During which era did the "common man" make the most gains toward achieving the "american dream" of individual rights, equal protection under the law, and due process?

a direct vote in which an entire electorate is invited to vote on a particular proposal. this may result in the adoption of a new law.  

how did the pendleton civil service act weaken the spoils system after president garfield died?

the act forced federal employees to pass competitive exams.

the act said that federal employees could be fired for political reasons.

the act said that company contracts and kickbacks were illegal.

the act stopped the reform movement in its tracks.