Chester A. Arthur

ModernPoliticianUnited States1829 — 1886

Reformed the civil service after Garfield assassination.

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Quick Facts

Born

1829

Died

1886

Country

United States

Era

Modern

Occupation

Politician

Score Overview

Military (10%)50

Political (20%)60

Influence (20%)52

Legacy (20%)45

Leadership (15%)72

Strategy (15%)43

Total Score53.2

Chester A. Arthur — Complete Timeline

1881 AD

Assumption of the Presidency after Garfield's AssassinationPolitical Action◆ Major

Arthur became the 21st president upon Garfield's death. His ascension was marked by a desire to distance himself from the Stalwart faction of the Republican Party, which had supported him as vice president.

Presidential SuccessionRepublican Party

Impact: national

1882 AD

Veto of the Chinese Exclusion ActPolitical Action◆ Major

Arthur vetoed the Chinese Exclusion Act, which would have banned Chinese immigration for 20 years. He argued it violated the Burlingame Treaty. Congress later passed a revised version with a 10-year ban, which Arthur signed.

Immigration PolicyChinese Exclusion

Impact: national

1883 AD

Signing of the Pendleton Civil Service Reform ActReform

Arthur signed the Pendleton Act into law, establishing a merit-based system for federal employment. The act created the Civil Service Commission and required competitive exams for many government positions, reducing the influence of patronage and political machines.

Civil Service ReformGovernment Reform

Impact: nationalconstructive