Which concept refers specifically to the direct control of a nation over a foreign territory?

The concept that refers specifically to the direct control of a nation over a foreign territory is colonialism. Colonialism involves the establishment of political and economic dominance over a region, often accompanied by the settlement of people from the controlling nation in the newly acquired territory. This control can manifest in various forms, such as the imposition of the colonizer's governance and culture, the exploitation of resources, and the establishment of infrastructure to benefit the colonizing country.

In contrast, imperialism is a broader term that encompasses not only direct political and territorial control but also the influence one country has over the political, economic, or cultural aspects of another territory, which can include both formal colonization and informal control through economic or military means. Globalization generally refers to the increasing interconnectedness and interdependence of countries and cultures, often through trade, technology, and travel, while nationalism is a political ideology that emphasizes the interests and culture of a particular nation, often in opposition to foreign influence.

Understanding these distinctions helps to clarify the specific nature of colonialism as a form of direct control and the differences between it and other related concepts.