How the civil service system changed American government
On Point | Podcast
Deep Dive
WHY did the United States establish a civil service?
The U.S. established a civil service to address the rampant corruption and inefficiency of the "spoils system," where government jobs were awarded based on political patronage rather than merit. This system led to unqualified individuals holding important positions, hindering effective governance. The assassination of President James Garfield by a disgruntled office seeker further fueled public outrage and demands for reform, culminating in the Pendleton Act of 1883.
How did the Pendleton Act of 1883 change the federal government?
The Pendleton Act introduced merit-based selection for federal jobs through qualifying exams. While it didn't immediately abolish the spoils system, it marked a turning point by establishing the principle of merit as a basis for public sector employment. This led to a gradual shift towards a professionalized civil service, reducing corruption and improving government performance.
How did the federal workforce change after the Civil War?
The federal workforce grew significantly after the Civil War, as the government expanded its role in response to societal changes like mass immigration and urban growth. This expansion highlighted the inadequacies of the spoils system, as the demand for competent government officials increased.
How does the size of the U.S. federal workforce compare to other countries?
While the U.S. government is large, its federal workforce, comprising about 1.9% of the civilian workforce, is proportionally smaller than many peer nations. However, the U.S. relies heavily on private contractors, creating a "shadow workforce" that contributes to federal services.
What were some of the problems with the "spoils system"?
The spoils system was plagued by corruption, inefficiency, and lack of accountability. Unqualified individuals often occupied key positions, leading to poor governance. Examples include the mismanagement of the veterans' pension system and the collector of the Port of New York embezzling millions. The system also placed a heavy burden on presidents, who spent significant time dealing with job seekers.
WHY was Chester A. Arthur an unlikely champion of civil service reform?
Chester A. Arthur was a product of the spoils system, having held the patronage-based position of collector of the Port of New York. His rise to the presidency was linked to powerful pro-spoils figures. However, the assassination of President Garfield, attributed to a disgruntled office seeker, shifted public opinion and pressured Arthur to embrace reform.
What are the primary functions of the majority of federal civilian employees?
Approximately 71% of non-postal federal civilian employees work in areas related to national security, homeland security, or veterans affairs. These areas generally receive broad public support and consequently, larger budgets.
What is Schedule F, and why is it controversial?
Schedule F is an executive order that would allow a president to reclassify certain civil service positions as political appointments. This would effectively strip these employees of their job protections and make them easier to fire, raising concerns about politicizing the civil service and undermining its nonpartisan nature.
- Spoils system: "to the victor belong the spoils", presidents awarded jobs to supporters
- Corruption and poor performance marked this era
- Government was small enough for the president to know most employees
- Post-Civil War growth led to increased issues
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