Here's why:
* Protectorate: A state or territory that is protected and partly controlled by a stronger nation. This typically involves the stronger nation providing defense, but also having influence over the protectorate's internal affairs.
Other terms that might be considered, but are not quite accurate:
* Colony: A territory directly governed by a foreign power, which is not the case in a protectorate.
* Dependency: A territory politically and economically reliant on another country, but it usually doesn't have the same level of control as a protectorate.
* Satellite state: A country that is politically and economically dependent on another country, but this term usually implies more direct control.
Example: In the 19th century, many African nations were protectorates of European powers, meaning they had some autonomy but were still under the protection and influence of the European nation.