This title examines theocracies in world history from the Vatican to the societies of the Aztecs, Mayans, and Egyptians to modern theocracies such as those in the Massachusetts Bay Colony, Utah Territory, Iran, and Saudi Arabia. Governments that combine theocracy with other forms of governments are also explored. The different religions of theocracies such as Christianity, Islam, Judaism, and various polytheistic religions are covered. How theocracies work, the political and economic systems in which they thrive, and the divine source of their power are discussed. Influential individuals such as John Calvin, Joseph Smith, Queen Hatshepsut, Emperor Constantine, King Abd al Aziz, and Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini are introduced. Strengths and weaknesses of theocracies are analyzed, and the citizen’s role, rights, and responsibilities. Differing treatments of men and women in theocratic governments are also covered. Exploring World Governments is a series in Essential Library, an imprint of ABDO Publishing Company.