Political Machines in American History

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Political machines were organizations that controlled votes on Election Day.

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A political machine is an organization, usually controlled by a strong leader or boss, that gets citizens to vote for candidates on Election Day.

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Political machines exchanged jobs and services for votes.

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In the 19th century, political bosses provided jobs and services to immigrants and other poor residents in return for their votes.

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Political machines profited through city government control.

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They used their control of city government to make profits by overcharging on city contracts and other services.

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Tammany Hall was a famous political machine in New York City.

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Tammany Hall, founded in 1789, was a well-known political machine in New York City.

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Tammany Hall was especially welcoming to Irish immigrants.

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Tammany Hall was particularly welcoming to Irish immigrants who generally supported its candidates.

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Boss Tweed was a notorious figure in Tammany Hall.

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Boss Tweed, known as the most corrupt politician of his day, amassed a personal fortune from city contracts and kickbacks.

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Tammany Hall assigned "Ward Bosses" to districts.

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Tammany Hall assigned its own "Ward Boss" to each local district of the city, known as a ward, to help gather votes.

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Political machines were common in many American cities.

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Many American cities were run by political machines.

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Political machines offered political favors and rewards.

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People worked for the machine in exchange for political favors and other rewards.

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Tammany Hall named and elected New York City officials.

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Tammany Hall named and elected mayors and other government officials of New York City.