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monarchy

Definition

A monarchy is a form of government where a single person, the monarch, rules as the head of state for life or until abdication. The position is usually inherited within a family line.

Analogy

Think of a monarchy like a family business where leadership and responsibilities are passed down from one generation to the next, but in this case, the family business is running an entire country.

Related terms

Absolute monarchy: A government system where the monarch has complete and unrestricted power over governance and decision-making.

Constitutional monarchy: A form of government where the monarch's powers are limited by law or by a formal constitution, often sharing power with elected bodies.

Succession: The process of inheriting a title or throne, typically observed in monarchies to determine the next ruler

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AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.