Tyranny, << TIHR uh nee, >> is a term used throughout history to describe various forms of government by rulers who have unrestricted power. In ancient Greece, for example, tyranny simply meant absolute rule by one person. Many Greek tyrants were kind, capable rulers.
Tyranny can also refer to government by an absolute ruler who gained power through military force or political trickery. Such tyrants are not supported by a majority of the people. They must use force to remain in power.
Another definition of tyranny is a government in which a person or a group of persons rules in cruel, oppressive, or unjust ways. In many cases, tyrants use their power primarily for their own benefit. Absolute rulers who intend to promote the welfare of society also may be called tyrants if they suppress the freedom of the people. Today, the word tyranny is frequently used to describe a dictatorship.
