Question

Why did Charles Guiteau assassinate President Garfield? A. He wanted Vice President Arthur, a Stalwart, to take office. B. He wanted Garfield out of office so he could take his place. C. He did not want to see a Democratic president in office. D. He never gave a reason for his actions.

Answer 1

Answer: A) A. He wanted Vice President Arthur, a Stalwart, to take office.

President Garfield was a reformer who was against the Patronage Spoils System (a system that allowed you to get a job in the government even if you were not qualified).

Guiteau supported the Patronage spoils system, therefore he wanted a Stalwart to be President so the patronage spoils system would not be abolished.