M James Garfield

James A. Garfield (1831–1881) was the 20th President, serving only a few months in 1881 before his assassination. A former Civil War general and congressman, Garfield had just begun advocating for civil service reform and was a supporter of African American civil rights. His presidency was cut tragically short when he was shot by a disgruntled office seeker and succumbed to his wounds after weeks of infection.

Interesting anecdote: Garfield was extraordinarily learned – he was ambidextrous and reportedly could write in Latin with one hand while writing in Ancient Greek with the other, simultaneously. This oft-repeated tidbit underscores his reputation as one of the most intellectual presidents.