The spoils system, which involved the practice of appointing supporters and loyalists to government positions, had a significant impact on President James A. Garfield and his administration. Here are some key points regarding how the spoils system affected Garfield and his successors:
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Political Turmoil: Garfield entered office in 1881 during a period of intense political factionalism within the Republican Party. The major factions were the Stalwarts, who supported the traditional spoils system and wanted to maintain control over patronage positions, and the Half-Breeds, who advocated for civil service reform. Garfield, himself, attempted to navigate these factions and sought a middle ground, which contributed to the political struggles during his presidency.
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Assassination: The spoils system played a direct role in Garfield’s assassination. Charles Guiteau, who shot Garfield in July 1881, believed he was owed a political appointment for his support during the election. Disappointed with Garfield's refusal to grant him a position, Guiteau resorted to violence. Garfield's assassination highlighted the dangers and instability associated with the spoils system.
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Push for Reform: In the aftermath of Garfield's assassination, there was a renewed call for civil service reform. The public and political pressure led to significant changes, such as the Pendleton Civil Service Reform Act of 1883, which established a merit-based system for federal employment. This law aimed to reduce the influence of the spoils system and improve the professionalism of the civil service.
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Impact on Successors: Garfield's death and the subsequent reforms influenced his successors, particularly Chester A. Arthur, who had been a Stalwart before becoming president. Arthur surprised many by supporting the Pendleton Act and implementing civil service reforms, which marked a shift away from the spoils system.
In summary, the spoils system created significant political challenges for Garfield during his presidency, contributed to his tragic assassination, and ultimately spurred important civil service reforms that affected his successors and the nature of federal employment in the United States.