James A. Garfield

Garfield's six-month presidency emphasized civil service reform and a merit-based approach to federal appointments; his insistence on filling positions for ability rather than party loyalty antagonized party bosses but set a reformist tone.

His assassination by Charles J. Guiteau and death in September 1881 exposed vulnerabilities in medical care and political violence and helped galvanize support for the Pendleton Civil Service Act. He is remembered for his intellect, advocacy for education and civil rights, and the reforms his death helped bring about despite his brief time in office.

Insisted on merit-based civil service appointments; Advocated education and civil rights for African Americans; Sought modernization of the navy and federal institutions; Shot by Charles J. Guiteau and died, prompting civil service reform; Served as a Civil War general and long-time congressman