How did the spoils system affect President James Garfield and his successor Chester A. Arthur?
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The spoils system, which was the practice of rewarding political supporters with government positions, had a significant impact on President James Garfield and his successor Chester A. Arthur. Garfield's presidency was marred by the influence of the spoils system, as he faced pressure from party loyalists to appoint individuals based on political connections rather than qualifications. This led to corruption and inefficiency in government, as positions were filled by individuals who may not have been the most capable or experienced.
Garfield's assassination in 1881 by a disgruntled office-seeker highlighted the dangers of the spoils system and led to calls for reform. Upon Garfield's death, Chester A. Arthur, who had been a beneficiary of the spoils system himself, became president. Arthur recognized the need for reform and took steps to implement civil service reforms, including the passage of the Pendleton Civil Service Reform Act in 1883. This legislation established a merit-based system for government employment and reduced the influence of the spoils system in the federal government.
Overall, the spoils system had a negative impact on the presidencies of both Garfield and Arthur. It led to corruption and inefficiency in government, and ultimately resulted in Garfield's assassination. However, it also served as a catalyst for reform, as Arthur worked to implement civil service reforms that would help to professionalize the federal government and reduce political patronage.