As the troublesome doors of the Reconstruction period began to close, the more troublesome doors of the Gilded Age opened releasing corruptness and competitiveness that took over the United States government and society. This period revealed the scandals and corruption that besieged the Republican Party, while they tried to stay in control of the Democrats. The Gilded Age represented an intense competition for control between the Republicans and Democrats; this was orchestrated through the patronage system, the spoils system, and civil service reform.

During the Gilded Age the spoils and patronage systems led to the corruption of government. Government officials would appoint people to office illegitimately. A person would be appointed if in return they voted for that party at the election. (Bailey, pg. 507) During the Gilded Age politicians from the White House to the court house were often surrounded by corruption and scandal. (Packet pg.1) President Grant's...