Ethnarch (Noun)
Meaning
The ruler of a province (as in the Roman Empire and Byzantine Empire) or certain religious rulers with secular authority; "the election of Makarios III to archbishop gave him the status of the ethnarch of Cyprus".
Classification
Nouns denoting people.
Examples
- In the Roman Empire, the role of ethnarch was often bestowed upon a trusted provincial leader who could maintain order and collect taxes.
- The Byzantine Empire also used the title ethnarch to refer to certain high-ranking officials with provincial authority.
- The ethnarch of the Greek Orthodox community in Ethiopia was responsible for leading the community and maintaining relations with the ruling monarchy.
- Some researchers have suggested that the historical role of ethnarch was equivalent to that of a modern-day governor or regional administrator.
- In some traditional African societies, the ethnarch plays a key role in mediating disputes and overseeing local justice, as well as providing guidance on cultural and social matters.