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Province is a name for a subnational
entity of government usually one step below the national level. In some countries an alternative term is used, e.g.
state or department.
The word was introduced by the Romans, who divided their empire into
provinciae. The word is thought to have originated from the
Latin word provincia (zone of influence); probably from pro ("in front") and
vincia ("linked").
Current
(Subdivisions called or translated into: Province)
The most populous province is Henan, China, pop. 93,000,000. Also very populous are
several other Chinese provinces , as well as Punjab, Pakistan, pop. 85,000,000.
The largest provinces by area are Xinjiang, China (1,600,000 sq. km) and
Quebec, Canada (1,500,000 sq. km).
Historical
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