The right to rule refers to the legitimacy or entitlement an individual has to hold power and govern a country or territory. It is often based on inheritance, divine mandate, or popular support.
Related terms
Legitimacy: The acceptance and recognition by individuals and groups that a ruler has the rightful authority to govern.
Divine Right of Kings: An ancient belief that monarchs derive their authority directly from God.
Mandate of Heaven: An ancient Chinese concept where rulers were believed to have received their right to rule from divine approval, which could be withdrawn if they failed in their duty.