Explain the political concept of legitimacy. What are the factors that sustain legitimacy in a state?

Legitimacy is the condition of
recognition and acceptance of
the source of authority. A legitimate government is the one that is widely accepted, obeyed and recognised by the people. 

The factors that can make a government to be recognised and
accepted are 

• Good government: If a
  government is ruling to the acceptance
  of the people, such government will normally-be recognised and accepted. 
• Existence of basis for popular
  participation and collective bargaining:
  When the people have the opportunity of taking part in the decision making process, a sense of
  belonging. is imparted into everybody. 
• Economic development.which
  brings about good standard of living and
  employment naturally make people to support the
  government. 
• Existence of common symbols normally
  create a sense of unity and if government preserve
  such symbols, it will have-legitimacy. 
• Democratic action is another
  factor that can sustain legitimacy. A democratically elected government will
  enjoy the support and acceptance of majority
  of the people. 
• Respects for the rule of law is another factor that can sustain the legitimacy of a government. When
  government observes the supremacy of the law
  and the principle of. civil liberty, it will enjoy legitimacy.
•  Long period of historical
  contacts is another important factor
  that will-promote legitimacy.