Seven worlds were founded in TE 37 to serve as bases for Imperial expansion. These seven, along with Earth, became the capitals of the eight Imperial Provinces.
Each Province was ruled by a Provost. In theory, a Duke/Duchess was appointed by the Imperial Council (and later the Emperor), but in practice they were basically hereditary positions. (Maj Thovold, however, did change some of the appointments, and the ability to make and un-make Provosts remained a perogative of the Throne, albeit a little-used one.)
In addition, there were two Special Territories. Both of these entered the Empire voluntarily before the Provinces were established, and each was guaranteed considerable self-rule.
Finally, the unofficial region known as the Transgeled, while nominally under the administration of Geled Province, was a distinct entity sometimes called "the ninth Province."
The eight Provinces were:
Special Territories:
Unofficial Region: The Transgeled
List of Provosts
After the Sack of Terra TE 381), the Capital was moved to Laxus and the Province renamed the Sol/Laxus Province.
