Why was James Garfield given the nickname boatman Jim?

James Garfield was given the nickname "Boatman Jim" due to his early life as a canal boat worker on the Ohio and Erie Canal. He earned this moniker while helping to support his family by working as a boatman during his youth, which shaped his strong work ethic and connection to the laboring class. This experience also influenced his later political career, as he often championed the rights of workers and the importance of education and opportunity.