A Presidential Historian Explains What to Know Before Watching "Death by Lightning"
The series explores the assassination of President James A. Garfield and highlights overlooked figures in presidential history. While history usually focuses on well-known leaders like Washington, Lincoln, and Kennedy, Netflix’s limited series Death by Lightning brings attention to two often forgotten presidents: Chester A. Arthur, the 21st president, and his predecessor James A. Garfield.
The show is currently available for streaming. Here are key points to understand before watching.
America in the 1880s
The decade followed the turbulent Reconstruction era, featuring political corruption and social decay. Out of this environment stepped James Abram Garfield. A former classics professor from Ohio, he was also a Civil War hero and nine-term congressman. He commanded the 42nd Ohio Infantry and was known for his courage and moral strength.
“We should not nominate a man whom we can carry, but one who can carry us.”
He famously delivered this line at the Republican convention in Chicago, advocating for leadership based on ability and vision rather than political influence. Though he had not initially sought the presidency, Garfield became the compromise candidate after thirty-six ballots.
Garfield’s Background and Character
- Skilled in Greek and biblical scripture memorization
- Believed intellectual ability was a duty to public service
- Was a respected scholar-soldier combining intellect with military valor
Significance of the Series
Death by Lightning reshapes the typical presidential narrative by focusing on less celebrated but historically important figures, providing fresh insight into a chaotic era of U.S. history.
Netflix’s new limited series Death by Lightning feels like a small act of divine intervention: two uninvited guests — Arthur and Garfield — finally getting top billing.
Author's Summary
This series uncovers the overlooked legacies of Presidents Garfield and Arthur, enriching the presidential narrative by spotlighting their intellect, courage, and political complexity.