When one person rules everything, this form of government is called an autocracy.
Understanding Autocracy
An autocracy is a system of government characterized by the concentration of absolute power in the hands of a single individual. In an autocracy, the ruler has ultimate authority, making all decisions without being subject to legal constraints or popular control. This singular command over the state defines this governmental structure.
Types of Autocracy
Autocracy primarily manifests in two main forms, both of which involve a single person holding supreme power:
- Monarchy: In a monarchy, the country is governed by a king or queen. The individual who holds this royal position is referred to as a monarch. Rule in a monarchy is often hereditary, passed down through generations within a ruling family.
- Dictatorship: A dictatorship is another type of autocracy where one person wields absolute power, typically having seized control by force and maintaining it through strict control and suppression of any opposition.
Autocracy Types at a Glance
Here’s a concise overview of the two principal types of autocracy:
| Type of Autocracy | Key Characteristic |
|---|---|
| Monarchy | A king or queen rules the country; the ruler is a monarch. |
| Dictatorship | One person holds all the power. |
In essence, an autocracy embodies a government where one individual exercises complete and unchallenged authority over a nation.
