Future President Garfield as a brigadier general during the Civil War

circa 1861

James A. Garfield (1831–1881) was the 20th president of the United States, serving only a few months in 1881 before his untimely death. Born in Ohio, Garfield grew up in poverty but excelled academically, eventually graduating from Williams College. He served in the Union Army during the Civil War, rising to the rank of major general. After the war, Garfield entered politics and served in the U.S. House of Representatives, where he became known for his advocacy for civil rights and government reform.

In 1880, Garfield was elected president as a Republican, defeating Winfield Scott Hancock. His presidency was cut short when he was shot by an assassin, Charles J. Guiteau, just a few months into his term. Garfield lingered for several weeks before succumbing to his injuries. His death led to changes in U.S. law regarding civil service reform, as his assassination highlighted the need for reforms to the patronage system.

Garfield is remembered for his dedication to public service and his support for civil rights and educational advancement, though his presidency was too brief to enact many of his plans.