Thalassocracy refers to a form of government or political power that is primarily based on naval dominance and control over maritime trade routes. It typically involves a state or empire whose strength and influence are derived from its naval forces and maritime commerce, rather than land-based military power. Historically, ancient civilizations like the Phoenicians, Athenians, and the Venetians exemplified thalassocratic systems by leveraging their navies to expand trade and exert influence over coastal regions.