A colonial empire is a group of territories or regions that are controlled and governed by a single nation, often far from its own borders. These empires typically expand through exploration, conquest, or colonization, where the dominant nation establishes settlements and exerts political and economic control over the local populations. Examples of colonial empires include the British Empire and the Spanish Empire. Colonial empires often exploit the resources of the colonized regions and impose their culture, language, and governance. This can lead to significant changes in the social and economic structures of the affected areas. The legacy of colonial empires continues to influence global relations and cultural identities today.