Larry Horricks/Netflix

Lucretia “Crete” Garfield was more than the wife of a short-lived president—she was James A. Garfield ’s moral compass and closest advisor. The first lady helped shape her husband’s values and political vision, even before he became president. After James’ assassination, Lucretia devoted her life to preserving his legacy.

James’ death and the events leading up to his assassination are explored in the new Netflix miniseries Death by Lightning , which is now streaming. Death by Lightning creator Mike Makowsky sees Lucretia, played by Betty Gilpin, as the “quiet hero” of the series, he told Netflix’s Tudum .

Lucretia Garfield was originally opposed to James running for president

During James’ time in Congress, from 1863 to 1881, Lucretia Garfield ser

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