CLEP U.S. History I 063: Spoils System and the Presidency

Rotation could make administration responsive and open positions beyond an established elite. It could also sacrifice expertise, reward campaign work, and invite corruption. The scandal involving customs collector Samuel Swartwout, who fled with a large public shortfall, became evidence for critics, although patronage did not begin with Jackson. The deeper development was disciplined party control of appointments.

Jackson strengthened the presidency by claiming a direct relationship with the national electorate. Earlier presidents used the veto mainly for constitutional objections. Jackson vetoed on constitutional, economic, and policy grounds. He rejected more bills than all predecessors combined. His Bank veto message addressed the public, arguing that government-granted privilege benefited the wealthy. Jackson also relied on informal advisers whom enemies called the “Kitchen Cabinet” and forced a cabinet reorganization after the social conflict called the Eaton affair.

Opponents labeled him “King Andrew,” pointing to the veto, removal of deposits, defiance of critics, and forceful executive style. Supporters answered that the president was the one federal officer chosen by a national constituency and could check privileged institutions. That reasoning strengthened a democratic presidency while weakening older assumptions that Congress should lead policymaking.

Watch, then test the claim

Watch this account from Hip Hughes (HipHughes) with one question in mind: which evidence makes the lesson's strongest claim hold up?

Video: The Spoils System Explained: US History Review, Hip Hughes (HipHughes).