The Pendleton Civil Service Act of 1883 is a federal law that established that positions within the federal government should be awarded on the basis of merit instead of political affiliation.
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Spoils System: The practice that was largely ended by the Pendleton Civil Service Act, where public office positions were given to supporters following an electoral victory.
Merit System: A system of hiring and promotion based on demonstrated performance rather than political patronage, which was promoted by the Pendleton Act.
Civil Service Commission: Established by the Pendleton Act to enforce its provisions and oversee competitive exams for government positions.