The Tragic True Story Behind 'Death by Lightning'
The Netflix series Death by Lightning, released on November 6, follows the assassination of President James Garfield, who was shot on July 2, 1881—just four months into his presidency—and died a few months later at age 49.
Political Turmoil at the 1880 Republican National Convention
The four-episode series opens at the heated 1880 Republican National Convention in Chicago. U.S. Senator John Sherman (Alistair Petrie) selected Ohio congressman and farmer James Garfield (Michael Shannon) to speak in support of his presidential bid, knowing Garfield was a compelling orator.
Convention delegates, however, were divided among Sherman, Maine’s Senator James Blaine (Bradley Whitford), and the 18th President Ulysses S. Grant (Wayne Brett). After 36 ballots, Garfield was unexpectedly nominated due to his inspiring speech.
Garfield's Presidency and Assassination
James Garfield became the 20th President of the United States on March 4, 1881, with Chester Arthur (Nick Offerman) as his vice president. His time in office was tragically short-lived.
The Assassin’s Obsession
The series also highlights Charles Guiteau (Matthew Macfadyen), an eccentric man who became fixated on Garfield after his 1880 speech. Guiteau sought a government position but, when rejected, his admiration turned to fatal obsession.
"The series follows his attempts to get a job in the administration and how he went from adoring Garfield to killing him."
Author's summary: The series vividly portrays James Garfield’s brief presidency and how Charles Guiteau’s obsession led to one of America’s most tragic political assassinations.