The Tragic True Story Behind "Death by Lightning"
The series, starring Michael Shannon and Matthew Macfadyen, explores the assassination of President James Garfield. Garfield was shot on July 2, 1881, just four months into his presidency, and died from his injuries a few months later at the age of 49.
Historical Context and Nomination
The four-episode series begins at the 1880 Republican National Convention in Chicago. U.S. Senator John Sherman (played by Alistair Petrie) supported Ohio congressman and farmer James Garfield (Michael Shannon) as a presidential candidate because Garfield was a powerful and charismatic speaker.
Delegates were divided among Sherman, Maine’s Senator James Blaine (Bradley Whitford), and former President Ulysses S. Grant (Wayne Brett). After 36 ballots, they ultimately chose Garfield, inspired by his speech, to be the Republican nominee.
Garfield’s Presidency and Assassination
James Garfield was inaugurated as the 20th President of the United States on March 4, 1881, alongside his Vice President Chester Arthur (Nick Offerman). His time in office was tragically short-lived.
The series also follows Charles Guiteau (Matthew Macfadyen), an eccentric man who became obsessed with Garfield after the 1880 convention. Guiteau sought a position in Garfield’s administration but, after being repeatedly rejected, his admiration turned deadly.
"Death by Lightning, out on Netflix Nov. 6, traces the assassination of President James Garfield, who was shot on July 2, 1881—four months into his term—and died from his injuries a few months later at the age of 49."
"Delegates were torn between Sherman, Maine’s U.S. Senator James Blaine and the 18th U.S. Grant, so 36 ballots later, they chose to nominate Garfield instead because his speech was so inspiring."
The series reveals how Guiteau shifted from adoring Garfield to ultimately killing him, shedding light on this brief but impactful chapter in American history.
Author’s summary: The series "Death by Lightning" poignantly portrays President Garfield’s brief term and assassination, highlighting political drama and a disturbed assassin’s deadly obsession.