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 Garfield

  1. He Could Write with Both Hands
    Garfield was ambidextrous and could write with both hands at the same time—imagine doing homework that way!
  2. He Loved Math and Greek
    Before becoming president, Garfield was a teacher who loved math and even proved a new theorem, showing kids how cool numbers can be!
  3. He Worked on a Canal Boat as a Kid
    Garfield started working on a canal boat at age 17, driving mules and dreaming of bigger things—a humble beginning kids might relate to!
  4. He Had a Big Family
    Garfield and his wife, Lucretia, had seven children, and their lively household kept the White House full of fun and chaos!
  5. He Was Shot but Lived for Months
    Garfield survived being shot in 1881 but died from infections months later, a dramatic story that might captivate kids’ attention.
  6. He Spoke Five Languages
    Garfield knew English, Latin, Greek, French, and Hebrew, proving he was a language whiz—kids might try learning a new word from him!
  7. He Had a Pet Dog Named Veto
    Garfield’s 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 General
    Before politics, Garfield fought bravely in the Civil War, earning respect as a Union general—perfect for kids who love action stories!
  9. He Loved Jokes and Stories
    Garfield was known for his sense of humor, often telling funny stories to make people laugh—a trait kids might enjoy sharing too!
  10. His Death Changed the Secret Service
    After Garfield’s assassination, the government created the Secret Service to protect presidents, a lasting legacy kids can learn from!
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