45 Facts About President James A. Garfield

Early Life and Education

James A. Garfield's journey from humble beginnings to the presidency is filled with fascinating details. Let's delve into his early years and education.

1. Born on November 19, 1831, in a log cabin in Orange Township, Ohio, Garfield was the last president born in such humble circumstances.
2. His father, Abram Garfield, died when James was just 18 months old, leaving his mother, Eliza Ballou Garfield, to raise him and his siblings alone.
3. Garfield worked as a canal boat driver at age 16, a job that nearly cost him his life when he fell overboard.
4. He attended Geauga Seminary, where he developed a love for learning and a strong work ethic.
5. Garfield later enrolled at the Western Reserve Eclectic Institute (now Hiram College) and eventually transferred to Williams College in Massachusetts, graduating in 1856.

Military Career

Garfield's military service during the Civil War showcased his leadership skills and bravery. Here are some key facts about his time in the army.

6. Garfield joined the Union Army in 1861, starting as a lieutenant colonel of the 42nd Ohio Volunteer Infantry.
7. He quickly rose through the ranks, becoming a brigadier general by 1862 due to his strategic prowess and leadership.
8. Garfield played a crucial role in the Battle of Middle Creek, securing a significant victory for the Union forces.
9. He served as Chief of Staff to General William S. Rosecrans, providing valuable strategic advice during the Battle of Chickamauga.
10. Garfield's military career ended in 1863 when he was elected to Congress, but his service left a lasting impact on his political career.

Political Ascent

Garfield's transition from military service to politics was seamless, and his political career was marked by significant achievements.

11. Elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1862, Garfield served nine consecutive terms, representing Ohio's 19th district.
12. He was a strong advocate for civil rights and worked tirelessly to protect the rights of freed slaves during Reconstruction.
13. Garfield served on the House Appropriations Committee, where he played a key role in shaping the nation's budget and fiscal policies.
14. He was a vocal opponent of the "greenback" currency, advocating for a return to the gold standard.
15. In 1880, Garfield was elected to the U.S. Senate, but he never took his seat, as he was nominated for the presidency by the Republican Party.

Presidential Campaign

Garfield's presidential campaign was a whirlwind of events and strategies that ultimately led to his election as the 20th President of the United States.

16. Garfield was a dark horse candidate at the 1880 Republican National Convention, emerging as a compromise choice after 36 ballots.
17. His campaign slogan, "From the Towpath to the White House," highlighted his humble beginnings and appealed to many voters.
18. Garfield's running mate was Chester A. Arthur, a former customs collector from New York.
19. He won the election with a narrow margin, securing 214 electoral votes to his opponent Winfield Scott Hancock's 155.
20. Garfield's victory marked the first time a sitting member of the House of Representatives was elected president.

Presidency

Garfield's time in office was tragically cut short, but his brief presidency was marked by significant events and decisions.

21. Garfield was inaugurated as president on March 4, 1881, delivering a powerful speech that emphasized national unity and civil rights.
22. He appointed James G. Blaine as Secretary of State, signaling a commitment to a strong foreign policy.
23. Garfield advocated for civil service reform, seeking to end the patronage system and implement merit-based appointments.
24. He faced opposition from the Stalwart faction of the Republican Party, led by Senator Roscoe Conkling.
25. Garfield's administration was marked by efforts to modernize the Navy and improve the nation's infrastructure.

Assassination and Legacy

Garfield's assassination and the aftermath left a profound impact on the nation and his legacy.

26. On July 2, 1881, Garfield was shot by Charles J. Guiteau, a disgruntled office seeker, at the Baltimore and Potomac Railroad Station in Washington, D.C.
27. The president suffered for 79 days before succumbing to his injuries on September 19, 1881.
28. Garfield's death led to widespread public mourning and a renewed call for civil service reform.
29. His assassination prompted the passage of the Pendleton Civil Service Reform Act in 1883, which established a merit-based system for federal employment.
30. Garfield's legacy is remembered for his commitment to civil rights, education, and government reform.

Personal Life

Garfield's personal life was as intriguing as his public career, filled with interesting anecdotes and relationships.

31. He married Lucretia Rudolph in 1858, and they had seven children together.
32. Garfield was an avid reader and had a personal library of over 3,000 books.
33. He was a skilled orator, known for his eloquent speeches and persuasive arguments.
34. Garfield enjoyed playing the banjo and was known to entertain guests with his musical talents.
35. He was a devout Christian and often incorporated his faith into his political speeches and decisions.

Fun Facts

Garfield's life is peppered with quirky and lesser-known facts that add depth to his character.

36. He was ambidextrous and could write Latin with one hand while writing Greek with the other.
37. Garfield was the first left-handed president of the United States.
38. He was a fan of baseball and attended several games during his presidency.
39. Garfield was the only sitting member of the House of Representatives to be elected president.
40. He was a self-taught scholar, mastering subjects like mathematics, literature, and ancient languages.

Posthumous Honors

Garfield's contributions and legacy have been honored in various ways since his death.

41. The James A. Garfield National Historic Site in Mentor, Ohio, preserves his home and legacy.
42. Garfield's likeness appears on the $20 Treasury Note issued in 1898.
43. Several schools, parks, and streets across the United States are named in his honor.
44. His statue stands in the U.S. Capitol's National Statuary Hall Collection.
45. Garfield's tomb in Lake View Cemetery, Cleveland, Ohio, is a popular historical site and a testament to his enduring legacy.

Garfield's Legacy Lives On

James A. Garfield's life was a whirlwind of achievements and challenges. From humble beginnings to becoming the 20th President of the United States, his story is nothing short of inspiring. His dedication to education, military service, and political reform left a lasting impact on the nation. Despite his short time in office, Garfield's efforts to fight corruption and promote civil rights set the stage for future progress. His tragic assassination cut his presidency short, but his legacy endures. Garfield's contributions remind us of the importance of integrity, perseverance, and public service. His story continues to be a source of inspiration for those who strive to make a difference. Whether you're a history buff or just curious about past presidents, Garfield's life offers valuable lessons and a glimpse into a pivotal era in American history.