Statehood (noun)

1. The status or condition of being a state, especially with reference to a political entity recognized as sovereign.
2. The process of becoming a state, or of being granted statehood.
3. The right or privilege of being a citizen of a particular state.

Origin:

Mid 19th century: from state + -hood, translating german staatsangehörigkeit.

Examples:

1. The statehood of Texas was established in 1845.
2. The territory has been seeking statehood for many years.
3. The statehood of the country was recognized by the United Nations in 1993.
4. The citizens voted overwhelmingly in favor of statehood in the recent referendum.
5. The statehood process has been delayed due to political disagreements.