A portion of a state geographically separated from its mainland by the territory of another state or states is termed an exclave. This detached part maintains political connection to its parent state while being physically isolated. A practical example is Alaska, a part of the United States separated from the contiguous 48 states by Canada.
Understanding the concept is crucial in analyzing geopolitical relationships, border disputes, and trade dynamics. Throughout history, exclaves have arisen due to territorial agreements, colonial legacies, and even natural geographical features. They can create unique challenges for governance, defense, and economic development for both the parent state and the intervening territory.
