Heater Richardson
Heather Richardson (Photo by Caitlin Cunningham)

Professor of History Heather Cox Richardson served as a consultant for the "American Experience" program on President James Garfield that premiered February 2 on PBS. "Murder of a President" tells the story of Garfield's unprecedented rise to power, the shooting by Charles Guiteau only four months into his presidency and its bizarre and heartbreaking aftermath.

An expert in 19th-century American history, Richardson reviewed the script for historical accuracy and helped to provide political context. She also offers on-air commentary.

Richardson is the author of several books, including To Make Men Free: A History of the Republican Party; Wounded Knee: Party Politics and the Road to an American Massacre, and West from Appomattox: The Reconstruction of America after the Civil War, among others.

Check local PBS listings for additional program air dates and times or watch here: