1. Major Political Systems

2. Absolute Monarchy
Power is held completely by a king or queen that makes ALL decisions.
Power is passed down through family hierarchy.
There is usually a strong division between rich and poor, very small middle class.

3. Constitutional Monarchy
A king/queen still exists, however they now rule alongside some type of legislative body.
This legislative body is usually elected, but not always. They may be put in place by the monarch.
In a perfect constitutional monarchy, the legislative body is supposed to represent the needs and wants of the people.

4. Representative Democracy
An overall executive is usually elected, but not always.
The executive is responsible for the overall organization of the government, but can also present legislation.
The general population usually elects representatives to present their needs and wants.
This body of representatives forms a legislature that can create and pass laws.
Usually works on a system of checks and balances.
Can be an oligarchy.

5. Direct Democracy
In a perfect direct democracy, ALL citizens are allowed to present and vote on new laws and legislation.
There is no need for a legislature, other than to write and implement the laws.
Sometimes not all citizens are represented.

6. Dictatorship
One, or a few, rule the government with absolute power, making ALL of the decisions as an absolute monarch would.
Leaders usually take power by war, and more times than not are military generals.
Often leads to civil war when previous government OR a third party tries to gain power.
Can be unstable with weak leadership.
Dictators usually keep power through fear.