What defines a city-state?

A city-state is primarily defined as a city that governs itself, often functioning as an independent political entity. This means that a city-state has its own government and makes decisions regarding its laws, policies, and administration without being subject to external authority over a broader territory.

Historically, prominent examples of city-states include ancient Athens and Sparta in Greece, and Venice in Italy. Each of these examples operated independently, establishing their own systems of governance, defense, and international relations. In contrast, the other options do not encompass the full meaning of a city-state.

For instance, a city ruled by kings might imply a monarchy over a larger territory rather than an autonomous city. A large metropolitan complex suggests a vast urban area, which does not automatically indicate self-governance. Lastly, high population density refers to the number of people living in a given area but does not imply any political autonomy or governing structure. Thus, the defining characteristic of a city-state is its ability to govern itself independently.