A "satrapy" was a province or region governed by a satrap, who acted as a local ruler under the authority of a larger empire. This system was notably used in the ancient Persian Empire, where satraps were responsible for collecting taxes, maintaining order, and providing military support. Each satrapy had its own administrative structure, allowing for efficient governance over vast territories. The satrapy system allowed empires to manage diverse cultures and populations effectively. By delegating power to local leaders, empires like Persia could maintain control while allowing some degree of autonomy. This approach helped to stabilize regions and facilitate trade and communication across the empire.