populace

noun2

1. •
   The inhabitants of a country or one of its administrative divisions (such as a state, province, or county).

   • Thomas Brassey (1805-70) should be equally famous, yet he is unknown to swathes of the greater populace. His plaque is at Chester. — 2021
2. •
   The common people of a nation.

   • The populace despised their ignorant leader.