Ban (title)

Ban (/ˈbɑːn/) was the title of local rulers or office holders, similar to viceroy, used in several states in Central and Southeastern Europe between the 7th century and the 20th century. The most common examples have been found in medieval Croatia and medieval regions ruled and influence by the Kingdom of Hungary. They often ruled as the king's governmental representatives, supreme military commanders and judges, and in 18th century Croatia, even as chief government officials. In the Banate of Bosnia they were always de facto supreme rulers.