The Real Story Behind Netflix

The Rise of an Unlikely Assassin

Ahead of the 1880 presidential election, 39-year-old lawyer Charles J. Guiteau tirelessly distributed printed copies of his campaign speech to anyone willing to read them. The text initially supported the leading contender for the Republican nomination, two-time President Ulysses S. Grant. However, when Grant failed to secure enough votes for a third nomination, Guiteau quickly modified his endorsement to favor Senator James A. Garfield of Ohio.

Garfield’s Unexpected Victory

Garfield ultimately triumphed in the presidential race, narrowly defeating Democratic Civil War General Winfield Scott Hancock. Guiteau convinced himself that his eloquence had played a decisive role in Garfield’s success and believed the new president owed him a political appointment.

Guiteau’s Ambition and Disillusionment

“I hereby make a formal application for the Austrian Mission,” Guiteau wrote to President Garfield and Secretary of State James G. Blaine. “I feel I have a right to do it on account of my services during the canvass.”

Despite his persistence, Guiteau’s request for a diplomatic post was ignored. Garfield and Blaine had no recollection of ever meeting him, leaving the delusional lawyer bitter and desperate for recognition.

Author’s Summary

A man’s obsessive pursuit of political reward after Garfield’s election spiraled into fatal delusion, forever linking ambition and tragedy in American history.

Smithsonian Magazine — 2025-11-07