Ep 4. Murder Of A President

In American Experience season 28 episode 4, viewers are taken on a journey through one of the most tragic moments in American history - the assassination of President James A. Garfield. The episode explores the life and legacy of Garfield, who rose to political prominence during a time of great division in the United States. With his intelligence, eloquence, and dedication to public service, Garfield quickly became a beloved figure among his constituents and was seen as a unifying force in an increasingly fragmented nation.

However, Garfield's promising career was cut short when he was shot by a deranged office seeker named Charles Guiteau in 1881. The episode delves into the motives and mental state of Guiteau, who believed that he was owed a government position for his support of Garfield during the campaign. Viewers will learn about the failed attempts of doctors to save Garfield's life and the resulting chaos and political intrigue that followed in the weeks and months after his death.

The episode also examines the impact of Garfield's murder on the American psyche. At a time when the nation was still grappling with the aftermath of the Civil War, this senseless act of violence intensified feelings of anger, fear, and grief. Yet, it also sparked a renewed sense of national unity and a commitment to upholding the democratic ideals that Garfield championed throughout his life.

Through interviews with historians, experts, and descendants of those involved in the assassination, Murder Of A President provides a nuanced and comprehensive view of this pivotal moment in American history. The episode combines archival footage, photographs, and reenactments to vividly illustrate the events surrounding Garfield's death and the impact it had on the nation as a whole. Whether viewers are history buffs or simply curious about this lesser-known episode in American history, Murder Of A President is sure to fascinate and educate them.