When did the merit system for civil service begin to take shape?

The merit system for civil service began to take shape with the Pendleton Act of 1883. This landmark legislation was established to combat the widespread practice of patronage, where government jobs were awarded based on political connections rather than qualifications or expertise. The Pendleton Act introduced the principle that positions within the federal government should be filled based on merit, which meant that candidates would be selected through competitive examinations that assessed their capabilities.

This shift was significant as it laid the foundation for a more professional and impartial civil service, aiming to enhance efficiency and reduce corruption within government operations. The act also helped create the Civil Service Commission, which was responsible for overseeing the implementation of this merit-based system and the administration of examinations for prospective civil servants. This change marked a critical evolution in how public service was approached in the United States, moving away from political favoritism toward a focus on competence and service to the public.