The Tragic True Story Behind "Death by Lightning"
The series Death by Lightning, released on Netflix on November 6, dramatizes the assassination of President James Garfield, who was shot on July 2, 1881—just four months into his presidency—and succumbed to his injuries a few months later at age 49.
Garfield's Rise to Presidency
The four-episode series begins at the contentious 1880 Republican National Convention in Chicago. U.S. Senator John Sherman (played by Alistair Petrie) selects Ohio congressman and farmer James Garfield (Michael Shannon) to deliver a speech supporting his presidential bid, knowing Garfield’s charisma would sway delegates.
Delegates were divided mainly between Sherman, Maine Senator James Blaine (Bradley Whitford), and General Ulysses S. Grant (Wayne Brett). After 36 inconclusive ballots, Garfield was nominated due to the impact of his inspiring speech.
The Presidency and Assassination
Garfield became the 20th President of the United States on March 4, 1881, with Chester Arthur (Nick Offerman) as his vice president.
Charles Guiteau’s Obsession and Crime
The series also focuses on Charles Guiteau (Matthew Macfadyen), an eccentric man who became obsessed with Garfield after the 1880 speech. It follows Guiteau’s desperate attempts to secure a job in Garfield’s administration, eventually leading to his assassination of the president.
“The series follows Guiteau’s journey from an admirer of Garfield to his killer.”
Author’s summary: The series reveals how James Garfield’s brief presidency and Charles Guiteau’s obsession culminated in one of America’s most tragic assassinations.