Legitimacy refers to the belief and acceptance of a government's authority by its citizens or subjects. It is the perception that a government has the right to rule and is recognized as valid and lawful.
Related terms
Propaganda: The dissemination of information, ideas, or rumors to shape public opinion in favor of a particular political ideology or regime.
Divine Right: The belief that a ruler's authority comes directly from a higher power, such as God or the gods, making their rule legitimate.
Dynastic Succession: The practice of passing down rulership within a family bloodline, often seen as an accepted form of maintaining legitimacy.