Forms of government

Absolute Monarchy Ruled by a King or Queen Rule is hereditary Some rulers say they are chosen by God Ruler has all the power Example: Saudi Arabia

Constitutional Monarchy Rule shared by a King/Queen and a representative body King/Queen’s power is limited by a constitution Often King/Queen are only ceremonial Example: England today

Aristocracy Ruled by the nobility Rule is hereditary and based on family ties, social rank, and wealth Wealth and status support rulers’ authority Example: Sparta

Oligarchy Ruled by a small group of citizens Rule is based on wealth or ability Ruling group controls military Example: French First Republic under the Directory

Direct Democracy Ruled by its citizens Rule based on citizenship Majority rule decides vote Everyone is involved in making decisions Example: Ancient Athens

Republic/Representative Democracy Ruled by elected officials People have a say Representatives elected by people to make decisions Power is with the people Example: USA

Exit Ticket Which form of government do you think would work best? Explain why you think that form of government is better than the rest.