Suzerain (Noun)
Meaning
A state exercising a degree of dominion over a dependent state especially in its foreign affairs.
Classification
Nouns denoting groupings of people or objects.
Examples
- The Ottoman Empire was the suzerain of several Balkan territories in the 19th century, controlling their foreign policy while allowing local leaders to govern internally.
- In ancient times, Persia was a suzerain to many city-states along the eastern Mediterranean, extracting tribute and troops in times of war.
- The European powers acted as suzerains to many African states in the late 19th century, exercising diplomatic control while respecting local autonomy.
- The Austro-Hungarian Empire was a suzerain to several territories in Eastern Europe, including some that would later become independent nations.
- Mongol khans often acted as suzerains to Chinese and Korean kingdoms, receiving annual tribute and hostages in exchange for military protection.