U.S. Presidents

A Detailed Timeline of James Garfield’s Presidency

James A. Garfield, the 20th President of the United States, served from March 4, 1881, until his assassination on September 19, 1881. Despite his brief time in office, Garfield’s presidency was marked by significant political and social issues, including battles over civil service reform and his tragic assassination. This article provides a detailed timeline of Garfield’s presidency, highlighting key dates and events that defined his short tenure.

Inauguration and Early Actions: March 1881

  • March 4, 1881: James A. Garfield is inaugurated as the 20th President of the United States. In his inaugural address, Garfield emphasizes his commitment to civil service reform and the need for national unity.
  • March 5, 1881: Garfield appoints his Cabinet members, including William H. Hunt as Secretary of the Navy, Samuel J. Kirkwood as Secretary of the Interior, and Charles J. Folger as Secretary of the Treasury. The appointments reflect Garfield’s focus on experienced and capable individuals.
  • March 15, 1881: Garfield’s administration begins to address the ongoing issue of civil service reform, advocating for the end of the patronage system and the implementation of merit-based hiring practices.

Civil Service Reform and Political Challenges: March-July 1881

  • April 1881: Garfield takes significant steps to address the patronage system, which was a contentious issue following the end of Rutherford B. Hayes’s presidency. His efforts include appointing reform-minded individuals to key positions and advocating for civil service reform.
  • May 1881: The Republican Party experiences internal divisions between the Stalwarts, who support the patronage system, and the Half-Breeds, who advocate for reform. Garfield’s presidency becomes a focal point in this factional struggle.
  • July 2, 1881: Garfield is shot by Charles J. Guiteau, a disgruntled office seeker who was upset over his failure to receive a patronage appointment. The assassination attempt occurs at the Baltimore and Potomac Railroad Station in Washington, D.C., and Guiteau is apprehended at the scene.

Aftermath of the Assassination Attempt: July-September 1881

  • July 3, 1881: Garfield undergoes surgery to remove the bullet lodged in his body. The operation is performed by Dr. D. Willard Bliss and Dr. Joseph K. Barnes. Despite the surgery, Garfield’s condition deteriorates due to infections and complications.
  • July 7, 1881: Alexander Graham Bell, the inventor of the telephone, uses his device to attempt to locate the bullet in Garfield’s body. Although the exact location of the bullet is not found, Bell’s efforts highlight the medical challenges of the time.
  • August 1881: Garfield’s health continues to decline. Infections and the lack of proper medical sanitation contribute to his worsening condition. His suffering becomes a national concern, and public sympathy for the president grows.
  • September 6, 1881: Garfield’s condition worsens significantly. He is moved to Elberon, New Jersey, in hopes of benefiting from the sea air and a change of environment. However, his health continues to deteriorate.
  • September 19, 1881: James A. Garfield dies from his wounds and complications at the age of 49. His death marks the end of one of the briefest presidencies in U.S. history and leads to widespread mourning across the nation.

Aftermath and Legacy

  • September 21, 1881: Garfield is laid to rest in Cleveland, Ohio, with a state funeral attended by a large number of dignitaries and citizens. His funeral is a solemn occasion reflecting the nation’s grief over the loss of its leader.
  • 1882: Charles J. Guiteau is tried for the assassination of President Garfield. He is found guilty and sentenced to death. Guiteau is executed on June 30, 1882, by hanging. His trial and execution bring attention to issues of mental health and criminal justice.

Legacy and Impact

James Garfield’s presidency, though brief, had a significant impact on American politics and society:

  • Civil Service Reform: Garfield’s efforts to address civil service reform and combat the patronage system were part of a broader movement to professionalize government. Although he did not live to see the full impact of his reforms, his presidency highlighted the need for a merit-based system.
  • Assassination and Security: Garfield’s assassination led to increased awareness of the need for better presidential security and medical practices. His death prompted reforms in both areas and contributed to the eventual establishment of the Secret Service as the primary agency responsible for protecting the President.
  • Public Sympathy: Garfield’s tragic death and the circumstances surrounding his assassination elicited widespread public sympathy and demonstrated the nation’s capacity for mourning and reflection. His presidency, though short, left a lasting impression on the American public.

Conclusion

James A. Garfield’s presidency, despite its brevity, was marked by significant challenges and events. His commitment to civil service reform, the tragic assassination attempt, and his subsequent death had a profound impact on American politics and society. Garfield’s legacy as a reformer and the lessons learned from his presidency continue to be remembered as important aspects of U.S. history.