A commander-in-chief is the commander of a nation's military forces. Some country's commander-in-chief does not need to have been a soldier or involved in the military. The term was first used by King Charles I of England in 1639.
Commanders-in-Chief is sometimes referred to as Supreme Commander, which is sometimes used as a specific term.[1]
Australia
The role of command in chief is done by the Governor-General of Australia as the King’s representative.[2]
United Kingdom
The title Commander-in-Chief is rarely used by the King or Queen of England, but usually refers to local commanders-in-chief.
India
After independence from Britain on August 15, 1947, each Service was given its own Chief Commander (navy, army, airforce).
Iran
Before 1979, the Shah was the commander-in-chief in Iran. After the creation of the Islamic Republic, the Supreme Leader of Iran has taken on the role.
Ireland
In Ireland, the commander-in-chief of the army is the President.
Pakistan
In Pakistan, the President is by law the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, however the elected Prime Minister has the real power.
Hong Kong
When Hong Kong was a British colony the Governor was also the Commander-in-Chief of Hong Kong.
United States of America
Commander-in-chief is one of the many roles given to the president of the United States