Protectorate

A protectorate in the context of a composite monarchy refers to a political arrangement where one state maintains control over another, often granting it limited self-governance while still providing protection and oversight. In a composite monarchy, which combines different regions under one monarch, protectorates may allow local rulers some autonomy while the central authority manages broader issues like defense and foreign relations. This system aims to balance local interests with the overarching authority of the monarchy, ensuring stability while allowing for a degree of local governance.