Types of Governments CHV2O

Civics Define the different types of governments (i.e., democracy, autocracy, oligarchy, monarchy, and dictatorship).

Democracy The government is elected by the people(rule). Advantages: Everyone who is eligible to vote has a chance to have their say over who runs the country People have the right to criticize the government Freedom of Expression Protect the rights of an individual Disadvantages: Takes time to make decisions

Authoritarian Government by a single person having unlimited power and complete obedience to the ruler Advantages Organized , controlled, efficient Decisions and changes can be made quickly Disadvantages No individual freedom is allowed (No protesting) Complete obedience to the leader Leaders are often self appointed and usually cannot be replaced

Monarchy A government headed by a King or Queen Advantages Organized, controlled, traditional, unifying Disadvantages Expensive (pomp, ceremony) Chosen by birth Monarch is remote from everyday experiences But a constitutional monarchy, like the UK, also has a democratic government that limits the monarch's control. Examples: Canada, Holland

Anarchy Breakdown of law and order, in which the government is ineffective or non-existent This can happen after a civil war in a country, when a government has been destroyed and rival groups are fighting to take its place. Believe that government is a bad thing and interferes in people’s lives. Advantage: sometimes change happens Disadvantage: creates chaos

Oligarchy A government in which a few people such as a dominant clan or clique have power. Advantages Stable, organized, controlled Disadvantages Limited access to power Limited rights for people and individual rights (Ex. South Africa –Apartheid)

Republic A republic is a country that has no monarch. Can be both Democratic (US and France) or Non-democratic (China).

Dictatorship (Totalitarism) A country ruled by a single leader or Political party. The leader has not been elected and may use force to keep control. In a military dictatorship, the army is in control. Advantages: Decisions and Change happens quickly Organized controlled and efficient Disadvantages: Limited access to power, rights of people and individuals Example: Hitler’s Nazi Germany, Castro’s Cuba

Communist The government owns property such as businesses, farms and distribution. It provides its people's healthcare, education and welfare. Everyone is equal and works together to share wealth