Despotism (Civ2)

Despotism is a Government type in Civilization II.

In a Despotism, the ruler has absolute control over his or her subjects, and this control is usually enforced by the military. This system has a tendency to minimize individual freedom, and reduce the efficiency of production efforts.

Game Effects

Unit Support

• Each unit above the city size costs one Shield per turn.
• Settlers eat one Food per turn.

Happiness

• Up to three military units in each city institute "martial law". Each of these units makes one unhappy citizen content.

Corruption and Waste

• Because of Despotism's high rate of corruption, it is almost always an inferior form of government. Try to switch to a Monarchy as soon as possible.

Special

• Under a Despotism, Tax/Luxury/Science rates cannot be set higher than 60%.
• Any terrain square that ordinarily produces three or more of any resource (Food, Shields, or Trade) produces one less.

Titles

The default title of a despotic ruler is "emperor" (male) or "empress" (female).

An Egyptian despot is known as a "pharaoh". A Roman despot is known as a "dictator". A Sioux despot is known as a "chief". A Viking despot is known as a "warlord".