Definition:
A self-governing state within the British Empire, with a parliament which controlled domestic affairs, but still under direct British rule for foreign affairs, defense and international trade. In the early part of the twentieth century Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, and South Africa were considered dominions. These were the first members of the British Empire to achieve independence, mainly through the Statute of Westminster, 1931, which granted them authority over foreign affairs (including diplomatic negotiation with other countries) and defense.
