The correct answer is: All of the above.
Feudatory states are political systems in which a central authority, such as a king or emperor, grants land and power to vassals in exchange for their loyalty and military service. This system was common in Europe during the Middle Ages, and it can also be found in other parts of the world, such as India and China.
The study of feudatory states can help us understand a number of things. First, it can help us understand how power was structured in pre-colonial societies. In many cases, feudatory states were the dominant form of political organization before the arrival of European colonizers. Second, the study of feudatory states can help us understand regional variations in governance. Different feudatory states often had different systems of government, and these differences can provide insights into the unique cultures and histories of different regions. Third, the study of feudatory states can help us understand the impact of colonialism on traditional systems. In many cases, colonialism led to the collapse of feudatory states and the replacement of traditional forms of government with European-style institutions.
Overall, the study of feudatory states can provide valuable insights into the history and politics of many different parts of the world.