The Impact of the Pendleton Act on U.S. Government Reform

What event led to the institution of the merit-based system in the United States government?

a. The assassination of President Garfield.

b. The Pendleton Act.

c. The Civil Service Commission.

Answer:

The event that led to the institution of the merit-based system in the United States government was the assassination of President Garfield.

The merit-based system was implemented in the United States government following the assassination of President Garfield. The Pendleton Act, also known as the Civil Service Reform Act of 1883, was established as a direct response to the tragedy. This Act replaced the prevailing spoils system, in which political patronage dictated government hiring practices, with a system that emphasized merit and qualifications.

President Garfield's assassination by a disgruntled office-seeker highlighted the dangers of the spoils system and the need for reform. The Pendleton Act created the Civil Service Commission to oversee the hiring process based on merit, through competitive examinations rather than political connections.

This shift from a patronage-based system to a merit-based system marked a significant turning point in U.S. government reform. It promoted professionalism, efficiency, and impartiality within bureaucratic agencies by prioritizing qualifications and performance over political affiliations.

The implementation of the Pendleton Act heralded a new era of social activism and political reform that influenced governmental practices well into the 20th century. By establishing a merit-based system, the Act contributed to the overall improvement of the government's recruitment, retention, and promotion practices, ensuring a more competent and accountable civil service.