Description:
In this paper, we investigate how civil service exams historically screened talent for bureaucrats and family lineages influenced their final appointments. We explore the Joseon Dynasty (1392 to 1897 CE) as an exemplary case that implemented the examinations for selection of bureacrats. The kingdom’s comprehensive records on family ties and court appointments allow us to construct family network data with detailed information on individual exam scores and political careers. We find that the exam performance and family connections worked in tandem to select high-ranking officials. The exam process first screened the best pool of candidates based on merit, followed by the selectorate's evaluation process that involved checking each candidate's background. Top exam-scorers were more likely to become high-ranking officials, while having illustrious family lineages also played a significant role in determining candidates' political careers. Furthermore, family lineages became especially important for official appointments during periods of political instability