Gilded Age Writing Exercises |
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| www.studenthandouts.com > U.S. History > Discontent and Reform > Worksheets |
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Click here to print. Answers will vary. Questions: 1. Analyze how and why graft and political corruption were detrimental to law-abiding persons. 2. Explain why political machines thrived in urban areas with sizeable immigrant populations. 3. Describe the life and crimes of William M. "Boss" Tweed. 4. Summarize the presidencies of the Gilded Age (Hayes, Garfield, Arthur, Cleveland, and Harrison). 5. Explain how civil service reform helped to dismantle the spoils system. Civil service reform played a crucial role in dismantling the spoils system by introducing a merit-based system for hiring and promoting government employees. Merit-Based Hiring: Civil service reform introduced a system where individuals were hired and promoted based on their qualifications, skills, and performance, rather than political connections or party loyalty. This eliminated the practice of rewarding political supporters with government jobs, which was common under the spoils system. Competitive Examinations: To ensure that candidates were selected based on merit, competitive examinations were introduced. These exams assessed the knowledge and skills required for specific government positions. Candidates who performed well on these exams were considered for employment. Tenure and Job Security: Civil service reform introduced the concept of job security and tenure for government employees. This meant that they could not be arbitrarily dismissed or demoted due to political changes or shifts in power. This protection provided a stable and professional workforce. Professionalism: The reform aimed to create a professional and efficient civil service. Employees were expected to adhere to codes of conduct and ethics, and their performance was regularly evaluated. This contributed to a more effective and accountable government. Reduction in Political Patronage: Civil service reform significantly reduced the influence of political patronage. Government positions were no longer rewards for campaign supporters, and elected officials had less direct control over appointments and promotions. Civil Service Commissions: The establishment of civil service commissions, such as the United States Civil Service Commission, was a key element of reform. These commissions were responsible for overseeing the hiring and promotion process, ensuring fairness and meritocracy. Transparency and Accountability: Civil service reform introduced transparency in the hiring process, making it more difficult for political leaders to use government positions for personal gain or political favoritism. The process became more open and accountable. Reduced Corruption: By reducing the influence of political machines and party bosses, civil service reform helped reduce corruption in government hiring and promotions. This led to more efficient and honest governance. The Pendleton Civil Service Reform Act of 1883 in the United States was a significant piece of legislation that established the principles of civil service reform. Over time, similar reforms were adopted in other countries as well. While the spoils system did not completely disappear, civil service reform significantly curtailed its influence and transformed the way government employees were hired and promoted, making the system more fair and efficient. |
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| www.studenthandouts.com > U.S. History > Discontent and Reform > Worksheets |
