Unincorporated territory

Definition

An unincorporated territory is an area under U.S. jurisdiction but not officially considered part of the United States with full representation and rights. These territories are often governed by specific laws enacted by Congress.

Related terms

Organic Act: The Organic Act is legislation passed by Congress to establish basic governance structures for unincorporated territories.

Commonwealth: A commonwealth is a political status that some unincorporated territories may choose to adopt, granting them greater autonomy while remaining under U.S. sovereignty.

Self-Determination: Self-determination refers to a principle that allows people in a territory to decide their political status and form of government through democratic means.