Spoils

Spoils of war refer to goods seized by victors from defeated opponents. Throughout history, spoils have included money, jewelry, weapons, land, slaves, or other valuables. The taking of spoils was often regulated by prize law or customary practice, with some spoils allocated to commanders, soldiers, or the state. In modern armed conflict, international humanitarian law and rules governing the laws of war regulate or restrict the appropriation and handling of enemy property; effective state control and subsequent restitution or destruction of seized items may occur when appropriate.

The spoils system is a term for the practice of awarding government jobs and favors to political supporters and friends after an electoral victory. It was particularly prominent in the United States in the 19th century, associated with President Andrew Jackson. The system was criticized for promoting patronage, corruption, and inefficiency. Civil service reform, including the Pendleton Civil Service Reform Act of 1883, established merit-based hiring and reduced the use of political appointments, though appointment practices persist in various forms in many countries.

The word spoils also appears in everyday language as a general term for benefits or profits obtained from an activity. In historical or literary contexts, “spoils” may be used metaphorically to denote gains from victory or conquest. The term should not be confused with spoilage, which refers to goods that have decayed or become unfit for use.