Fun Facts About James Garfield

James Garfield, the 20th president of the United States, served briefly from March to September 1881 before his tragic assassination. This Ohio native was a scholar, soldier, and multitasker with a life full of fascinating details that kids will enjoy exploring. Here are ten kid-friendly fun facts about James Garfield!

Scroll down for the full list, or check out our James Garfield Activity Book -- 24 pages of fun and educational activities for kids ages 5-10.

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President James A. Garfield

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Fun Facts About James A. Garfield

  1. He Could Write with Both Hands
    Garfield was ambidextrous and could write with both hands at the same time—one in English and the other in Latin—amazing kids who love a challenge!
  2. He Loved Math and Proved a Theorem
    As a teacher, Garfield loved math so much he created a new proof for the Pythagorean theorem, showing kids how fun numbers can be!
  3. He Worked on a Canal Boat as a Kid
    At age 17, Garfield drove mules on a canal boat to earn money, dreaming of bigger things—a humble start kids might relate to!
  4. He Had a Big, Happy Family
    Garfield and his wife, Lucretia, had seven children, filling their home with laughter and making the White House a lively place!
  5. He Survived a Shooting but Not the Aftermath
    Garfield was shot in 1881 but lived for months before dying from infections, a dramatic story that might captivate kids’ imaginations.
  6. He Spoke Five Languages
    Garfield mastered English, Latin, Greek, French, and Hebrew, proving he was a language genius—kids might try learning a new word from him!
  7. He Had a Pet Dog Named Veto
    His loyal dog, Veto, roamed the White House, adding a playful pup to his presidency that kids would love to meet!
  8. He Was a Civil War Hero
    Before politics, Garfield fought bravely as a Union general in the Civil War, earning respect with action-packed stories kids might enjoy!
  9. He Loved Telling Jokes
    Garfield had a great sense of humor, often sharing funny stories to make people laugh—a trait kids might want to share with friends!
  10. His Death Led to Secret Service Protection
    After Garfield’s assassination, the government created the Secret Service to protect presidents, a lasting change kids can learn from today!
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