The Tragic True Story Behind 'Death by Lightning'
The series, starring Michael Shannon and Matthew Macfadyen, explores the assassination of President James Garfield. He was shot on July 2, 1881, just four months into his term, and later died from his wounds at the age of 49.
Series Overview
Released on Netflix on November 6, Death by Lightning spans four episodes. It begins at the contentious 1880 Republican National Convention in Chicago, where Senator John Sherman (Alistair Petrie) chose Ohio congressman and farmer James Garfield (Michael Shannon) to speak for his presidential bid due to Garfield's charisma.
Delegates were divided among Sherman, Senator James Blaine of Maine (Bradley Whitford), and former President Ulysses S. Grant (Wayne Brett). After 36 ballots, Garfield was nominated for his inspiring speech.
Garfield's Presidency and Guiteau's Obsession
Garfield was inaugurated as the 20th President of the United States on March 4, 1881, alongside Vice President Chester Arthur (Nick Offerman). The series chronicles the rise of Charles Guiteau (Matthew Macfadyen), an eccentric man who became obsessed with Garfield after the 1880 convention speech.
Guiteau repeatedly sought a job in Garfield's administration, but his admiration turned into resentment, culminating in the assassination.
“The series 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. President Ulysses S. Grant, so 36 ballots later, they chose to nominate Garfield instead because his speech was so inspiring.”
Context and Significance
Death by Lightning reveals the turbulent political environment surrounding Garfield's short presidency and the personal obsession that led to his murder, shedding light on this pivotal moment in American history.
Author’s summary: This series vividly portrays President Garfield’s brief tenure and the tragic obsession of Charles Guiteau that led to a historic assassination.