Chester Alan Arthur, the 21st President of the United States, served from 1881 to 1885. He became president following the assassination of President James A. Garfield. Born on October 5, 1829, in Vermont, Arthur was a lawyer and a Republican who initially rose to prominence as a loyal member of the Stalwart faction within his party.Arthur’s presidency is particularly noted for his unexpected support of the Pendleton Civil Service Act of 1883, which reformed the federal government’s civil service system by introducing merit-based appointments. This move was a significant departure from the patronage and spoils system that had been prevalent. Despite his affiliation with the Stalwart faction, which was known for its support of the patronage system, Arthur’s endorsement of civil service reform demonstrated his capacity to prioritize national interests over party loyalty.Before his presidency, Arthur was an advocate for civil rights, representing Lizzie Jennings in a case against a Brooklyn streetcar company for racial discrimination, which led to the desegregation of streetcars in New York City. He also argued successfully for the freedom of a slave brought to New York, contributing to the abolitionist cause.Arthur’s term also saw the passage of the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882, which banned Chinese immigration for ten years and prohibited Chinese citizenship. This act reflected the complex and often contradictory nature of his administration’s policies.After serving as president, Arthur returned to New York City, where he passed away on November 18, 1886. His presidency, while short, left a lasting impact on the civil service system in the United States.
