There are 4 nations established in the world of Ryzom; one corresponding to each of the 4 homin races. Thus the names of the 4 homin races, Fyros, Matis, Tryker and Zoraï are often used interchangeable to refer to both the race and the nation, which can sometimes lead to confusion. When people speak of "Fyros culture" or "Matis history", they more often than not mean the culture and history of the nation. Just go look at the pages of the homin races and you'll see plenty of this.
It should be remembered that none of the nations represents all homins of it's race. Not all Fyros are part of the Fyros nation, and so on. Many homins of all races do not belong to any of the nations, including those homins in tribes, as well as bandits and Marauders. As well, some homins chose to become citizens of a different nation than their race dictates. A Tryker could very well decide to become a citizen of the Zoraï nation, for example.
Players can gain fame with all of the 4 nations, and can become a citizen of one of the 4 nations (see alignment). A player can also become a member of the government of the nation they're a citizen of (see governments).
The Fyros Empire
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The Matis Kingdom
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The Tryker Federation
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The Zoraï Dynasty
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Other
The Marauders could be seen as a nation. Though they are a lose coalition of clans rather than a single state, they have a government and territory.
Tribes can sometimes be seen as mini-nations. Some have their own government and make claims to territories.