Final answer:
Political bosses in the era of machine politics provided resources and services to urban laborers in exchange for their votes.
Step-by-step explanation:
The relationship between political bosses and their constituents, many of whom were urban laborers, was characterized by a system of machine politics. Political bosses, such as William Tweed of Tammany Hall in New York, provided necessary resources and services to citizens in exchange for their votes.
For example, political bosses would offer jobs, housing, food, and police protection to constituents. In return, constituents would promise their political support in future elections. This system, although corrupt, allowed politicians to address the immediate needs of the working class and gain political power.