A city-state is a small, independent political unit that consists of a city and its surrounding territory. Unlike larger countries, a city-state operates like a sovereign nation, with its own government, laws, and often a unique culture. Famous examples of city-states include ancient Athens and Sparta in Greece, as well as modern examples like Singapore and Monaco. City-states often arise in areas where geography limits expansion, such as islands or coastal regions. They can thrive economically due to trade and commerce, as seen in Venice during the Middle Ages. The close-knit community allows for a strong sense of identity and governance, making city-states unique in the political landscape.