The Tragic True Story Behind 'Death by Lightning'
The Netflix miniseries Death by Lightning, starring Michael Shannon and Matthew Macfadyen, delves into the real events surrounding the assassination of President James Garfield. The show was released on November 6 and consists of four compelling episodes.
The Rise of James Garfield
The story begins at the tense 1880 Republican National Convention in Chicago. U.S. Senator John Sherman, portrayed by Alistair Petrie, asked Ohio congressman and farmer James Garfield (Michael Shannon) to deliver a speech supporting his presidential bid. Garfield’s eloquent speech captivated the audience, leading delegates to shift their support from Sherman, Maine Senator James Blaine (Bradley Whitford), and former President Ulysses S. Grant (Wayne Brett) toward Garfield himself.
After 36 rounds of voting, Garfield unexpectedly won the nomination and went on to become the 20th President of the United States, inaugurated alongside Vice President Chester Arthur (Nick Offerman) on March 4, 1881.
The Obsession of Charles Guiteau
Among those deeply influenced by Garfield’s speech was an unstable man named Charles Guiteau (Matthew Macfadyen). Convinced that he deserved a political appointment for supporting Garfield, Guiteau persistently sought a role in the administration. When his requests were denied, his admiration turned into resentment and fueled a dangerous fixation on the President.
The Assassination and Aftermath
President James Garfield was shot by Guiteau on July 2, 1881, only four months into his presidency. Despite medical efforts, Garfield succumbed to his injuries several months later at the age of 49. His death marked one of the most tragic moments in American political history, ultimately transforming public discussions about political reform and mental health.
“Death by Lightning” portrays not only the fatal event but also the complex personalities and turbulent politics that shaped this brief, fateful presidency.
Author’s Summary
The series Death by Lightning revisits President James Garfield’s inspiring rise, the obsessive mind of his killer, and the fateful events that reshaped a nation’s politics.