What device provides the means by which electrical circuits control pneumatic or hydraulic systems?

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The main idea here is that electrical signals need a device that directly controls fluid flow to drive pneumatic or hydraulic actuators. A solenoid-operated directional control valve does exactly that: the electrical coil (solenoid) moves the valve spool, changing which ports are connected so pressurized fluid goes to or away from the actuator. This lets you command extension, retraction, or other motion from an electrical control circuit.

Think of it this way: the solenoid provides the electrical actuation, while the directional control valve translates that actuation into a specific fluid path. The actuator then moves accordingly. A pneumatic actuator is the mover, not the controller; a valve manifold is simply a housing for valves; a control relay is an electrical switch, not a fluid-control device.