What was the primary purpose of political machines?

In reference, The Encyclopædia Britannica defines "political machine" as, "in U.S. politics, a party organization, headed by a single boss or small autocratic group, that commands enough votes to maintain political and administrative control of a city, county, or state".

SO: It's purpose primarily serves to gain and maintain political and administrative control of city/county/state, none the less the population.

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