A vassal state is a political entity that is subordinate to a more powerful entity and is often dependent on it for military protection and economic support. Historically, vassal states were common in feudal societies, where a lord would grant land to a vassal in exchange for loyalty and service. In modern terms, a vassal state may have limited sovereignty and may rely on a larger power for defense and diplomatic representation.
The dynamics of vassal states can vary greatly, with some enjoying a degree of autonomy while others are tightly controlled by their more powerful counterpart. For example, during the Middle Ages, many regions in Europe operated under this vassalage system, where the king would offer protection to local lords in return for their allegiance and military service.
In contemporary geopolitical discussions, the term may also refer to nations that exhibit a form of dependence or influence from a hegemonic power, often regarding issues like security, foreign policy, and economic matters. An example might be countries that host military bases of a superpower or that align their foreign policy closely with that of a more dominant nation.