We should not nominate a man whom we can carry, but one who can carry us.” – James Abram Garfield at the Republican convention in Chicago
Garfield, who had not sought the presidency, became the compromise candidate after thirty-six ballots, standing as a symbol of integrity and public service in a troubled era.
Garfield’s Background and Qualities
- Former classics professor with a strong intellectual foundation
- Civil War commander of the 42nd Ohio Infantry
- Knew Greek and could quote the Psalms from memory
- Believed intellect was a form of public service
The Series’ Significance
By featuring Garfield and Arthur, Death by Lightning sheds light on lesser-known aspects of presidential history and the era’s political challenges, offering viewers new insight into complex figures overlooked by traditional narratives.
Author’s summary: The series reveals the overlooked stories of Presidents Garfield and Arthur, highlighting their integrity and significance amid 1880s political corruption and decay.