A Presidential Historian Explains What to Know Before Watching Death by Lightning
The series explores the assassination of President James A. Garfield, shining a light on historically overlooked figures in presidential history. Traditionally, presidential history features a fixed guest list—Washington, Jefferson, Lincoln, Jackson, the Roosevelts, Kennedy, Reagan—and mentioning less prominent presidents like Chester A. Arthur often clears the room. This is why Netflix’s limited series Death by Lightning feels like a welcome revelation, giving Arthur, the 21st president, and his predecessor, Garfield, long-overdue prominence. The series is currently streaming.
Context of the 1880s
The decade was marked by decay beneath decadence: America had emerged from Reconstruction with a wounded conscience and politics susceptible to corruption. In this environment appeared James Abram Garfield, a former classics professor from Ohio, Civil War hero, and nine-term congressman. He had commanded the 42nd Ohio Infantry, demonstrating courage and integrity at the Battle of Chickamauga.
Garfield’s Personality and Beliefs
Garfield was a scholar-soldier who could translate Greek for amusement and recite Psalms from memory. He viewed intellect as a form of public service.
“We should not nominate a man whom we can carry,” he declared at the Republican convention in Chicago, “but one who can carry us.”
Despite not initially seeking the presidency, after thirty-six ballots, Garfield emerged as the sole remaining compromise candidate at the convention.
Summary
This series brings to light the stories of Garfield and Arthur, reminding viewers of forgotten presidential histories within a turbulent political era.
Author’s note: Death by Lightning redefines presidential narrative by spotlighting the overlooked leaders Garfield and Arthur amid a fraught era of American politics.