Dark Horse: James Garfield and the Civil Service System with Kenneth Ackerman

United States Capitol Historical Society

April 17, 2025
12:00 - 1:00 pm ET
Webinar

Join us for a timely discussion on the importance of dark horse President James Garfield and the creation of the civil service system presented by author Kenneth Ackerman.

Based on his book, Dark Horse: The Surprise Election and Political Murder of Presidential James A. Garfield, In his book, Kenneth Ackerman explores the creation of the civil service system - what it is, how it functions, the story behind its creation, and its evolution over the years.

Garfield was very much a creature of Capitol Hill, holding virtually every key leadership post in the House, arguably the happiest years of his life. As a Senate staffer himself in the 1970s, Ken Ackerman had the unique opportunity of being one of the lead committee counsels on the Civil Service Reform Act of 1978, which led to the Garfield book and gave him a deeper understanding of the history.

Like all USCHS programs, this webinar is free and open to the public; registration is required.

Want to Support Civic Education?

We believe that every student deserves an education about our nation’s history, that inspires them to be the best citizens they can be, no matter their background. Our “We the People” Constitution Tours™ provide immersive educational experiences for eighth-grade students from D.C. Title I schools, ensuring that students from historically underserved communities can explore the foundations of our democracy firsthand. During the program, students visit important sites related to the Constitution including the George Mason Memorial, the National Archives, the U.S. Capitol Building, and The People’s House: A White House Experience. As the cost of providing these tours continues to rise, your donation will help cover essential expenses, including transportation, lunches, knowledgeable tour guides, and educational materials.

A $111 donation covers all expenses for one student, covering all costs associated with the tour.
$325 provides lunches for 25 students during their trip, ensuring they stay energized and engaged.
A donation of $3,880 will sponsor an entire trip for one class.

“We the People,” speaks to the freedoms and responsibilities inherent in the Constitution of the United States of America. For Jim and me, it has been of the greatest importance that all citizens have an understanding of the democratic process and rule of law in order to be active participants in the form of self-governance laid out by the Constitution and Bill of Rights. I believe that my support in Jim’s name of the “We the People” tours is essential for the future of our country.

– Mrs. Penny Morrill on why she supports the “We the People” Constitution Tours

Become a Member Today!

Support Civic Education in 2025

Join us in our mission to educate, inspire, and encourage informed civic participation. By becoming an annual member, your support funds vital programs such as the ‘We the People’ Constitution Tour for DC students, free resources and lesson plans for teachers, and our series engaging virtual and in-person public history events. Together, we will preserve Congress’s history and empower citizens to influence the future of our democracy.

Join Today!

Help preserve and share the history of democracy with a year-end donation! Join as a member today and enjoy unique benefits—all while contributing to our mission of preserving history and promoting civic education.

Donations received by midnight tonight or checks postmarked on or before December 31, 2024, will be applied to the 2024 tax year.