How was japan's victory in the russo-japenese war suprising to the western powers?

the alfred thayer mahan award for literary achievement is awarded each year by the navy league of the united states. the award is named for an american naval historian and theorist, rear admiral alfred thayer mahan, united states navy who, through his writing, provided stimulus and guidance to those who share in the defense of the nation. presented since 1957, "this award for literary achievement is awarded to a u.s. navy officer, u.s. marine corps officer, enlisted service member, or civilian who has made a notable literary contribution that has advanced the knowledge of the importance of sea power in the united states."[1]

is this like a kind of true or false question?

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.