This document defines and classifies different forms of government. It discusses that while the state remains similar in essence, composition and objectives, governments differ in their organization, selection of rulers, and distribution of power and authority. The three primary functions of any government are the legislature, executive, and judiciary. Governments are generally classified based on who holds power - monarchy is rule by a single monarch, aristocracy is rule by the elite/nobility, democracy is rule by the people, while other forms include dictatorship, oligarchy and theocracy. Examples of each type are provided.