* Pride Structure: Lion prides are matriarchal societies. The females (lionesses) are the core of the group and hold the most power. They decide where to hunt, raise cubs, and generally run the pride.
* Dominant Male: While there is usually a dominant male lion in a pride, his role is more like a protector and father to the cubs. He doesn't "rule" in the same way a human king does.
* Challenges: The dominant male must constantly defend his position. Younger, stronger males will often challenge him, potentially forcing him out of the pride.
In essence, a lion pride is more like a democracy with a changing head of state than a monarchy.