An autocracy is a form of government in which the political power is held by a self-appointed ruler. The term autocrat is derived from the word autokratōr (lit. "self-ruler", or "one who rules by himself"). Compare with oligarchy ("rule by the few") and democracy ("rule by the people"). Today the term autocrat is usually understood as being synonymous with despot, tyrant and dictator, although each of these terms originally had a separate and distinct meaning. Autocracy isn't synonymous… (More on Autocracy)