What term describes a government ruled by a small, powerful group?

The term that describes a government ruled by a small, powerful group is "oligarchy." An oligarchy is characterized by the concentration of power in the hands of a few individuals or families, often distinguished by wealth, nobility, education, or military control. This group makes decisions and governs society, typically prioritizing their interests over the broader population.

In contrast, autocracy refers to a system of government in which a single person holds absolute power. Democracy involves a system where the populace has the authority to choose their representatives or make decisions through voting. Theocracy denotes a form of government in which religious leaders control the government, interpreting divine laws as the basis for governance. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify the structure and characteristics of different political systems, particularly how power is distributed and exercised within them.