The highest taxonomic rank in the Linnaean system of biological classification is the kingdom. In this hierarchical system, organisms are grouped based on shared characteristics, starting from broad categories and narrowing down to more specific ones.
The Linnaean system was developed by Carl Linnaeus in the 18th century and provides a framework for classifying and naming organisms. After the kingdom level, the hierarchy proceeds to phylum, class, order, family, genus, and species, becoming increasingly specific. Each level helps scientists understand the relationships and evolutionary history between different organisms. For instance, all animals belong to the kingdom Animalia, which encompasses a vast diversity of life forms.