A republic, in the simplest of definitions, is based on the Latin phrase res publica ('public affair'), is a state in which political powers rests with the citizens through their representatives — in contrast to a monarchy.
Representation in a republic may or may not be freely elected by the general citizenry. In many historical republics, representation has been based on personal status and the role of elections has been limited. This remains true today; among the 159 states that use the word republic in their official names (as of 2017), and other states formally constituted as republics, are states that narrowly constrain both the right of representation and the process of election.
The term developed its modern meaning in reference to the constitution of the ancient Roman Republic, lasting from the overthrow of the last King in 509 BC to the establishment of the Empire in 27 BC. This Constitution was characterised by a Senate composed of wealthy aristocrats wielding significant influence; several popular Assemblies of all free citizens, possessing the power to elect magistrates from the populace and pass laws; and a series of magistracies series of magistracies with varying types of civil and political authority.
Most often a republic is a single sovereign state, but there are also subnational state entities that are referred to as republics, or that have governments that are described as republican in nature.
It is important to recognise that although the advocates of Republicanism often cite this system being more democratic, that is not a guarantee or surety.
