The Spoils System In Nathaniel Hawthorne's Scarlet Letter

Spoils and Puritans

The Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne offers a bird’s eye view of not only the historical Puritans of the 17th century but also the spoils system from the early 19th century. Hawthorne’s unique perspective as a descendant of John Hathorne, one of the Salem Witch trial judges, provides him with the insight of the Puritans that is historically accurate, although, at times, tinged with disdain. Hawthorne’s own experience of working in the Custom House in Salem, Massachusetts creates the basis of the introductory chapter. This explanation and history of the creation of The Scarlet Letter show the connections to the spoils system that was prevalent at the time of writing this manuscript.

William L Marcy once said, “To the victors the spoils of the enemy” (Lecture Nov 9, 2017). This is true of all warfare, whether combat-related or politically inspired. The Spoils System was the lifeblood of the second party system of the United States. Throughout this war, political operatives battled over electoral votes. Among the spoils was the political office they deeply coveted and the power they would attain once they reached their propitious position. This power they wielded, at

This incumbent was often seen as their political enemy, formerly set in place by the previous administration. This partisanship was not based on merit and who could do the job to the best of their ability. Rather, the “good ole boys club” brought in loyal friends, family, and supporters to fill crucial positions. This practice ignored qualifications, efficiency, and merits in order to encourage, mobilize and electrify the common man into voting the party line. This created loyalty and high expectations at dire ramifications as a result. The Custom-House chapter of The Scarlet Letter offers a closer look at the “spoils” and the consequences of this “political warfare” (Hawthorne