How did Jackson abuse the power of the presidency through the spoils system? Is there anything in the constitution that says he was doing something wrong?
Since this is not my area of expertise, I searched Google under the key words "Jackson spoils" to get these possible sources:
http://wiki.answers.com/Q/What_was_the_spoils_system
http://douglass.vcdh.virginia.edu/historyengine/index.php?section=Search%20the%20Engine&page=Search%20Results&focus=2186
http://dig.lib.niu.edu/gildedage/teachers/civilservice-long.html
http://rightreason.ektopos.com/archives/2005/07/electoral_shift_3.html
In the future, you can find the information you desire more quickly, if you use appropriate key words to do your own search.
I hope this helps. Thanks for asking.
President Andrew Jackson abused the power of the presidency through the spoils system, also known as the patronage system. This system involved appointing loyal supporters to government positions as a reward for their political and electoral support. While the Constitution does not specifically mention the spoils system, there are aspects of Jackson's actions that can be considered problematic.
Here's how you can determine how Jackson abused the power of the presidency through the spoils system:
1. Research the spoils system: Understanding the spoils system is crucial to identify its abuse. It was a departure from the merit-based system of appointing government officials. By removing experienced and competent individuals from office solely based on their political affiliations, the spoils system led to potential incompetence and corruption.
2. Examine Jackson's appointments: Study Jackson's appointments to key government positions during his presidency. He replaced many federal officers with his loyal supporters, regardless of their qualifications or experience. This enabled him to surround himself with individuals who supported his policies and increased his political power.
3. Assess the impact: Analyze the consequences of Jackson's appointments. The spoils system resulted in unqualified individuals occupying vital positions within the government, potentially leading to inefficiency and corruption. It also undermined the neutrality and impartiality of the civil service by making positions subject to political favoritism.
4. Evaluate public opinion: Consider public opinion and contemporary views on Jackson's use of the spoils system. While some may have supported his actions, many criticized the abuse of power and the negative consequences it brought.
5. Consult historical analysis: Review the work of historians and scholars who have examined Jackson's presidency. Their research and analysis can provide insights into his motivation and the impact of the spoils system on American governance.
Although the Constitution does not explicitly prohibit the spoils system, many argue that Jackson's abuse of power through this system violated the principle of merit-based appointments and the ideas of fair and transparent governance. Additionally, subsequent reforms and court cases, such as the Pendleton Act of 1883, aimed to address the issues arising from the spoils system, further indicating its problematic nature.