The Spoils System Explained: US History Review

The video explores the spoils system, a practice initiated by Andrew Jackson in 1828, where political supporters were rewarded with government jobs. This led to inefficiency and corruption, as jobs were given based on loyalty rather than merit. The system persisted for decades, contributing to the rise of political machines. Reforms like the Pendleton Act in 1883 and the Hatch Act in 1939 aimed to curb these practices by promoting merit-based hiring and limiting political activities of federal employees. Despite these efforts, remnants of the spoils system continued to influence local politics.

What was the main reason job seekers attended Andrew Jackson's inauguration?

• To demand jobs promised to them

• To celebrate his victory

• To protest against his policies

• To support the Democratic Party

Who coined the term 'spoils system'?

• Thomas Jefferson

• William Marcy

• Andrew Jackson

• James Garfield

What was a major negative consequence of the spoils system?

• Higher taxes

• Incompetence in government jobs

• Increased voter turnout

• Improved public services

What did the Pendleton Act aim to achieve?

• Expand the spoils system

• Reduce taxes

• Establish a merit-based system for federal jobs

• Increase political party power

What was the purpose of the Hatch Act of 1939?

• To allow federal employees to engage in political activities

• To prevent political favoritism in federal employment

• To abolish the Pendleton Act

• To increase the number of federal jobs