b) New York City
Tammany Hall, a famous example of a political machine, was based in New York City, highlighting the need for electoral reforms. Founded in the late 18th century as a social club, Tammany Hall became synonymous with political corruption and the manipulation of immigrant voters. Under leaders like William M. Tweed, it controlled Democratic Party nominations and elections in New York City, trading jobs and social services for votes. The exposure of its corruption, particularly during the Tweed Ring era, prompted demands for political and electoral reforms. Tammany Hall’s history reflects the complex interplay of immigration, politics, and corruption in American cities, and its eventual decline marked a significant shift towards greater transparency and democracy in urban governance.
In 1871, Thomas Nast denounces Tammany as a ferocious tiger killing democracy. The image of a tiger was often used to represent the Tammany Hall political movement.