The document discusses the history of the spoils system in American politics, where politicians would reward supporters with government jobs. It describes how Andrew Jackson greatly expanded this system by firing thousands of federal workers and replacing them with his political allies. It also summarizes how the assassination of President Garfield by a disgruntled office seeker led to civil service reforms and the establishment of a merit-based hiring system through the Pendleton Act of 1883. Finally, it provides a brief overview of how government agencies, congressional committees, and interest groups can form "iron triangles" to pass laws that benefit all three stakeholders.
2. The Spoils System
Politicians rewarding their
followers/supporters with
government jobs
Early presidents like Washington
and Jefferson did favors for their
friends
Andrew Jackson took the spoils
system to a whole new level
Fired about 1,000 federal workers
and replaced them with his own
political supporters- not cool.
3.
4. Tragedy strikes!
1881- Charles Guiteau
requested a job in
diplomatic service,
but President Garfield
refused
Outraged, Guiteau
shot Garfield in the
back at a Washington
train station- he died
80 days later
5. The Civil Service System
Hiring govt.
employees on the
basis of exam
scores and merit
Established by
the Pendleton
Act- 1883
6.
7. Iron Triangles
Govt. Agencies, Congress
Committees, and
Interest Groups work
together to make laws
that benefit all 3 groups
Iron- Strong relationship
Makes it difficult for
other people outside of
the 3 groups to influence
law making.
