A Level History - America - Practice Exam

What significant legislation did Chester Arthur support?

1. The Pendleton Act, which established merit-based government employment

2. The Sherman Anti-Trust Act, which targeted monopolies

3. The Interstate Commerce Act, regulating interstate trade

4. The Social Security Act, providing retirement benefits

The correct answer is: The Pendleton Act, which established merit-based government employment

Chester Arthur is most notably associated with the Pendleton Act, which was passed in 1883 and aimed to reform the federal government's approach to hiring and promoting civil servants. Prior to this legislation, government jobs were often filled through patronage, meaning that loyalty to political party leaders often determined employment rather than qualifications or merit. The Pendleton Act established a merit-based system for federal employment, requiring that candidates for government jobs be selected through competitive exams. This act was significant in laying the groundwork for a professional civil service and reducing corruption in federal government practices. In contrast, while the other pieces of legislation mentioned had important impacts on American society, they were not directly supported by Arthur. The Sherman Anti-Trust Act, designed to combat monopolies, was enacted during the same era but was primarily championed by Arthur's successors. The Interstate Commerce Act aimed to regulate the railroad industry and was also part of later reform efforts. The Social Security Act was introduced much later, in 1935, long after Arthur's presidency.