Which of the following is a major characteristic of an absolute monarchy? a. power is held for life by one individual. b. leaders are required to have religious training c. people regularly elect leaders by popular vote d. leaders are selected from an elite group of individuals.

The correct answer is A. Power is held for life by one individual.

Explanation:

Absolute monarchy is a political system that combines features of monarchy and absolutist government. Due to this, in an absolute monarchy, all political power is held by a monarch, for example, a king or queen, and he or she is not restricted by law or any other entity. Additionally, as in a regular monarchy, the power is held and passed within one family considered as the royal family and monarchs govern during all their life. Also, in this government, people do not elect their leaders or participate in political decisions. According to this, the one that is a major characteristic of an absolute monarchy is "Power is held for life by one individual".