A Presidential Historian Explains What to Know Before Watching Death by Lightning
The series explores the assassination of President James A. Garfield, spotlighting figures often overlooked in presidential history.
Reevaluating Historical Guest Lists
Presidential history tends to highlight a fixed set of iconic leaders such as Washington, Jefferson, Lincoln, Jackson, the Roosevelts, Kennedy, and Reagan. Names like Chester A. Arthur rarely draw attention, making Netflix’s new limited series Death by Lightning an unexpected yet welcome focus on Arthur, the 21st president, alongside his predecessor, Garfield.
The Context of the 1880s
The 1880s were a period marked by decay and political corruption following Reconstruction. Into this atmosphere stepped James Abram Garfield—a former classics professor, Civil War hero, and nine-term congressman from Ohio. Garfield commanded the 42nd Ohio Infantry and emerged with both courage and principle.
“We should not nominate a man whom we can carry, but one who can carry us.”
This statement, made by Garfield at the 1880 Republican convention in Chicago, reflects his belief that intellect was a crucial form of public service. Though initially not a front-runner or even a candidate, he became the compromise nominee after thirty-six ballots.
Garfield’s Legacy
- Scholar-soldier who could translate Greek and quote the Psalms from memory
- Believed in intellectual leadership and public service
- Became an unexpected presidential nominee in a politically turbulent time
Arthur’s Role
Vice President Chester A. Arthur, historically overshadowed, gains prominence in the series, revealing a more complex narrative of this presidency and its challenges.
> The series gives Arthur and Garfield the recognition they seldom receive, offering a fresh perspective on their time in office.
Death by Lightning is now streaming and redefines how we see a pivotal era in American politics through less familiar yet compelling leaders.
Author’s summary: This series sheds light on the overlooked presidencies of Garfield and Arthur, blending political intrigue and historical depth in a compelling portrayal of 1880s America.