Simon & Schuster, a division of Paramount Global, presents “President Garfield: From Radical to Unifier” by C.W. Goodyear, a captivating and comprehensive biography of the 20th president. This enlightening book explores the incredible life of President James Garfield, a distinguished Civil War general and politician whose influence had a lasting impact on the United States prior to his tragic assassination in 1881. Delve into an excerpt from this remarkable book below.
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The scene is set on a rainy morning in Chicago on June 9, 1880. As the rain cascades down, transforming the city streets, a sense of calm settles in. Decorations sag, and the glow of calcium lights fills the air. Warm lobbies entice passersby, providing respite from the dampness. Amidst this tranquility, the city brims with anticipation as the early hours of the day give way to a murmuring crowd gathering outside the Grand Pacific Hotel on Jackson Street.
The crowd eagerly awaits the arrival of the newly nominated Republican candidate for president. Despite the unfavorable weather and early hour, hundreds have gathered to escort him on his journey home. Attempting to slip away unnoticed, James Garfield exits through a side door, but the mob swiftly catches up with him. With a polite smile, Garfield surrenders to the popular demand. His eyes, vibrant like summer lightning, beckon the people to join him. They do, forming a human tide that engulfs the streets with their cheers and jubilation. Garfield has been overwhelmed with congratulations in the past day, and this fervent display of support only reaffirms his position as a beloved figure.
Eventually, Garfield reaches the train station and boards a car adorned with flags. He waits inside until precisely nine o’clock, the moment marked by the firing of engines, the chugging of wheels, and the creaking of the back door. As a witness recounts, “Gen. Garfield yielded to popular demand and appeared on the rear platform, where he was greeted with a succession of cheers from a thousand pairs of patriotic lungs.” With that, he disappears into the rain, leaving behind a seething mass of soaked but exultant supporters. Their joy has brimmed steadily since Garfield yielded to the overwhelming demand from a larger audience. Despite his initial reluctance, the Republican Party felt compelled to nominate Garfield due to his unique blend of aggressiveness and conciliation.
Under brighter skies, across a nation stretching from coast to coast, millions of citizens are introduced to the inspiring tale of a life propelled by these defining characteristics. Garfield’s story begins in a one-room log cabin on the Ohio frontier, a humble setting that seems foreign in the modern mechanized age. His early years are marked by hardship and toil, as he and his family struggle to survive on their lonesome homestead. Garfield’s tough upbringing and his various endeavors, from piloting a canal boat to working as a janitor to pay for school, serve as inspiration to readers across the country.
As Garfield matures, his journey takes on colorful dimensions that defy the limitations of black and white text. He emerges as a tall, sandy-haired teacher and a lay preacher. At twenty-six, he becomes a married college president, revered by countless students. He later ventures into politics, becoming a state senator and ultimately donning a military uniform during the Civil War. Garfield’s fight against the injustice of slavery and his unwavering commitment to progressive ideals solidify his standing as a respected leader and lawmaker.
Throughout his career, Garfield achieves remarkable triumphs in both politics and law. He holds influential positions on committees governing the military, budget, census, and currency. Garfield’s leadership helps trim federal spending significantly, and he even takes on the task of investigating a president. He fights for the rights of marginalized groups, such as Native American tribes, and leaves a lasting impact by establishing the first Department of Education. His speeches on these subjects, meticulously compiled by a colleague, serve as a vital record of political history.
But Garfield’s accomplishments extend beyond the realm of politics. Renowned Republicans, including William McKinley, James Blaine, and Benjamin Harrison, seek his support for their campaigns. His eloquent speeches and genuine, honest approach win over even the most jaded statesmen. Garfield’s impressive linguistic abilities, legal victories, and contributions to esteemed publications like The Atlantic and The North American Review only add to his remarkable reputation.
In one of his thought-provoking editorials, Garfield argues passionately for the enfranchisement of Black Americans, insisting that denying them the right to vote hampers the nation’s progress. He eloquently discusses the potential positive impacts of granting this right and emphasizes the importance of increasing the intelligence and prosperity of all citizens.
Garfield’s trailblazing path leaves readers in awe. From his humble beginnings in a log cabin to his pivotal role in shaping the nation, his story is one of resilience, determination, and unwavering dedication. Although many of his political triumphs may be overlooked, Garfield’s legacy stands as a testament to his invaluable contributions to American society.
Discover the captivating tale of President Garfield in C.W. Goodyear’s “President Garfield: From Radical to Unifier,” available now from Simon & Schuster. Immerse yourself in the life and times of an extraordinary president who left an indelible mark on the United States.
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