What does the term "colony" refer to in a historical context?

The term "colony" in a historical context primarily refers to a territory that is under the political control of a foreign state. This relationship often involves the foreign state exerting authority over the colony's governance, economy, and resource management, frequently established through conquest, settlement, or annexation. Colonies were typically seen as extensions of the colonizing power's influence and often served economic interests by extracting resources, establishing trade routes, and providing raw materials needed in the colonizer's home territory.

Over the centuries, numerous examples of colonies can be found around the world, particularly during the age of exploration and imperialism, when European powers colonized vast areas of Africa, Asia, and the Americas. This definition captures the essence of what a colony represents historically, distinguishing it from other forms of governance or diplomatic arrangements, such as states governed by their citizens, diplomatic outposts, or sanctuaries for refugees.