Absolute Power Corrupts Absolutely

Monarchies are the stuff of legend. Kings, Queens, Princesses, and Princes have been idolized and pictured in books, movies, and television. But what are monarchies?

There are four types of monarchies:

1. Absolute Monarchy: monarch has absolute power over government
2. Limited Monarchy: transition to constitutional monarchy but the new government is not fully formed
3. Constitutional Monarchy: monarch is merely a figurehead and there is usually a parliament or other type of constitutional government also in place
4. Elective Monarchy: Monarchs are not born in to power rather they are elected

Monarchy Facts:

• 44 countries recognize the Queen of England as their ruler
• Japan is the world's oldest monarchy beginning in 660 B.C.
• The Windsor's are the most well known monarchy in the world
• You can relinquish your right to the throne in order to marry someone of a different religion or caliber
• The succession to the throne is regulated not only through descent, but also by Parliamentary statute