The newly released miniseries “Death by Lightning” explores the surprising and often tragic intersection of ambition and politics in 19th-century America. It primarily focuses on the life of James Garfield, who served as the 20th President of the United States, and his assassin, Charles Guiteau.
James Garfield: An Overlooked Leader
James Garfield, portrayed by Michael Shannon, was an obscure congressman from Ohio. In 1880, he unexpectedly became a presidential candidate during the Republican National Convention. In an ironic twist, his articulate speech in support of another candidate landed him on the ticket instead.
- Year: 1880
- Location: Ohio
- Party: Republican
Garfield’s nomination came at a time when the GOP had been entrenched in corrupt machine politics for 15 years, following the Civil War. Seeking to restore integrity, Garfield emerged as a moralist amid the disillusioned political landscape.
The Antagonist: Charles Guiteau
Charles Guiteau, played by Matthew Macfadyen, becomes a pivotal character in Garfield’s story. His obsession with fame and recognition led him to plot an assassination. Guiteau’s background includes a brief involvement with a so-called “free-love colony” in Oneida, New York, which he later described as a “sex cult.”
Political Maneuvering and Corruption
The series delineates the intricate power dynamics within the Republican Party during Garfield’s ascent. It reflects a political environment rife with corruption, where figures like Roscoe Conkling and James Blaine played considerable roles. Conkling was influential in supporting Garfield’s predecessor, Ulysses S. Grant, while Blaine exhibited his own pragmatic political acumen.
Key Characters
- James Garfield – 20th President of the United States
- Charles Guiteau – Assassassin
- Roscoe Conkling – New York power broker
- James Blaine – Maine lawmaker
- Chester A. Arthur – Garfield’s running mate
The series is a commentary on the struggles of leadership and ambition in a complex political landscape. It underlines how candidates often present a facade of humility while seeking power.
The Irony of Ambition
“Death by Lightning” emphasizes the dual nature of ambition. Garfield’s initial humility, which helped him rise to power, ultimately posed a risk to his presidency. In confronting Guiteau, he exhibited a reluctance to engage with someone whose motives for greatness starkly contrasted with his own values.
Conclusion
The miniseries invites viewers to reflect on the fine balance between genuine leadership and the quest for recognition. It reveals the darker side of political ambition and the lasting impact of historical events still relevant today. “Death by Lightning” captures both the fervent aspirations and the grim realities of a tumultuous time in American history.
