The Life and Work of James A. Garfield, Twentieth President of the United States: Embracing an Account of the Scenes and Incidents of His Boyhood; the Struggles of His Youth; the Might of His Early Manhood; His Valor As a Soldier; His Career As a Statesman; His Election to the Presidency; and the Tragic Story of His Death.

"The Life and Work of James A. Garfield, Twentieth President of the United States" by John Clark Ridpath is a historical account written in the late 19th century. This biography explores the life of James A. Garfield, detailing his journey from humble beginnings to becoming the 20th President of the United States, including significant events from his childhood, military service, political career, and the tragic circumstances surrounding his death. The opening of the book sets the stage for Garfield’s remarkable life, beginning with a vivid description of his birth in a modest log cabin in Ohio in the early 19th century. It reflects on his ancestry, highlighting the influences of both Puritan and Huguenot heritage on his character. The opening chapters delve into his boyhood struggles, the hardships faced by his widowed mother, and the formative experiences that would shape his aspirations and work ethic. Garfield's early life is portrayed through anecdotes that establish his industrious nature and deep family ties, illustrating how these influences laid the foundation for his future greatness, even as a child navigating the challenges of frontier life.