Theocracy

This volume threads together common themes of past and present theocratic governments, including ancient Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Iran, as well as Puritan and Mormon theocracies in early America. Challenges to freedom and enforcing religious law are some of the major problems shared by the governments discussed, but each nation’s set of challenges is unique. For example, when Moctezuma II, the all-powerful Aztec ruler, was taken captive by Hernán Cortés, his empire suddenly lost a leader and god, and was quickly conquered. Some of the modern photographs and historic artworks show how citizens of theocracies react in many different ways to the power of their governments. Occasional text boxes extract major themes and ideas for consideration. Chapter notes; a time line; a glossary; further reading and Internet resources; and an index are included.