Autocracy is as old as political history. Human history is replete with the stories of autocratic rulers, kings and emperors since very ancient times. Even absolutism is not a new political phenomenon. The Roman Emperors, several modem European kings and rulers like Philip II of Spain, William of Orange, Cromwell, Napoleon, and several Asian kings today, like the Shahinshah of Iran, or the Mikado of Japan, have been and are absolutist rulers. But all of them depend on old customs, laws and traditions of their countries for absolute authority, though none of them tests its cxercise by reference to popular vote or plebiscite. Modem dictator captures supreme power against law and constitution and secures popular support by a strong government and plebiscite. Hence this new kind of autocracy is sometimes described as “popular autocracy.” A modem dictator is usually a successful military man or a strong party leader.<\/p>