Charles J. Guiteau

American assassin (1841–1882)

Charles Julius Guiteau (/ɡɪˈt/ ghih-TOH; September 8, 1841 – June 30, 1882) was an American writer and lawyer. He is best known as the person who assassinated US President James A. Garfield on July 2, 1881. Guiteau shot Garfield after being angry with him about not receiving credit or a reward for Garfield's victory in 1880. Guiteau wrote a speech about Garfield but never made the speech.[1][2]

Charles J. Guiteau
Guiteau in 1881
Born
Charles Julius Guiteau

(1841-09-08)September 8, 1841
DiedJune 30, 1882(1882-06-30) (aged 40)
Cause of deathHanging
Occupations
  • Writer
  • lawyer
Known forAssassination of James A. Garfield
Political party
Criminal statusExecuted
(June 30, 1882; 142 years ago (1882-06-30))
Spouse
Annie Bunn
(m. 1869; div. 1874)
MotiveMental illness
Conviction(s)Murder
Criminal chargeAttempted murder (upgraded to murder after Garfield's death)
PenaltyDeath by hanging
Details
VictimsJames A. Garfield
DateJuly 2, 1881
Signature
Charles Guiteau

Guiteau was born in Freeport, Illinois. He was a preacher, writer and lawyer. He was found guilty in a court of law. He was executed by hanging in Washington, D.C.

References

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  1. "Charles J. Guiteau Shot President Garfield". www.americaslibrary.gov. Retrieved 2021-06-18.
  2. "Charles Julius Guiteau | James A. Garfield's Assassin". touringohio.com. Retrieved 2021-06-18.