Final answer:
A state is defined by the presence of an army/police force, a sovereign government, a territory with set borders, and a population of people.
Step-by-step explanation:
A state is defined by several characteristics:
- An army, military, or police force is necessary to maintain order and protect the state and its citizens.
- A sovereign government is required to make decisions and govern the state.
- The state must have a territory with set borders that define its geographical boundaries.
- A state is composed of a group of people, known as the population, who are subject to its rule and authority.
All of these characteristics must be present in order for a political entity to be considered a state.
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