1. the condition of being a recognized independent nation
2. the status of being a state within a federal system such as the United States
Usage: U.S. politics

Examples

• The country achieved statehood after decades of struggle for independence.
• Alaska gained statehood in 1959, becoming the 49th U.S. state.
• The region’s path to statehood required meeting several constitutional requirements.
• Many former colonies fought long wars to achieve statehood.
• Hawaii’s statehood was celebrated with parades and festivals.
• The territory petitioned Congress for statehood multiple times.
• Statehood brought new responsibilities and federal representation.