Netflix’s recent miniseries, Death by Lightning, delves into the brief presidency and tragic assassination of James A. Garfield, the 20th President of the United States. While the series primarily focuses on political intrigue and personal dynamics, it also touches upon a significant yet often overlooked aspect of Garfield’s era: the burgeoning field of patent law and its intersection with medical innovation.
In the aftermath of Garfield’s shooting on July 2, 1881, the medical community faced the critical challenge of locating the bullet lodged within the president’s body. This scenario set the stage for a notable collaboration between medicine and invention. Alexander Graham Bell, renowned for his invention of the telephone, developed an early version of the metal detector, termed the “induction balance,” in an attempt to locate the bullet. Bell’s device was a pioneering effort in medical technology, aiming to non-invasively detect metal objects within the human body.
However, the application of this innovative device was marred by medical practices of the time. Dr. Willard Bliss, the lead physician attending to Garfield, insisted that Bell’s device be used exclusively on the right side of the president’s body, based on his own assumptions about the bullet’s location. This restriction, coupled with the presence of metal bed springs beneath Garfield, rendered the device ineffective. Moreover, the prevailing medical practices did not adhere to antiseptic methods, leading to infections that ultimately contributed to Garfield’s death on September 19, 1881. ([biography.com](https://www.biography.com/political-figures/a69267273/alexander-graham-bell-james-garfield-death-by-lightning-netflix?utm_source=openai))
This episode underscores the critical role of patents and innovation in medical advancements. Bell’s attempt to patent his metal detection device highlights the era’s recognition of the importance of protecting and promoting technological inventions. The challenges faced during Garfield’s treatment also reflect the nascent state of medical technology and the pressing need for innovation in diagnostic tools.
Furthermore, the period was marked by significant developments in patent law. The late 19th century saw a surge in patent filings, driven by the Industrial Revolution and a growing emphasis on protecting intellectual property. This environment fostered a culture of innovation, encouraging inventors like Bell to develop new technologies that could have profound societal impacts.
By weaving these historical threads into its narrative, Death by Lightning not only portrays the personal and political dimensions of Garfield’s assassination but also sheds light on the broader context of medical innovation and patent history during that era. The series serves as a reminder of the complex interplay between technological advancement, medical practice, and legal frameworks in shaping historical events.