---
title: "Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI) — AP Comp Gov Guide"
description: "The PRI is the Mexican party that held power for 71 years through clientelism and co-optation. Key to AP Comp Gov Unit 4 questions on party systems."
canonical: "https://fiveable.me/ap-comp-gov/key-terms/institutional-revolutionary-party-pri"
type: "key-term"
subject: "AP Comparative Government"
---

# Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI) — AP Comp Gov Guide

## Definition

The Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI) is a political party in Mexico that dominated the country's politics for most of the 20th century. It was known for its authoritarian rule and ability to maintain power through a combination of co-optation, clientelism, and repression.

## Related Study Guides

- [4.4 Understanding the Role of Political Party Systems](/ap-comp-gov/unit-4/role-political-party-systems/study-guide/VGM7canGhq8scnGN42hd)

## Review

### Related Terms

- Coalitions: In politics, coalitions refer to alliances formed between different political parties or groups with shared interests or goals. These alliances are often created to gain more power or influence in government.
- Authoritarian Nation: An authoritarian nation is a country where political power is concentrated in the hands of a single leader or ruling party, who exercise strict control over society and limit individual freedoms.
- [Clientelism](/ap-comp-gov/key-terms/clientelism): Clientelism refers to a system where politicians exchange favors, resources, or benefits with individuals or groups in return for their support during elections. It often involves providing specific benefits to certain individuals based on personal relationships rather than broader public policies.