This chapter sets the basic argument of the book. Beginning from the premise that the majority of dictators who are overthrown are toppled through actions undertaken by regime insiders, it argues that individual leaders will seek to counter this possibility by implementing a series of strategies designed to strengthen their authority and consolidate their power. These constitute a legitimation program. Central to these strategies are relationships among the small group of people at the apex of the system, the oligarchs, and the broader elite. Nine strategies are identified: control of institutions, the symbolic construction of personal authority, alliance making, factional development, transactional dynamics, mobilisation, policy, personal performance, and threat. Each of these strategies is explained.