United States Civil Service Commission

The United States Civil Service Commission was established by the Civil Service Act of 1883. The Commission replaced the “spoils system” and democratized the process of hiring for federal jobs; first, because it required that these positions be filled through competitive examinations which were open to all citizens; second, because it required selection of the best-qualified applicants without regard to political considerations.

During World War II, the need for federal employees resulted in an increase in hiring. The number of employees which was about 800,000 strong in 1938, increased to almost 4,000,000 by 1945. However, many of the war-time positions were temporary. During the period after the war, the number of federal employees was reduced, with war-service and temporary appointees being displaced.

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