Spoils System

Discover the intricate workings of the “Spoils System,” a key element in political appointments based on loyalty over merit. This book, part of the “Political Science” series, delves into its historical roots, impact on governance, and relevance today.

1: Spoils System — Trace the origins and development of the spoils system and its influence on political practices.

2: United States Postmaster General — Examine the Postmaster General’s role in the spoils system.

3: Pendleton Civil Service Reform Act — Understand the legislation that reformed civil service through merit-based appointments.

4: Civil Service — Explore the challenges civil service faced in transitioning from patronage to meritocracy.

5: George H. Pendleton — Learn about Pendleton’s role in civil service reform and his push for the Pendleton Act.

6: Mugwumps — Study the Mugwumps and their opposition to the spoils system during the Gilded Age.

7: Merit System — Contrast the merit system with the spoils system and its impact on governance.

8: Stalwarts (Politics) — Investigate the Stalwarts' defense of the spoils system and their political clout.

9: United States Civil Service Commission — Review the commission's role in enforcing merit-based appointments.

10: Civil Service Reform Act of 1978 — Analyze modern reforms aimed at reducing political influence in civil service.

11: Second Party System — Assess the spoils system’s role in shaping the Second Party System in U.S. politics.

12: United States Federal Civil Service — Examine the federal civil service’s efforts to uphold meritocracy.

13: George Hunt Pendleton House — Visit the home symbolizing Pendleton’s civil service reform legacy.

14: Half-Breeds (Politics) — Study the Half-Breeds' advocacy for reform and their political rivalry with the Stalwarts.

15: Presidency of Chester A. Arthur — Discover how Arthur’s presidency shifted the tide for civil service reform.

16: Chester A. Arthur — Learn about Arthur’s rise and his contributions to civil service reform.

17: Civil Service Reform in the United States — Gain insight into the history and challenges of civil service reform.

18: HR Management in Public Administration — Explore the evolution of HR practices in public administration with a focus on merit.

19: Rutan v. Republican Party of Illinois — Analyze this Supreme Court case’s impact on political appointments.

20: Political Appointments in the U.S. — Examine the balance between merit and patronage in political appointments.

21: Elrod v. Burns — Review the case that shaped the legal framework for civil service protections.