What distinguishes a republican form of government from a monarchy?

The distinguishing feature of a republican form of government is the appointment of leaders by elected representatives. In a republic, authority is derived from the people, and officials are elected to represent the interests of the citizens. This system allows for a structured government where citizens have a voice and partake in decision-making through their representatives.

In contrast, a monarchy is characterized by a single individual (the monarch) who typically inherits their position. In a monarchy, power is concentrated in the hands of one person, often without the need for election or representation of the populace. This hereditary nature of monarchies fundamentally separates them from the principles of republicanism, where the focus is on representation and the will of the people driving governance.

Direct democracy, while it embodies citizen participation, does not constitute a hallmark of republicanism specifically, as republics can still operate within representative frameworks without direct decision-making by the populace.