Legal Definitions - dictator

Definition: A dictator is a person who has absolute authority and control over a country or group of people. In ancient Rome, a dictator was an absolute ruler appointed in an emergency for a term of six months and subject to reappointment.

For example, during times of crisis, one of the consuls in ancient Rome could appoint a dictator who would have supreme authority for a limited time. This was a temporary reversion to monarchy, where one person had complete control over the government and its decisions.

Another example of a dictator is Adolf Hitler, who had complete control over Nazi Germany during World War II. He made all the decisions and had the final say in everything, without any opposition or checks on his power.

These examples illustrate how a dictator has complete control over a country or group of people, with no limitations on their power or authority. This can lead to abuses of power and violations of human rights, as seen in the case of Hitler and other dictators throughout history.