Charles Julius Guiteau Assassin of US President James Garfield Date of Birth: 08.09.1841 Country: USA

Biography of Charles Julius Guiteau

Charles Julius Guiteau was born in 1841 in Freeport, Illinois, U.S. He grew up with a speech impediment and a fear of failure, which led him to have ambitious goals of becoming the President of the United States and a ruler of the world. Despite struggling academically, Guiteau attempted various careers including starting businesses, publishing a newspaper, and writing a book on theology. However, he did not find success in these endeavors.

Guiteau eventually found his calling in politics and actively campaigned for James A. Garfield. Initially, he supported Ulysses S. Grant but seamlessly transitioned to supporting Garfield when he became the Republican candidate for president. Guiteau believed that his support would be rewarded with a high-ranking government position after Garfield's election.

However, when Garfield became president, he ignored Guiteau's attempts to gain a position in his administration. Feeling betrayed and unappreciated, Guiteau decided to punish the president for his perceived ingratitude. On July 2, 1881, at the Baltimore and Potomac Railroad Station, Guiteau approached Garfield from behind and shot him twice in the back. Garfield succumbed to his injuries on September 19, 1881, after a long battle with infection.

During his trial, Guiteau attempted to plead insanity, but the prosecution successfully argued that he was of sound mind. Medical examinations revealed that Guiteau suffered from an exaggerated sense of self-importance. He was sentenced to death, and on June 30, 1882, Guiteau was executed by hanging.

Throughout his trial and even on the way to the gallows, Guiteau displayed a theatrical and unrepentant demeanor. He relished the attention he received and even requested to recite his own poem, "I am Going to the Lordy," before his execution. Despite his attempts to have an orchestra accompany him, his request was denied.