Overview
This lecture explains the differences between a state, a nation, and a stateless nation, providing key definitions and examples.
State
- A state is a group of people living in a defined area (territory) under one government.
- The term "state" is the proper term for what is commonly called a country.
Nation
- A nation is a group of people who share similarities such as race, language, religion, or culture.
- Nations do not necessarily have a defined territory or a single government.
- The Cherokee Nation is an example of a nation: they share culture, history, and language but lack internationally recognized territory.
Stateless Nation
- A stateless nation has shared culture and history but lacks any official territory or recognized government.
- The Kurds are an example; they inhabit regions across several countries but have no recognized country of their own.
- Kurdish claims to land are not recognized by the governments where they live, and they have faced discrimination and ethnic cleansing.
Key Terms & Definitions
- State — A group of people living in a defined territory under one government.
- Nation — A group of people sharing common race, language, religion, or culture, not defined by territory or government.
- Stateless Nation — A nation without an official or internationally recognized territory.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review definitions and examples of state, nation, and stateless nation.