despotism

(dĕsˈpə-tĭzˌəm)

1. Rule by or as if by a despot; absolute power or authority.
2. The actions of a despot; tyranny.
3. a. A government or political system in which the ruler exercises absolute power: “Kerensky has a place in history, of a brief interlude between despotisms” (William Safire).
   b. A state so ruled.