Who Was the Real Chester Arthur?
When U.S. President James Garfield was shot in July 1881, few Americans believed his Vice President, Chester A. Arthur, could handle the crisis ahead. Known primarily as a New York Republican party bureaucrat connected to patronage and machine politics, Arthur faced widespread distrust and had little public support.
After Garfield's death later that year, Arthur unexpectedly became the 21st President of the United States, surprising many who had regarded him as a party insider linked to political corruption.
Arthur’s Relationship with James Garfield
Arthur assumed the presidency following Garfield’s assassination by Charles Guiteau, a frustrated political hopeful. Their connection was largely defined by Arthur’s previous role within the Republican party and the political environment of the time.
Portrayal in Popular Culture
Arthur’s story is featured in Netflix’s 2025 drama Death by Lightning, which chronicles Garfield’s assassination. In the film, Garfield is played by Michael Shannon, Guiteau by Matthew Macfadyen, and Arthur by Nick Offerman. The portrayal shows Arthur as a low-ranking enforcer unexpectedly thrust into the highest office, known for his hard-partying lifestyle.
"Chester Arthur is portrayed as something of a low man pushed into high office, a Republican enforcer famed for his carousing."
Arthur’s rise from political obscurity to president highlights the complex realities of 19th-century American politics.
Author’s summary: Chester Arthur, once doubted for his political background, emerged from obscurity to lead the nation after Garfield's assassination, challenging perceptions of his character and leadership.