4.2 Political Power

Territoriality

The control and defense of a specific area claimed by individuals or groups.

Geopolitics

The study of the effects of geography on international politics and relations.

Political Influence

The ability to affect the decisions or actions of others within a political context.

Borders

Defined lines that mark the boundaries of a state's territory.

Stateless Nation

A group with a shared identity but no recognized sovereign state.

Demilitarized Zone (DMZ)

A heavily guarded border area, such as that between North and South Korea, that limits military presence.

Territorial Waters

Waters extending up to 12 nautical miles from a coastal state's land over which it has sovereignty.

Contiguous Zone

A maritime zone extending 12 nautical miles beyond territorial waters where a state can exercise limited control.

Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ)

An area extending 200 nautical miles from a coastal state, granting it exclusive rights to marine resources.

Military Forces

Armed services used by a state to protect its territory from external threats.

Laws

Regulations established by a state that may vary significantly from neighboring countries.

Influence of Natural Resources

The use of a country’s natural resources to enhance its economic power and political influence.