Autocratic
A system of government in which an autocrat, possesses supreme and absolute power
Real World Example
During The Age of Absolutism (1550-1800), many European monarchs ruled autocratically, meaning they held complete control over their countries without checks or balances. This was important at the time because it allowed rulers like Louis XIV of France and Peter the Great of Russia to unify their nations, centralize power, and reduce the chaos of feudal and religious conflicts. Autocracy responded to the need for strong, centralized leadership during times of war and economic change. Today, the concept of autocracy is still relevant because some countries are governed by leaders who hold excessive power, impacting citizens' freedoms and rights. For example, in countries where the government controls the media and limits free speech, people may not have the opportunity to express their opinions or influence government decisions, affecting their daily lives and opportunities.
