The Pendleton Act, enacted in 1883, aimed to reform the federal government's hiring practices. It established that government jobs should be awarded based on merit rather than political affiliation, reducing the influence of the spoils system. This act created the United States Civil Service Commission to oversee the implementation of competitive exams for federal positions. The Pendleton Act marked a significant shift in how public servants were selected, promoting professionalism and efficiency within the government. It helped to ensure that qualified individuals filled government roles, ultimately leading to a more effective and accountable public administration.