Dictator

High school (ages 12+)
People & Society

Name:

Date:

Step 1 · Read the article

Open the article and read it at the level above. Then answer the questions below in your own words.

https://smallwhale.org/articles/dictator

Write what each word means, using the article.

Do not copy the article. Write two things you learned, the way you would explain them to a friend.

Answers below are taken from the article’s stored facts, so they match what the student read.

1. What is the modern definition?A ruler possessing absolute authority, often obtained and maintained through oppressive means
2. What is the associated political system?Dictatorship, a state governed by a dictator or a ruling elite
3. Why do dictators suppress free speech and press?They want to stop people from talking about them or criticizing them, so they keep control over what people can say and read.
4. How can a country become a dictatorship?Sometimes a leader who was chosen by people slowly takes away the rules that let everyone have a say, and then rules alone.

Autocracy: A system of government by one person with absolute power.
Repression: The act of subduing someone or something by force or authority.
Cult of Personality: Excessive public admiration and devotion to a political leader.