What is Monarchy?

What is the meaning of Monarchy?

A monarchy is a system of government that appoints a person as head of state for life, until the monarch is forced to give up his power, or until he voluntarily abdicates the throne.

One characteristic of this system is known for how it handles the transfer of power and authority. Oftentimes it is passed through the line of succession using a rigid process of inheritance through relation by blood from the previous ruler and by order of birth within the royal family.

The basis and source of authority of most monarchies is rooted in the traditions and beliefs of a nation. Many peoples who follow this type of government, especially western nations, consider that the power of a monarch was from a divine origin, which is often referred to as the divine right. This was more prevalent during the ancient period; people would even consider that their king is a descendant of a divinity and in some instances a living god.

In the modern time, some monarchies have slowly lost influence and have transitioned to a more democratic system but still retain the monarchy as head of government while the elected officials function as head of state.

2 Types of Monarchy

Absolute Monarchy

An absolute monarchy is a government in which the monarch or the king has absolute power as executive, legislator and as judge.

Constitutional Monarchy

In a constitutional monarchy, a monarch has limited governing power or in some cases even has no political power at all. Many countries have already transitioned to this type of monarchy, where the power of a monarch is limited only to being a symbol of the people and being the head of the nation.

Examples of Monarchy

Many countries still follow this system.

The United Kingdom is one of the most famous examples of this. Though the presence of the royal family is felt within their country, the power held by the nobility in government is only symbolic.

But in countries like Saudi Arabia and Morocco, the power of their monarchs is considered absolute. They are considered the highest political authority within their countries.