Bellringer: What does the term "republic" mean to you?How might it be different from other forms of government, such as a monarchy or a dictatorship?

republic, to me, means a system of government where supreme power is held by the people and their elected representatives, and which has an elected or nominated president rather than a monarch. It emphasizes citizen participation and the rule of law. The people are the ultimate source of authority, and government officials are accountable to them.Here's how a republic differs from other forms of government:* **Monarchy:** In a monarchy, power is typically inherited and held by a single individual, the monarch (king, queen, emperor, etc.). The monarch's authority may be absolute, or it may be limited by a constitution or other governing body. Unlike a republic, the people do not have direct control over the government or the selection of their leader.* **Dictatorship:** A dictatorship is characterized by absolute or authoritarian rule by a single person or a small group. Power is often seized and maintained through force, suppression of opposition, and limited individual freedoms. Unlike a republic, there are no free and fair elections, and citizens have little to no say in how they are governed. Accountability to the people is absent.