A monarch is a head of state who rules for life or until abdication, holding the highest authority in a monarchy and bearing titles such as king, queen, emperor, sultan, or pharaoh. Succession is typically hereditary, often through primogeniture or Salic law, but can also be elective, as seen with the Holy Roman Emperors, Malaysia's Yang di-Pertuan Agong, and the Pope of Vatican City. If a child inherits the throne, a regent governs until they reach adulthood. While historically male-dominated, female rulers (queens regnant) have also reigned. In recent centuries, many states have transitioned to republics, yet hereditary monarchy provides immediate leadership continuity, famously captured in the phrase "The King is dead. Long live the King!".