The presidency of Arthur (1881-1884)

Question 1

Chester Arthur

Key act related to civil service reform?

Answer 1

• Pendleton Act of 1883
• Was the creation of the first Civil Service Commission and a push back
  -beginning of end of spoils system
• called for a merit system for promotions within the service
• ensured continuity in federal employees from one administration to the next

Question 2

Law on immigration

Answer 2

First federal immigration law:
- Excluded paupers, criminals and the mentally ill

Question 3

What was Chinese Exclusion Act?

Answer 3

• 1882
• made Chinese immigration illegal for 20 years
• Passed by Congress
• Vetoed by Arthur
• Less extreme version passed by Arthur

Question 4

When was a tarrif act passed?

What did it do?

Answer 4

• Tariff Act of 1883:
• Reduced tariffs on average 1.47%
• only marginally
• unpopular piece of legislation with no clear vision

Question 5

Arthur’s Strengths?

Answer 5

• Made first legislative Civil Service reform
• Managed to weaken the initial Chinese Immigration Act

Question 6

Arthur’s Weaknesses?

Answer 6

• Made little change to tariffs
• Passed two anti-immigration laws

Question 7

President Arthur first name + years running

Answer 7

Chester Arthur

1881-84