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Today in History: Civil Service Reform Act establishes U.S. Civil Service

1/16/2025

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Summary

Story summary

On January 16, 1883, President Chester A. Arthur signed the Pendleton Civil Service Reform Act into law. This landmark legislation mandated that federal government positions be filled based on merit rather than political connections, laying the foundation for a professional civil service and leading to the establishment of the United States Civil Service Commission.

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Story summary

On January 16, 1883, President Chester A. Arthur signed the Pendleton Civil Service Reform Act into law. This landmark legislation mandated that federal government positions be filled based on merit rather than political connections, laying the foundation for a professional civil service and leading to the establishment of the United States Civil Service Commission.