Who Was the Real Chester Arthur?
When US President James Garfield was assassinated in 1881, his Vice President, Chester A. Arthur, unexpectedly assumed the presidency amid widespread public distrust. Once viewed primarily as a party insider tied to political corruption, Arthur surprised many with his leadership.
Arthur's Background and Reputation
Before becoming president, Arthur was known as a New York Republican party bureaucrat, deeply involved in patronage and machine politics. Because of this, he had little public confidence or support. Few expected him to manage the crisis following Garfield's shooting in July 1881.
Arthur's Ascension to the Presidency
After Garfield succumbed to his wounds later that year, Arthur was suddenly thrust into the national spotlight as the 21st President of the United States.
Portrayal in Popular Culture
Arthur's story features in Netflix's 2025 drama Death by Lightning, which depicts Garfield's assassination by the disgruntled political hopeful Charles Guiteau. In the film:
- James Garfield is played by Michael Shannon.
- Charles Guiteau is played by Matthew Macfadyen.
- Chester Arthur, portrayed by Nick Offerman, is shown as a reluctant figure pushed into high office, known as a Republican enforcer and carouser.
"Chester Arthur is portrayed as something of a low man pushed in high office, a Republican enforcer famed for his carousing."
Despite initial skepticism, Arthur's presidency challenged many expectations tied to his previous reputation.
Author's summary: Chester A. Arthur, once dismissed as a corrupt party insider, rose unexpectedly to lead the nation and defied early doubts about his presidency.