Divine Despotism in Ancient Rulers

Ancient rulers didn't just want political power, they convinced everyone they were literal

gods walking on earth. This is the terrifying reality of ancient despotism.

Rulers like the Egyptian Pharaohs or Babylon’s Nebuchadnezzar didn't answer to voters or laws.

They claimed their authority came straight from the heavens, so disobeying them was like fighting

the universe itself. But they didn't do it alone. They built massive, complex bureaucracies

with viziers and satraps to watch your every move and collect every penny.

Ultimately, one guy held the entire world in his hand, and regular people

were just pawns in his divine game.