List of historical unrecognized states

The criteria for inclusion in this list are similar to those of the list of states with limited recognition. To be included here, a polity must have claimed sovereignty, have not been recognized by any widely accepted state for a significant portion of its de facto existence, developed characteristics of statehood beyond that of a provisional government, and either: • had a population and an organized government with a capacity to enter into relations with other states; or • had de facto control over a territory or a significant portion of the territory of an otherwise-recognized sovereign state == Africa ==