Political legitimacy encompasses the rightful authority of a government to rule, derived from the consent of the governed. It is rooted in the legal framework of a state, public perceptions, and the effectiveness in fulfilling social contracts. Political legitimacy can stem from democratic principles, such as free and fair elections, or from factors like cultural traditions and historical narratives. A government perceived as legitimate is more likely to engender trust, compliance, and social stability, reinforcing its capacity to enact policies and maintain order.