Forms of Government

Every citizen is given an equal vote in government and together everyone makes all of the important decisions

• autocracy

• direct democracy

• oligarchy

• representative democracy

There is a sole ruler over the people, and this ruler is often oppressive and limits the rights of their citizens

• absolute monarchy

• dictatorship

• oligarchy

• republic

A king or queen's power is limited by a constitution. The monarch has to share power with another governing body.

• autocracy

• constitutional monarchy

• direct democracy

• oligarchy

The government controls the entire economy and controls all production and distribution of goods. There is no private ownership.

• capitalism

• communism

• socialism

Citizens elect lawmakers to represent their interests in government. Also known as an indirect democracy or a republic.

• autocracy

• direct democracy

• oligarchy

• representative democracy

There are no rules, no one in charge, and no government.

• anarchy

• autocracy

• direct democracy

• republic

Also known as a republic

• autocracy

• direct democracy

• oligarchy

• representative democracy

King or queen has total control over the country.

• anarchy

• absolute monarchy

• direct democracy

• oligarchy

A small group of people are in charge. They are typically wealthy.

• anarchy

• absolute monarchy

• direct democracy

• oligarchy

In early European history, government power was held by a variety of kings and queens who ruled their kingdoms with mostly unlimited powers.

• absolute monarchy

• constitutional monarchy

• oligarchy

• dictatorship