Dependence on a single ruler

Dependence on a single ruler describes the vulnerability of states whose power rested on the personal ability of one leader rather than on durable institutions. Such empires often expanded rapidly but fragmented when that ruler died or was overthrown. Examples include the Afsharid Empire after Nader Shah, the Zand Empire after Karim Khan, the Akkadian Empire and the Babylonian Empire after Hammurabi.