The Real Story Behind Netflix
The new limited series dramatizes the brief presidency of the 20th U.S. commander in chief, James A. Garfield, who was fatally shot by Charles J. Guiteau, a lawyer convinced he had secured Garfield's election.
Guiteau's Ambition Before the 1880 Election
Before the 1880 presidential election, 39-year-old lawyer Charles J. Guiteau handed out printed copies of a speech endorsing the front-runner for the Republican nomination: two-time former President Ulysses S. Grant. However, Grant lacked enough support for a third nomination.
Instead, Garfield, recently elected as Ohio's senator, became the preferred candidate. Guiteau swapped Grant’s name with Garfield’s in his speech, confident that his words could elect either man.
Election Outcome and Guiteau's Expectations
Garfield narrowly defeated Democratic General Winfield Scott Hancock to win the presidency. Guiteau believed he deserved a reward for his efforts and formally requested a diplomatic post:
“I hereby make a formal application for the Austrian Mission. I feel I have a right to do it on account of my services during the canvass.”
He sent this appeal to President Garfield and the new Secretary of State, James G. Blaine.
The Response to Guiteau's Request
Despite his expectations, Guiteau's demand went unnoticed. Neither Garfield nor Blaine knew who he was, and the appointment never materialized.
This rejection set the stage for tragic consequences.
Summary: This series reveals how Charles J. Guiteau’s misguided belief in his political influence led to an assassination that abruptly ended Garfield's presidency.