puppet state

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Thân thiện
Definition

Noun: A puppet state is a country or government that appears to be independent but is, in reality, controlled politically and economically by a more powerful foreign country. The outside authority appoints its leaders and directs its affairs, often against the interests of the local population.

Usage

The term is used to describe a geopolitical relationship where sovereignty is nominal. It carries a strong negative connotation, implying illegitimacy and foreign domination. * The historian argued that the annexed territory was not a true colony but functioned as a puppet state. * The international community refused to recognize the new regime, denouncing it as a puppet state of its powerful neighbor.

Advanced Usage
  • Geopolitical Analysis: The concept is central to discussions of imperialism, hegemony, and spheres of influence, where a dominant power creates buffer zones or compliant regimes.
  • Historical Context: Often used to describe territories established during the Cold War or in the aftermath of military invasions.
Variants and Related Words
  • Puppet government (n): A synonym often used interchangeably with "puppet state," though it can more specifically refer to the controlling administration itself rather than the entire state entity.
  • Satellite state (n): A closely related term for a country that is formally independent but falls under the political and economic influence of another.
  • Vassal state (n): A historical term for a state that has a subordinate relationship to a stronger state, owing it allegiance and service.
Synonyms
  • Client state
  • Vassal state
  • Satellite state
  • Neo-colony
Antonyms
  • Sovereign state
  • Independent nation
  • Autonomous republic
Related Idioms and Phrases
  • A government in name only: This phrase captures the idea of a puppet state's lack of real, independent authority.
  • Under the thumb of [a foreign power]: Describes the complete control exerted by the outside authority over the puppet state.
Noun
  1. a government that is appointed by and whose affairs are directed by an outside authority that may impose hardships on those governed

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