Who are Plato's Guardians and Philosopher Kings?

Question

In Plato's Republic, who are the Guardians and why does Plato believe they should govern his state?

Answer 1

They are the rulers in the Republic that come from the upper ranks of the Auxiliary class. Possessing no private property, Guardians are trained across an entire lifetime to become Philosopher Kings. Only the top Guardians can see and recognize the Forms and know the true nature of justice in Plato's state.