America 250 · #20 President · 1881
James A. Garfield
Shot after 200 days and killed by his doctors as much as his assassin.
The biography
Destiny of the Republic: A Tale of Madness, Medicine and the Murder of a President
Candice Millard · 2011
The single best Garfield book — assassination, medical malpractice, and Bell's failed rescue.
Worth considering
Garfield: A Biography
Allan Peskin · 1978
The full-life biography if you want one; well-regarded.
Common questions
What is the best biography of James A. Garfield to read?
The definitive biography is Destiny of the Republic: A Tale of Madness, Medicine and the Murder of a President by Candice Millard. This book provides a comprehensive account of his life, his brief 200-day presidency, and the medical malpractice that ultimately led to his death after the assassination attempt.
Should I start with Destiny of the Republic when learning about James A. Garfield?
Yes, Destiny of the Republic is the ideal starting point for understanding James A. Garfield. It details the political climate of 1881 and the tragic circumstances surrounding his shooting, effectively highlighting how his medical treatment was as much a cause of his death as the assassin's bullet.
How did James A. Garfield die after being shot?
James A. Garfield died after 200 days in office. While he was shot by an assassin, historical accounts confirm that his doctors were largely responsible for his death. Their unsanitary medical practices introduced fatal infections into his body, which ultimately proved more lethal than the injury caused by the shooting.
Are there other biographies of James A. Garfield besides the one by Candice Millard?
While Destiny of the Republic is the definitive choice, there are alternative biographies available for readers seeking different perspectives on the life and presidency of James A. Garfield. These secondary options provide additional context regarding his career and the historical events that defined his short tenure in the White House.
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