Who Was the Real Chester Arthur?
When US President James Garfield was shot in July 1881, his Vice President, Chester A. Arthur, faced widespread doubt about his ability to handle the crisis. Arthur was largely seen as a New York Republican party insider, known for patronage and machine politics, which earned him little public trust.
After Garfield died from his wounds later that year, Arthur unexpectedly became the 21st President of the United States. Despite his reputation as a political enforcer linked to corruption, Arthur surprised many by how he managed his presidency.
Arthur’s Portrayal in Popular Culture
The story of Arthur’s rise is featured in Netflix’s 2025 drama Death by Lightning, which depicts the assassination of Garfield. In the film, Garfield is played by Michael Shannon, and the assassin Charles Guiteau is portrayed by Matthew Macfadyen.
“Chester Arthur is portrayed as something of a low man pushed into high office, a Republican enforcer famed for his carousing.”
Actor Nick Offerman plays Arthur in the movie, emphasizing his transformation from political insider to president thrust into national spotlight.
Summary
Chester A. Arthur, initially distrusted as a party insider tied to corruption, ultimately proved a surprising and capable president after Garfield’s assassination.