Charles J. Guiteau was an American writer and lawyer who assassinated President James A. Garfield in 1881.
Think of Charles J. Guiteau as a disgruntled fan (disappointed office seeker) who feels so overlooked that he disrupts the show (assassinates the president).
Stalwarts: Faction of the Republican Party that opposed civil service reform; Guiteau considered himself a Stalwart.
Spoils System: The practice of rewarding political supporters with government jobs; this system frustrated Guiteau when he didn't receive a position after Garfield's election.
Insanity Defense: Legal strategy used during Guiteau's trial where his defense argued he was not guilty due to insanity; this case brought national attention to mental health issues within the legal system.
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