an organized group of hired officials, especially governmental

The governor is at the head of the state bureaucracy.

Diverse and open to different cultures and ideas

Ancient Alexandria was a cosmopolitan city where Egyptians, Greeks, Jews, and others lived and shared ideas.

The Chinese belief that a ruler had the gods’ approval to rule—but if they ruled badly, they could lose that right and be overthrown

A successful rebellion was often seen as proof that the old ruler had lost the Mandate of Heaven.

a system in which people attain power, influence, and wealth because of their intellectual abilities rather than because of their class status or family lineage

In order to move up in the meritocracy, all government officials must pass a series of tests.

a form of government in which delegates represent the interests of varied constituencies

After the king was dethroned, the country became a republic led by a democratically selected leader.

the province or dependency controlled by a satrap (governor)

This year the governor will impose heavy taxes on the satrapies of the empire.

payment given by a subordinate person or power to a dominant one, or an obligation to do so

The smaller kingdom paid tribute to the powerful empire to avoid being attacked.