Historical governance refers to the systems and practices through which societies have organized themselves and made decisions throughout history. This includes various forms of leadership, such as monarchies, democracies, and empires, which have evolved over time. Different cultures have developed unique governance structures, influenced by their social, economic, and political contexts. Key figures in historical governance include rulers like King Louis XIV of France and Mahatma Gandhi in India, who shaped their nations' political landscapes. Additionally, documents such as the Magna Carta and the U.S. Constitution have played significant roles in establishing principles of governance that continue to influence modern political systems.