The True Story Behind Netflix’s ‘Death by Lightning’ and the Assassination of James A. Garfield
Charles Guiteau’s bullet did not directly cause the death of the 20th president of the United States; rather, it was a combination of medical ignorance, pride, and the flawed treatments intended to save President James A. Garfield’s life. Garfield had been in office for less than four months when he was shot by Guiteau, a disgruntled supporter. More than 120 years later, this event continues to influence politics and medicine.
Netflix's ‘Death By Lightning’ Series Overview
The new Netflix limited series Death By Lightning, which premiered on November 6, explores the tragedy surrounding Garfield’s death and its significant impact on American history. The four-part series features Michael Shannon as Garfield and Matthew Macfadyen as Guiteau. It details the lead-up to the assassination and the doctors’ misguided attempts to save the president.
The Assassination and Medical Missteps
Guiteau’s motive, the chaotic medical care Garfield received, and the tragic consequences are central to the series. The doctors’ efforts were marked by poor hygiene and ineffective practices that ultimately worsened the president’s condition.
Charles Guiteau’s Background
Born in Freeport, Illinois, in 1841, Charles Julius Guiteau had a difficult childhood. His mother, Jane, suffered from psychosis and died when he was about seven years old, leaving him in the care of his abusive father, Luther.
“Garfield was less than four months into his presidential term when tragedy struck in the form of an assassin’s bullet.”
“More than 120 years later, the ramifications of that shot—fired by a disgruntled supporter named Charles Guiteau—still loom heavily over politics and medicine.”
This dramatization reveals how a single violent act, compounded by medical error, changed the course of American history and medical practices.
Author’s summary: The Netflix series “Death by Lightning” sheds light on President Garfield’s assassination, emphasizing the fatal blend of misguided medical care and political turmoil that shaped history.