Ragusan Republic

The Ragusan Republic, also known as the Republic of Ragusa, was a powerful maritime city-state centered in Dubrovnik (modern-day Croatia) from the 14th to 19th centuries. It was an independent trading republic, governed by a elected rector and a council, thriving through commerce, diplomacy, and naval strength. Known for its skilled diplomacy and neutral stance, it maintained independence despite neighboring powers. The republic was influential in Mediterranean trade, especially in textiles and goods. It lasted until Napoleon's conquest in 1808, ending centuries of stable self-governance.