Monarchy is a system of government led by a king or queen. Leadership is usually passed down through a family. The ruler is called a monarch. Monarchies have existed for thousands of years.

In some monarchies, such as Saudi Arabia, the monarch has strong control. In others, like Sweden, the monarch has a more symbolic role. Monarchies can look very different depending on the country.

Monarchies exist in both historical and modern systems. They are one way countries organize leadership.