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

Who Was the Real Chester Arthur?

When President James Garfield was assassinated in 1881, his Vice President, Chester A. Arthur, became the 21st President of the United States amid widespread doubt. Known as a New York Republican party insider tied to patronage and machine politics, Arthur initially lacked public support.

Few expected Arthur to handle the crisis following Garfield’s shooting in July 1881. However, after Garfield died of his wounds later that year, Arthur took the presidency and surprised many with his leadership.

Arthur's Political Image and Legacy

Once viewed as a corrupt party official, Arthur’s reputation shifted as he proved capaz of governing beyond the expectations set by his political background.

Portrayal in Popular Culture

The story of Chester Arthur is depicted in the 2025 Netflix drama Death by Lightning, which centers on Garfield's assassination by Charles Guiteau. In the series, Chester Arthur is shown as a reluctant figure elevated to power, known as a Republican enforcer with a reputation for heavy drinking.

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

Cast in Death by Lightning

James Garfield played by Michael Shannon
Charles Guiteau played by Matthew Macfadyen
Chester Arthur played by Nick Offerman

Death by Lightning paints a nuanced picture of Arthur, contrasting public skepticism with his surprising performance as president.

Author’s Summary: Chester A. Arthur, initially distrusted as a political insider, proved an unexpectedly capable president after Garfield's assassination, a story highlighted in a 2025 Netflix drama.

HistoryExtra — 2025-11-07