Which one of the following best defines the term 'State'?

A community of persons permanently occupying a definite territory independent of external control and possessing an organized government
A politically organized people of a definite territory and possessing an authority to govern them, maintain law and order, protect their natural rights and safeguard their means of sustenance
A number of persons who have been living in a definite territory for a very long time with their own culture, tradition and government
A society permanently living in a definite territory with a central authority, an executive responsible to the central authority and an independent judiciary

Answer

A community of persons permanently occupying a definite territory independent of external control and possessing an organized government

(a) Classical political theory defines a State by four essential elements: population, definite territory, government, and sovereignty. This option captures all of them, so correct.
(b) Though close, it adds functions like protecting natural rights and means of sustenance, which are not essential defining elements of a State. So not the best definition.
(c) This describes more of a nation/community with shared culture and tradition; long habitation and common culture are not necessary elements of a State. So incorrect.
(d) It includes features like an independent judiciary and an executive structure, which are not essential for defining a State. So incorrect.