9. Political Corruption (define each & identify problems as a result) c. Political Machines a. Graft b. Kickbacks d. Spoils System 10. Tammany Hall (define) a. Boss Tweed b. George Plunkitt

9. Political Corruption:<br /><br />a. Graft: Graft refers to the unethical or illegal use of a politician's authority for personal gain. This can include bribery, embezzlement, or other forms of corruption where politicians exploit their positions for financial benefit.<br /><br />b. Kickbacks: Kickbacks are a form of bribery where a person receives a portion of the money they were paid as a reward for providing a service or favor. In the context of political corruption, kickbacks often involve contractors or businesses paying politicians or officials a percentage of the money they receive from government contracts or favors.<br /><br />c. Political Machines: Political machines are organized groups of politicians and officials who control a political party or government and use their power to enrich themselves and their supporters. These machines often engage in various forms of corruption, such as embezzlement, patronage, and bribery, to maintain their power and influence.<br /><br />d. Spoils System: The spoils system is a practice where political leaders reward their supporters with government jobs or contracts. This system often leads to corruption, as individuals are appointed based on their loyalty rather than their qualifications. The spoils system can result in inefficiency, waste, and abuse of public funds.<br /><br />10. Tammany Hall:<br /><br />a. Boss Tweed: Boss Tweed was the nickname for William "Boss" Tweed, the leader of Tammany Hall, a powerful political machine in New York City during the 19th century. Tweed and his associates were known for their corrupt practices, including embezzlement, bribery, and manipulation of elections to maintain control over city politics.<br /><br />b. George Plunkitt: George Plunkitt was a Tammany Hall politician and member of Boss Tweed's machine. Plunkitt was known for his infamous "honest graft" scandal, where he admitted to taking bribes and kickbacks but justified it as a right to profit from his political position. His actions highlighted the pervasive corruption within Tammany Hall and the political machine's control over New York City politics.