statesestablished

Statesestablished is a term used in political history and data compilation to indicate the year when a political entity is established as a recognized state. In practice, the exact date depends on the criteria used by a source: it may reflect independence from another state, the ratification of a constitution, the admission to international recognition, or the formal creation of a federal or unitary state. Because these events do not always coincide, different sources may assign different years to the same entity.

When incorporated into datasets or encyclopedic records, statesestablished is usually recorded as a single year, with notes explaining the criteria used. In cases of colonial legacies, unrecognized states, or entities with disputed status, the value may be listed as disputed, unknown, or presented as a range or multiple dates.

Examples commonly cited include the United States (late 18th century, depending on the criterion used), Canada (1867), Germany (1871), and Australia (1901). These dates are often referenced in conjunction with independence movements, constitutional reforms, or unification processes.

Limitations include calendar changes, retroactive nation-building, and differences between de jure sovereignty and de facto control. Researchers should verify definitions and consult source notes when comparing statesestablished across regions or time periods. Related terms include founding date, independence date, and date of statehood.