Final answer:
A monarchy is a form of government in which supreme power is held by an individual who is the head of state. Some monarchs ruled with the best interest of their people in mind, while others ruled as despots, exercising complete and absolute authority over the government and population.
Step-by-step explanation:
Monarchy is a form of government in which supreme power is absolutely or nominally lodged with an individual who is the head of state, often for life or until abdication. In some cases, monarchs ruled with the best interest of their people in mind, while others ruled as despots. A despot is a ruler who wields complete and absolute authority over a government or populace, often using economic or military might and intimidation to maintain their power.