Definition
A territory is a clearly defined area of land or sea that is associated with a governing authority. The territory’s government has jurisdiction over the people and activities there, but the territory is not necessarily a fully sovereign country.
Contexts
- In politics and international law: A territory is an area governed by a state. Some territories have full sovereignty (like a country), others have limited self-government (dependent or autonomous territories).
- In biology: Animals defend a territory to secure resources like food, mates, and nesting sites.
- In law: Territorial claims include land and internal waters. Territorial seas extend about 12 nautical miles from shore; beyond that is international waters, or an exclusive economic zone (EEZ) up to 200 nautical miles.
Examples
- United States territories: Puerto Rico, Guam, U.S. Virgin Islands, American Samoa, Northern Mariana Islands.
- British Overseas Territories: Bermuda, Gibraltar, Cayman Islands (examples).
- Biological example: A penguin's or wolf's territory.
Key takeaways
- A territory is a defined area under governance, not necessarily independent.
- Authority, autonomy, and mode of recognition vary by territory.
- Territory has legal and biological senses, depending on context.