What is the term for the governing of weaker nations or colonies by a more powerful nation?

The term that describes the governing of weaker nations or colonies by a more powerful nation is "Imperialism." This concept refers to the practice whereby a country extends its influence and control over other nations, often through military force or political dominance. Imperialism can manifest in various ways, such as direct territorial acquisition, establishing political or economic control, or influence over local governments and societies.

While colonialism also involves control over territories and can be seen as a component of imperialism, it specifically refers to the establishment of colonies in which the colonizing power settles its own population and exerts direct governance. Imperialism, on the other hand, encompasses a broader range of control mechanisms, including economic and political mechanisms, without necessarily establishing settlement colonies.

Nationalism refers to the strong identification with and pride in one’s nation, which can lead to the assertion of national independence but is not synonymous with the control of one nation over another. Globalization involves the interconnectedness of economies and cultures on a global scale, which can sometimes result from imperialistic practices, but is not a direct term for governing weaker nations. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify the mechanisms of power dynamics in international relations throughout history.