Colony facts for kids

A colony is a place or territory that is controlled by another country, often called the "metropolitan state" or "mother country." Think of it like a smaller area that is governed from far away by a larger, more powerful nation. Today, the term "dependent territory" is often used instead of "colony."

Colonization and imperialism at the end of World War II (1945)

When a country has many colonies, it is often called an empire. People who move from the metropolitan state to live in a colony are called colonists.

Puerto Rico, considered by some to be "the world's oldest colony"

What is Colonialism?

The word "colonial" means something related to a colony. For example, "colonial land" is land that belongs to a colony. The idea or practice of one country taking control over other territories and settling them is called colonialism. This often involves sending many people from the ruling country to live in the new territory.

Colonies in History

Throughout history, many countries around the world were once colonies. For example, many nations that were once colonies of Britain are now part of the British Commonwealth. This is a group of independent countries that used to be part of the British Empire but now work together.

Related pages

• Dependent territory

Images for kids

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  Chart of current non-self-governing territories (as of June 2012^[update])