To avoid confusion, it will be necessary to define the terms despotism and despotic government. In theory, we must admit THREE essentially different kinds of government. 1st. The _despotic_, in which the members of the state are not secured in the possession of their rights as men, (personal freedom and security of property,) nor of their rights as citizens, (active participation in the legislative power). Such a constitution exists only by force, and can never be lawful. 2nd. The _autocratic_, in which the members of the state are in full possession of their rights as men, but not of their rights as citizens. This government, therefore, arises from the union of the legislative and executive powers in the person of the ruler. In form, it is either monarchical or aristocratical (a pure monarchy, or a pure aristocracy). This kind of government is most likely to be established by usurpation; it may, nevertheless, be acquired by succession, or even adopted by common consent: it may therefore be lawful. 3rd. The _republican_, in which the members of the state are in possession of their rights, both as men and as citizens. This government necessarily presupposes a separation of the legislative and executive powers; and with regard to its form, may be either monarchical or aristocratical, (a moderate monarchy, or a moderate aristocracy).--How far can a pure democracy be called a government, and comprised under any of the foregoing heads?--Explanation of the despotism in the Asiatic kingdoms, and the attempts made to limit it by religion and religious institutions. 6. General features in the gradual internal development of all empires formed by nomad conquerors. (_a_) At first the mere occupation of rich territories, and levying of tribute. (_b_) Hence the constitutions already established among the conquered or tributary nations generally suffered to remain. (_c_) Gradual progress towards the adoption of a fixed abode and the building of cities, together with the assumption of the customs and civilization of the conquered. (_d_) Division into provinces, and, as a necessary consequence, the establishment of satrap-government. (_e_) Insurrections of the satraps, and the internal ruin of the state prepared thereby. (_f_) The influence of the seraglio on the government has the same effect, for its unavoidable consequences are--effeminacy and indolence in the rulers. (_g_) Hence the dissolution of the empire, or its total annihilation by some violent attack from without. _Fragments of the History of the ancient Asiatic Kingdoms previous to Cyrus._