‘Sultanate’ often refers to historic states in regions like the Middle East, Southeast Asia, or Africa. The Malacca Sultanate was a powerful maritime and commercial empire.
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Islamic Influence
A sultanate usually has Islamic governance and culture, distinguishing it from kingdoms or empires. The Delhi Sultanate introduced many Islamic traditions to India.
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Not Always Large
Some sultanates can be small, comprising just a city or region, not necessarily a vast territory. The sultanate of Zanzibar was once a hub for the spice trade.