British Protectorate

A British Protectorate refers to a region or territory that maintained its local governance and sovereignty but was under the protection and control of the British Empire. This arrangement often meant that the local rulers could maintain some authority, while Britain handled foreign relations, defense, and sometimes important internal affairs. The protectorate system allowed Britain to expand its influence without full colonial administration. Examples include Sudan and the Niger Coast Protectorate, which had British oversight while retaining their local customs and rulers. This created a balance between local autonomy and British strategic interests.