Review: "Death by Lightning" Offers a Surprising Story About an Assassinated President Gone Too Soon
Netflix's four-part miniseries, based on Candice Millard's nonfiction book, reveals the little-known story of President James A. Garfield. Premiering Thursday on Netflix, Death By Lightning introduces itself as “a story about two men the world forgot.” While few in 2025 may recognize Charles Guiteau, many will know James A. Garfield, as he was one of only four American presidents assassinated.
Though there are lesser-remembered presidents—does the name John Tyler ring a bell?—and assassins better known than Guiteau, choosing this story for a docudrama is fitting, as it comes with a built-in murder and surprising elements for viewers.
Themes and Relevance
The series, likely intentionally, resonates with contemporary issues such as civil rights, income inequality, cronyism, and corruption. Garfield’s story is deeply dramatic—a national tragedy beyond the personal loss for his family.
“Death By Lightning,” premiering Thursday on Netflix, introduces itself as “a story about two men the world forgot.”
“For 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.”
Garfield was assassinated after serving only 200 days, leaving a lasting question about what kind of leader he might have become.
Summary
Death by Lightning brings to light a dramatic, historically rich narrative that explores forgotten figures and highlights issues still relevant today.
Author’s Conclusion
The story of President Garfield’s brief but impactful presidency and his tragic assassination offers a poignant reflection on leadership and justice that resonates beyond its era.
***Author’s summary: The miniseries sheds light on President Garfield’s overlooked story, linking historical tragedy to modern issues of civil rights, inequality, and corruption.