Background and rise

James A Garfield was born in what is now Moreland Hills Ohio and rose from humble origins through education and public service. He served as a teacher and as a minister before entering politics. Garfield won election to the US House where he became known for his intellect and for his work on national issues.

Civil War and public service of James A Garfield

During the Civil War he served as an officer and returned to public life with a reputation for leadership. In Congress he worked on issues of veterans care and on measures to strengthen national institutions. His oratory and scholarship made him a respected voice in the Republican party.

Presidency and assassination of James A Garfield

Garfield won the presidency with a promise of reform and of national unity. His time in office was brief as he was shot by an assassin months after taking office. The attack and the medical response of the era shaped public debate about security and about the need for civil service reform.

Legacy and reform of James A Garfield

Garfield is remembered for his intellect and for the reforms his death helped spur. The public outcry after his assassination contributed to the passage of measures that reduced patronage and that professionalized parts of the federal service. His life is often cited in studies of leadership and of the costs of political violence.

Other Politicians From Ohio

Rutherford B Hayes  > Ulysses S Grant  >  William McKinley  >  Benjamin Harrison