Examining Political Systems

Originating with the ancient Greeks, democracy has taken many forms through the centuries. The beginning of modern democracies is traced to the Magna Carta in 1215, and afterward the increasing rights of individuals in their governments. The Constitution of the United States embraced the idea of democracy, becoming the great experiment that inspired democratic forms of governments through the years and across the world. This insightful volume includes relevant sources, images, and a timeline to trace the history and permutations of democracy as it has been practiced by different countries.

Theocratic governments, which recognize God or a deity as ruler, are uncommon. Still, theocratic rule is followed by some societies worldwide. This volume details the ancient roots of theocracy among the Egyptians, Aztecs, Incas, and Maya, along with the contemporary theocratic rule in Islamic countries. It includes coverage of religious groups that practice Christian theocracy, such as the Vatican and America's theocratic beginnings with the Pilgrims and Puritans. Also examined are the dramatic pros and cons of life in a theocratic society. Particularly thought-provoking is a chapter on new forms of theocracy.

Anarchy is a complex, broad concept that has come to refer to governments or other groups that are violent, unstable, and dangerous. The movement also expresses ideas and goals present in worldwide politics over the past two centuries. This volume examines anarchy in both society and daily life, including its early stages as a political movement in 1840s France, accidental and intentional anarchist societies throughout the world, and the music and culture associated with anarchist movements. With vivid photographs and drawings, this straightforward yet engrossing book discusses the quest for leaderless societies and communities around the globe.

Since the eighteenth century, socialism has evolved alongside increasingly industrial societies in which workers and the government keep the wealthy few from exploiting the masses. Socialism has been shaped by Communism and Democracy both, and has undergone changes in the twentieth century alongside the turmoil of World Wars and the Cold War. The birth of Socialism is examined as well as major figures in its development and practice in government and labor unions. This comprehensive volume intersperses historical context with photographs, artwork, publications and more to help readers comprehend this important and evolving movement.

Since the days of Caesar in Ancient Rome, dictators have taken power, usually at times of national crisis. When that crisis has passed, they seldom give up their rule easily. While some leaders win their people's hearts with charisma, others rely on censorship, secret police, and brutal repression. This insightful guide traces regimes including Napoleon, Utopian regimes in the Middle Ages, mid-twentieth-century dictators such as Adolf Hitler, and more recent rulers in the Americas. With period photographs, posters, speeches, and more, this volume makes an essential addition to any educational collection.

The oldest of human institutions, monarchy has been tried in a range of variations through the ages. The absolute power of kings and emperors gave way to constitutional monarchy before losing popularity in the modern age. This compelling guide traces the history of monarchs as early as ancient Egypt, through ancient Rome, the Middle Ages, Early Modern Europe, and the decline of monarchies as more than figureheads in the early twentieth century. Inscriptions, artwork, documents, and more bring color and comprehension to this ancient form of government.

Many governments throughout history have seized lands in other places in order to rule them from afar. These lands exist mainly to profit the home country, and provide a place where settlers can populate the land without regard to the native inhabitants. The home country exercises control over the colony and drains it of resources. Colonies located in America, India, South Africa, and Vietnam are examined in depth. Carefully chosen documents and images illuminate the long lasting effects of colonial governments on both the home country and the colonized lands.

A system of government in which citizens share labor and property, Communism has been practiced in a number of different ways through the ages. The ancient Greek and medieval Utopian visions included an ideal society, while twentieth century Communism took a more sinister turn with the regimes of Lenin, Stalin, and Mao Tse-tung. The international scope of the Cold War pitted superpowers against one another in a struggle that could have ended the world. An authoritative guide on Communism's roots and practices, this timely volume investigates the historical context of this form of government, along with party platforms, images, and speeches.