James Abram Garfield, the 20th President of the United States, was born on November 19, 1831 in Orange Township, Ohio. His life was marked by a deep commitment to public service, a passion for education, and a tragic end that cut short a promising political career.
Garfield's early years were marked by hardship and loss. His father died when he was just 17 months old, leaving his mother, Eliza Ballou, to raise him and his four siblings alone. Despite the family's meager circumstances, Eliza instilled in her children a love of learning and a strong work ethic.
Garfield showed academic promise from a young age and was able to attend college thanks to the support of his mother and a local benefactor. He excelled in his studies and graduated from Williams College in Massachusetts in 1856. However, instead of pursuing a career in law or teaching as many of his peers did, Garfield had dreams of becoming a seaman.
At the age of 16, Garfield left home to work as a canal driver in order to save up enough money to attend college. His experience on the canals instilled in him a strong work ethic and a sense of the value of hard labor, qualities that would serve him well in his future political career.
Garfield's political career began in the Ohio State Senate, where he served from 1859 to 1861. In 1862, he was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, where he would serve for nine consecutive terms representing Ohio's 19th district. Garfield was known for his eloquence and his commitment to civil rights, advocating for the rights of African Americans and Native Americans.
Garfield's rise to the presidency was unexpected. At the 1880 Republican National Convention, he was chosen as a compromise candidate after a deadlock between the party's frontrunners. Despite his initial reluctance, Garfield accepted the nomination and went on to win a close and contentious election against Democrat Winfield Scott Hancock.
Garfield's presidency was short-lived, lasting only 200 days. On July 2, 1881, while on his way to a college reunion, Garfield was shot twice by Charles J. Guiteau, a disgruntled office seeker who believed he was owed a government position. Garfield's wounds were serious, and despite the best efforts of his doctors, he succumbed to infection and died on September 19, 1881.
Garfield's assassination shocked the nation and sparked a debate about the need for civil service reform. Many believed that Garfield's death could have been prevented if the spoils system, which rewarded political supporters with government positions, had been abolished.
Despite his short time in office, James A. Garfield left a lasting impact on American politics. He is remembered for his commitment to civil rights, his dedication to public service, and his tragically premature death. Garfield's legacy serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of fighting for justice and equality.
Today, Garfield's memory is preserved at the James A. Garfield National Historic Site in Mentor, Ohio, where visitors can learn about his life and legacy. His contributions to American history are not forgotten, and his story continues to inspire those who believe in the power of service and sacrifice.