Britannica Educational Publishing 
Forms of Government and the Rise of Democracy [PDF ebook] 

For as long as individuals have lived alongside one another there have been governing structures-bodies established to maintain order and justice, entrusted to provide basic needs and services to their constituents. Disparate beliefs and interests have given rise to many forms of government throughout history, each with their own strengths and weaknesses. This engaging volume allows readers to examine the various forms of government that have developed around the world, with a special focus on the ascension of democracy.