Difference Between Empire and Kingdom

Throughout human history, we have organized ourselves into different forms of government, with kingdoms and empires being two substantial forms of rule. These terms are often used interchangeably in everyday conversation, but are very different and have special meanings in terms of history and politics. Both empires and kingdoms have monarchs to provide leadership, but the size, scale, and makeup (type of government) of an empire is significantly different than a kingdom.

The differences between kingdoms and empires are critically important for people interested in world history, preparing for competitive exams, or simply looking to better their general knowledge about the world. This article will outline some of the differences, while providing concrete examples of kingdoms and empires from ancient times to modern eras, to help to understand the role they played in the development of global civilizations.

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What is the Difference between Empire and Kingdom?

Here are some major differences between an empire and a kingdom: 

Definition

Kingdom: A kingdom is a political jurisdiction or nation that a king or queen reigns over. Kingdoms usually represent a single cohesive nation or region characterized by common culture, language, or ethnicity. Kingdoms are usually smaller than empires, and each kingdom has a centralized system of governance stressing one people or area.

Empire: An empire is a large political unit or a group of nations being ruled by a single supreme ruler – this ruler is often referred to as an emperor or empress. An empire typically expands territory by conquering or colonizing already established territories; empires tend to consist of different regions with various cultures and languages. Empires are governed through complex political and administrative processes.

Examples

Kingdom: The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, The Kingdom of Bhutan, The Kingdom of England (before becoming part of the UK)

Empire: The Roman Empire, The British Empire, The Mughal Empire, The Maurya Empire

Governance Structure

Here are some major differences between the governance structure of empire and kingdom

Empire

Centralized Power:

Most kingdoms have a monarch (king or queen) as the central authority.

Simple Administration:

Governance is usually uncomplicated and limited to a single polity with shared laws, culture, and language.

Fewer Bureaucratic Layers:

A king or queen will have ministers, nobles, or advisors, but most decisions are made at the top.

Kingdom

Decentralized Power with Central Control:

The emperor governs a large territory, but everyday control is often passed on to governors (regional governors, viceroys, and/or client kings). 

Complex Bureaucracy:

Empires will require many bureaucratic layers to administer and oversee various territories, cultures, and laws.

Multi-Ethnic Governance:

Empires often rule over various peoples each looking to maintain their own customs and local leaders that owe the emperor allegiance.