Who Was the Real Chester Arthur?
When US President James Garfield was assassinated in 1881, his Vice President, Chester A. Arthur, took over the presidency amid widespread skepticism. Initially seen as a political insider associated with corruption, Arthur defied expectations and surprised the nation.
Arthur's Rise to the Presidency
Few Americans believed Chester A. Arthur could handle the crisis after Garfield was shot in July 1881. Known primarily as a New York Republican party official involved in patronage and machine politics, Arthur lacked strong public support. However, after Garfield succumbed to his injuries later that year, Arthur became the 21st President of the United States.
Depiction in Popular Culture
Arthur's story is subtly featured in the 2025 Netflix drama Death by Lightning, which depicts the assassination of Garfield. The president is played by Michael Shannon, while the assassin, Charles Guiteau, is portrayed by Matthew Macfadyen. Chester Arthur, played by Nick Offerman, appears as a minor figure elevated unexpectedly to the highest office—a Republican enforcer well known for his indulgent lifestyle.
“Chester Arthur is portrayed as something of a low man pushed into high office, a Republican enforcer famed for his carousing.”
Author's Summary
Chester Arthur, once doubted due to his political background, emerged from obscurity to lead the nation with unexpected strength after Garfield's assassination.