The document discusses the history of the spoils system in American politics, where politicians would reward supporters with government jobs. It describes how Andrew Jackson greatly expanded this system by firing thousands of federal workers and replacing them with his political allies. It also summarizes how the assassination of President Garfield by a disgruntled office seeker led to civil service reforms and the establishment of a merit-based hiring system through the Pendleton Act of 1883. Finally, it provides a brief overview of how government agencies, congressional committees, and interest groups can form "iron triangles" to pass laws that benefit all three stakeholders.