What is meant by “Petticoat Government”?

The correct answer is A government run by a woman.
The term "Petticoat Government" is a figure of speech used to describe a political state or a domestic situation where women hold the primary power or exercise significant influence over the... Read More

1 GENERAL KNOWLEDGE MCQS

What is meant by “Petticoat Government”?

  • A government in exile
  • A government run by a woman
  • A government without actual power
  • A government run by some feudal lord
Correct Answer: B. A government run by a woman

Detailed Explanation

The correct answer is A government run by a woman.


The term "Petticoat Government" is a figure of speech used to describe a political state or a domestic situation where women hold the primary power or exercise significant influence over the administration. Historically, the term was often used with a pejorative (negative) tone by critics of female leadership.


Historical Context and Usage:


The term "petticoat" refers to an underskirt worn by women, which became a metonym for women in general during the 18th and 19th centuries.



  • Political Critiques: It was frequently used to criticize male leaders who were perceived to be overly influenced by their wives, mothers, or female advisors.

  • The "Petticoat Affair": In U.S. history, a famous instance known as the "Petticoat Affair" (or the Eaton Affair) occurred during Andrew Jackson's presidency (1829–1831). It involved the social ostratization of Margaret Eaton, the wife of the Secretary of War, which eventually led to the resignation of almost the entire cabinet.


Evolution of the Term:


While historically used to dismiss the legitimacy of female authority, the term is now largely considered archaic or sexist. In modern political science, female leadership is discussed using neutral or empowering terms like matriarchy or simply female-led administration.


Comparison of the Options:



  • A government in exile: This refers to a political group that claims to be a country's legitimate government but resides in a foreign country.

  • A government run by a woman: The correct answer based on the idiomatic definition of the phrase.

  • A government without actual power: This is usually called a "Puppet Government" or a "figurehead" administration.

  • A government run by some feudal lord: This is known as Feudalism or a "feudality."

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