Superstate

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A superstate is an agglomeration of nations, often linguistically and ethnically diverse, under a single political-administrative structure. This is distinct from the concept of superpower, although these are frequently seen together. It is also distinct from the concept of empire, where one nation dominates other nations through military, political, and economic power, as in the Roman Empire, although an empire may also be a superstate, as in ancient Persia and China.

An example of a small superstate would be the republic of Yugoslavia before its breakup at the end of the cold war.

An example of an ancient superstate would be China, under various dynasties.

An example of a 20th century superstate would be the Soviet Union (Union of Soviet Socialist Republics).

Eurosceptics argue that the European Union is an example of an emerging superstate.

Although constitutionally structured as federated republics, the United States of America and modern Germany are not considered superstates, since the primary identification of the nationality of its citizens is with the nation as a whole, rather than as citizens of its constituent states. As this viewpoint did not prevail in the early years of the U.S., it could reasonably be considered to be a superstate in that period of its history.

The British Empire came close to becoming a superstate in the late 19th Century when there was an attempt to re-organise both Dominions and Colonies into a single body under a united parliament. Had it succeeded, it would have become the largest state in human history.