FORMS OF GOVERNMENT Absolute Monarchy Constitutional Monarchy Parliamentary

FORMS OF GOVERNMENT Absolute Monarchy, Constitutional Monarchy, Parliamentary Democracy, Theocracy, Presidential Democracy, Dictatorship

Absolute Monarchy • One clear leader, chosen because they are a son or daughter of the king • People believe this leader is in charge because they were chosen by God • Same person makes and enforces all laws • There is a King, Queen or Czar • King Louis XIV of France was an absolute monarch • Saudi Arabia is an example, although the king must comply with Islamic law and the Quran.

“Like my hair? ”

Authoritarianism • One person or group is in charge, often takes over by force • People listen to him or her because they are afraid • Unlimited authority • Individual rights are subordinate to that power. • Hitler, Mussolini, Sadam Hussein were examples

Going, going…

Oligarchy • government by the few, exercised by a small and privileged group for corrupt or selfish purpose • Often theocracies, where a religious group runs the country. • Ancient Sparta was an example. • Well known example was the Soviet Union • Today the Queen has no power.

How can we best keep ourselves in power?

Democracy • People choose a legislature and the leader through free elections. • Direct Democracy would be if we voted on ALL of the laws. (we don’t) ex Ancient Athens • Republic is when we have representatives to vote on laws (we have this, also known as indirect) Republic is NOT the same as a democracy. Ex Ancient Rome

“I sure hope they pick me again”

Anarchy • • Absence of government! Government is unnecessary. Government breaks down. Example: French Revolution, the people ran everything until Napoleon took charge.

No Government!!! YAY!!!… right?