James A. Garfield Timeline
James A. Garfield by People
James A. Garfield, the 20th President of the United States, was born in Ohio in 1831 and overcame early poverty to become a scholar, Civil War hero, and politician. He was a strong advocate for civil rights, education, and agricultural development. His presidency, which began in March 1881, was tragically cut short when he was shot in July of the same year and died from his injuries in September. Despite his short term, Garfield's legacy includes his efforts to reform the corrupt "spoils system" of political jobs, a change that was later realized with the Pendleton Civil Service Reform Act. His life story of rising from humble beginnings continues to inspire many today.
November 19, 1831
Birth of a Future President in Orange, Ohio
Born in a humble log cabin, this future leader was raised in poverty. Despite these hardships, he rose to become a significant figure in American history. His birth marked the start of a life that would eventually lead him to the White House.
September 1, 1851
Start of College Education at Western Reserve Eclectic Institute
The future president began his higher education journey at a small Ohio school, Western Reserve Eclectic Institute. This institution, known today as Hiram College, was a stepping stone for his political career. His studies there, primarily in classical languages and literature, laid the foundation for his intellectual growth.
September 1, 1856
Graduation from Williams College, Massachusetts
After years of hard work, the future U.S. leader completed his studies at Williams College in Massachusetts. This achievement marked a significant step in his journey towards political leadership. The knowledge and skills he gained there greatly influenced his later decisions as President.
November 11, 1856
Garfield graduates from Williams College, Massachusetts
Garfield's graduation from Williams College marked a significant milestone in his life. This education equipped him with the knowledge and skills that would later help him become a successful politician. His time at Williams College also shaped his values and beliefs, which greatly influenced his leadership style as a U.S. President.
November 11, 1858
Marriage to Lucretia Rudolph
The future president met Lucretia Rudolph at school, and they tied the knot in a simple ceremony. Their marriage was a strong one, marked by mutual respect and affection. They had seven children together, creating a lively family life.
November 2, 1859
Election to Ohio State Senate
The future U.S. President was elected to the Ohio State Senate, marking his entry into political life. He represented his state passionately, focusing on issues like education and civil rights. This experience laid the foundation for his later national leadership.
August 29, 1861
Begins military service as a Colonel in the 42nd Ohio Infantry during the Civil War
He took command of the 42nd Ohio Infantry, a unit he helped recruit and organize. His leadership skills shone during the Civil War, where he led his men in several key battles. This military experience played a significant role in his later political career.
August 30, 1861
Military Service Begins in the Civil War
Our 20th president started his military career during the Civil War, serving as a Union Army general. He showed great bravery and leadership in several key battles, including the Battle of Middle Creek. His military success helped pave the way for his future political career.
January 17, 1863
Promotion to Major General in the Union Army
This promotion marked a significant step in his military career during the Civil War. As a Major General, he was responsible for leading large groups of soldiers in battle. This role required strategic thinking and bravery, skills that would later serve him in his presidency.
December 3, 1863
Election to U.S. House of Representatives
This event marked a significant step in his political career. He was elected as a member of the Republican party, representing Ohio's 19th district. His strong anti-slavery stance and impressive oratory skills played a key role in his election.
June 8, 1880
Wins the Republican nomination for President
Securing the Republican nomination wasn't an easy task. It took 36 rounds of voting at the Republican National Convention before he emerged as the winner. This victory marked a significant step in his political career, setting the stage for his eventual presidency.
July 8, 1880
Nomination for U.S. Presidency at Republican National Convention
The Republican National Convention chose a new face as their candidate for the presidency. This man, a former Civil War general and Ohio congressman, was known for his strong moral character and commitment to civil rights. His nomination marked a significant moment in U.S. political history, setting the stage for a contentious election.
March 4, 1881
Inauguration as 20th President of the United States
This inauguration marked the start of a new presidency, with the leader promising to bring changes to the nation. However, his term was tragically cut short by an assassin's bullet, making it one of the shortest presidencies in U.S. history. His legacy, though brief, had a lasting impact on the country.
July 2, 1881
Assassination Attempt at Baltimore and Potomac Railroad Station
The assassination attempt took place at a busy train station, where Charles J. Guiteau shot the president because he believed it would help his political party. Despite being hit twice, the president fought for his life for over two months before succumbing to his injuries. This tragic event shocked the nation and led to changes in how the president's security was handled.
September 19, 1881
Death from Assassination Wound Complications
The 20th U.S. President was shot by a disgruntled office-seeker. The bullet didn't kill him directly, but the poor medical practices of the time led to infection and his eventual death. This tragic event highlighted the need for advancements in medical hygiene.
James A. Garfield, the 20th President of the United States, was born in Ohio in 1831 and overcame early poverty to become a scholar, Civil War hero, and politician. He was a strong advocate for civil rights, education, and agricultural development. His presidency, which began in March 1881, was tragically cut short when he was shot in July of the same year and died from his injuries in September. Despite his short term, Garfield's legacy includes his efforts to reform the corrupt "spoils system" of political jobs, a change that was later realized with the Pendleton Civil Service Reform Act. His life story of rising from humble beginnings continues to inspire many today.
Born in a humble log cabin, this future leader was raised in poverty. Despite these hardships, he rose to become a significant figure in American history. His birth marked the start of a life that would eventually lead him to the White House.
The future president began his higher education journey at a small Ohio school, Western Reserve Eclectic Institute. This institution, known today as Hiram College, was a stepping stone for his political career. His studies there, primarily in classical languages and literature, laid the foundation for his intellectual growth.
After years of hard work, the future U.S. leader completed his studies at Williams College in Massachusetts. This achievement marked a significant step in his journey towards political leadership. The knowledge and skills he gained there greatly influenced his later decisions as President.
Garfield's graduation from Williams College marked a significant milestone in his life. This education equipped him with the knowledge and skills that would later help him become a successful politician. His time at Williams College also shaped his values and beliefs, which greatly influenced his leadership style as a U.S. President.
The future president met Lucretia Rudolph at school, and they tied the knot in a simple ceremony. Their marriage was a strong one, marked by mutual respect and affection. They had seven children together, creating a lively family life.
The future U.S. President was elected to the Ohio State Senate, marking his entry into political life. He represented his state passionately, focusing on issues like education and civil rights. This experience laid the foundation for his later national leadership.
He took command of the 42nd Ohio Infantry, a unit he helped recruit and organize. His leadership skills shone during the Civil War, where he led his men in several key battles. This military experience played a significant role in his later political career.
Our 20th president started his military career during the Civil War, serving as a Union Army general. He showed great bravery and leadership in several key battles, including the Battle of Middle Creek. His military success helped pave the way for his future political career.
This promotion marked a significant step in his military career during the Civil War. As a Major General, he was responsible for leading large groups of soldiers in battle. This role required strategic thinking and bravery, skills that would later serve him in his presidency.
This event marked a significant step in his political career. He was elected as a member of the Republican party, representing Ohio's 19th district. His strong anti-slavery stance and impressive oratory skills played a key role in his election.
Securing the Republican nomination wasn't an easy task. It took 36 rounds of voting at the Republican National Convention before he emerged as the winner. This victory marked a significant step in his political career, setting the stage for his eventual presidency.
The Republican National Convention chose a new face as their candidate for the presidency. This man, a former Civil War general and Ohio congressman, was known for his strong moral character and commitment to civil rights. His nomination marked a significant moment in U.S. political history, setting the stage for a contentious election.
This inauguration marked the start of a new presidency, with the leader promising to bring changes to the nation. However, his term was tragically cut short by an assassin's bullet, making it one of the shortest presidencies in U.S. history. His legacy, though brief, had a lasting impact on the country.
The assassination attempt took place at a busy train station, where Charles J. Guiteau shot the president because he believed it would help his political party. Despite being hit twice, the president fought for his life for over two months before succumbing to his injuries. This tragic event shocked the nation and led to changes in how the president's security was handled.
The 20th U.S. President was shot by a disgruntled office-seeker. The bullet didn't kill him directly, but the poor medical practices of the time led to infection and his eventual death. This tragic event highlighted the need for advancements in medical hygiene.