Oligarchy is a form of governance in which power is held by a small group of individuals or a specific class, often distinguished by wealth, family ties, corporate interests, or military control. This elite group makes decisions that affect the larger population, often prioritizing their own interests over the common good. Oligarchies can emerge in various political systems and can coexist with other forms of governance, such as democracy, where the influence of the few can undermine broader democratic principles.