empires

Example:While empires are governed by monarchs, republics are governed by elected officials who do not hold the same kind of hereditary power.

Definition:states without a monarchy, headed by a president or similar elected official; contrasted with empires that usually have a ruler such as an emperor or king

Example:Free states often emerge in areas where empires have been broken down, leading to the creation of smaller, independent nations.

Definition:smaller and less powerful nations that are independent and not part of larger empires or kingdoms

Example:A principality is a small political entity, often with a defined territory and cultural identity, which is much smaller than an empire.

Definition:small states governed by a prince; typically much smaller and less powerful than empires