repúblicas

Repúblicas refers to a form of government where supreme power is held by the people and their elected representatives, and which has an elected or nominated president rather than a monarch. This system stands in contrast to monarchies, where a hereditary ruler typically holds power. The concept of a república has ancient roots, with examples found in classical civilizations like Rome.

In modern political science, a república is characterized by several key features. These often include popular sovereignty, the rule of law, separation of powers among different branches of government (such as executive, legislative, and judicial), and the protection of individual rights. The head of state in a república is usually a president, who may be elected directly by the people or indirectly through an electoral college or parliament.

The specific structures and practices within repúblicas can vary significantly across different countries. Some repúblicas are presidential, where the president is both head of state and head of government. Others are parliamentary, where the president is primarily a ceremonial head of state and a prime minister, chosen from the legislature, leads the government. Federal repúblicas divide power between a central government and constituent states or provinces. The term itself derives from the Latin phrase "res publica," meaning "public thing" or "public affair," emphasizing the notion that governance is a matter of common concern.