patronage system
[/ˈpeɪtrənɪdʒ ˈsɪstəm/]
nounpl: patronage systems
sistema de clientelismo
1. A system of political or social organization in which a powerful person (patron) provides protection, employment, or resources to dependent individuals (clients) in exchange for support, loyalty, and services
The patronage system in 18th-century politics allowed wealthy nobles to control elections through their networks of loyal supporters.
O sistema de clientelismo na política do século XVIII permitia que nobres ricos controlassem eleições através de suas redes de apoiadores leais.
2. An arrangement where positions, contracts, or resources are distributed based on personal connections and loyalty rather than merit or competitive selection
Critics argued that the city's patronage system resulted in unqualified people being hired for government jobs.
Críticos argumentaram que o sistema de clientelismo da cidade resultou em pessoas desqualificadas sendo contratadas para cargos no governo.
3. A historical practice where wealthy patrons supported artists, scholars, or institutions in exchange for prestige and creative works dedicated to them
Renaissance artists often relied on the patronage system, creating masterpieces for wealthy merchant families.
Artistas renascentistas frequentemente dependiam do sistema de patrocínio, criando obras-primas para famílias de mercadores ricos.
The patronage system has deep historical roots in both Brazilian and American politics. In Brazil, it remains a persistent feature of government hiring and resource distribution, particularly at municipal and state levels, often criticized by anti-corruption advocates. In the USA, it became associated with machine politics in early 20th-century cities like Chicago and New York. Both countries have implemented civil service reforms and transparency measures to combat the negative effects of patronage-based systems.
NYC Slang
machine politics, pay-to-play system
Related Idioms & Phrases
scratch my back, I'll scratch yours
it's not what you know, it's who you know
old boy network
back room dealing
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