The True Story Behind Netflix’s ‘Death by Lightning’ and the Assassination of James A. Garfield

Charles Guiteau’s bullet did not directly kill the 20th president of the United States. Instead, it was a combination of ignorance, pride, and flawed medical interventions that ultimately caused President Garfield's death. Garfield was shot less than four months into his presidency, a tragedy that still influences politics and medicine over 120 years later.

Netflix Series Overview

The new Netflix limited series Death By Lightning, which premiered on Thursday, November 6, delves into the tragic story of Garfield’s assassination and its significant impact on American history. This four-part series stars Michael Shannon as President Garfield and Matthew Macfadyen as Charles Guiteau. It explores the events leading up to the attack and the misguided medical efforts to save the president's life.

Exploration of Key Themes

Guiteau’s motivation for the assassination
Doctors’ erratic and harmful attempts to treat Garfield
The historical context surrounding the shooting and its aftermath

Background of Charles Guiteau

Charles Julius Guiteau was born in Freeport, Illinois, in 1841. His early life was marked by hardship; his mother, Jane, who suffered from psychosis, died when he was about seven years old. After her death, Guiteau was raised by his abusive father, Luther.

"Garfield was less than four months into his presidential term when tragedy struck in the form of an assassin’s bullet."

"More than 120 years later, the ramifications of that shot—fired by a disgruntled supporter named Charles Guiteau—still loom heavily over politics and medicine."

Summary

The Netflix series sheds light on how President Garfield’s death was shaped more by medical failure and human error than the initial gunshot, offering a nuanced view of a pivotal moment in U.S. history.

Biography — 2025-11-07