“Death by Lightning”: What’s Fact and What’s Fiction?

**Death by Lightning: Sorting Fact from Fiction**

The Netflix series *Death by Lightning* delves into a forgotten slice of American history, recounting the brief presidency of James A. Garfield and his tragic assassination by Charles J. Guiteau. Premiering on November 6th, the four-part political drama stars Michael Shannon as President Garfield and Matthew Macfadyen as his assassin. The show draws inspiration from Candice Millard’s book *Destiny of the Republic*, shedding light on a lesser-known chapter of the country’s past.

Creator Mike Makowsky, reflecting on the source material, expressed his initial surprise at Garfield’s compelling story. He found the narrative both captivating and tragic, filled with unexpected twists and bizarre events that challenged his perceptions of historical figures. Whilst rooted in real events, the series took some creative liberties, introducing elements like a fictional drunken boxing match for dramatic effect.

One key aspect explored in *Death by Lightning* is Garfield’s reluctant ascent to the presidency. Despite his long career as an Ohio congressman, he had not actively pursued the highest office. The portrayal of Garfield’s initial hesitance to accept the Republican nomination adds depth to his character, underscoring the complexities of his leadership.

The depiction of Guiteau’s ties to the Oneida Community, a real-life free love movement, adds an intriguing layer to his character. The series explores Guiteau’s unconventional beliefs and lifestyle, shedding light on the religious commune’s principles of “complex marriage.” These details paint a fuller picture of the assassin’s background and motivations.

One notable departure from historical accuracy is the portrayal of Garfield’s vice president, Chester A. Arthur, engaging in a drunken escapade with Guiteau. Although the series takes liberties with this event, the dynamic between Arthur and Guiteau offers a glimpse into the political and social milieu of the time.

The show also highlights the tragic role of medical negligence in Garfield’s demise. While the president survived the initial gunshot wound inflicted by Guiteau, the unsanitary practices of his doctors ultimately led to his death. The series underscores the importance of historical context, weaving together political intrigue and personal drama to create a compelling narrative.

Additionally, the portrayal of Lucretia Garfield’s interactions with Guiteau in prison adds a speculative element to the story. While there is no evidence of such meetings in historical records, the dramatization serves to deepen the emotional impact of the events surrounding Garfield’s assassination.

In exploring Guiteau’s final moments, *Death by Lightning* stays true to historical accounts, depicting his poignant recitation of a poem before his execution. This scene captures the complex character of the assassin, offering a glimpse into his psyche in his last moments.

Ultimately, *Death by Lightning* blends historical fact with creative storytelling to bring a lesser-known chapter of American history to life. Through its engaging narrative and compelling performances, the series sheds light on the complexities of power, ambition, and fate in the political landscape of the time. As viewers immerse themselves in this gripping tale, they are reminded of the enduring impact of these historical figures on the fabric of American society.