Now that we’re firmly into the election cycle, it bears reminding ourselves that political freedom comes at a cost. Looking back through the world’s history, there stands out a collection of men and women whose vile nature wrought pain and death to their people.

Sovereignty is ours, so long as we keep a watchful eye on our leaders. LiveSmarter has assembled our list of history’s most offending dictators, so settle in for a trip through the ages. This is sure to be equal parts fun and informative.