The Pendleton Act of 1883 was a federal law that established the Civil Service Commission and introduced the merit system for hiring and promoting government employees based on their qualifications rather than political connections.
Related terms
Spoils System: The spoils system was a practice before the Pendleton Act where political supporters were rewarded with government jobs, leading to corruption and incompetence.
Merit System: The merit system is a way of hiring and promoting government employees based on their qualifications, skills, and abilities rather than political favoritism.
Civil Service Commission: The Civil Service Commission was established by the Pendleton Act to oversee the administration of civil service laws and regulations.