CH 8 AP GOV

Civil War and the Growth of Government

Refers to the significant expansion of the federal government's power and reach as a result of the U.S. Civil War.

Spoils System

A patronage system where federal jobs are given to loyal supporters of the winning political party.

Merit System

A system in which jobs are awarded based on an individual's abilities and qualifications, established by the Pendleton Act.

Pendleton Act

Legislation that established the merit system for federal employment, reducing the spoils system.

Civil Service System

A system that encompasses more than 90% of federal employees, aiming to ensure hiring and employment are based on merit.

Interstate Commerce Commission (1887)

The first federal regulatory agency created to monitor the economy and regulate unfair business practices.

Federal Trade Commission (1913)

An independent agency established to promote consumer protection and eliminate harmful anti-competitive business practices.

16th Amendment (1913)

income tax.

Hatch Act

Federal law that restricts political activities of government employees to maintain a nonpartisan government.

Iron Triangle

A term used to describe the stable, cooperative relationships among congressional committees, bureaucratic agencies, and interest groups.

Rule Making

A quasi-legislative process where bureaucratic agencies create regulations that have the force of law.

Administrative Procedures Act

A law that governs the process by which federal agencies develop and issue regulations.

Administrative Adjudication

A quasi-judicial process used by bureaucratic agencies to settle disputes between parties.

Executive Control

The power of the executive branch to manage the bureaucracy and ensure laws are executed.

Congressional Control

The authority of Congress to influence bureaucratic agencies through approval and budgetary control.

Judicial Control

The judiciary's ability to review the constitutionality of laws and regulations created by bureaucratic agencies.

Decentralization

The distribution of authority, powers, and responsibilities to lower levels within an organization.

Power of the Purse

The power of Congress to control government spending and budget allocation.

Enforcement of Due Process Rights

The requirement that the government respects all legal rights owed to a person, protecting against arbitrary treatment.