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Simple English definitions for legal terms
suzerainty
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A quick definition of suzerainty:
Suzerainty is a big word that means two things. In the past, it was the power of a lord who had control over other lords who had to be loyal to him. Nowadays, it means when one country controls the foreign affairs of another country, but the other country can still make its own decisions about what happens inside its borders. This word isn't used much anymore in international relations.
A more thorough explanation:
Definition: Suzerainty refers to the power of a feudal overlord to whom fealty is due. In international law, it refers to the dominion of a nation that controls the foreign relations of another nation but allows it autonomy in its domestic affairs.
Example: In the past, a feudal lord had suzerainty over his vassals, who owed him loyalty and service. In modern times, the term has been used to describe the relationship between Great Britain and the South African Republic, as well as between Turkey and Bulgaria from 1878 to 1909.
These examples illustrate how suzerainty involves a hierarchical relationship between two entities, where one has greater power and authority over the other. In the case of a feudal lord and vassals, the lord had control over the vassals' land and resources, while the vassals owed him loyalty and military service. In the case of international law, a suzerain nation has control over the foreign relations of another nation, but allows it to govern itself domestically.