Types of Government

Front

One leader or couple has supreme power. Usually within a family. Think kings and queens. Some societies believe in Divine Right-the idea that God has chosen the king and queen.

Back

Monarchy

Front

One leader takes power and controls by force; makes all the decisions.

Back

Dictatorship

Front

The people (citizens) elect representatives to govern for them.

Back

Representative Democracy

Front

A small group of people rule based on wealth, military, or religious power.

Back

Oligarchy

Front

A government controlled by religious leaders.

Back

Theocracy

Front

Absence of government.

Back

Anarchy

Front

A form of democracy in which the people vote firsthand.

Back

Direct Democracy

Front

A military or political group that rules a country after taking power by force.

Back

Junta

Front

A system of government by one person with absolute power.

Back

Autocracy