Bellwork What kind of government does the U.S. have? Explain why.

Basic types of Government

Monarchy Absolute Monarchies- A government totally controlled by a hereditary ruler, whose commands are law. Constitutional Monarchies- A government with a hereditary “King or Queen” whose power within the government is limited by law. Often a “figurehead”.

Dictatorship Dictatorship- A system of government which citizens have few rights and the government is controlled by an individual or a small group. Power is usually taken by force and held by fear.

Democracy Democracy- A system of government where authority is based on the people’s consent. Parliamentary Democracy- Type of democracy where the executive is chosen by the legislature and serves at their leisure. Presidential Democracy- Type of democracy where the executive is independently chosen and acts as a separate, independent branch.

Theocracy Theocracy- A form of government in which the leaders of an organized religion have influence over government policy.

Explain the major difference between Presidential and Parliamentary democracy.