Constitutional Monarchy By: Alise Schaben and Becky Hanson
Book Definition Constitutional Monarchy is a form of government in which a monarch acts as head of state within the parameters of a constitution, whether it be a written, uncodified, or blended constitution. Most constitutional monarchies employ a parliamentary system in which the monarch may have strictly ceremonial duties or may have reserve powers, depending on the constitution. Under most modern constitutional monarchies there is also a prime minister who is the head of government and exercises effective political power.
Student Friendly Definition A king or queen that has limited power due to their constitution
Real World Examples United Kingdom-Queen Elizabeth II Japan-Akihito Norway-King Herald V Morocco-Mohammed VI Thailand-Rama IX
Absolute Monarchy
Book Definition Absolute monarchy is a monarchical form of government in which the monarch exercises ultimate governing authority as head of state and head of government, his or her powers are not limited by a constitution or by the law. An absolute monarch wields unrestricted political power over the sovereign state and its people. In an absolute monarchy, the transmission of power is twofold; hereditary and marital
Student Friendly Definition The king or queen holds all government power.
Real World Examples Today- Vatican City- Pope Benedict XVI Swaziland- King Mswati III Saudi Arabia- King Abdullah Historical France- King Louis XVI (ended in 1789) Prussia- Ended in 1848