Charles Guiteau was an American lawyer and writer, best known for assassinating President James A. Garfield in 1881. Guiteau believed that he played a significant role in Garfield's election and expected to be rewarded with a diplomatic position. When his requests were ignored, he decided to take drastic action. After shooting Garfield, Guiteau was arrested and put on trial for murder. His defense claimed he was insane, but he was ultimately found guilty and sentenced to death. Guiteau's actions and trial raised questions about mental health and the legal system in the United States during that era.