The correct answer to this could be the liberal capitalism built on democratic beliefs. This ideology best corresponds to the "American Dream". Everyone is equal and everyone can achieve everything.
The answer is "their religion"
The act mandates that most positions within the federal government should be awarded on the basis of merit instead of political patronage. ... The Pendleton Civil Service Act provided for the selection of some government employees by competitive exams, rather than ties to politicians or political affiliation.