Which term describes the right of a nation to govern itself and decide its own laws?

• A. Mercantilism
• B. Sovereignty
• C. Colonialism
• D. Democracy

Answer: (B)

Sovereignty is the right of a nation to govern itself and decide its own laws. It means the country has its own government with final authority inside its borders, can make and enforce laws, set policies, and manage relations with other nations. This independence is what allows a nation to determine its political and legal path without being overridden by another power.

Mercantilism focuses on increasing a nation’s wealth through trade, not on who governs. Colonialism describes one country exercising control over another territory. Democracy is a way of organizing government where people have a say in decisions, but sovereignty refers to who holds the ultimate authority to rule the country itself.