From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

An autocracy is a form of government in which the political power is held by a single self appointed ruler. The term autocrat is derived from the Greek word autocratic (lit. "self-ruler", or to: "rule by one's self"). Compare with oligarchy (literally means rule by the few) and democracy (rule by the people).

Today it is usually seen as synonymous with despot, tyrant and/or dictator, though each of these terms originally had a separate and distinct meaning (see their respective articles).

Autocracy is not synonymous with totalitarianism, as this concept was precisely forged to distinguish modern regimes that appeared in the 1920s from traditional dictatorships. It also isn't synonymous with military dictatorship, as these often take the form of "collective presidencies" (see the South-American juntas). However, an autocracy may be totalitarian or be a military dictatorship.

The term monarchy also differs in that it emphasizes the hereditary characteristic, though some Slavic monarchs (see csar) traditionally included the title "autocrat" as part of their official styles. The actual power of the monarch may be limited. Historically, many monarchs ruled autocratically (see absolute monarchy) but eventually their power was diminished and dissolved with the introduction of constitutions giving the people the power to make decisions for themselves through elected bodies of government.

The autocrat needs some kind of power structure to rule. Very few rulers were in the position to rule with only their personal charisma and skills without the help of others. A true autocrat is one who is able to make laws by himself and personally have power to enforce them. The only real world examples of a pure autocrat are a chieftain of a very small village, or the leader of a motorcycle gang who can personally enact all decrees and beat down any rebels. Most historical autocrats, such as the Russian Tsars, depended on their nobles, the military, the secret police, the priesthood or others, who could turn against the ruler and depose or murder him. The true nature of a historical autocracy and the difference between an autocracy and an oligarchy can be difficult to judge.

• Liberal autocracy

This government-related article is a stub. You can help Wikipedia by expanding it.