Legal Definitions - spoils system

Definition: The spoils system is a practice where government jobs are given to supporters and friends of the political party that wins an election. This is done instead of hiring people based on their qualifications and abilities. The spoils system is also known as patronage.

Example: In the 1800s, when Andrew Jackson was president of the United States, he used the spoils system to reward his supporters with government jobs. For example, he appointed Samuel Swartwout, a friend and supporter, as the collector of customs for the Port of New York. Swartwout was later found to have embezzled over $1 million from the government.

Explanation: The example illustrates how the spoils system can lead to unqualified and corrupt individuals being appointed to important government positions. Instead of hiring someone based on their qualifications and experience, the spoils system rewards political loyalty. This can lead to incompetence and corruption, as seen in the case of Samuel Swartwout.