James A. Garfield

1831–1881 (age 50)

U.S. President

Photograph of James A. Garfield

Biography

James A. Garfield was the 20th President of the United States, serving from his inauguration in March 1881 until his assassination in September of that year. A man of considerable intellect and principle, Garfield rose from humble origins to become a major political figure of the Gilded Age.

His presidency, though brief, was marked by efforts to reform civil service and address political corruption. Following his assassination, a magnificent memorial was erected at Lake View Cemetery in 1890, honoring his service to the nation and preserving his memory for future generations.