The spoils system, which allowed political supporters to be appointed to government positions regardless of qualifications, played a role in the assassination of President James Garfield by a disappointed office seeker. After Garfield's death, his successor Chester A. Arthur worked towards civil service reform in an effort to end the corruption and cronyism associated with the spoils system.

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The spoils system gave jobs to friends of politicians, even if they weren't qualified. This system led to President Garfield being assassinated by someone who wanted a job but didn't get it. After Garfield's death, President Arthur worked to change the system and make sure government jobs went to qualified people, not just friends of politicians.