Who was the real Chester Arthur – and what was his relationship with James Garfield?

Who Was Chester Arthur and His Relationship with James Garfield?

When President James Garfield was assassinated in 1881, Vice President Chester A. Arthur took office amid widespread skepticism. Initially seen as a party insider involved in political corruption, Arthur managed to surprise the nation.

At the time Garfield was shot in July 1881, few Americans believed Arthur could handle the ensuing crisis. Known as a New York Republican bureaucrat with a history in patronage and machine politics, Arthur lacked public support. However, after Garfield died later that year, Arthur became the 21st President of the United States.

Arthur’s Role in Popular Culture

Arthur’s story serves as a subtle backdrop in the 2025 Netflix drama Death by Lightning. The film depicts Garfield’s assassination (played by Michael Shannon) by political hopeful Charles Guiteau (played by Matthew Macfadyen). Chester Arthur, portrayed by Nick Offerman, is shown as a reluctant figure thrust into high office, known more for his role as a Republican enforcer and his indulgent lifestyle.

“Chester Arthur is portrayed as something of a low man pushed in high office, a Republican enforcer famed for his carousing.”

Despite initial distrust, Arthur’s presidency marked a notable shift from his earlier reputation tied to party corruption.

Summary

Chester Arthur rose from a distrusted party insider to a surprisingly capable president after Garfield’s assassination, revealing unexpected depth behind his political persona.

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HistoryExtra HistoryExtra — 2025-11-07

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