Spoils System

Definition

The spoils system is a practice where a political party, after winning an election, gives government jobs to its supporters as a reward for their efforts. This was common during Andrew Jackson's presidency.

Related terms

Patronage: The power to control appointments to office or the right to privileges; often associated with practices like the spoils system.

Civil Service Reform Act (Pendleton Act): An act passed in response to criticism of the spoils system which mandated that certain government jobs be filled based on merit rather than political connections.

Andrew Jackson: Known for his implementation of the spoils system during his presidency from 1829-1837.