Pendleton Civil Service Reform Act

The Pendleton Civil Service Reform Act, passed in 1883, was a landmark law in the United States that aimed to improve how government jobs were filled. Prior to this, many positions were filled based on political connections, leading to corruption and inefficiency. The Act established that jobs should be awarded based on merit rather than politics. It created a system of competitive exams for applicants, helping ensure that qualified individuals filled government roles. This reform marked a significant shift towards a more professional and accountable public service, reducing patronage and promoting fairness in government employment.