Civil service refers to the government employees who carry out the everyday work of running a country, state, or city. These workers aren't elected officials like presidents or mayors. Instead, they're hired to do specific jobs that keep government functioning: processing passport applications, inspecting bridges for safety, managing national parks, delivering mail, or maintaining public records.

The term comes from the idea that these workers serve the public, or civil society, rather than serving a particular political party or leader. When a new president takes office, most civil service workers keep their jobs because their work continues regardless of who wins elections. A park ranger protecting Yellowstone or a clerk at the DMV serves every citizen equally, no matter their politics.

Before modern civil service systems existed, government jobs were often given to friends and supporters of whoever held power, whether they were qualified or not. Starting in the late 1800s, countries began requiring competitive exams and hiring based on merit. These reforms created professional, stable governments where experience and expertise mattered more than political connections. Today, civil service workers form the backbone of government operations, ensuring that essential services continue smoothly year after year, administration after administration.