Who Was the Real Chester Arthur?
When US President James Garfield was shot in July 1881, few Americans believed his Vice President, Chester A. Arthur, could handle the ensuing crisis. Known primarily as a New York Republican party bureaucrat with ties to patronage and machine politics, Arthur initially faced widespread distrust.
After Garfield's death later that year, Arthur unexpectedly assumed the presidency as the 21st President of the United States.
Arthur's Political Reputation
Before taking office, Arthur was considered a party insider linked to political corruption. Public confidence in him was low due to his background as a Republican enforcer in New York politics.
Portrayal in Popular Culture
Arthur's story features in the 2025 Netflix drama Death by Lightning, which explores Garfield's assassination. The film casts Michael Shannon as Garfield and Matthew Macfadyen as Charles Guiteau, the assassin.
“Chester Arthur is portrayed as something of a low man pushed into high office, a Republican enforcer famed for his carousing.”
Nick Offerman plays Arthur, highlighting the unexpected nature of his rise to power.
Relationship with James Garfield
Arthur served as Garfield's Vice President but was largely seen as disconnected from the president's progressive agenda. His sudden elevation was met with skepticism, yet he ultimately surprised the nation with his leadership.
Despite initial doubts, Arthur's presidency marked a departure from his earlier reputation tied to corruption.
Chester Arthur defied low expectations by transforming from a political insider with a dubious reputation into a president who led the country during a critical period.