History of the Personnel Security Program

Question 1

Prior to the Civil Service Act of 1883, federal employees, even at the lowest levels, were political appointees.

The system by which people were appointed to civil service jobs.

Requires allegiance to the party boss and political party that appointed you, as opposed to a larger sense of allegiance to the constitution

Answer 1

Spoils System

Question 2

Created the US Civil Service Commission.

Required employees be appointed on basis of ability which was demonstrated by taking an exam.

Established a merit system and eliminated party favorites; allegiance could no longer be bought.

Answer 2

Civil Service Act of 1988