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Pendleton Civil Service Act

Definition

The Pendleton Civil Service Act, passed in 1883, established a system of hiring government employees based on merit rather than political affiliation. It created the United States Civil Service Commission to oversee the administration of exams and selection processes for federal jobs.

Analogy

Think of the Pendleton Civil Service Act as a job fair where applicants are hired based on their skills and qualifications rather than who they know or their political connections.

Related terms

Meritocracy: A system in which individuals are selected or promoted based on their abilities and performance, rather than factors such as social status or political affiliation.

Spoils System: The practice of rewarding loyal supporters with government positions, often resulting in corruption and inefficiency.

Government Accountability Office (GAO): An independent agency that provides auditing, evaluation, and investigative services for the U.S. Congress to ensure accountability within the federal government.