Origin

• The title "dictator" was first given in the Roman Republic to someone who had complete governing authority during a crisis. Roman dictators were only allowed to serve six-month terms and many of them stepped down from the position when the crisis had ended. According to Encyclopedia Britannica, the Senate and a popular assembly would convene to confirm a nominee for temporary dictatorship.
  
  

Modern Dictatorship

• In modern terms, the word dictator is still used to describe a ruler with absolute power. Rather than a temporary position granted by consensus, however, the modern dictatorship has no term limit and is usually achieved through revolution or seizure of power. The term is now typically associated with brutal and oppressive rulers, according to Knowledgerush.com.
  
  

Types of Dictators

• Nonrevolutionary dictatorships can be divided into two broad categories: the one-party state and the family dictatorship. The former shifts power from an individual to an authoritarian party with an ideological agenda. Family dictatorships are passed on to the rulers' heirs, but Knowledgerush notes that successive generations are not often equipped to rule. Family dictatorships seldom last more than two generations.