Review: 'Death by Lightning' Presents a Surprising Story of an Assassinated President
Netflix's four-part miniseries, based on Candice Millard's nonfiction book, reveals the lesser-known tale of President James A. Garfield. The series, titled Death by Lightning, premiered Thursday on Netflix and introduces itself as “a story about two men the world forgot.” While Charles Guiteau may be unfamiliar to many in 2025, James A. Garfield remains known as one of only four American presidents who were assassinated.
The Story and Its Historical Context
Although there are presidents less remembered than Garfield—John Tyler, for example—and assassins who are more famous than Guiteau, the docudrama benefits from a compelling narrative built around a murder. The series appears crafted for contemporary audiences, addressing themes such as civil rights, income inequality, cronyism, and corruption.
Significance of Garfield’s Presidency
The Garfield story is intensely dramatic, representing a tragedy not only for his family but also for the nation. According to Death by Lightning and the historical record it portrays, Garfield was killed after only 200 days in office but might have become an effective chief executive.
“Death By Lightning,” premiering Thursday on Netflix, introduces itself as “a story about two men the world forgot.”
“The sense one gets from ‘Death by Lightning’ and from the historical record it fairly represents, is that Garfield, killed after only 200 days in office, might have made a very good chief executive.”
Summary
Death by Lightning offers a dramatic retelling of President Garfield’s untimely assassination, weaving historical facts with themes relevant to modern society.
Author's summary: This miniseries uncovers the tragic and overlooked story of President Garfield’s short tenure, highlighting timeless issues of justice and leadership.
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