Fiction gives us hints and examples, if not history. Darth Vader showed that the Galaxy needed a leader of substance who could be followed, good or bad, it did not matter, so long as squabbling over petty parochialisms and corruption ceased - thus bringing balance to the force. Thus, Democracy is not the answer like oligarchy isn't; the answer is a Leader to Lead by example.
As for History, Chanakya did indeed replace a corrupt rudimentary democracy (janapadas) by a King, who was virtuous, just, honourable and who led by example, to productively channel the masses in the direction beyond parochialism, towards just and all inclusive development.
As I have always maintained, Julian Assange is an American agent, responsible for the downfall of the Oligarchies of the Middle East & Mediterranean in the name of democracy and transparency, but the true intent being freedom of OIL - by toppling of OILgarchys ... eh!!!
But seriously, what are the masses fighting for, a new regime called democracy, like India, to fall back into the abyss whence it came; be it Colonialism, or Autocracy, a move to Democracy is always good, at least more can reap the fruits of corruption.