Here's why:
* Linking verbs connect a subject to a noun or adjective that renames or describes the subject. Common linking verbs include "be," "seem," "appear," "become," "feel," "look," "smell," "taste," and "sound."
* "Ruled" is usually an action verb, indicating an action performed by the subject.
Example:
* Linking verb: "The king was a just ruler." (The adjective "just" describes the subject "king")
* Action verb: "The king ruled his kingdom with wisdom." (The verb "ruled" describes an action the king performed)
However, there are rare instances where "ruled" could function as a linking verb. This would happen when it is followed by a predicate adjective describing the subject's state of being.
Example:
* "The judge ruled fair in the trial." (The adjective "fair" describes the judge's state of being, making "ruled" a linking verb)
In most cases, though, "ruled" is an action verb.