Definition

Noun: A system of public employment and political appointment based primarily on party loyalty and service, rather than on merit or qualifications. It involves rewarding supporters with government jobs and favors after an electoral victory.

Usage

The term describes a specific practice in politics and public administration. It is typically used in historical, political, and governmental contexts to critique a patronage-based approach to staffing.

Examples

• The newly elected mayor implemented a spoils system, dismissing experienced bureaucrats to appoint his campaign staff.
• Critics argue that a spoils system undermines government efficiency and leads to corruption.
• The Pendleton Act of 1883 was designed to replace the spoils system with a merit-based civil service in the United States.

Advanced Usage

• "To operate on a spoils system": To function according to the principles of political patronage.
  • The administration was accused of operating on a spoils system, where key positions went to major donors.
• The concept is often contrasted with a "merit system" or a professional, non-partisan civil service.

Variants and Related Words

• Spoils (noun, plural): The benefits and advantages gained by the victorious political party, especially public offices.
  • To the victor belong the spoils.
• Patronage (noun): The power to control appointments to office or the right to privileges; a broader term encompassing the spoils system.
• Nepotism (noun): Favoritism shown to relatives, often related to but distinct from the spoils system, which focuses on political supporters.

Synonyms

• Patronage system
• Political patronage
• (The) spoils of office

Antonyms

• Merit system
• Civil service system
• Career system

Noun

1. the system of employing and promoting civil servants who are friends and supporters of the group in power