Final answer:
The Pendleton Civil Service Act of 1883 established the Civil Service Commission, marking a significant shift from the spoils system to a merit-based system for federal hiring. It was a response to the corruption and inefficiencies of political patronage and was needed to improve the professionalism and integrity of the federal workforce.
Step-by-step explanation:
Pendleton Civil Service Act of 1883
The Pendleton Civil Service Act of 1883, also known as the Civil Service Reform Act of 1883, outlined the establishment of the Civil Service Commission and initiated a fundamental shift from the patronage-based system, widely known as the 'spoils system,' to a merit-based system for federal employment. This act was a response to the negative aspects of political patronage, which included nepotism, unqualified appointees, and corruption.
Underlying Reasons for the Act
The underlying reason for the emergence of the spoils system was political patronage, which fostered loyalty via rewarding government jobs based on party affiliation rather than merit. The assassination of President James Garfield by a disappointed office seeker inflamed the call for reform, leading to a public outcry against the spoils system and political patronage. The Pendleton Act was needed as it laid the groundwork for a more professional, fair, and competent federal workforce, ensuring that federal jobs were awarded based on ability, not political connections.
As a result of the Act, the Civil Service Commission administered competitive exams for civil service positions and aimed to increase job security within the federal workforce irrespective of political changes. With the adoption of a merit system, it was envisioned that the best qualified individuals would be selected for government roles, greatly improving the efficacy and integrity of the civil service. Over time, the act's provisions affected a broader range of government jobs and helped to modernize public administration in the United States.