Question

In monarchical system of government power usually rests with-
A. The most powerful military leader
B. An elected head of the state
C. The popularly elected monarch
D. A hereditary ruler

Answer 1

Hint:
Among the various systems of government, the monarchical system existed much before any concept of democracy was known. It was also the most popular and common form up until the 20th century. Monarchical systems mostly led the formation of dynasties with power residing within the control of one family.

Complete answer:
The monarchical system of governance is the oldest form of governance. The origins can be traced back to how tribes and communities were led by clan heads or chieftains. This system expanded over time as communities grew to form states and kingdoms. With this growth, the power of the ruler also grew over time. Let us now take a look at which of the given options correctly depicts the one who holds the power-

A. The most powerful military leader is usually the general of the monarch's army. While it is true that some generals and military leaders hold considerable power throughout history, they are usually not the ones running the kingdom. They might be able to control or influence the ruler to an extent, but do not yield full power. Thus, this option is incorrect.

B. An elected head of the state can never be the one holding the power in a monarchical system. This is simply because monarchy as a system is the exact opposite of the republic, where elections are used to decide on the ruler. A monarchy, by definition, is a system where the ruler gains his position not by elections but by his claim to the throne through power or birthright. Thi option,therefore is incorrect.

C. The popularly elected monarch is a rare form of monarchy. Popularly elected leaders are a feature of democracy. Monarchy very rarely has a popularly elected leader. And while such instances have happened in history, they are very few and even less lasting. Thus, this option too is incorrect.

D. The monarchical system usually rests on the framework of birthright and power. A king's son, usually the eldest son, is automatically assumed the next ruler simply due to being born as the king's heir. Thus, a hereditary ruler is mostly the person holding the power in a monarchical system. This is also why entire dynasties spanning many years have hereditary rulers from the same family for generations.
Therefore, the correct answer is Option D.

Note:
-The monarchical system was once the most popular form of governance all over the world. Now, the system has been in a decline. Even in countries where monarchy still exists, they have been converted into a system of Constitutional Monarchy, where the king or queen is primarily a symbolic ruler.
-The rulers in this system have been known by different titles all over the world, such as king, queen, emperor, Raja, khan, caliph, tsar, sultan, or shah.