Final answer:
B. It established a merit-based system for federal employment, reducing the influence of political patronage. The Pendleton Civil Service Reform Act of 1883 introduced a merit-based system that diminished the influence of political patronage in federal employment by establishing the Civil Service Commission.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Pendleton Civil Service Reform Act of 1883 significantly changed the federal bureaucracy by establishing a merit-based system for federal employment. This act was intended to reduce the influence of political patronage, also known as the "spoils system", and ushered in the creation of the Civil Service Commission.
This commission was responsible for regulating hiring practices based on open, competitive examinations, thereby ensuring that appointments were earned through merit rather than political connections. Over time, this reform led to increased job security for civil servants and reduced the political hands-on control over federal appointments.
The Pendleton Civil Service Reform Act of 1883 marked a pivotal shift in the federal bureaucracy by introducing a merit-based system for federal employment, thereby reducing the impact of political patronage. Option B accurately reflects this transformation.
Prior to the act, the spoils system prevailed, allowing political favoritism in appointments. The Pendleton Act, however, established a meritocracy, requiring competitive exams for certain positions. This aimed to professionalize the civil service, ensuring appointments based on competence rather than political connections. Consequently, the Act contributed to a more efficient and accountable federal bureaucracy, fostering expertise and competence in government service.