Death by Lightning: What does Casus Belli mean? Details from the Netflix series explored

Netflix's Death by Lightning premiered on November 6, 2025, and has quickly risen in the ranks to become a critically acclaimed show. The series narrates the story of the presidency of the 20th President of the United States, James A. Garfield. From his election victory and assuming office to tackling corruption, James A. Garfield’s presidency is thoroughly depicted in the historical drama. The series also covers his eventual death at the hands of Charles J. Guiteau and consists of four episodes.

The changing direction of James' presidency is shown in Episode 3 of Death by Lightning, aptly titled Casus Belli. The term is a Latin phrase that means an event or act that justifies a war or conflict. Episode 3 focuses on how James attempted to undermine Roscoe's influence by rejecting his plans and corrupt senators, while also addressing Charles’ attempts to meet him.

On one hand, Roscoe and Chester began plotting to overthrow James, and on the other hand, Charles was seen buying a gun, believing James was not someone who could help the country and its people.

More on this in our story.

Death by Lightning: What does Casus Belli mean? Details from the Netflix series explored

The literal meaning of the Latin phrase Casus Belli, which is the title of Episode 3, is “occasion for war.” As per Merriam-Webster, the term is defined as:

"An event or action that justifies or allegedly justifies a war or conflict."

The phrase aptly describes the plot development of Episode 3. In the episode, James, with the help of Blaine, tries to end corruption. To do so, he attempts to appoint senators different from those suggested by Roscoe, as Roscoe's choices were corrupt.

However, Roscoe and Chester were not happy with this and kidnapped the senators James had appointed, threatening them, which forced them to step back. The duo then concluded they had to plan James' overthrow as he defied Roscoe's plan. But they were not the only ones plotting against him.

Charles, a delusional admirer of James, repeatedly tried to meet the new President to request a position in his administration. He approached James several times and through intermediaries, including Lucretia, but could not secure a meaningful conversation. While he did meet James once, the encounter was brief, as James had to attend to an emergency.

This led Charles to believe that James might not be capable of helping the country and its people, and at the end of the episode, he is shown purchasing a gun. True to the episode's title, the plot introduces two conflicts arising after James was appointed President, one of which ultimately leads to his death at the conclusion of Death by Lightning.

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Death by Lightning stars Michael Shannon, Betty Gilpin, Matthew Macfadyen, Shea Whigham, Nick Offerman, and Bradley Whitford.

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