James A. Garfield

ModernPoliticianUnited States1831 — 1881

President assassinated after only months in office.

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Quick Facts

Born

1831

Died

1881

Country

United States

Era

Modern

Occupation

Politician

Score Overview

Military (10%)40

Political (20%)32

Influence (20%)48

Legacy (20%)38

Leadership (15%)34

Strategy (15%)54

Total Score40.8

James A. Garfield — Complete Timeline

1880 AD

Election as President of the United StatesPolitical Action◆ Major

Garfield won the 1880 presidential election as a Republican, defeating Democrat Winfield Scott Hancock. The election was closely contested, with Garfield winning the popular vote by a narrow margin but securing a comfortable Electoral College victory.

Presidential ElectionRepublican Party

Impact: national

Advocacy for Civil Rights and EducationPolitical Action

During his brief presidency, Garfield advocated for African American civil rights and federal support for education. He appointed several African Americans to federal positions and supported the Blair Education Bill, which aimed to provide federal aid to public schools.

Civil RightsEducation Policy

Impact: nationalprogressive

1881 AD

Assassination by Charles GuiteauPolitical Action

Garfield was shot by Charles Guiteau, a disgruntled office-seeker, at the Baltimore and Potomac Railroad Station in Washington, D.C. He died from complications of his wounds on September 19, 1881, after serving only 200 days in office.

AssassinationPresidential Death

Impact: nationaltragic