How many countries have disappeared since 1900?

History brutal Data from 2024

Guess before you scroll — the answer is below

Answer in countries. Shorthand like 9m or 1.2bn works.

The answer

200 countries

Roughly 200 sovereign states have ceased to exist since 1900, through unification, dissolution or annexation. The USSR alone became fifteen countries; Yugoslavia became seven. National borders are far less permanent than they feel.

Where this number comes from

Source CIA World Factbook historical records / UN membership archives
Figure refers to 2024
Last checked
Unit countries

Numbers move. If this one has drifted from its source, let us know.

Think you can do better?

Five fresh questions every day. No account needed.

Play today’s puzzle

Related questions