Spoils System: The spoils system was a practice in which government officials awarded jobs and favors to their supporters without considering qualifications or merit.
Merit-Based System: A merit-based system is one where individuals are chosen for positions based on their abilities, skills, and qualifications rather than personal connections.
Patronage: Patronage refers to the power or support given by someone in authority, usually in politics, to another person in return for loyalty or support.