Final answer:
A republic is characterized by the rule of law, elected representatives, and the protection of individual rights; it is a form of government where leaders are chosen by the people and serve for a limited term, ensuring individual freedoms are upheld.
Step-by-step explanation:
Three important characteristics of a republic include: the rule of law, elected representatives, and the protection of individual rights. In a republic, the leadership is not hereditary or monarchal; instead, leaders are chosen by the people to serve for a limited term. The rule of law is a key principle, where both the government and citizens are subject to and abide by a legal framework that is publicly disclosed. Additionally, a republic operates on the system of elected representatives where citizens vote to elect officials who will represent them and make decisions on their behalf. Lastly, one of the cornerstones of a republic is the safeguarding of individual rights, ensuring that personal freedoms are protected and that the government cannot infringe upon these rights without a due process.