Legitimacy refers to the acceptance and recognition of an authority, rule, or institution as valid and justified. It is often associated with governments, laws, and social norms, where the public perceives them as rightful and deserving of compliance. When a system is seen as legitimate, people are more likely to follow its rules and support its decisions. In political contexts, legitimacy can stem from various sources, such as democratic elections, tradition, or legal frameworks. A government that is viewed as legitimate typically enjoys greater stability and public trust, while a lack of legitimacy can lead to unrest and challenges to authority.