A more thorough explanation:

A protectorate is a relationship between two nations where the weaker nation gives control of its important international affairs to the stronger nation. The weaker nation is called the dependent nation.

For example, when the United States became a protectorate of Cuba in 1901, the US took control of Cuba's foreign affairs. This meant that Cuba could not make any international decisions without the approval of the US.

Another example is the British Protectorate of Bechuanaland, which is now known as Botswana. The British government took control of Bechuanaland's foreign affairs and defense in the late 1800s.

The term "protectorate" can also refer to a specific period in British history, from 1653 to 1659, when Oliver Cromwell and Richard Cromwell governed. During this time, the British government was referred to as the Protectorate.