Throughout history, the concept of a vassal state has played a central role in shaping the balance of power between empires, kingdoms, and smaller political entities. A vassal state typically refers to a region or country that maintains its own government but owes allegiance, tribute, or military support to a more powerful sovereign state. In recent years, British economist and writer Angus Hanton has explored the idea of modern vassalage not in feudal terms, but as a lens to critique the subtle dependencies and inequalities within contemporary economic systems. This topic explores both the traditional and evolving meanings of vassal states, while also examining Angus Hanton’s contributions to the conversation through his economic and political insights.
Understanding the Traditional Concept of a Vassal State
Feudal Origins
The term vassal state originates from the feudal systems of medieval Europe, where lords would grant land to vassals in return for loyalty, service, and taxes. While vassals had a degree of autonomy, their actions were ultimately subject to the approval of the suzerain, or lord. This dynamic wasn’t limited to Europe similar structures existed in China, the Islamic caliphates, and various African and Asian kingdoms.
Historical Examples
There are many notable examples of vassal states throughout history:
- Korea under Imperial China: The Korean kingdom maintained cultural and political independence but regularly sent tribute to the Chinese emperor.
- Wallachia under the Ottoman Empire: It remained a Christian principality but paid tribute and offered military support to the Ottomans.
- Manchukuo during WWII: Japan installed a puppet regime in Manchuria, which functioned as a vassal state in all but name.
These arrangements allowed stronger empires to project influence without direct colonization, and the vassals gained protection or economic benefits in return.
The Modern Relevance of Vassal States
From Sovereignty to Economic Dependence
In the 21st century, the language of vassalage is rarely used to describe international relations. However, the underlying concept still exists, particularly in the economic and political influence that stronger nations exert over weaker ones. Terms like client state, proxy state, and satellite state are now more commonly used to describe similar relationships.
Economic Control and Debt Dependency
One of the most striking modern forms of vassal-like dependency is financial debt. Some nations, particularly in the developing world, become economically beholden to powerful countries or international institutions. These debts often come with political strings attached, resulting in diminished autonomy in policymaking, trade, and development planning.
Angus Hanton and the Vassal State Analogy
Who is Angus Hanton?
Angus Hanton is a British economist, demographer, and co-founder of the Intergenerational Foundation, a think tank that explores how current economic policies affect younger and future generations. He is known for challenging conventional thinking on taxation, public spending, and the long-term sustainability of government policies.
Application of the Vassal Concept to Generational Economics
Hanton uses the vassal state analogy to highlight how younger generations are being placed in subordinate positions to older ones through long-term national debt, pension systems, and housing policies. In his view, the political and economic framework in many Western countries, especially the UK, is structured in a way that benefits the older population at the expense of the younger.
For example, he argues that:
- Younger people are expected to pay for the generous pensions of a growing retired population.
- Housing prices have become unaffordable due to policies favoring existing homeowners.
- Public infrastructure spending often favors short-term benefits over long-term investment.
In this scenario, Hanton metaphorically positions the younger generation as a kind of vassal population subordinate, obligated, and lacking full autonomy in shaping their future due to decisions made by previous generations.
Critique and Implications of Hanton’s Perspective
A Provocative Framework
Referring to younger citizens as vassals is a provocative rhetorical move, but it serves to underscore real disparities in generational equity. The metaphor calls attention to structural imbalances, not just in economic terms but in democratic representation, where older voters outnumber and out-influence younger ones in many democracies.
Policy Proposals
Hanton advocates for a number of reforms that would restore balance and reduce what he sees as a vassal-like dependency of the youth:
- Implementing policies that reduce public debt burdens over time.
- Reforming property taxes to make housing more accessible.
- Prioritizing education, climate action, and innovation in public budgets.
These policy directions, if adopted, could potentially shift the dynamic and empower future generations to take a more active role in shaping national priorities.
Broader Applications of the Vassal State Idea
Geopolitical Vassalage Today
Beyond generational issues, the idea of a vassal state has been revived in geopolitical discussions. Some analysts argue that smaller NATO allies or countries heavily reliant on Chinese investment function like modern-day vassals. Though they maintain formal sovereignty, their foreign and domestic policies often reflect the interests of more dominant partners.
Cultural and Media Influence
Vassalage can also be examined through cultural lenses. Countries heavily influenced by foreign media, language, or education systems may adopt the values and narratives of more dominant cultures, leading to a kind of soft-power vassalage that shapes national identity.
Whether discussed in the context of medieval kingdoms, global financial systems, or generational justice, the vassal state remains a powerful metaphor. Angus Hanton’s use of the term to critique intergenerational inequality invites us to think differently about how power, responsibility, and privilege are distributed in modern society. It raises important questions about autonomy, fairness, and the legacy we are leaving behind. In exploring the vassal state from a historical and modern perspective, we gain a richer understanding of the dependencies both visible and hidden that continue to shape our world today.