A dictatorship is defined by absolute power held by a leader who maintains control often through force. The most fitting statement regarding dictatorships is that they maintain power through coercive means rather than shared governance or support from other institutions. Understanding the characteristics of dictatorship is essential to distinguishing it from other forms of government. ;
The statement that best characterizes a dictatorship is: B. The leader maintains power through force. This reflects how dictators typically use coercion and control to uphold their authority, distinct from other governance styles that might include shared power or religious legitimacy. A key aspect of dictatorship is the suppression of dissent and a lack of democratic processes.
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