Netflix’s new four-part series, Death By Lightning, offers a fresh perspective on the life and assassination of James A. Garfield, the 20th President of the United States. The show brings to light Garfield’s ambitious vision for America, which was tragically cut short when he was gunned down by Charles Guiteau in 1881. This drama not only explores Garfield’s political aspirations but also delves into the complexities of Guiteau’s troubled psyche, drawing parallels to contemporary society.
The series is inspired by Candice Millard‘s book, Destiny of the Republic: A Tale of Madness, Medicine and the Murder of a President. Showrunner Mike Makowsky highlighted Garfield’s potential as a transformative leader, noting that many viewers might initially perceive the story as a dry historical account. Instead, Death By Lightning embodies a tone reminiscent of modern political dramas such as The West Wing and Succession.
A Historical Divide: The 1880 Republican National Convention
The series transports viewers to the politically charged environment of the 1880 Republican National Convention. During this period, the Republican Party was fractured between two factions: the Stalwarts, who embraced the corrupt patronage system, and the reform-minded Half-Breeds. Powerful New York Senator Roscoe Conkling sought to bring former President Ulysses S. Grant back into the limelight to solidify Stalwart influence. In a surprising turn of events, Garfield was nominated as a compromise candidate, despite initially intending to support his friend, John Sherman.
Garfield’s rise to political prominence was fueled by his commitment to civil reform and equal rights, alongside his vision for public education. Makowsky, who discovered Millard’s book serendipitously, became captivated by Garfield’s progressive ideals and the potential impact of his presidency, which was tragically never realized.
Portraits of Power: The Garfields and Their Allies
The series also explores Garfield’s marriage to Lucretia Garfield, one of the first First Ladies to graduate from college. Her influence as an advisor is highlighted, showcasing her role in shaping her husband’s policies. The couple’s backstory, which includes their meeting at a local university where Lucretia was a leader and Garfield worked as a custodian, adds a personal dimension to the narrative.
As the political landscape shifts, the show features James Blaine, portrayed by Bradley Whitford, as Garfield’s staunch ally. Makowsky aimed to capture a dynamic, fast-paced political dialogue reminiscent of The West Wing, infusing the narrative with urgency and wit.
While the drama engages with themes of feminism, anti-racism, and political scandal, it does not shy away from the darker aspects of the human condition. Guiteau’s descent into madness and his obsession with Garfield culminate in the shocking act of violence that ultimately leads to the president’s death.
In a tragic irony, Garfield did not die from his gunshot wounds but rather from the inadequate medical care he received, which led to sepsis. This aspect of his death serves as a poignant reminder of the historical context and the failures of the medical practices of the time.
Makowsky emphasizes that the series does not glorify political violence but seeks to understand the underlying factors that contribute to such acts. He believes that by examining Guiteau’s alienation and disillusionment, audiences can gain insight into modern issues of mental health and political extremism.
As viewers engage with Death By Lightning, they are invited to reflect on the complexities of leadership, the fragility of progress, and the repercussions of societal neglect. With compelling performances from a star-studded cast, including Michael Shannon and Matthew Macfadyen, the series promises to resonate with contemporary audiences while shedding light on a largely forgotten chapter of American history.
Death By Lightning is now available for streaming on Netflix, offering a timely exploration of political ambition and the catastrophic consequences of violence.
