What does the "Spoils System" refer to in Andrew Jackson's administration?

The term "Spoils System" refers specifically to a practice where political leaders, particularly during Andrew Jackson's administration, awarded government jobs to their friends, allies, and supporters, often without regard for their qualifications. This system was rooted in the belief that political loyalty should be rewarded with governmental positions, thereby effectively allowing the winning party to appoint its members to various offices. Jackson justified this approach as a way of democratizing government by breaking the hold of established elites and promoting the idea that ordinary citizens could serve in public office.

This method of appointing officials was significant in establishing a precedent for political patronage in the United States, where loyalty to a party was prioritized over merit or experience. It led to a more vibrant and, at times, chaotic political environment as officeholders were frequently replaced following elections to favor new appointees aligned with the newly elected officials' ideologies and interests. Hence, option B accurately captures the essence of the Spoils System during Jackson's presidency.