A Presidential Historian Explains What to Know Before Watching 'Death by Lightning'
The series explores the assassination of President James A. Garfield, bringing attention to often overlooked historical figures. Presidential history usually highlights a fixed list of names—Washington, Jefferson, Lincoln, Jackson, the Roosevelts, Kennedy, Reagan. Mentioning “Chester A. Arthur” tends to clear a room quickly, which makes Netflix’s limited series Death by Lightning feel like a rare and meaningful event.
This series gives Chester A. Arthur, the 21st president of the United States, and his predecessor, James A. Garfield, the spotlight they rarely receive. The show is now available for streaming.
Context of the 1880s
The 1880s were an era marked by decay and decadence. America was emerging from Reconstruction with a fragile conscience and corrupted politics.
About James Abram Garfield
James Abram Garfield was a former classics professor from Ohio, a Civil War hero, and a nine-term congressman. He led the 42nd Ohio Infantry and showed both courage and strong principles during the Battle of Chickamauga. A scholar and soldier, Garfield believed intellectualism was a public service.
“We should not nominate a man whom we can carry, but one who can carry us.”
This statement, made at the Republican convention in Chicago, expressed his unexpected rise. Despite neither running for president nor wanting the office initially, Garfield became the only compromise candidate after thirty-six ballots.
Author’s Summary
This series reveals overlooked presidents Arthur and Garfield, highlighting their significance in a corrupt era through the lens of a gripping political drama.