🗳️ap comparative government review

Source of Legitimacy

Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 examWritten by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025

Definition

A source of legitimacy is something that gives authority and credibility to a government or ruler. It establishes why people should accept their rule as valid and just.

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