These lists of historical unrecognized or partially recognized states give an overview of extinct geopolitical entities that wished to be recognized as sovereign states, but did not enjoy worldwide diplomatic recognition. The entries listed here had de facto control over significant claimed territory and were self-governing with a desire for full independence or, if they lacked such control over their territory, they were recognized by at least one other recognized nation.
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, and either: