This title examines monarchies in world history from Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia, to North America. Different types of monarchies such as elected, absolute, constitutional, and nominal are discussed, as are the different forms of government and economic systems in monarchies. Historical monarchies such as those of ancient Egypt, Israel, Greece, and Rome are examined as are more modern monarchies such as those that rule the United Kingdom, Russia, France, and Japan. How monarchies are created is explained, as well as how they derive power and how they end. Historic monarchs such as Cleopatra, David, Alexander the Great, Julius Caesar, Charlemagne, King John, Peter the Great, Louis XVI, Hirohito, and Abdul Aziz al-Saud are introduced. Important events in the history of monarchies such as the Magna Carta, Act of Settlement 1701, and World Wars I and II are covered. The citizen's role, rights, and responsibilities in a monarchy such as paying taxes and exercising political rights are also covered. Exploring World Governments is a series in Essential Library, an imprint of ABDO Publishing Company.