Which of the following characterizes patronage?

Patronage is best characterized as a system where political leaders reward their friends and allies in exchange for their support. This practice often involves appointing individuals to government positions or providing them with funding and resources to solidify loyalty and ensure continued backing for political initiatives. Historically, patronage has been a common method for political parties and leaders to maintain power, as it establishes a network of reciprocal relationships and reinforces political loyalty among supporters.

While other options touch on elements of political dynamics or support systems, they do not capture the essence of patronage in the same way. For example, punishing allies for opposition does not align with the core motivations behind patronage, which is centered on mutual benefit. Similarly, giving grants to schools or neighborhoods or offering gifts in exchange for deals does not inherently involve the systematic reward structure characteristic of patronage, which is fundamentally about securing allegiance and support through preferential treatment.