In politics and government, a spoils system (also known as a patronage system) is a practice in which a political party, after winning an election, gives government jobs to its supporters, friends (cronyism), and relatives (nepotism) as a reward for working toward victory, and as an incentive to keep working for the ...

How does the patronage system work?

spoils system, also called patronage system, practice in which the political party winning an election rewards its campaign workers and other active supporters by appointment to government posts and with other favours. ... It also guarantees the ruling party loyal and cooperative employees.

What does patronage mean?

English Language Learners Definition of patronage

: money and support that is given to an artist, organization, etc. : support that is given to a business, library, etc., by buying its goods or using its services. : the power to give jobs or provide other help to people as a reward for their support.