Final answer:
An inhabited territorial entity controlled by a government that exercises sovereignty on its territory is known as a state, which is a sovereign entity with authority over a defined territory, recognized population, and international autonomy.
Step-by-step explanation:
An inhabited territorial entity controlled by a government that exercises sovereignty on its territory is known as a state or a nation-state in the context of a defined population with a common identity. Sovereignty is the ultimate authority over a territory, granting the state the absolute right to govern, make war or peace, and establish treaties with foreign nations without the direct authority of any other nation. This concept is crucial in political science and international law where it defines the political status and autonomy of regions around the world.
The term country often refers to a sovereign state and is used interchangeably with state, which can also refer to sub-national entities in federations like the individual states of the United States of America. The concept of nation-state further emphasizes the alignment of territory, government, and a distinct population with shared historical, cultural, or ethnic identities, forming a unique sovereign entity recognized internationally.
In summary, a sovereign state encompasses a territory, government, population, and the ability to enter into relations with other sovereign states. It is recognized as the primary unit of international relations and possesses internal and external sovereignty,