What is *Destiny of the Republic* by Candice Millard about?

*Destiny of the Republic* chronicles President James A. Garfield’s rise from poverty to the presidency, his 1881 assassination by Charles Guiteau, and the medical blunders that ultimately caused his death. Candice Millard intertwines political drama, technological innovation (like Alexander Graham Bell’s bullet-locating device), and a critique of 19th-century medical practices to reveal how Garfield’s tragedy spurred civil service reforms.

Who should read *Destiny of the Republic*?

History enthusiasts, political science students, and readers interested in medical history will appreciate this narrative. Millard’s gripping storytelling appeals to fans of biographical works like *The Devil in the White City*, offering insights into Gilded Age politics, leadership, and the consequences of institutional corruption.

Is *Destiny of the Republic* worth reading?

Yes—it combines rigorous research with page-turning suspense. Millard humanizes Garfield as a self-made scholar and reformer, while exposing the lethal hubris of his doctors and the toxic political climate. The book’s exploration of how one death reshaped American governance makes it a compelling read.

How does *Destiny of the Republic* explain Garfield’s assassination?

Guiteau, a delusional office-seeker, believed killing Garfield would unite the Republican Party and earn him fame. Millard traces his psychological unraveling and the era’s patronage system, which incentivized political violence. Garfield’s resistance to the "spoils system" made him a target of Conkling’s Stalwart faction, indirectly enabling Guiteau’s act.

What medical mistakes doomed Garfield?

Doctors ignored antiseptic practices, causing fatal sepsis. Dr. Bliss repeatedly probed Garfield’s wound with unsterilized fingers, dismissed Joseph Lister’s germ theory, and rejected Bell’s metal-detecting device. An autopsy later showed the bullet missed vital organs—Garfield likely would have survived with modern care.

How did Garfield’s death transform U.S. politics?

His assassination galvanized support for the Pendleton Civil Service Act (1883), which replaced patronage with merit-based federal hiring. Vice President Chester Arthur, once a Conkling ally, unexpectedly championed the reform, dismantling the system that had fueled Guiteau’s rage.

What role does Alexander Graham Bell play in the story?

Bell races to invent an induction balance to locate the bullet non-invasively. Despite multiple attempts, Dr. Bliss restricts Bell to searching only Garfield’s right side—the wrong area. The device later proves effective in medical trials, cementing Bell’s legacy beyond the telephone.

How does Millard portray the political conflict between Garfield and Roscoe Conkling?

Conkling, leader of the Stalwarts, demands control over patronage appointments, while Garfield allies with Half-Breed reformers. Their clash symbolizes the era’s corruption, with Conkling resigning from the Senate in protest—a move that backfires and weakens his faction.

Der Mord an James A. Garfield

Eine Geschichte von Wahnsinn, Medizin und dem Mord an einem Präsidenten

Candice Millard

4.23(81754 Reviews)

Überblick über Der Mord an James A. Garfield

Als ein vergessener Präsident angeschossen wurde, erwies sich seine medizinische Versorgung als tödlicher als die Kugel selbst. „Destiny of the Republic“ enthüllt, wie das Attentat auf Garfield Amerika veränderte und Alexander Graham Bell zur Erfindung des Metalldetektors inspirierte. Jetzt wird der Stoff zu einer Netflix-Sensation mit Michael Shannon in der Hauptrolle.

Wähle die Erzählweise

Ein Buch. Viele Arten, es zu hören.

Dieselben Ideen aus Der Mord an James A. Garfield. Wähle Stimme, Tiefe und Tempo, die zu dir passen. Wechsle jederzeit.

Kapitel 1

The Bullet That Changed America's Destiny

In the summer of 1881, a single bullet fired from a British Bulldog revolver altered the course of American history. President James A. Garfield, just four months into his presidency, lay mortally wounded in a Washington train station. The assassin, Charles Guiteau, calmly announced, "I am a Stalwart and Arthur is president now!" Few Americans today remember this pivotal moment that captivated the nation and transformed American politics, medicine, and technology. Candice Millard's "Destiny of the Republic" resurrects this forgotten chapter with gripping narrative force, revealing how Garfield's assassination became a catalyst for change across American society. The book has earned acclaim from historians and general readers alike, with Erik Larson calling it "an irresistible tale that showcases all the public and private heroism, hubris, and tragedy of a tumultuous American era." Beyond its historical significance, the story resonates with contemporary debates about medical ethics, political division, and technological innovation - themes that continue to shape our national conversation about who we are and what we might become.

Kapitel 2

From Canal Boy to Congressman: Garfield's Remarkable Rise

James Garfield's life embodied the quintessential American dream. Born in a log cabin in Ohio in 1831, he lost his father before his second birthday. His mother Eliza, refusing to surrender to destitution, farmed their meager land while instilling in her children an unshakable belief in education's power. Despite wearing threadbare clothes to school, young James embraced learning with fervent dedication. As a teenager, Garfield sought adventure on the Erie and Ohio Canal, working as a towpath driver. The canal life exposed him to vice and hardship until a near-drowning incident changed his trajectory. After falling overboard and nearly dying, he returned home gravely ill with malaria. During his recovery, he made a pivotal decision to pursue education rather than continue canal work. With his mother's encouragement and financial sacrifice, Garfield enrolled at the Western Reserve Eclectic Institute (later Hiram College). Despite his poverty, he thrived academically, supporting himself by working as a janitor and eventually becoming an assistant professor. His intellectual prowess led him to Williams College in Massachusetts, where he graduated with honors before returning to the Eclectic Institute as its president at just twenty-six years old. Garfield's path shifted dramatically when he accepted a nomination to the Ohio State Senate. When the Civil War erupted, he organized a volunteer regiment and distinguished himself at the Battle of Middle Creek, earning promotion to brigadier general. The war deepened his commitment to abolitionism and equal rights, principles he carried to Congress after being elected in 1863. In Washington, Garfield emerged as a principled voice for emancipation and reconstruction. He supported scientific exploration, helping secure funding for John Wesley Powell's groundbreaking expedition of the Grand Canyon. Perhaps most remarkably, he risked his political career by defending enemies of the Union in a landmark legal case, demonstrating his commitment to constitutional principles over partisan advantage.

Sieh jedes Wort, während du es hörst

Lies mühelos mit, während jedes Wort aus Der Mord an James A. Garfield in Echtzeit aufleuchtet.

Kapitel 3

The Reluctant Candidate: An Unexpected Nomination

The Republican National Convention of 1880 in Chicago pulsed with tension and ambition. Garfield arrived with no presidential aspirations, serving merely as the nominator for Ohio Senator John Sherman. The party was deeply divided between the Stalwarts, led by New York Senator Roscoe Conkling who championed the spoils system, and the reformist Half-Breeds who sought civil service reform. Conkling dominated the convention floor with his imposing presence. Known for his flamboyant attire and meticulously styled hair, he wielded influence ruthlessly. His bitter feud with James Blaine, stemming from a public humiliation years earlier, drove his determination to block Blaine's presidential ambitions in favor of former president Ulysses S. Grant. As the convention proceeded through ballot after ballot with no candidate securing the nomination, an extraordinary turn of events unfolded. Despite Garfield's protests and genuine disinterest in the presidency, delegates began casting votes for him. What began as scattered support swelled into a groundswell. By the 36th ballot, Garfield emerged as the nominee amid thunderous applause and celebration. The nomination stunned Garfield himself. He had never sought the presidency and found himself thrust into the role of party standard-bearer almost against his will. His acceptance speech reflected this reluctance: "This honor comes to me unsought. I have never had the presidential fever, not even for a day." The general election campaign against Democrat Winfield Scott Hancock proved contentious. Partisan newspapers hurled accusations and scandals at both candidates. Garfield, preferring a dignified approach, conducted "front porch" talks at his Mentor, Ohio farm rather than actively campaigning. African Americans, recognizing the stakes for their hard-won rights, emerged as passionate supporters. On election night, Garfield prevailed by the narrowest of margins-just 10,000 votes out of nearly nine million cast-becoming the last president born in a log cabin and a symbol of America's promise of upward mobility through education and hard work.

Kapitel 4

A Presidency of Promise and Peril

Garfield's inauguration on March 4, 1881, marked a moment of national optimism. His inaugural address emphasized education as "the most important subject which we as a people can be engaged in" and called for protecting the rights of freed slaves. The new president brought intellectual vigor and moral purpose to the White House, reading Latin and Greek for pleasure and writing mathematical proofs to relax. Yet the burdens of office quickly became apparent. The White House itself was in disrepair, with gas lighting that leaked and plumbing that frequently failed. More challenging was the relentless parade of office-seekers who besieged the president daily, demanding positions in the government under the spoils system Garfield hoped to reform. The most formidable obstacle proved to be Senator Conkling, who expected to control federal appointments in New York. When Garfield nominated reformer William Robertson to the lucrative position of Collector of the Port of New York-a direct challenge to Conkling's power-the senator erupted in fury. The ensuing battle consumed Garfield's early presidency and threatened to tear apart the Republican Party. Amid these political struggles, Garfield found solace in family life. His wife Lucretia and their five children brought him joy and stability. He read aloud to them each evening and maintained his intellectual curiosity despite the demands of office. When Lucretia fell gravely ill with malaria in May 1881, Garfield devoted himself to her care, spending nights at her bedside while still managing affairs of state. As summer approached, Garfield looked forward to escaping Washington's oppressive heat and reuniting with his recovering wife at the Jersey Shore. On July 2, 1881, he prepared to depart for a brief vacation, his spirits high despite the political battles that awaited his return. The president had no way of knowing that a deranged office-seeker named Charles Guiteau had been stalking him for weeks, waiting for the perfect moment to fulfill what he believed was a divine mission.

Hol mehr aus Der Mord an James A. Garfield heraus

Tägliche Erkenntnisse aus über 100.000 Lektionen
Wörter leuchten auf – synchron zum Audio
Deine Bibliothek ist gespeichert – auf jedem Gerät

Kapitel 5

The Delusional Assassin: Guiteau's Descent into Madness

Charles Guiteau's life traced a path of failure, delusion, and growing mental instability. Born in Illinois in 1841, he displayed odd behaviors from childhood. After failing as a lawyer, he joined the utopian Oneida Community but was rejected even by this fringe group for his strange conduct and parasitic tendencies. Guiteau drifted through life, accumulating debts and burning bridges. He abandoned his wife, evaded creditors, and sponged off relatives until they could no longer tolerate his presence. His sister Frances, the only family member who maintained contact, gradually realized he required institutional care, but no action was taken. As the 1880 election approached, Guiteau became obsessed with politics. He wrote a speech supporting Garfield that he delivered perhaps twice to nearly empty rooms. After Garfield's victory, Guiteau convinced himself that his negligible contribution had been decisive and deserved a diplomatic appointment, preferably the consulship in Paris. He haunted the State Department and White House, pestering officials for his "earned" position. When repeatedly rebuffed, his fixation darkened. Following Garfield's break with Conkling, Guiteau convinced himself that eliminating the president would heal the Republican Party and elevate Chester Arthur, a Stalwart, to the presidency. Guiteau's delusions took on religious dimensions as he persuaded himself that God wanted him to "remove" Garfield. He purchased a revolver, choosing one with an ivory handle that would look better in a museum display. He practiced shooting and stalked the president for weeks, abandoning several assassination attempts when circumstances seemed unfavorable. In Guiteau's distorted mind, killing Garfield was not murder but a political necessity-a "removal" that would save the Republic. He prepared notes explaining his actions and arranged to have them delivered to newspapers. He even visited the jail where he expected to be briefly held before receiving gratitude and acclaim for his service to the nation. On the morning of July 2, 1881, Guiteau rose early, prepared himself meticulously, and headed to the Baltimore and Potomac train station. The president's schedule had been published in newspapers, and Guiteau knew Garfield would be departing for his vacation. With chilling determination, he positioned himself for the moment that would forever link his name with presidential assassination.

Kapitel 6

The Shot That Echoed Through History

July 2, 1881, dawned bright and clear in Washington. President Garfield awoke in high spirits, playfully demonstrating his athletic prowess to his sons by turning a handstand against the White House wall. Despite ongoing political battles and his wife's illness, he looked forward to a brief respite at the Jersey Shore, where Lucretia was recovering. Arriving at the Baltimore and Potomac train station around 9:20 a.m., Garfield walked arm-in-arm with Secretary of State James G. Blaine. As they crossed the ladies' waiting room toward the train platform, Charles Guiteau emerged from the shadows. Without warning, he fired two shots from his British Bulldog revolver. The first bullet grazed the president's arm, but the second entered his back, lodging somewhere in his torso. "My God, what is this?" Garfield exclaimed as he collapsed. Blaine rushed to his side while others subdued Guiteau, who made no attempt to escape. "I did it," the assassin declared. "I will go to jail for it. Arthur is president, and I am a Stalwart." The wounded president was carried to a second-floor room in the station. Doctors arrived quickly and began probing the wound with unsterilized fingers and instruments, searching for the bullet. The primitive medical practices of the time-ignoring the antiseptic techniques pioneered by Joseph Lister-would prove as dangerous to Garfield as the bullet itself. News of the shooting spread rapidly across the nation by telegraph. Crowds gathered outside the station and the White House, desperate for updates. When Garfield was transported back to the Executive Mansion on a mattress, thousands lined the streets in stunned silence. Lucretia Garfield, still recovering from malaria, rushed back to Washington by special train. Upon arriving at her husband's bedside, she demonstrated remarkable composure and strength, becoming his most devoted caregiver and advocate during the ordeal ahead. The shooting transformed the national mood from partisan rancor to unified concern. Even former Confederates expressed sympathy and prayers for the president's recovery. The country held its collective breath, hoping that Garfield's robust constitution would pull him through this crisis as it had carried him from poverty to the presidency.

Sieh jedes Wort, während du es hörst

Lies mühelos mit, während jedes Wort aus Der Mord an James A. Garfield in Echtzeit aufleuchtet.

Kapitel 7

Medical Malpractice: The Battle for Garfield's Life

The medical care President Garfield received following the assassination attempt represents one of history's most tragic examples of well-intentioned harm. Dr. Doctor Willard Bliss (his first name was actually "Doctor") quickly took charge of the case, establishing himself as the president's primary physician despite having no official appointment to the role. Bliss aggressively excluded other physicians from Garfield's care, even turning away the First Lady's preferred doctor. He established military guards around the president's room and limited access to those he approved. This medical autocracy would have devastating consequences. The most critical error in Garfield's treatment was the complete disregard for antiseptic procedures. Joseph Lister had published his groundbreaking work on antisepsis in 1867, demonstrating that sterilizing instruments and maintaining clean conditions dramatically reduced infection. However, many American doctors, including Bliss, dismissed these "foreign" ideas. Consequently, doctors probed Garfield's wound with unwashed fingers and unsterilized instruments, introducing bacteria that caused massive infection. They created additional wound channels while searching for the bullet, turning what might have been a survivable injury into a death sentence. As one physician later observed, "Garfield was shot by Guiteau, but killed by his doctors." The president's robust constitution allowed him to survive for 79 days despite developing multiple infections and abscesses. During this time, his weight dropped from 210 pounds to just 130 as he became unable to keep food down. The White House became an impromptu hospital, with primitive air conditioning-a fan blowing over blocks of ice-installed to combat the summer heat. Alexander Graham Bell, already famous for inventing the telephone, worked feverishly to develop a metal detector to locate the bullet without further invasive procedures. His induction balance device was a promising innovation, but Bliss limited Bell's access to the president and insisted he only scan the right side of Garfield's body, where Bliss believed the bullet lodged. In fact, the bullet was on the left side, and Bell's device was confounded by the metal springs in the president's mattress-a factor Bliss failed to mention. Throughout the ordeal, Garfield displayed remarkable courage and occasional humor. When his doctors expressed optimism about his recovery, he wryly noted, "I am having a struggle for life." He maintained lucidity through much of his suffering, writing notes and even conducting limited official business from his sickbed.

Kapitel 8

A Nation United in Grief

As President Garfield fought for his life during the summer of 1881, something remarkable happened across the divided nation. Just sixteen years after the Civil War's end, Americans North and South found themselves united in concern for their wounded leader. Former Confederate soldiers sent messages of support, while Southern newspapers that had viciously opposed Garfield's election now called for prayers for his recovery. The president's struggle became a national obsession. Newspapers published detailed medical bulletins twice daily, which were posted in public spaces and read aloud in churches and meeting halls. Telegraph operators prioritized updates on the president's condition above all other messages. When positive reports emerged, spontaneous celebrations erupted in cities and towns across America. Garfield's personal qualities-his rise from poverty, his intellectual achievements, his devotion to family-resonated with Americans of all backgrounds. His suffering humanized the presidency in unprecedented ways. The public learned intimate details of his daily struggles, his diet, his pain levels, and his interactions with family members. First Lady Lucretia Garfield emerged as a figure of national admiration for her steadfast devotion and quiet strength. Despite her own recent illness, she remained constantly at her husband's side, reading to him, managing his care, and maintaining hope even as his condition deteriorated. The assassination attempt also prompted national reflection on the toxic political climate that had preceded it. Though Guiteau acted alone, driven by mental illness rather than political ideology, many Americans questioned whether the bitter partisan rhetoric had created an atmosphere conducive to violence. Political leaders who had been at each other's throats just weeks earlier now called for civility and cooperation. Vice President Chester Arthur, previously viewed with suspicion as a Stalwart machine politician, underwent a profound transformation during this period. Initially devastated by accusations that he might have benefited from the assassination, Arthur isolated himself in his New York home, praying for Garfield's recovery. The experience changed him fundamentally, preparing him for the unexpected responsibility that would soon be his. As summer turned to fall and Garfield's condition worsened, the nation began to prepare for the worst. Churches held prayer vigils, and citizens from all walks of life sent messages of support to the White House. When news came on September 19, 1881, that the president had finally succumbed to his wounds, the nation plunged into genuine mourning that transcended political divisions.

Hol mehr aus Der Mord an James A. Garfield heraus

Tägliche Erkenntnisse aus über 100.000 Lektionen
Wörter leuchten auf – synchron zum Audio
Deine Bibliothek ist gespeichert – auf jedem Gerät

Kapitel 9

Legacy of a Fallen Leader

James Garfield's death on September 19, 1881, after 79 days of suffering, left an indelible mark on American society. The autopsy revealed what modern medicine had already suspected: the bullet itself had not struck any vital organs and likely would not have been fatal with proper treatment. Instead, massive infection caused by unsterile medical practices had killed the president. This revelation accelerated the adoption of Lister's antiseptic methods in American medicine. Doctors who had witnessed Garfield's treatment began advocating for sterilization procedures and modern medical practices. Within a decade, American medical education and hospital protocols underwent significant reforms, saving countless lives. The assassination also transformed the civil service system. Guiteau's delusion that he deserved a government position highlighted the dangers of the spoils system. Chester Arthur, once a champion of patronage, surprised the nation by embracing the reform cause his predecessor had championed. In 1883, he signed the Pendleton Civil Service Reform Act, establishing a merit-based system for government employment that remains the foundation of the federal workforce today. Presidential security changed dramatically as well. Prior to Garfield's assassination, presidents routinely walked the streets unguarded and welcomed the public into the White House without screening. Afterward, formal protection measures were implemented, eventually leading to the creation of the Secret Service's presidential protection detail. Garfield's personal legacy endured through his family. Lucretia established the first presidential memorial library at their Mentor, Ohio home, preserving his papers and books for future generations. Their children achieved distinction in various fields, carrying forward their father's commitment to education and public service. Charles Guiteau was tried, convicted, and hanged on June 30, 1882. His trial featured one of the first major insanity defenses in American jurisprudence, though it proved unsuccessful. His name became synonymous with delusional violence motivated by perceived grievance. Perhaps Garfield's most poignant legacy lies in what might have been. His brief presidency showed promise of healing sectional divisions, advancing civil rights for African Americans, promoting education, and modernizing government. His intellectual gifts and moral courage suggested a president who might have ranked among America's finest had he been given the chance to serve. Alexander Graham Bell, devastated by his inability to save the president despite his technological innovation, returned to his laboratory with renewed determination. The principles behind his induction balance later contributed to the development of metal detectors and medical imaging technologies that would save countless lives.

Kapitel 10

The Transformation of Chester Arthur

Chester Arthur's ascension to the presidency following Garfield's death represents one of the most remarkable character transformations in American political history. Once derided as a machine politician and Conkling loyalist, Arthur found himself thrust into a role he never expected to fill and for which many considered him unqualified. The weight of responsibility and the circumstances of his elevation profoundly affected Arthur. On the night of Garfield's death, he took the presidential oath in his New York home, then wept openly. "The people are not prepared to see me assume the duties of the presidency," he confessed to a friend. "I shall be execrated and condemned for having reached the highest office in the gift of the people over the bloody corpse of the president." Yet Arthur rose to the occasion in ways that astonished his critics. He distanced himself from his former patron Conkling and embraced civil service reform-the very cause he had once opposed. When Congress passed the Pendleton Act establishing merit-based government employment, Arthur signed it enthusiastically, effectively dismantling the patronage system that had defined his earlier career. Arthur refurbished the dilapidated White House, bringing in designer Louis Comfort Tiffany to create elegant new interiors. He hosted sophisticated dinners and receptions, establishing a standard of presidential dignity and refinement. His personal style-impeccable dress, formal manners, and cultured tastes-earned him the nickname "The Gentleman Boss." Behind this polished exterior, however, Arthur suffered. Shortly after becoming president, he was diagnosed with Bright's disease, a fatal kidney ailment. He kept his condition secret while working diligently at his unexpected responsibilities. Though he hoped for renomination in 1884, his reform policies had alienated his former Stalwart allies without fully winning over reformers who remembered his past. The Republican convention passed him over, and he retired after one term. Arthur died in 1886, just twenty months after leaving office. Before his death, he ordered most of his personal papers burned, an act that has complicated historians' efforts to fully assess his presidency. Nevertheless, his unexpected integrity in office and his embrace of his predecessor's reform agenda represent a remarkable example of how the presidency can transform the person who holds it.

Sieh jedes Wort, während du es hörst

Lies mühelos mit, während jedes Wort aus Der Mord an James A. Garfield in Echtzeit aufleuchtet.

Kapitel 11

The Enduring Relevance of Garfield's Story

The assassination of James Garfield resonates beyond its historical moment, offering insights into issues that continue to shape American society. The tragedy illuminates the dangers of extreme partisanship, the importance of scientific progress, and the resilience of democratic institutions in times of crisis. Garfield's death occurred during a period of intense political division comparable to our own era. The bitter factionalism within the Republican Party and the lingering wounds of the Civil War created an atmosphere where political opponents were viewed as enemies rather than fellow citizens with different views. Guiteau's delusion that killing Garfield would heal these divisions instead revealed their destructive potential. The medical aspects of Garfield's case demonstrate both the dangers of rejecting scientific consensus and the importance of technological innovation. The doctors who dismissed Lister's antiseptic methods clung to familiar practices despite mounting evidence of their harmfulness. Conversely, Alexander Graham Bell's attempt to locate the bullet with his newly invented metal detector represents the potential of technology to address human suffering. The constitutional system functioned smoothly despite the trauma of assassination. Power transferred peacefully to Vice President Arthur, and the government continued to operate without interruption. This stability in crisis demonstrated the strength of American institutions even in their relative youth. Garfield's life story-rising from poverty through education and hard work-continues to embody core American values. His intellectual curiosity, moral courage, and commitment to equal rights represent ideals that transcend his historical moment. As he once observed, "The truth will set you free, but first it will make you miserable." This insight applies to both personal growth and national progress. The tragedy of Garfield's death also highlights how single events can accelerate historical change. His assassination expedited civil service reform, modernized American medicine, and established presidential security protocols. These changes emerged from collective reflection on preventable aspects of the tragedy. Perhaps most poignantly, Garfield's story reminds us of history's contingency-how differently events might have unfolded had he survived. His brief presidency suggested the potential for racial reconciliation, educational advancement, and governmental modernization that might have altered the trajectory of the Gilded Age. As we grapple with contemporary challenges of political division, scientific skepticism, and institutional strain, Garfield's story offers both cautionary lessons and inspirational examples. The bullet that struck him on July 2, 1881, continues to reverberate through American history, reminding us of both our vulnerabilities and our capacity for progress through shared national purpose.

★★★★★

Du bist am Ende von Der Mord an James A. Garfield angekommen

Von über 1 Million Lernenden geliebt

“Seit 23 Tagen nutze ich die App jeden Tag. Sie ist jetzt Teil meiner täglichen Routine.”

jayallen

Kernthemen in Der Mord an James A. Garfield

presidential assassination
spoils system reform
antiseptic medicine evolution
victorian medical malpractice
gilded age politics

Zitate aus Der Mord an James A. Garfield

"I am a Stalwart and Arthur is president now!"
Education [is] the most important subject which we as a people can be engaged in.
This honor comes to me unsought.

Personen in Der Mord an James A. Garfield

James A. Garfield20th US President and subject of the biography
Charles GuiteauThe assassin who shot President Garfield
Roscoe ConklingPowerful New York Senator and Stalwart leader
Eliza GarfieldThe President's mother who prioritized education
John ShermanOhio Senator whom Garfield initially supported

Über den Autor

Candice Sue Millard ist die Bestsellerautorin von Destiny of the Republic: A Tale of Madness, Medicine & the Murder of a President und eine gefeierte Historikerin, die für packende Erzählungen bekannt ist, die entscheidende Momente der amerikanischen Geschichte wiederbeleben. Als ehemalige Autorin und Redakteurin für National Geographic verbindet Millard akribische Recherche mit dem Gespür einer Romanautorin und konzentriert sich dabei auf übersehene historische Persönlichkeiten und transformative Ereignisse.

Ihre Expertise darin, biografische Details mit geopolitischen Kontexten zu verweben, resultiert aus ihrem akademischen Hintergrund, zu dem ein Master-Abschluss in Literatur der Baylor University gehört.

Millards Werke, darunter The River of Doubt (über Theodore Roosevelts Amazonas-Expedition) und Hero of the Empire (über Winston Churchills frühe Abenteuer), wurden allesamt zu New York Times-Bestsellern und festigten ihren Ruf, fundierte Wissenschaft in fesselnde Prosa zu verwandeln. Destiny of the Republic, das das Attentat auf Präsident James A. Garfield und dessen Folgen untersucht, gewann den Edgar Award für Best Fact Crime und den PEN Center USA Award for Research Nonfiction.

Ihr neuestes Buch, River of the Gods, befasst sich mit der Suche nach der Nilquelle im 19. Jahrhundert und festigt weiter ihre Nische in der abenteuerorientierten historischen Sachliteratur. Ihre in mehrere Sprachen übersetzten Bücher wurden von Medien wie der Washington Post und Time gelobt, wobei Destiny of the Republic von Amazon, der New York Times und der American Library Association zum besten Buch des Jahres gekürt wurde.

Zusammenfassung von Der Mord an James A. Garfield herunterladen

Erhalten Sie die Der Mord an James A. Garfield-Zusammenfassung als kostenloses PDF oder EPUB. Drucken Sie es aus oder lesen Sie es jederzeit offline.

Nutzern gefiel auch

Team of Rivals

Doris Kearns Goodwin

Killing Lincoln

Bill O’Reilly

The river of doubt

Candice Millard

Buchcover von Presidential Assassinations: The End of Innocence

List of United States presidential assassination attempts and plots

American Presidential Assassinations | American Experience - PBS

Timeline of Our History - Secret Service

7 sources

Presidential Assassinations: The End of Innocence

Lincoln Conspiracy

Brad Meltzer & Josh Mensch

American Lion

Jon Meacham

The demon of unrest

Erik Larson

Chasing Lincoln's killer

James L. Swanson

FAQ zu diesem Buch

Mehr entdecken

LERNPLAN

The Kennedy Dynasty: Power, Scandal, and Survival

This plan offers a deep dive into the tension between political mythology and the reality of power. It is ideal for history buffs and political science students seeking to understand how one family shaped American leadership through triumph and turmoil.

30 m•3 Abschnitte

LERNPLAN

Nature's Lethal Ambition

This plan offers a unique look at how humanity has harnessed nature's toxins for power, war, and status. It is ideal for history buffs, science enthusiasts, and true crime fans interested in the dark evolution of toxicology.

1 h 12 m•3 Abschnitte

LERNPLAN

Analyze Profiles in Courage & Modern Lessons

This plan is essential for aspiring leaders and public servants who want to anchor their decision-making in proven moral frameworks. It bridges the gap between historical presidential integrity and the high-stakes ethical dilemmas of the modern political landscape.

5 h 31 m•4 Abschnitte

LERNPLAN

Power, Blood, and Statecraft

This plan provides a deep dive into the brutal evolution of political authority and the shift from divine right to state sovereignty. It is essential for students of political science, history buffs, or anyone seeking to understand the ruthless mechanics behind how power is seized and held.

1 h 30 m•3 Abschnitte

LERNPLAN

US History: Independence to Present Day

This plan provides a comprehensive overview of the pivotal events and ideologies that shaped the United States into a global leader. It is ideal for students, history buffs, or anyone seeking to understand the roots of modern American society and politics.

5 h 28 m•4 Abschnitte

LERNPLAN

History of USA

This comprehensive survey of American history is essential for anyone seeking to understand the forces that shaped the United States and continue to influence global politics today. Perfect for students, educators, professionals working in policy or international relations, and engaged citizens who want to contextualize current events through historical understanding.

3 h 42 m•4 Abschnitte

LERNPLAN

American history

This comprehensive survey of American history provides essential context for understanding current political, social, and cultural debates in the United States. It's ideal for students, professionals working in American contexts, global citizens seeking to understand U.S. influence, or anyone wanting to grasp how historical forces continue to shape contemporary American society and its role in the world.

4 h 43 m•4 Abschnitte

LERNPLAN

The Gospel of the Library

This plan explores the intersection of extreme wealth and public service through the lens of Andrew Carnegie's library movement. It is essential for historians, philanthropists, and urban planners seeking to understand how private capital shapes public intellectual infrastructure.

1 h 30 m•3 Abschnitte

Von Columbia University Alumni in San Francisco entwickelt

LOVED BY

1,000,000+ curious minds.

4.7

avg rating

1M+ learners

"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."

@Moemenn

"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."

@Chloe, Solo founder, LA

117

"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."

@Raaaaaachelw

"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."

@Matt, YC alum

108

"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."

@Erin, Investment Banking Associate , NYC

254

"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."

@djmikemoore

"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."

@Pitiful

4.5K

"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."

@SofiaP

"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"

@Jaded_Falcon

201

"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."

@OojasSalunke

"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."

@Leo, Law Student, UPenn

483

"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"

@Cashflowbubu

Erfahren Sie mehr darüber, wie BeFreed im Web diskutiert wird

Von Columbia University Alumni in San Francisco entwickelt

LOVED BY

1,000,000+ curious minds.

4.7

avg rating

1M+ learners

"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."

@Moemenn

"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."

@Chloe, Solo founder, LA

117

"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."

@Raaaaaachelw

"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."

@Matt, YC alum

108

"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."

@Erin, Investment Banking Associate , NYC

254

"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."

@djmikemoore

"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."

@Pitiful

4.5K

"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."

@SofiaP

"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"

@Jaded_Falcon

201

"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."

@OojasSalunke

"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."

@Leo, Law Student, UPenn

483

"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"

@Cashflowbubu

"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."

@Moemenn

"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."

@Chloe, Solo founder, LA

117

"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."

@Raaaaaachelw

"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."

@Matt, YC alum

108

"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."

@Erin, Investment Banking Associate , NYC

254

"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."

@djmikemoore

"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."

@Pitiful

4.5K

"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."

@SofiaP

"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"

@Jaded_Falcon

201

"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."

@OojasSalunke

"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."

@Leo, Law Student, UPenn

483

"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"

@Cashflowbubu

"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."

@Moemenn

"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."

@Chloe, Solo founder, LA

117

"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."

@Raaaaaachelw

"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."

@Matt, YC alum

108

"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."

@Erin, Investment Banking Associate , NYC

254

"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."

@djmikemoore

"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."

@Pitiful

4.5K

"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."

@SofiaP

"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"

@Jaded_Falcon

201

"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."

@OojasSalunke

"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."

@Leo, Law Student, UPenn

483

"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"

@Cashflowbubu

Erfahren Sie mehr darüber, wie BeFreed im Web diskutiert wird

Starten Sie Ihre Lernreise, jetzt

Kapitel 11

Der Mord an James A. Garfield

ÜberblickÜberblick über Der Mord an James A. Garfield

Ein Buch. Viele Arten, es zu hören.

The Bullet That Changed America's Destiny

From Canal Boy to Congressman: Garfield's Remarkable Rise

Sieh jedes Wort, während du es hörst

The Reluctant Candidate: An Unexpected Nomination

A Presidency of Promise and Peril

Hol mehr aus Der Mord an James A. Garfield heraus

The Delusional Assassin: Guiteau's Descent into Madness

The Shot That Echoed Through History

Sieh jedes Wort, während du es hörst

Medical Malpractice: The Battle for Garfield's Life

A Nation United in Grief

Hol mehr aus Der Mord an James A. Garfield heraus

Legacy of a Fallen Leader

The Transformation of Chester Arthur

Sieh jedes Wort, während du es hörst

The Enduring Relevance of Garfield's Story

Du bist am Ende von Der Mord an James A. Garfield angekommen

Kernthemen in Der Mord an James A. Garfield

Zitate aus Der Mord an James A. Garfield

Personen in Der Mord an James A. Garfield

Über den Autor

Zusammenfassung von Der Mord an James A. Garfield herunterladen

Nutzern gefiel auch

FAQ zu diesem Buch

What is Destiny of the Republic by Candice Millard about?

Who should read Destiny of the Republic?

Is Destiny of the Republic worth reading?

How does Destiny of the Republic explain Garfield’s assassination?

Mehr entdecken

1,000,000+ curious minds.

1,000,000+ curious minds.

Ein Buch. Viele Arten, es zu hören.

The Bullet That Changed America's Destiny

From Canal Boy to Congressman: Garfield's Remarkable Rise

Sieh jedes Wort, während du es hörst

The Reluctant Candidate: An Unexpected Nomination

A Presidency of Promise and Peril

Hol mehr aus Der Mord an James A. Garfield heraus

The Delusional Assassin: Guiteau's Descent into Madness

The Shot That Echoed Through History

Sieh jedes Wort, während du es hörst

Medical Malpractice: The Battle for Garfield's Life

A Nation United in Grief

Hol mehr aus Der Mord an James A. Garfield heraus

Legacy of a Fallen Leader

The Transformation of Chester Arthur

Sieh jedes Wort, während du es hörst

The Enduring Relevance of Garfield's Story

Du bist am Ende von Der Mord an James A. Garfield angekommen

Nutzern gefiel auch

Mehr entdecken

Überblick über Der Mord an James A. Garfield