principality
political unit
Quick Summary
A principality is a political unit ruled by a prince. This territory or jurisdiction is where a prince exercises authority. Historically, principalities have emerged as territorial units with rulers who had a feudal relationship with a king or emperor. The rulers of these principalities, whether secular or spiritual, often developed independence and asserted their own authority. Examples of such principalities include counties and duchies. The term "prince" itself can refer to a sovereign ruler or a member of a royal family.1234
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