unknown/ quasi-polity/ nominal/ loose/ confederated state /unitary state 'quasi-polity' = or 'none'. Use if, for example, the NGA is inhabited by many politically independent groups. There are four types of quasi-polity: archaeological, temporal, complex and dominant. Quasi-Polities: further information. 'nominal' = regional rulers pay only nominal allegiance to the overall ruler and maintain independence on all important aspects of governing, including taxation and warfare. (example: Japan during the Sengoku period) 'loose' = the central government exercises a certain degree of control, especially over military matters and international relations. Otherwise the regional rulers are left alone (example: European 'feudalism' after the collapse of the Carolingian empire) 'confederated state' = regions enjoy a large degree of autonomy in internal (regional) government. In particular, the regional governors are either hereditary rulers, or are elected by regional elites or by the population of the region; and regional governments can levy and dispose of regional taxes. Use this category for the more centralized 'feudal states'. 'unitary state' = regional governors are appointed and removed by the central authorities, taxes are imposed by, and transmitted to the center