Final answer:
The spoils system, also known as political patronage, is the practice of awarding public offices, contracts, and other governmental favors to those who support the party in power. It was prevalent in the United States during the 19th century and was eventually ended at the federal level with the passage of the Pendleton Act in 1883.
Step-by-step explanation:
The practice described here is the spoils system or political patronage. It involves awarding public offices, contracts, and other governmental favors to individuals who support the party in power. This system was prevalent in the United States during the 19th century, particularly under President Andrew Jackson. The spoils system was eventually ended at the federal level with the passage of the Pendleton Act in 1883.