Encore of Europe: Gameplay Thread

[Spamage]

The Encore of Europe

Turn 1: 1782

Nations, Leaders, & Players:
Major Powers:
Russian Empire- Emperor Paul Petrovich (HenryWallace)
Kingdom of France- King Louis XVI Bourbon (Windjammer)
Kingdom of Prussia- King Frederick William II Hohenzollern (Lumine)
Archduchy of Austria- Emperor Joseph II Habsburg (Dereich)
Kingdom of Great Britain- King George III of Hanover (Blair)
Kingdom of Spain- King Charles III Bourbon (LouisvilleThunder)
Ottoman Empire- Sultan Abdul Hamid I (Kalwejt)
Polish-Lithuanian Republic- President Tadeusz Kosciuszko (Not_Madigan)
Kingdom of Scandinavia-King Gustav III of Holstein-Gottorp (YPestis)
Republic of Quebec-President Louis-Philippe de Vaudreuil(Dr Novella)
Kingdom of Portugal- Queen Maria Braganza (New Tennessean Politician)
Safavid Empire- Shah Ismail III Safavid (Kingpoleon)
Kingdom of the Netherlands- King William I of Orange

Economic Standings:
Kingdom of Prussia- Strong
Kingdom of France- Strong
Kingdom of Portugal- Strong
Kingdom of Great Britain- Strong
Archduchy of Austria- Moderate
Safavid Empire- Moderate
Kingdom of Scandinavia- Moderate
Russian Empire- Moderate
Ottoman Empire- Moderate
Kingdom of Spain- Weak
Kingdom of the Netherlands- Weak
Republic of Poland-Lithuania- Weak
Republic of Quebec- Weak

Popularity:
President Tadeusz Kosciuszko- Very High
Emperor Joseph II Habsburg- High
King George III- High
King Charles III Bourbon- High
President Louis-Philippe de Vaudreuil- High
Emperor Paul Petrovich of Russia- Moderate
King Louis XVI Bourbon- Moderate
Sultan Abdul Hamid I- Moderate
Queen Maria Braganza- Moderate
King Frederick William II Hohenzollern- Moderate
King Gustav III of Holstein-Gottorp- Low
Shah Ismail III Safavid- Low

Ongoing Conflicts:
Quebec War of Independence: Republic of Quebec vs. Kingdom of Spain
Tripolitanian Rebellion: North African Tribal Rebels vs. Archduchy of Austria, Republic of Venice

Russian Empire:

-Emperor Paul, you have come to power at a time of great uncertainty on the international stage. Your mother Catherine kept the realm isolated, repairing the damage within Russia during the early part of her reign wrought by two civil wars and a foreign invasion. Now, with Catherine deposed and Russia back on solid footing, there are some who believe it is the time to start forging international alliances and expanding Russia once more. The Polish-Lithuanian Republic, Kingdom of Scandinavia, and the Crimean Khanate are all potential targets, though they all also have various modes of defense. Where will you look for allies? Or, alternatively, should Russia retain its isolation as the best means of keeping it out of costly foreign wars?

-With the annexation of so much land from the Kazakhs and other tribes in central Asia at the conclusion of the Wars of the Grand Coalitions, Russian borders greatly expanded. These new territories are sparsely populated though, with the potential for development challenged by a lack of manpower. Some suggest appealing to Europeans from the west to come and settle, in the hopes that they will allow Russian influence in these territories to increase. Others see this as a betrayal of Orthodox Christian values, as heretics ought not be permitted. How will you handle the problem of low population in certain areas of your realm?

-Your mother may have been deposed, locked into a convent following the victory of her enemies at Court, but she still retains a broad base of support. In the military and civil service particularly, not to mention among the common people, many of her appointees are still active members of your administration. How will the lingering influence of your mother be dealt with? Some advocate for a full-blown purge of the government. Others state that you should quietly dispose of Catherine so as to prevent a potential banner for opponents to rally behind. It has also been suggested that you could welcome her back to Court, hoping that your act of clemency would bind her to your government. How will you handle the lingering loyalty towards your mother?

Archduchy of Austria:

-Guten Tag Emperor Joseph, despite your long reign, there is still much to be done in Austria. The most pressing dynastic issue at the present is the two succession disputes in Europe, one in Bavaria and the other in Modena. Your brother in law, the King of Bavaria, is ailing and has been mum about who he intends to name as his heirs. Naturally, with your wife being of Wittelsbach stock, there are many who believe you ought to claim the land on her behalf, strengthening the position of the Emperor in the extended Holy Roman Empire immeasurably. Will you prod him into naming your wife as his heir? Another succession issue is that of Modena. As it stands, if nothing changes the Kings of France will eventually inherit this sizeable territory in Italy. The Italian States have been under Austrian domination for centuries now, and many are worried that Louis XVI could use this as an excuse to return French involvement to the region. How will you respond to the issues in Modena?

-With the completion of the last war, Austria was left without any clear alliances. The French attack, so soon after your two realms had cooperated against the Prussians and British, was viewed as the ultimate act of betrayal. Austrian hostility towards the Bourbons has increased, though canny diplomacy could salvage the situation. Others see Austria’s future as one of cooperation with Russia or Great Britain. Really, with such an open international order, there are many alliances that could be considered. How will you keep your people safe?

-Your North African territories, gained from some pirates alongside Venice, are now under threat. A massive rebellion, supported by locals and the tribal populations within the Sahara, has manifested itself over the past few years and led to an intense guerilla campaign against Austrian occupation. Your men retain an area along the Mediterranean Sea, but much of the less densely populated regions have been lost. Some say the area should be abandoned. A group of generals instead has argued that you ought to increase prosecution of the war. How will you handle this complicated situation?

Kingdom of France:

-King Louis XVI, as the King you have inherited a realm with a confused diplomatic policy. It will be up to you to right the ship and ensure that France has a strong foreign policy moving forward. During the past decades, with the Diplomatic Revolution and the subsequent Diplomatic Counter-Revolution, France has been left without a clear ally. With the situation in Bavaria and your wife’s claim to Modena, not to mention the new policy aim held by some of seeing France reach the Rhine, most advisors believe it is time that it is time your realm finds allies once more. Who in Europe will you seek out as a friend?

-Your father succeeded in adding the massive territory of India to the realm with gains at the expense of the British, Maratha, and Mughals. Yet, some see your realm as over-stretched trying to administer to this vast area. Your Indian territories are larger in both land area and population than France itself, not to mention being thousands of miles away from Versailles. There are reports of corruption, attempts to convert the locals, and areas with very little oversight. How will you ensure that India remains in Bourbon hands? Will the Church be allowed access? How can this area be brought under better administration or is the status quo acceptable?

-Within your realm great economic changes are afoot. Although the process is early, there has been an uptick in manufacturing in the Southern Netherlands and along the Rhone. In both regions some small-scale mills have resulted in cheap, replicable goods. This has put many craftsmen out of business and caused some to migrate from rural areas seeking work. The population in urban areas is beginning to tick, slowly, upwards as is class discontent (at the new wealthy individuals resent the power of the old nobility). Will your government encourage these changes, provide oversight, or seek to stop them and preserve the traditional French way of living? How can this tough issue be managed?

Kingdom of Great Britain:

-Greetings King George, the past few decades have been nothing short of wonderful for your realm. Emerging largely victorious from the Wars of the Grand Coalitions, your family managed to stave off short term debt through the sale of Hanover to your Hohenzollern cousin, Frederick II. With the French out of the New World entirely, it seems that only Spain is a serious threat in that region. The British economy is growing at a steady pace alongside the increasing population of your settler colonies in the Americans and Australia. That is not to say you are without problems. While the past few years have been nice, there are some who see tensions in Europe approaching once more. Will you find a continental ally to compliment your naval supremacy with military force on land? Or should Britain remain aloof from European affairs and focus on building a global empire?

-British colonies in the Americas are booming, but that is not without its own consequences. First, with a growing population in these areas compared to the population of the UK, there are some demanding either greater home rule or concrete representation in Parliament. Either proposal is controversial though, as many in Britain view the colonies as key parts of the realm. Home rule gives them autonomy on taxation, meaning they are not paying for the upkeep of their defense, and representation in Parliament could mean the gradual decrease in the power of British MPs. What will be your policy regarding the colonies?

-The election of Henry Stuart as Pope has been seen as a slap in the face. Certainly, after Catholic Emancipation and the greater tolerance of them within your realm it came as a shock. Some are placing the blame squarely on the shoulders of the French, while others see it as broader anti-British Catholic backlash. The new pope himself has said nothing about Britain so far, but it is still early in his pontificate. How will you respond to this clear provocation by the Catholic Church? Will you enact measures against Catholicism in your own realm or, alternatively, attempt to reconcile yourself with your distant cousin?

Kingdom of Prussia:

-With the passing of your uncle, an era in Prussian history undoubtedly comes to an end. Yet, this can also be seen as the opportunity for a fresh start for Prussia and the German League. Frederick II may have had a solid reputation, but he also had many enemies abroad. With your reign, perhaps Prussia can be lead in a different direction. At present, the Kingdom has no major international allies other than the German League members. What will your foreign policy be?

-Denmark has been acting out. When news of Frederick’s illness reached Copenhagen, diplomatic dispatches stopped and the realm has been eerily quiet. It has been known for long that many Danes felt that joining the German League during one of their realms worst crises had been a mistake. Moltke, the official who had struck the deal, was assassinated in the 1770s, though little more action was taken. Now, with Frederick V long dead and his son Chrisitan VII on the throne, Denmark is showing new signs of wanting to break away. How will you stop it from leaving the German League, or will you? Some advisors success a show of the famous Prussian military might will be enough to knock them into submission, though others are wary, recognizing the Danes are one of the strongest members of the German League outside of Prussia itself.

-Another key task of your new reign is the issue of Corsica. Acquired by your uncle from Genoese merchants, the gradual annexation of the island on the condition of local autonomy eventually reconciled the Catholic Corsicans to rule by a distant Reformed German. Now, with his passing, the government in Ajaccio has yet to declare you his heir. How will you ensure that the territory remains loyal? There have been whispers of republicanism in the region, though others note that the quality of life has greatly improved since Prussian rule was established.

Kingdom of Scandinavia:

-Gustav III, your rule could not have come at a more important time. Before his untimely death of overeating, your father was in active negotiations to sell away your absolute power and bind the realm with a constitution. While this was all well and good in the eyes of the Riksdag rebels, your mother, the nobility, and people horrified about the events in Poland convinced you otherwise. With your reign not only has the constitution been suppressed, but absolutism is in charge for the first real time in decades. How will you quiet those domestic critics who feel betrayed by your God-given right to rule?

-Sweden had great success, swallowing up Norway, Iceland, and Greenland, during the past few decades. Through canny diplomacy the Danes were beaten and the power of Stockholm was confirmed. Now, with the onset of tensions in Europe, Scandinavia finds itself alone and at risk for various nearby powers. How will you ensure that your realm is not put at risk from the Russians, Prussians, or other nearby adversaries that could wish you ill?

-With your realm’s return to dominance in the north, you are confronted with one of the age-old dilemmas of national leaders. Scandinavia, which controls much of the Baltic and North Seas, has only a limited amount of money to be spent on the military, not to mention a limited amount of men to enlist. Due to this, there is tension between leaders of the Scandinavian Army and the Scandinavian Navy over which ought to be prioritized. Naval leaders believe they are necessary if you are to secure future gains in the Baltic, while land leaders believe that a strong army ought to be more important for the future. Which will you prioritize? Or should the situation continue at present, with both supported partially, but neither getting what they want entirely?

Kingdom of Portugal:

-Queen Maria, the days of your father’s rule are over. Finally. The Jesuits have been welcomed back, Pombal has been exiled from Court, and some conservative order can finally temper the excessive pace of reform during the previous reign. Now you face an early dilemma. Will you largely accept the reforms made by your father’s ambitious advisors, reforming national administration, weakening the Church, and limiting the power of the nobility, or should the actions be reversed? There are arguments to be made for both sides, but it is up to you to choose. How will Portugal move forward?

-You possess one of the several vast colonial empires centered in Europe. With lands including East Timor, India, Mozambique, Angola, and Brazil, Portugal is one of the most versatile realms in the world. That Empire is under threat though, with other powers far stronger than yourself. What diplomatic policies will you pursue to ensure that your lands can be protected, or even potentially expanded if you are threatened?

-By far, the biggest gain made by Portugal in the Wars of the Grand Coalitions was the island of Saint Domingue. The land is perfect for sugar cultivation and has caused a boom in the Portuguese economy as real estate prices climb there. The only problem is that while Italian and German states eagerly consume the surplus, the other major powers are too focused on mercantilism to allow this to be imported into their realms. Will you personally negotiate with your royal cousins on the thrones of Europe in order to expand the market for one of your most valuable goods? While this would undoubtedly prove profitable, it must be remembered trade does pose threats to domestic industries as well…

Kingdom of Spain:

-The insufferable inhabitants of Quebec seek to remove your government from power, King Charles III. Arresting your officials, coopting the local garrisons, and ripping down Spanish statues and flags throughout the region, they’ve had the audacity to proclaim the Republic of Quebec and challenge you to a fight if you do not agree with their demands. Recognizing the rest of your vast colonial empire is watching these developments very closely, how will you proceed? What is to be done about the Quebec War of Independence?

-With the ever-shifting alliances of Europe, it is time for Spain to establish solid relations with other European powers. Especially with the events in Quebec and the looming succession crises in other parts of the continent, it behooves Spain to find friends who will act in its interest. In the past Madrid has generally been supportive of the Bourbon cousins in France, will this policy continue? How will your Kingdom navigate the ever-changing realm of power politics in the 1780s?

-Spain, despite its vast Empire, has a messy financial situation. Even though you rule largely with absolute power, bad spending habits in the past (with military debacles, palaces built, donations to the Church) means that even still you do not have total control over the economic situation of your realm. How will you tackle large amounts of debt and high interest payments, sapping the wealth and taxes you receive from the New World?

Ottoman Empire:

-Greetings great Abdul Hamid, Sultan of the Ottoman Empire. Your realm has, for the time being, shaken off rumors of a slow decline and maintained its prestige across Europe. Undoubtedly your involvement in the Wars of the Grand Coalitions reaffirmed that the Ottomans are not a weak power to be trifled with. Since peace has been declared, there has been little need for foreign alliances. Now, with Poland stabilized, Persia returning to power, and both Joseph II in Austria and Paul I in Russia secure on their thrones, perhaps it is time to consider re-forging ties with other realms. Where will you look for allies?

-The most recent war from 1776 to 1779 with the restored Safavid Dynasty in Persia was a bruising affair, though the patient discipline of your soldiers managed to stem any attempts to annex Mesopotamia. In a series of close, but important, victories the enemies were pushed out and both Baghdad and Basra were saved. Even so, the fighting was costly and much of the territory was damaged. With the potential for future conflict with Persia, some advisors are questioning whether investing to repair these regions is worth it or if the money could be better spent elsewhere? Perhaps it could go to building defenses? Or should the Iraqi people be made whole, in order to ensure that in the event of another invasion they will remain loyal? This region clearly demands some form of attention, it is up to you to decide what is to be done. 

-The North African rebellion against the Austrian and Venetian colonization of Tripoli has not merely been limited to attacks on their lands. In order to seize resources and intimidate locals, raids into Ottoman Egypt have been conducted as well, lowering your men’s ability to patrol the border region. Some in Istanbul see this as the perfect opportunity to get involved in the conflict, defeat both sides, and restore order under your rule to the region. Other believe that the affairs do not concern you and that you should focus on consolidating and defending your still sizeable empire rather than looking to retake lost territories. How will you respond to these acts of aggression by the Tripolitanian rebels?

[Spamage]

Republic of Quebec:

-Your people are finally proclaiming their freedom, President Vaudreuil. As a descendant of former colonial administrators, your family understands the troubles that Quebec has faced during the past few decades. First, left largely to its own devices as the British invaded. Then it was sold off like common livestock to the Spanish. Your people have had enough. It is time to be free. With this declaration though, comes much work. You have been named the head of the Quebec Convention, the administration during the war and the body responsible for drafting a Constitution. How will your nation be set up? Will there be one legislative body? Multiple? How will the presidency and judiciary function? Or will you offer some European prince a throne in exchange for strong constitutionalism? It is up to you.

-As a newly declared, and largely unrecognized nation, you face the might of the Spanish Empire. Though distance favors you, the power of Spain is not to be underestimated. You certainly are going to need to consider making alliances with other European powers if you want to ensure victory. Which nations will you Court? How will you ensure that your new realm is both recognized and respected by the powers of the world?

-One key area credited by many colonists as leading to the war was the Spanish desire to limit the growth of settlements. After the Wars of the Grand Coalitions and the sale to Spain, the population of New France skyrocketed. Upset Swedish republicans, French Huguenots afraid of Louis XVI, Dutch under French rule, and even many Spaniards looking for more freedom all have swelled the size of the settlements. Yet, Spain sought peace with the local native populations, forbidding expansion into new areas. With the Spanish era at an end, will you permit the continued expansion of Quebec? Or should Spain’s agreements with the natives be honored?

Safavid Empire:

-It has been an unlikely turn of events that has led to the restoration of your historic dynasty, Shah Ismail. With fighting between the Zand and Afsharids, loyalists to the memory of your house took advantage of the chaos in Persian affairs to set you upon the Throne. After years of bloodshed, your reign has been cemented and the pretenders vanquished for the time being. Now it is time to think of what your next goals will be. Your realm failed to defeat the Ottomans in the last decade and some are looking for a rematch. Others see opportunity for growth in the weakened Zand state in Afghanistan. Where will your international focus be? How will you ensure your dynasty is restored to glory?

-Due to the initial weakness of your restored dynasty, there have been many who took advantage of you. Your court is filled with less-than-honest advisors, corruption, and backstabbing. Some of your servants seem to act as though you are one of theirs. The advice of some of your commanders cannot fully be trusted and some of your close friends fear for your safety. Yet too drastic an action could cause a backlash and plunge the realm back into civil war. How will you cement your personal power and ensure your successors are able to exercise their God-given prerogative?

-Persia is falling behind, there is little doubt about that. The continued and expanding pace of technological innovation in Europe means that your weapons, soldiers, and methods are becoming less capable against the major powers every year. Yet, this can be halted if you find a power willing to give you access to the information required. This could be expensive but pay off in the long run. Others argue that, whatever pieces of better weapons the Europeans may come to possess, your men will still know the terrain better. What is to be done about a Persian inability to keep apace with developments abroad?

Polish-Lithuanian Republic:

-A new era has begun in Polish history, hopefully, with the expulsion of the monarchy yet again and the reestablishment of a Third Polish-Lithuanian Republic, President Kosciuszko. For the first time perhaps since the Revolution began in the 1750s, there is actual broad internal peace within the Republic. Some believe that, with the most experienced army in Europe and being surrounded by absolutist states, that the time is ripe to work on spreading the Revolution across the continent. Certainly, being surrounded by Sweden, Russia, Austria, Prussia, and the Ottomans leave no shortage of absolutist boogeymen. Or will internal peace be the aim, focusing more on defensive strategy rather than spreading republicanism?

-With your election, heroism in combat, and role in the Civil War, you have broad public support. Many cabinet advisors believe that, if you wished to, the Constitution could be reformed as you see fit, either by ending term limits, rescheduling elections, or even restructuring government as a whole. Will you remake the Republic in your own image or continue to work with the existing constitution? There are undoubtedly advantages, and problems, presented by either choice. Certainly, with your term ending in 1788, it will be something to consider.

-The institution most damaged by the Revolution, and yet paradoxically most able to survive it, in Poland has been the Catholic Church. In the early stages there was real conflict between the Republic and the Church after the government attempted to tax the lands held by clergy. With the counter-revolution and civil war of the past decade and a half, the Church has only been divided. About half of the priests supported Alexander II’s attempt to return to power, with the other half backing the military and republican government. Now, with the war ended, the split remains, with one portion of the Church looking to Rome and the others following Warsaw’s lead. How will you manage the Catholic Church, recognizing that there are still many in rural areas who remain quite sincere about their faith?

Armies & Locations

Kingdom of Prussia
105,000 men raised and mobile
40,000 men garrisoned
(Can raise 70,000 more)

Kingdom of France
130,000 men raised and mobile
60,000 men garrisoned
10,000 Army & Garrison of India
(Can raise 90,000 more)

Kingdom of Great Britain
35,000 Garrison of Britain
25,000 Army & Garrison of the 15 Colonies
3,000 Army & Garrison of Australia
(Can raise 100,000 more)

Kingdom of Scandinavia
70,000 men raised and mobile
20,000 men garrisoned
(Can raise 40,000 more)

Kingdom of Spain
50,000 men raised and mobile
30,000 men garrisoned
5,000 Army & Garrison of New Spain
10,000 Army & Garrison of South America
2,000 Army & Garrison of the Philippines
(can raise 60,000 more)

Russian Empire
150,000 men raised and mobile
50,000 men garrisoned
(can raise 90,000 more)

Archduchy of Austria
130,000 men raised and mobile
35,000 men garrisoned
(can raise 75,000 more)

Ottoman Empire
120,000 men raised and mobile
45,000 men garrisoned
(can raise 70,000 more)

Polish-Lithuanian Republic
100,000 men raised and mobile
30,000 men garrisoned
(can raise 80,000 more)

Kingdom of Portugal
40,000 ‬men raised and mobile
10,000 ‬men garrisoned
12,000 ‬Army of Brazil
(‬Can raise ‬50,000 ‬more)

Safavid Empire
50,000 men raised and mobile
25,000 men garrisoned
(Can raise 40,000 more)

Republic of Quebec
25,000 men raised and mobile
10,000 men garrisoned
(Can raise 25,000 more)

Navies of the World
Kingdom of Great Britain
200 Ships of the Line
125 Frigates

Kingdom of France
110 Ships of the Line
50 Frigates

Kingdom of Spain
53 Ships of the Line
29 Frigates

Russian Empire
40 Ships of the Line
12 Frigates

Kingdom of Scandinavia
37 Ships of the Line
14 Frigates

Kingdom of Portugal
35 Ships of the Line
15 Frigates

Kingdom of Prussia
30 Ships of the Line
15 Frigates

Polish-Lithuanian Republic
20 Ships of the Line
17 Frigates

Ottoman Empire
25 Ships of the Line
10 Frigates

Archduchy of Austria
11 Ships of the Line
3 Frigates

Republic of Quebec
3 Ships of the Line
7 Frigates

[Spamage]

1782 News, Happenings, and Events

Poor Harvest
Lack of Produce causes High Food Prices, Higher Anger

     A series of bad weather events in Europe in 1782 has led to a very poor harvest heading into the year 1783 for much of Europe (this actually occurred, interestingly enough). A wet summer has been followed by early frost in September, causing yields to fall and quotas not to be met. As a result, the price of food in France, Iberia Scandinavia, the German States, and Italy has risen substantially. Eastern Europe was less affected, a plus for realms such as the Ottoman Empire, Poland, and Russia, but even so, yields were down in these regions as well, if only slightly.
    Governments with large closer colonial empires, Britain, Portugal, and Spain will probably best be able to meet the long-term strain caused by shortages of key crops such as wheat, but even so, it will take time to get supplies shipped. Already there are reports of hungry peasants across the Continent. Indeed, many are asking why governments were not better prepared for this eventuality? While the worst will be over by the next spring when new crops begin to ripen, it is expected that the coming winter will be a tough time for communities regardless of the sovereign. Perhaps East Europe and the colonial empires could play a key role in alleviating immediate shortages, though that depends on the willingness of their governments and people to act.
     Minor states in West Germany have attempted price controls, setting a maximum for bread, but this has led to even greater shortages. How will the leaders of Europe respond to this unpredictable development, especially seeing the consequences caused by it?

WAR! PRUSSIA AND OTTOMANS LAUNCH SURPRISE ATTACKS ON PORTUGAL! NATION RALLIES TO QUEEN’S DEFENSE! HOW WILL EUROPE RESPOND?

    In a move reminiscent of their uncles, Abdul Hamid and Frederick William II took bold action against Portugal midway through the year. Accusing Maria I of attempting to start a war, they launched one in order to chasten her. Although claiming the move was in self-defense, even with Maria’s last-minute attempt to host a peace conference, the wide range of Prussian and Ottoman attacks across the globe have caused many to challenge the assertion and demand some sort of action be taken.
    The fighting began in Portugal itself in March, when Prussian agents were discovered in Lisbon harbor after setting fire to several vessels of the Portuguese navy in an attempt to sabotage the government. The people, shocked to the core by the political reforms, were rallied to the government’s cause. News would slowly trickle in of campaigns in other parts of the world aimed at decapitating the Portuguese Empire.
    A massive Prussian expedition sailed across the Atlantic, docking at Saint Domingue at immediately attacking the colony. Opening fire on the colony’s small capital of Le Cap, the city soon capitulated. The white colonists though, eager to protect their lucrative profits and furious about Prussian treachery, have fought back. An intense guerilla campaign has begun on the island’s interior while Prussian soldiers have begun to die quite rapidly due to not being used to the climate and the many tropical diseases they were unprepared for. With little pitched battles so far, this situation is the most volatile. Thousands of slaves have likewise gotten involved, using the chaos as a means to escape. They have not run into the arms of the Prussians though, who have been justifiably accused of atrocities committed against both slaves and free when the city of Le Cap was captured. Furthermore, with no clear instructions from Berlin on the matter, many runaway slaves have been recaptured by the Prussians and returned to the sugarcane fields as they try to conquer the colony. Those who have escaped either the Portuguese or the Prussians have fled into the hills and have launched raids to free their brethren.
    In Southern Africa, a simultaneous campaign was launched to expel the Portuguese from Angola and Mozambique. Angola was taken rather quickly, the mild garrison surrendering after being surprised by the arrival of the Prussians. Mozambique was a different matter. The Prussians on this side of the continent were not ready for both intense local resistance and a terrible march from New Prussia. Raids by locals and heat have caused this expedition to lag. Following a large battle, where the local Portuguese armed native Africans in their desperation, the experienced Prussians were pushed back, out of their element and halfway across the world, their oft-vaunted morale stunted for the time being. With heavy casualties, the invading army has retreated for the time being, though the Portuguese in Angola have likewise been severely mauled.
    Prussian demands sent to India arguing for the evacuation of colonists due to isolation from their homeland were only met with indifference at best, and nationalistic fury at worst. Frederick William II was burned in effigy in the streets of India by indignant Portuguese officials and, for the time being, Mysore shows no signs of wishing to abandon its protector (especially considering the sizeable Portuguese force transferred there).
    The Ottomans, indicating their friendship with Prussia still stands, joined in on the assault. East Timor has been captured following the arrival of an Ottoman Navy, the locals shocked when it opened fire.
    While Abdul Hamid and Frederick William’s actions were undoubtedly daring, many in Europe have viewed the attack quite negatively. It is one thing to talk of war (like Maria was probably doing with foreign governments), it was something else entirely to start one. In Spain, a fellow Catholic colonial nation, and in Britain, which has a very old alliance with Portugal, many common people were quite concerned about Prussia’s move. Pope Adrian VII, just days after issuing a stinging rebuke of Maria for his reforms (which he still will not retract) strongly condemned the moves, arguing that needless blood had been spilled by Prussia once more. Coupled with the events in Sardinia-Piedmont, the calm situation across much of Europe has been shattered.
    Overall, Prussia has seized a portion of Saint Domingue, the Mauritius, and Angola. The
Ottoman Empire meanwhile has successfully also taken one of the Mauritius islands and surprised East Timor. Portugal retains Mozambique and its Indian possessions, not to mention Brazil, Guyana, and its Atlantic islands. With Maria’s decision to send men to India though, occurring before the outbreak of war, it is unclear how the situation will be moving forward.

“Maria the Mad”?
Queen’s Controversial Actions Face Domestic Backlash, Overshadowed by War

     Queen Maria Braganza of Portugal may have thought she was preempting any internal dissent when she commanded the drafting of a constitution for Portugal, but what she offered was so surprising, it was not even the radical’s final aim. In a STUNNING move, she announced that not only would all citizens be able to vote, but so would all men and women. In addition, in the staunchly Catholic realm, all religions were permitted. These were ideas so radical, rather than bringing the people together, it has caused great unease in Portugal and its colonies, tanking her popularity for the time being while people try to understand what has occurred.
      Local administrators in many realms have outright refused to allow women to vote, demanding further clarification from Lisbon. Though an election was held as scheduled in December, there were numerous irregularities, a low turnout, and suspicions in Lisbon that local administrators had actively sabotaged the vote. The resulting Parliament, thanks to intervention, has a range of factions from ultra-Conservative absolutists to pacifists calling for peace with Prussia. Some are calling on the Queen to call new elections before the body sets out to work so as to end doubt about the voting and election result.
     Once deemed as taboo, there are now some who are calling for Maria’s husband, King Pedro III, to take over control from his wife following her decisions. Others look to her son and heir Prince José. Indeed, the Portuguese Catholic Church has been quietly seconding these calls from the pulpit, though not outright, through veiled references to St. Paul’s view on the wife’s role in marriage. The nobility, which viewed the Queen as an ally following the harsh reign of Pombal during her father’s time on the throne, was completely outraged. This discontent only increased when the disliked advisor was invited back to Court and into Royal Favor. Nobles have withdrawn from Court, with only a small cadre of loyal supporters remaining around Maria. While there is ample evidence of a foreign power, probably Prussia in light of their attacks and espionage, amplifying these internal divisions, it does appear much of the rage is genuine.
     The only group supporting the Queen is the lower class, mostly the women of the lower class (the men resent the idea of being forced to serve in Portugal’s military). Pleased by her reforms, she’s been hailed by some of the largest radical republic papers across the continent, dubbed by one as “the only monarch that should keep their head”, but staunchly condemned by both the center and the right (i.e. a large portion of her subjects). The people of Lisbon, even once to her face, have dubbed her Maria “the Mad”. While young playwright Olympe de Gouges dedicated her most recent show to Queen Maria, the Pope has issued harsh strings of criticism of her “carelessness and wanton republicanism”.
     The colonies too reacted with surprise at the proposals. While pleased by promises of self-rule, here too the idea of religious toleration and female suffrage was greeted with such shock it may be too early to understand the long-term consequences.
     The surprise attack of Prussia has changed the situation though. While there is domestic resentment over the reforms, the stunning attack has rallied almost everyone to the Queen’s side, for the time being. It is seen as a move of great dishonor, causing innocent Portuguese to lose their lives in surprise attacks. Indeed, even newspapers that were railing against the Queen, calling for her to step aside, while not apologizing, have gone on record arguing that these matters should be decided once peace returns or only if Maria continues to act somewhat erratically.

CHAOS IN SARDINIA-PIEDMONT!

     The sovereigns of Europe, as if they needed no reminder of the threat of republicanism poses, have been shocked by the events which rocked Sardinia-Piedmont in the latter half of 1782. King Victor Amadeus III, son of the much-beloved Charles Emmanuel III, was quite unlike his father. Protesting against the push for representative and democratic governance, upon his ascension he reversed the reforms championed by the middle class and sought to restore the old order.
    This idea was not impossible, as his first nine years on the throne demonstrated. Though there was much grumbling against his reactionary views, the reformers found themselves powerless and outnumbered. The King made their job of rallying support quite difficult by paying lip service to the Constitution and there were some in the realm who felt that the Kingdom needed time to digest the rapid string of reforms that had been enacted during the 1760s. Yet, Victor Amadeus, while praising the “noble spirit” of the drafters and his father, simultaneously violated the document. Elections were not called and the National Assembly had been largely purged of the reformists during the first year of his reign.
     The poor harvest of 1782 caused tensions throughout the realm as the price of bread and other staples of the economy rose. This alone wouldn’t have been disastrous had the King not been so adamant about pursuing controversial political reforms at the same time. Upset about the events in Poland (seeing the power of the press to provoke a civil war with incendiary headlines), he moved to limit the freedom of speech in his realm. A series of laws, planned for several years beforehand, were enacted where the government would gain the ability to shut down papers at will. The urban middle class, fed up with high bread prices, offended by the return of feudal privilege, and now goaded forward by journalists fearing for their profession, had enough.
    Riots in Turin in September caught the government off-guard. The King, who was in the city, fled to estates in the countryside and ordered his ministers to re-establish order. The soldiers would not act though, unless the King personally joined them. During the several days while this was communicated, they defected. By the end of the week, the King was arrested. He was joined by most of the aristocratic generals who vainly tried to seize back control of their men. The armies of the House of Savoy, once proud and feared throughout Europe in the days of Prince Eugene, turned completely on their longtime patrons.
    Sardinia, despite its isolation from the center of the action, has joined in the revolt. Nobles all across the island have been rounded up and imprisoned unless they agreed to renounce their titles and privileges on the spot.
    A council of reformists has met in Turin, debating the future of the realm. Some advocate placing Prince Charles Felix (the youngest son of the King at 17 years of age) on the throne as a constitutional monarch, hoping he has not been too polluted by his father’s absolutists aims like his older brothers. Others believe it is time for the realm to become a full-on republic, inspired by the recent developments in Quebec and Poland. There are even some who look to the other houses of Europe for potential candidates, eager to get a fresh start after 700 years under the House of Savoy. Whatever the case, as the representatives debate their actions have shocked the Continent. Pietro Verri, a Milanese political thinker who has become disgusted with Habsburg absolutism, has emerged as an early leader of the rebels despite not being from the Kingdom originally.
    It remains to be seen how several major powers will react. France, with the long-term potential of inheriting neighboring Modena and right next to Piedmont, has become a refuge for many nobles who have fled the realm, causing internal political division. Austria, also possessing so much land in Italy, has likewise felt early ripples of the events, even though they are just months old. Undoubtedly other realms in the region will too as time passes. How will Venice react to the birth of another potential republic next door? The most critical situation though, is in the Republic of Genoa. Unlike its Venetian rival, there were no large-scale democratic reforms championed in this city-state. The result means that the old noble oligarchy has faced a serious threat from the masses in the city. Depending on the events in Turin, Genoa could be a place to watch…

Austria Abandons Cyrenaica, Cooperates with Returning Ottomans

     Joseph II, recognizing that the situation in North Africa was likely unsustainable given the intense local resistance, responded warmly to Ottoman proposals of cooperation. Istanbul, upset with the raids on Egypt and looking to further signal the increased centralization of the Ottoman Empire, would be handed all of the Austrian territory as the two powers cooperated in order to push the Tripolitanian rebels back into the desert. While the situation in the East has been positive so far, the Venetians in the West have been further overwhelmed, losing more men and several small coastal settlements.
     Ali Karamanli, after a failed negotiation with Austria, has nevertheless proclaimed himself the “Sultan of Tripolitania”, seeking to rally the region against the Catholic colonizers. The Ottoman involvement could weaken his chances though, undermining the religious arguments for resistance, but the new Sultan has also been vehement in denouncing the “wretched Turk” who seeks to recapture the lands. While technological development has ensured his people have been forced from most of the coast, it is undoubtable that the Tripolitanians are unparalleled desert fighters, as the defeat of several European scouting expeditions has indicated.

King Louis XVI and Pope Adrian VII Establish “Army of the Sacred Heart” in French India

     The French government has begun to recognize the sheer level of challenges posed by governing a distant realm with completely alien faiths practiced. King Louis XVI, seeing missionary activity as insufficient and not effective enough, moved to change the relationship between the Crown and Church on the subcontinent. After a quick negotiation with Pope Adrian VII, it was agreed that the Vatican would accept the formation of a new, domestic force of Indian Catholics based primarily on religion. Named the “Army of the Sacred Heart” (Armée du Sacré-Cœur) in honor of Margaret Mary Alacoque, a French Jesuit heroine, the new leader of the order has been blessed by the Pope in person. Rather than operating missions, the Jesuits now have returned to their focus on education. Seeking out the children of converts, or those willingly turned over by Hindu, Muslim, and Jain parents hoping they have a better life, these young men will learn to become “warriors for Christ and the King”.
    Indeed, with the promise of a better future, many of the “untouchables” have turned over their sons to the Jesuits in the hope that they will be able to break the social cycle. This has done little to endear the army towards the “higher” castes though, who look upon the conscript children as turncoats and inferiors. Conscription of them has largely undermined attempts by the French government to incorporate members of the higher castes into the administration, as some refuse to work with a foreign government they deem to be undermining the social order. There has also been some backlash, though it has been limited to the grumbling of traditionalists who abhor the increased presence of Catholicism.
    In fact, there are also many of other faiths who have been pleased by the relaxation of the emphasis on conversions by the Jesuits as, under Papal orders, the holy order has retooled its focus towards education. These non-Catholics remind their neighbors that, with conscription being voluntary, their own faiths do not seem to be directly threatened. As the Army of the Sacred Heart develops though, this could change. Many will be following the events of this area with great interest.

[Spamage]

Colonial Tensions!
Portugal expands into Zanzibar, Prussia and Britain Found Rival Colonies in the Falklands

    Whatever the political situation in Europe proper, the expanded empires of that continent continued to expand, though not without confusion or tension.
    Maria I of Portugal, in a move that was praised even with her dramatic reforms elsewhere, invested in Portuguese colonial expansion in Zanzibar, setting up a further base of operations and creating yet another stopping point for Portuguese vessels moving between Lisbon and India. This move was seen as even more wise following Prussian assaults on her other two major African territories. While the locals offered token resistance, gunfire and gold managed to placate them for the time being as a new government is established in the region.
    Prussia, even with the new King, also focused on colonial investment. Frederick William, in addition to seizing the foreign colonies of other powers, ordered further settlement northwards in New Prussia. While this has been successful, there is a marked increase of native tension. Local tribes highly resent further Prussian encroachment, grabbing more land in the last few decades than the Dutch did in their entire century of rule. If not managed properly, this situation could become a thorn in the side of the local administration.
    The largest area of tension though, occurred over a set of small islands in the South Atlantic. While George III and Frederick William were honoring the late Frederick II in Prussia, their respective governments were feuding over who controlled the islands. Britain, claiming the islands, sent a small expedition to work on establishing a local naval base, with 100 marines to serve as guards. Prussia too claimed the islands, sending another expedition out from New Prussia, landing months later to the east of the British area. There has been intense competition for local resources, though outright conflict has not yet occurred. Many in London are perplexed by the Prussian colonial activism, with some in the Cabinet wondering openly if the French colonial rivalry is being replaced by one with Britain’s former staunch ally.
    Another Empire also entered the colonial game for the first time, with Austrian settlers arriving in Southern Africa to establish a trading expedition. While thus far the situation appears positive, the location chosen sits between Portuguese Mozambique and New Prussia. Will these colonists be caught in the middle of a conflict they are not a part of?

Spain Discovers New Continent (Again…)

     The world was shocked when a Spanish ship, blown south by an intense storm while around Cape Horn, apparently encountered a whole new world, previously unknown to the rest of the planet. They allege that there is a vast land consisting entirely of ice sitting south of any other known landmass. Though there is some confusion whether this is a territory of ice or land with ice on top of it, thousands are hailing the event as a scientific breakthrough. Large birds, named Monja Penguins for their resemblance to Spanish nuns with black and white feathers, have been seen on the shores.
    Though low on supplies and near starvation when they finally managed to dock in Buenos Aires, the men have survived to spread news of this new territory. They have given the right to name the new world to the King of Spain and attempted to claim the entire region for the Crown, though it is likely of little value and impossible to settle or enforce. In a sadder note, some newspapers have christened this the end of the “Age of Discovery”, pointing out that it seems the entire world is known to European powers. After 300 years of searching, Spain seems to have played a role in both the opening and closing of this period. With no new lands to be found, powers will now have to compete over a finite number of resources, territories, and manpower.

Viennese Conference on Slavery Opens
Colonies Eyes Proposals Warily as Governments Debate Issue

     Even with the outbreak of hostilities in both Italy and Iberia, the Conference of Vienna has officially been organized by the Austrian government. Representatives of many European states have been invited to participate as the controversial issue is finally faced with a general discussion.
    Joseph II has in particular drawn quite a bit of praise for his proposal of the meeting, bolstering his credit with humanists and Enlightenment thinkers (though there are some legitimate questions about how the Austrian soldiers conducted themselves towards the locals in Cyrenaica, even if the word slavery was never used). There has been growing division in Europe over the issue of slavery for decades, with many seeing it as an immoral practice. From the Vatican to London there have been pamphlets denouncing it, but many of its defenders argue that it is an economic necessity.
    Indeed, slavery is backed staunchly by many colonists. In New Spain, Brazil, and the Fifteen Colonies slaves are often employed on plantations in order to harvest the cash crops Europe so desperately desires. Furthermore, in both the Ottoman Empire and Russia there are also practices akin to slavery, if not labeled as such outright. Will serfdom be viewed as akin to slavery? What about the slave raids conducted by the Crimean Khanate? This is just one of many issues this conference will have to resolve if it hopes to come to any sort of general agreement. Even with more immediate concerns and the outbreak of war, many will be watching the proceedings here to see whether or not some sort of consensus is reached. Already some have denounced the gathering as one of “radicals”, one Charleston South Carolina newspaper noting, “the only proper outcome of this gathering would be a solid defense of the necessity of our peculiar institution”.

INDUSTRIAL ESPIONAGE! FRENCH AGENTS ATTEMPT TO STEAL PLANS FOR WATT STEAM ENGINE! WERE THEY SUCCESSFUL?

     In a move that has infuriated the British government, a series of French agents have been apprehended, seeking to transport plans for the Watt Steam Engine back to Paris. Indeed, they seem to have been working for the French government itself, though they allege that they are employed by French businessmen. Whatever the case, the move has caused fury in the British Press. Denounced as "good for nothing", prominent newspapers portray the French as scheming, unable to come up with their own ideas and seeking to steal great British innovations.
     In Paris the government has denied any sort of responsibility, though their near-simultaneous announcement of a science show is seen by many in Britain as a clear sign of guilt. Whatever the case, the Cabinet is calling on a suspension of trade with France and a demands a full apology from Louis XVI, though the ultimate decision on the matter is up to George III to decide.
     Interestingly enough, there may have been one agent who escaped with the plans besides the two that were apprehended in London. There are worrying reports of a "LePier Steam Engine" emerging in the Rhone valley. Whether this developed independently, was stolen from London, or is as functional as the Watt Steam Engine remains to be seen. Many suspect it will be unveiled at the Scientific Exhibition set for Paris at the end of 1783.

[Spamage]

Royal Families of Europe

House of Bourbon: France
Head: King Louis XVI (1729-) m. Maria Josepha of Saxony (1731-1767)

Direct Heirs (Underlined) and Descendants
a.   Louis, Dauphin of France (1751- ) m. Maria Beatrice d'Este (1750-)
1.   Louis, Petit Dauphin (1773-)
2.   Marie Josephine (1775-)
3.   Charles Joseph, Duc du Brittany (1779-)
4.   Joseph Guillaume, Duc du Aquitaine (1782-)

b.   Louis-Auguste of France, Duc du Berry (1754- ) m. Bathilde d'Orléans (1750- )

c.   Louis Stanislas Xavier, Comte du Provence (1755- ) m. Marie Joséphine of Savoy (1753- )

d.   Charles Philippe, Comte du Artois (1757- ) m. Marie Thérèse of Savoy (1756- )

e.   Marie Clotilde (1759-)


House of Bourbon: Spain
Head: Charles III (1716-) m. Maria Amalia Wettin (1724-1762)

Direct Heirs (underlined) & Other Descendants:
a. Maria Josefa (1744-)

b. Maria Luisa (1745-) m. King George III of Great Britain (1738-)

c. Charles, Príncipe de Taranto (1748-) m. Marie Clotilde of France (1759-)
1. Isabella (1781-)
2. Philip (1782-)

d. Ferdinand IV, King of Naples (1751-)

e. Gabriel (1752-)

f. Antonio Pascual (1755-)


House of Hanover
Head: George III (1738-) m. Maria Luisa Bourbon (1745-)

Direct Heirs (underlined) & Other Descendants:
a.   Charles, Prince of Wales (1760-)

b.   George William, Duke of York (1763-)

c.   Mary (1767-)

d.   Amelia (1769-)


House of Holstein-Gottorp
Head: Gustav III (1746-) m. Anna Petrovna of Russia (1757- )

Direct Heirs (underlined) & Other Descendants:
a.   Catherine (1777-)

b.   Louisa Ulrika (1779- )

c.   Anna (1779- )

d.   Albertina (1781- )

e.   Sophia Eleanora (1782-)


House of Habsburg-Lorraine
Head: Joseph II (1741-) m. Maria Josepha of Bavaria (1739-)

Direct Heirs (underlined) & Other Descendants:
a.   Francis (1763- )

b.   Maria Theresa (1765- )

c.   Maria Anna (1769- )

d.   Maria Carolina (1770- )

e.   Maximilian (1771- )

f.   Maria Carlotta (1773- )


House of Hohenzollern
Head: Frederick William II (1744-) m. Frederika Louisa of Hesse-Darmstadt (1751-)

Direct Heirs (underlined) & Other Descendants:
a.   Frederick William (1771-)

b.   Frederika Louisa (1774-)

c.   Augusta (1775-)

d.   Henry (1777-)


House of Romanov
Head: Paul I (1754-) m. Maria Antonia of Austria (1755-)

Direct Heirs (underlined) & Other Descendants:
a.   Peter Pavlovich (1772-)

b.   Paul Pavlovich (1775-)

c.   Alexander Pavlovich (1777-)

d.   Frederick Pavlovich (1779-)

e.   Constantine Pavlovich (1780-)

f.   Maria Catharina Antonina Pavlovna (1782-)


House of Braganza
Head: Maria I (1734-) m. Peter III (1717-)

Direct Heirs (underlined) & Other Descendants:
a.   Maria Clementina (1759-)

b.   Joseph (1762-)

c.   Maria Isabel (1764-)

d.   Joao (1770-)


House of Orange
Head: William I (1748-) m. Louisa of Britain (1749-)

Direct Heirs (underlined) & Other Descendants:
a.   William (1769-)

b.   Louisa (1770-)

c.   Anne (1771-)

d.   Caroline (1772-)

e.   Louis Alexander (1775-)

Safavid Dynasty
Head: Ismail III (1733-) m. Maryam Bakhtiari (1749-)

Direct Heirs (underlined) & Other Descendants:
a.   Husayn (1769-)

b.   Abbas (1770-)

c.     Ismail (1774-)

d.      Mohammas (1779-)

[Spamage]

The Encore of Europe

Turn 2: 1783

Nations, Leaders, & Players:
Major Powers:
Russian Empire- Emperor Paul Petrovich (HenryWallace)
Kingdom of France- King Louis XVI Bourbon (Windjammer)
Kingdom of Prussia- King Frederick William II Hohenzollern (Lumine)
Archduchy of Austria- Emperor Joseph II Habsburg (Dereich)
Kingdom of Great Britain- King George III of Hanover (Blair)
Kingdom of Spain- King Charles III Bourbon (LouisvilleThunder)
Ottoman Empire- Sultan Abdul Hamid I (Kalwejt)
Polish-Lithuanian Republic- President Tadeusz Kosciuszko (Not_Madigan)
Kingdom of Scandinavia-King Gustav III of Holstein-Gottorp (YPestis)
Republic of Quebec-President Louis-Philippe de Vaudreuil(Dr Novella)
Kingdom of Portugal- Queen Maria Braganza (New Tennessean Politician)
Safavid Empire- Shah Ismail III Safavid (Kingpoleon)
Kingdom of the Netherlands- King William I of Orange (JacksonHitchcock)
Provisional Government of Sardinia-Piedmont- Council President Pietro Verri (X)
Republic of Venice- Doge Gian Rinaldo Carli (GOTfan)
Qing Dynasty- Qianlong Emperor (Dkrol)

Economic Standings:
Kingdom of France- Strong
Kingdom of Great Britain- Strong
Archduchy of Austria- Strong
Qing Dynasty- Strong
Kingdom of Prussia- Moderate
Kingdom of Portugal- Moderate
Safavid Empire- Moderate
Republic of Venice- Moderate
Provisional Government of Sardinia-Piedmont- Moderate
Kingdom of Scandinavia- Moderate
Russian Empire- Moderate
Republic of Quebec- Moderate
Ottoman Empire- Moderate
Kingdom of Spain- Weak
Kingdom of the Netherlands- Weak
Republic of Poland-Lithuania- Weak

Popularity:
President Tadeusz Kosciuszko- Very High
Emperor Joseph II Habsburg- High
Qianlong Emperor- High
King George III- High
King Charles III Bourbon- High
Council President Pietro Verri- High
President Louis-Philippe de Vaudreuil- High
Emperor Paul Petrovich of Russia- Moderate
King Louis XVI Bourbon- Moderate
Doge Gian Rinaldo Carli- Moderate
Sultan Abdul Hamid I- Moderate
King Gustav III of Holstein-Gottorp- Moderate
King Frederick William II Hohenzollern- Moderate
Queen Maria Braganza- Low
Shah Ismail III Safavid- Low

Ongoing Conflicts:
Quebec War of Independence: Republic of Quebec vs. Kingdom of Spain
Tripolitanian Rebellion: North African Tribal Rebels vs. Ottoman Empire, Archduchy of Austria, Republic of Venice
Prussian-Portuguese War: Kingdom of Prussia, Ottoman Empire vs. Kingdom of Portugal, Kingdom of Mysore

Russian Empire:

-Georgia, a protectorate of your realm, seems to be the seat of recent intrigue. King Solomon I, who united the separate Kingdoms during the 1760s always proved to be a loyal vassal following the agreement between St. Petersburg and Tblisi. Now, with his nephew about to assume the throne, there are new questions about the loyalty of the region. The Kingdom has entertained both Safavid and Ottoman ambassadors recently, causing some to wonder if it is attempting to reassert its independence. Should you punish Georgia for its actions of merely talking with its neighbors or should Russia hold off? Coming down to hard could alienate the Kingdom, though not doing anything risks having it slip away. What will be done about your southern protectorate?

-Russia is perhaps best equipped to deal with the food shortage facing the rest of Europe, your vast wheat fields dubbed by some as a “breadbasket of Europe”. Now, advisors think you may be able to use this to your advantage. They believe you should offer the grain to Europe, but at a high price. Perhaps industrial technologies could even be given in exchange? Certainly, the Russian economy could be the big winner from the rest of the continent’s bad luck. Will you exploit the situation?

-While your mother and your great-aunt both had aspirations in the New World, events at home kept them from pursuing their aims in Alaska. Now, with Russia at peace internally and the finances to outfit expeditions, some are wondering if the Romanovs should assume the role of colonizers once more. There are arguments for both sides. At Court there are some who see Alaska as a distant, unnecessary, frozen wasteland causing nothing but potential wars over Russia’s expanded claims in the region. They point to the difficult of dispatching settlers and the reluctance of some to relocate as reasons to sell or abandon the colony. Enthusiasts for Alaska though, believe it is a source of Russians prestige, reminding the other powers you must not be forgotten in the New World. With vast tracts of North America still unsettled, they see a future for Russian settlers slowly moving down the Pacific coast into land currently claimed by both Spain and Britain (not to mention the tribes that inhabit the region). What is to be done about Alaska?

Archduchy of Austria:

-Your son and heir Prince Francis is now twenty years old. In the age-old tradition of smart Habsburg marriage alliances, it is time to consider matches for him and your other children with the other royal families of Europe. There are certainly many candidates from all across the continent (Britain, France, Prussia, Spain, and others). Of course, as is the case in dynastic systems, there are factions in favor of the various parties all active in Vienna, scheming and seeking to undermine one another. Some have even proposed that you further tie yourself to Russia by wedding your children to your nieces and nephews, with valid Papal permission of course. How will Austria’s marriage policy be conducted now that you are in control?

-While undoubtedly your government was concerned about the situations in Modena and Bavaria, a third place is now in the midst of a crisis that needs to be solved. With the overthrow of the House of Savoy, your family’s onetime lieutenants and loyal generals in years past, the situation in Italy is clouded with uncertainty. There is one republic (Venice) and another realm that could take a wide range of forms (Sardinia-Piedmont). With your possessions in Tuscany, Lucca, and Milan near both of these areas some in Vienna are wondering what your aims in Italy should be. Perhaps it would be best to try and direct action in this theater? Others think you should try to cultivate friendly relations with the two realms.

-The pursuit of your land reforms of Croatia have been praised as an example of the power of an enlightened sovereign. Indeed, a solid pro-Habsburg class of small landowners has been established in the region, whatever the critiques of upset nobles and large landowners. Some of your administrators see a new target for future reform, both in Bohemia in Croatia as well as the rest of the Empire, the monastic communities. They see these organizations as incentivizing low production and limiting the Austrian economy by encouraging people to be less productive, praying instead of tilling the fields. There are staunch Catholics at Court though, who do not take kindly to the suggestion. Will your reform policy extend to seizing monastic lands?

Kingdom of France:

-King Louis, France is surrounded by diplomatic tension on all sides. Nobles from Sardinia-Piedmont flee into your realm denouncing the principles of the revolution and are vocally supported in their opinions by your daughters-in-law. In Quebec, fellow Frenchmen continue their fight for freedom, albeit without much Spanish action. Prussia and the Ottomans have launched an attack against a fellow Catholic nation, the Kingdom of Portugal. The British public is livid about your supposed theft of their intellectual property. With these diplomatic uncertainties, France, as one of the preeminent European powers, undoubtedly is expected to issue some sort of response, if not pursue some sort of direct action. How will you manage the storm that is rocking Europe?

-While many have praised your purge of corruption in India, it, coupled with the refusal of local elites to cooperate with your government following the creation of the Army of the Sacred Heart, means there is a real shortage of officials to handle the day-to-day administration here. Similar to the new army, the only ones who have converted are of lower castes and thus when the French India Office attempts to appoint them, locals ignore them and treat the government with disrespect. If you wish to continue to try and woo elites, a policy change will probably be in order. Some in Versailles believe you ought not to worry about their support, recognizing there is much more contentment following the end of the Jesuit conversions. Others think officials from France itself will be the answer. How is the French Raj to be handled?

-France too has been hurt by the poor harvest of 1782. Throughout the Kingdom bread prices are skyrocketing and peasants are not happy. Your colonies unfortunately are quite distant. This means that any food that could be sent from India will only arrive after the spring, though perhaps it could be wise to send it nonetheless and build a stockpile. You must either seek to weather the storm or find some other power willing to sell you their surplus. With the events in Italy serving as a warning, what is your response to the food crisis? Where shall France turn for aid?

Kingdom of Great Britain:

-The French have had the audacity to try and steal one of Britain’s greatest inventions yet! The public is furious, not to mention the North Ministry, and looks to you George III for action. Undoubtedly the suspected or, at very least, attempted theft of the Watt Steam Engine, whose patent you recently extended, is outrageous. How will you treat France following this move? Some are calling for a full-on embargo, while others think a strongly-worded letter would suffice. What is to be done?

-Pope Adrian VII (Henry Stuart) has received the Earl of Bute surprisingly warmly in Rome. His Holiness is willing to cede is claim to the Throne of Britain back to your family, but under one condition. His initial demand is that the Jesuit order, so long vilified in Britain, be allowed to operate freely in Ireland, the Fifteen Colonies, and Australia (but not in Britain itself), winning converts to Catholicism. He would also like to re-establish Catholic diocese throughout the British Empire, though of course he acknowledges the Church of England would retain all the cathedrals and properties it currently holds. The Church of England would staunchly oppose this move, reminding your government that as a Protestant monarch and head of the Church you have sworn to uphold their values. Others see it as a way to demonstrate a real commitment to religious toleration and all the while end the hated Jacobite movement once and for all. Will you accept the Pope’s offer?

-Britain and Portugal have had a treaty of alliance since 1373, meaning the last four centuries have been ones of peace between your two realms. A Braganza was even a British Queen at one point during the last century. Needless to say, with the Prussian attack on Portugal and the simultaneous dispute over the Falklands, there are many who are not looking kindly on Frederick William II in your realm. Will you get involved in this new conflict or hold off? How will you react to the war that has exploded in Europe between two Kingdoms that were supposed to be your allies?

Kingdom of Prussia:

-Your war against Portugal has had limited success thus far, King Frederick William. Angola is yours, the Mauritius have been captured, and even some damage inflicted upon the Portuguese navy with espionage. Yet, there are also less than ideal circumstances. The situation in Saint Domingue is explosive and chaotic, some fear you may have opened up a box that cannot be resealed with the explosive three-way warfare. Mozambique also remains Portuguese, with fine Prussians soldiers being defeated in part by African natives, a large embarrassment to your soldiers’ reputation. Will you continue to prosecute the war or has Portugal learned its lesson?

-With the Portuguese Constitution, Revolution in Sardinia-Piedmont, and the new Polish Bill of Rights, some are reexamining Prussian absolutism. Indeed, there are real divisions within your realm over those, in the majority, who hold that a sovereign has unlimited power to dictate affairs in their own territories. Stemming from a series of strong Prussian monarchs, the principles espoused by the state Lutheran Church, and the ideals of the past century, this group believes absolutism is the natural state of German affairs. A different opinion exists though, in the cities of Berlin and Konigsberg. There are urban populations in these areas who, seeing the events across Europe, believe it is time for the Prussian crown to give up power. They are a minority though and moving to appease them could provoke a backlash. Will you reconsider the level of absolute royal authority in your realm or shall Prussia remain a bulwark against chaotic constitutionalism in these troubled times?

-Prussian colonies have expanded as planned, with most settlements established as ordered. Even so, there are problems. First and foremost is the dispute with the British over the Falkland Islands. The issue seems to be becoming one of mutual national pride as newspapers in Berlin and London publish feuding interpretations. Another problem is the cost of all the expansion, which is starting to drain your treasury, though some see the long-term benefits outweighing any immediate loss of money. Finally, with the natives in South Africa growing restless, especially following news of the defeat in Mozambique, local officials are demanding an investment in defenses for the colony, yet another potential expense. Also, there is concern about the abolition of slavery in this colony, where the practice is alive and well. What will you do?

Kingdom of Scandinavia:

-Your reforms have been lauded widely King Gustav, well done. Indeed, under the guise of supporting local rule you have cemented absolutism on a scale unseen before in Scandinavia. Of course, as usually occurs, the drawing of new borders was not entirely without controversy. In this instance though, it is disputes about appointments to the new districts of Scandinavia. Many officials, disappointed when placed in posts deemed less prestigious (for example northern Norway, Finland, Iceland, or the Baltic Islands) allege corruption is influencing the process, those with favor or connections being placed before those with skill. They demand some sort of neutral authority make the appointments in the interests of fairness and getting the men of most ability in proper positions. Others allege this is a challenge to your royal prerogative and should be ignored. Certainly ceding group with appointment could negate the whole reason for the extensive reforms. There are different camps forming, so you should weigh in on this matter before it become too personal of an issue.

-With no son out of your five children, many are calling on you to formally name Princess Catherine your heir. Sweden itself has had female Queens rule before, though generally their reigns were either short (Ulrika Eleanora), ended in controversy (Christina), or ruled over 4 centuries ago (Margaret). You must begin to think about the future of Sweden after your death as, depending on who she is betrothed to and weds, Scandinavia will likely find itself under a new royal dynasty. Certainly, if considered carefully, this could be a carrot to hold out to other powers in exchange for an alliance, protection, etc.

-Scandinavia is one of the powers that has been hit by the food shortage across Europe the hardest. With little arable land, no colonies with high levels of food production, and an already cold climate, the region has noticed quite a high level of food shortages heading into winter. Will you reach out to another realm for aid? Your first cousin is the Emperor Paul of Russia, perhaps he would be willing to help? The British or Spanish could be other potential sources of food. Others believe that your realm will be able to endure this crisis, citing your popularity, though undoubtedly a famine would damage economic growth in Sweden, Norway, and Finland. How will you manage this continental crisis?

Kingdom of Portugal:

-The heretic and the heathen have teamed up against your Empire, Queen Maria. Prussia and the Ottoman Empire have launched a series of attacks that have destabilized the realm and caused great uncertainty about the future. Angola, which had been held for quite some time, is now in enemy hands. There are concerns about the fate of India, Brazil, and Saint Domingue. How will you prosecute this war, one that was declared on you and your people?

-A series of noble families seem to have won the support of your son and heir Prince Joseph, the prince coming forward to accuse Pombal of corruption during your father’s rule. The evidence they provide is scanty, yet even so they demand the old man’s arrest and removal from your administration. Some at Court fear the consequences of your refusal, while others believe that showing weakness would only cause other high-ranking officials to start making outrageous demands. How will you respond to these attacks on Pombal?

-Portugal too will be threatened by the food shortage during this winter, just like the other realms of Europe, though the situation here may be even more dire. With all of your fleets potentially threatened by the Prussian or Ottoman navies, there is legitimate concern that no large amount of resources will be admitted to the Kingdom from the colonies, causing widespread starvation. While your decision to fast has been praised, many hope you will be able to recruit a foreign power from which to buy food that can be shipped into your territory? Who, if anyone, will you approach?

[Spamage]

Kingdom of Spain:

-The establishment of the Spanish National Bank has been praised by many in your realm. The organization has already discovered much that could be changed in Spain in order to improve the economic position of your realm. While the Bank backs your proposals for a liberalization of the economy (and thus a deemphasis on the guild system), there are many wealthy merchants and manufacturers that are horrified at the idea. Spanish economic policy has been mercantile in nature for decades and this reorientation has caused some distress. Will you keep implementing liberal reforms and abolish the guilds? Another problem the bank has pursued is the level of corruption. Many paths lead back to the Court and government, with offices bought and sold, peddled by courtiers, nobles, and your own children for influence. The bank argues you need to crack down on these policies and create some way for neutral, qualified officials to be made government officials rather than those with the right connections. This, of course, could alienate your own governing apparatus. How will you handle corruption now that further light has been shown on the issue?

-Spain has achieved yet another moment of imperial glory with the (accidental) discovery of a vast, southern continent. It is up to you to decide what this new, new world will be called. Furthermore, as the first to reach the land (perhaps the first humans ever on this territory) some are wondering whether or not the region should be formally claimed as Spanish territory? An expedition to better ascertain the situation on this icy world has been proposed, but some at court see it as too expensive and of little importance given more immediate political issues. Will you seek to further understand this new land or give priority to the other areas of your quite vast colonial empire?

-It has been noticed many realms are doing clandestine business with your colony in rebellion, Quebec. Canadian furs are sold in Berlin while British businessmen have been reportedly investing in the land of that realm. In order to halt these insults to Spanish honor, some in Madrid believe you ought to institute a full blockade of the Gulf of St. Lawrence in order to halt the inflow of settlers and the outflow of raw goods. While a blockade could be expensive and antagonize other powers, it could also teach the rebels a lesson and starve them into submission. Others believe the time for direct action in this theater has come. There is a third faction which believes peace is the way forward. With the War for Independence continuing, how will you handle the situation?

Ottoman Empire:

-Your realm seems to have been successful in the initial campaign against the Portuguese and Tripolitanians, Sultan Abdul Hamid. East Timor is now safely in Ottoman hands while another colony has been gained in Mauritius. Furthermore, Cyrenaica is Ottoman once more and resettlement has commenced, though not without vocal opposition from the Tripolitanians themselves. Yet, now you must determine the way forward. Will the war with Portugal continue? How about the conflict in Libya? What should your next move be? Some in Istanbul are under the impression that you should expand operations to include invasions of Tunis and Algiers, putting these lands under direct Ottoman control once more. What will be your military policy in 1783?

-The Ottoman economy lags behind many of its European counterparts and, while there’s many potential reforms to make the system more efficient, they are not without controversy. The guild system dominates manufacturing of all sorts of goods across the realm, ensuring a steady supply or workers in a given industry while simultaneously raising prices and decreasing the quantity of goods produced. Abolishing the guilds would free up much of the economy but also provoke many of these craftsmen as their whole livelihoods are challenged. Another potential reform is the jizya. Muslims subjects are not really taxed, the Empire’s vast population of Christian and Jewish minorities footing the bill. While this is popular among the Turks and throughout much of the realm, some advisors point out the redoing the tax system could yield greater profits, though it could be condemned by the Muslim subjects and religious authorities. There are also potential technologies that could be invested in to improve mining and farming in the realm. What will your economic policies be?

-Your realm, with the vast food-producing regions of Mesopotamia and Egypt, is well suited to ease the food crisis throughout much of Europe, perhaps while gaining an advantage for yourself. Ottoman merchants are used to using the sea to ship goods from parts of the Levant and Egypt to the capitol, so if you were to strike a deal with some other power, perhaps food could easily be shipped to their lands in the Mediterranean as well. You could use the foul weather of Europe to extract either trade concessions, new technologies, or even higher prices from more desperate areas. Will you do this? Who will be approached? Remember that the Portuguese may pose a threat to any shipments outside of the Mediterranean Sea…

Republic of Quebec:

-The government has approved your proposed reforms de Vaudreuil and is now willing to back the eventual establishment of a Parliamentary system. The new debate, though, is over the executive position. Some think a strong presidency with long terms would suffice, like exists in Poland, while others do desire a monarchy. Candidates for the monarchy could be any of the royal families in Europe. Some point to you as a potential candidate, highlighting your aristocratic lineage and bold leadership in these trying times. What will be decided about the executive branch? A constitution cannot be finalized before it is determined.

-There has been increasing native agitation along the frontiers, with some initial skirmishes as tribes launch raids. Rumors abound. Some claim the Spanish are financing an attack, but the situation is most likely a push back against continued encroachment on their traditional lands. Around 12 Quebecois were killed in 1782 on a series of assaults against frontier communities. Observers warn of a potential coalition of tribes forming, the chiefs fed up with your lack of addressing their concerns. Will you try to make peace, launch an assault, or ignore the issue further? Undoubtedly being caught between hostile natives on one side and hostile Spaniards on the other is not an ideal situation.

-Being, at present, the only independent realm in the Americas, there are government officials who see this as a rare opportunity. Vast tracts of the continent, while claimed officially by the other powers, are lightly settled or completely unexplored. There are many in Montreal who believe you should press ambitious claims to the west for your nation, offer to purchase the lightly settled Hudson’s Bay from the British, and look to establish claims on the islands far to the north. Will you pursue this “manifest destiny” as some have proclaimed, even if it means alienating other governments? Or should Quebec win its independence and recognition from the various European powers before pursuing ambitious expansion?

Safavid Empire:

-The leaders of formerly independent realms have accepted your invitation to Court and agreed to serve you. While some suspect this may be a fragile alliance of convenience, your subjects see you as a wise ruler seeking to ensure domestic tranquility. On that topic, the issue of religion in Persia has taken center stage. Persia was initially Sunni, before the arrival of your dynasty in the 16th century resulted in the establishment of Shia Islam. During the chaos when the Afsharids and Zand Dynasties were struggling for dominance, Sunni Islam was restored and Shia Muslims were oppressed. Now, with your rule, many are calling for you to reaffirm your commitment to Shia Islam, seize lands granted to the Sunni, and force reconversion. The two forms are unlikely to coexist, due to intense tensions, so undoubtedly one must be favored. A Sunni suppression may not be looked kindly upon by the Sunni Ottomans, but it does provide more religious independence. Meanwhile, suppressing the Shia could help relations with other Islamic realms, but would mean turmoil as the by now traditional religion is suppressed. What will you do?

-Your meeting with the Ethiopian leader has been a success. Seeing your willingness to strike deals, envoys from several other neighboring realms have arrived to seek negotiations. The Sultan of Tripolitania requests your recognition and monetary aid in his struggle against the colonizers. The rulers of Oman too have sent representatives to seek favorable trade agreements and a defensive alliance. There is a faction that sees these potential agreements as worthless and instead seeks a new understanding with the Ottoman Empire. Will you accept the offers of the minor states or work to mend relations with Istanbul? How shall the Safavid Empire manage this chaotic situation? Certainly, there are economic benefits to both paths…

-Austrian advisors have arrived as requested, though not quite in the numbers demanded. Even so, the smaller group has begun to help train your men in the European ways of warfare. Alongside them though, have been a series of merchants, using the relative wealth of Austria to invest in lucrative business opportunities and seeking to circumvent regulations in order to establish their own trade networks with the homeland. Locals are furious about this, arguing Persians should control Persian trade, while others recognize punishing these Austrian merchants could cause the withdrawal of the entire advisory force. Will you act? Or should the situation remain as it is at present, little government oversight in exchange for good diplomatic relation?

Polish-Lithuanian Republic:

-Congratulations on the new Constitution! The citizens of the Republic have widely praised your reforms as wise and far-sighted. Now, with the political system set, rights assured, and your control of the nation continually on the rise comes the question of what domestic issues should be tackled next. While many have praised your economic reforms, there are some who think even more radical action is necessary, eyeing the rights and privileges of the guilds which have been thus untouched throughout the chaos of the past few decades. Some believe the bodies are cumbersome and obsolete, pushing for their abolition alongside your new tax reforms and infrastructure projects. Others fear that the men, out of work and obsolete in a changing economy, will turn to revolutionary aims in their free time and blame you for putting them out of work. Will you pursue further economic reforms or did you go far enough?

-There are many concerning events on your borders and in Europe as a whole, Mr. President. The apparent rapprochement between Russia and Sweden is concerning. Even though there are not further signs of an alliance, that, coupled with the strong royal ties between Paul and the Austrian Habsburgs has some worried. Poland is being surrounded by potential enemies as the royal families of Europe weave a web of familial connections. Some hope that you will use the events in Sardinia-Piedmont as a chance to make a formal alliance with a fellow revolutionary state. Others see Safavid Persia as a potential distant friend. There is also a sizeable group, pleased with your Prussian visit, that hopes you will find a way to bind your two realms closer together. How will Poland ensure that it is not surrounded and devoured in the next few years?

-Despite the general popularity of your reforms, there are whispers of a simmering conspiracy. Foreign funding for conservative and reactionary forces has apparently resulted in growing networks throughout the realm, primarily consisting of people who feel the Revolution has not benefitted their standing in society. Primarily members of the former nobility and officials under the old government, they are reportedly seeking to eventually restore the monarchy. Even so, there has been no violence yet, the groups primarily taking advantage of your laws on freedom of speech to publish broadsheets denouncing your government for its “radicalism”. Some believe you should order an immediate suppression of these “subversives” while others argue that this is a real test to see whether or not you are truly committed to the principles of freedom of speech that you included in the new constitution. Will you suppress the reactionary organizations or allow them to continue to operate?

Kingdom of the Netherlands:

-Welcome King William, first monarch of the Kingdom of the Netherlands! Your leadership skills will undoubtedly be tested in this very trying time, though the Dutch have proven adept at the actions necessary to survive in the past. The first matter that must be addressed is diplomacy. The Netherlands has had a rough past 20 years. During your childhood the realm was invaded twice, once by the French who seized several provinces in the south, and once by the Prussians when they sought to overturn a republican revolution, taking the Cape Colony as payment. Clearly you must find strong allies who will protect the Netherlands in the future. With your wife being the sister of George III in Britain, not to mention your descent from George II, some suggest looking there for aid. Others see French ties as the way forward. What do you think?

-Unlike other parts of Europe, which were granting representation and right to their people years ago, the Netherlands in the 1760s moved the opposite way, a monarchy replacing a republic. Since then you have largely ruled as an absolute monarch, with some of your subjects happy to finally be rid of the constant feuding of the Staats General. Others think that representative government in the form of some sort of Parliament should be the way forward. Will you pursue any domestic political reforms or should absolutism remain the law?

-Despite setbacks, the Netherlands still possesses one of the world’s great colonial empires. With a growing settler colony in Australia, solid control of the Dutch East Indies, and the wealth of an expanded Guyana, your people still have a presence around the world. What will your colonial policy be? Should the Dutch continue to expand into new areas or consolidate the ones already owned? How will the regions be governed?

Provisional Government of Sardinia-Piedmont:

-The people’s voice must be heard, Pietro Verri! On a wave of discontent you and the provisional government have come to power in Sardinia-Piedmont, a mishmash of inherited territories stretching from beyond the Alps to the middle of the Mediterranean Sea. Now, it is your job to decide what form the new regime will take. Will you declare a republic? Should the Crown be given to Victor Amadeus’ son? Or should some new sovereign be invited to the realm? How will Sardinia-Piedmont look after the Revolution of 1782.

-The Republic of Genoa sits directly to your south. While it is called a “republic” in reality a select group of noble families has governed the city-state for centuries. Since the House of Savoy was overthrown there has been new waves of tension in the city as the middle class seems to want to join with your new government. How will you respond to the Genoese situation? The oligarchs threaten you with war if you intervene, but there does seem to be a real, widespread desire for a change. Keep in mind though, aggressive action could cause other European powers too look less kindly on your new administration. You must think over the matter carefully.

-The largest question of all, and one that has not been addressed by your government’s meetings so far, is what to do about Victor Amadeus III. Securely imprisoned, there are wide disagreements about how the former King is to be treated. Some call for death, others want exile, and a third group thinks he should remain imprisoned. What will you do? Exiling him could cause him to come back at the head of an army, imprisonment risks escape and the same thing, while execution could alienate other European monarchies.

Republic of Venice:

-Doge Gian Rinaldo Carli, your election has been a major turning-point in Venetian history. After the death of Francesco Loredan, his successors remained as members of the old aristocratic families of Venice until the people chose you. For the first time in centuries, if not ever, a common citizen of the Republic will be governing Venice as the Doge. Congratulation! Yet, you have also been thrown into the middle of a chaotic scene. With the emergence of a rebellion in Sardinia-Piedmont, which could very well follow you as a republic, there is widespread disagreement as to how the situation is to be handled. Some want Venice to be neutral, others an active advocate of freedom. Generally, the difference in opinion is by class, with the poor supportive of Sardinia-Piedmont and the old oligarchs worried about the threat posed by other monarchies. What will your foreign policy be?

-The war in North Africa continues, though the Republic has lost ground. The Tripolitanians are ferocious enemies and likely know the region better than the Venetians ever will. With the success of the Ottomans and Austrians in the east, there are new questions about the future of Venetian Libya. Will you continue to fight to control the land, enlisting Ottoman aid but not completely withdrawing as the Habsburgs did? Or should Venice face the rebels on its own? How will you handle the military situation too? Should more men be sent or is the war too costly as is?

-Austria has begun colonial expeditions in far-off Africa, merchants returning with wealth and the prospects of economic benefits. Some in Venice are wondering if you too, as one of the great trade realms, ought not to seek out wealth in Africa. Not only would this allow your people to have a port to stop in on the way to trade with Asia (a prospect that excites most Venetians) it also could provide Ivory, raw materials, and prestige. It may be expensive though, a potential prohibition with the war against Tripolitaia. Will you follow Austria, Prussia, Portugal and others into Africa? Or should the Republic of Venice seek to maintain its former position as the predominant Mediterranean trade power?

[Spamage]

Qing Dynasty:

-Welcome great Qianlong Emperor, longtime leader of the Qing Dynasty of China. The Middle Kingdom has been the world’s greatest power for centuries now, but there are signs that lesser, barbarian kingdoms are catching up, if not surpassing, the Empire of China in technology and wealth. Thus, with merchants arriving quite often seeking trade opportunities, open ports, and diplomatic recognition, two factions have emerged throughout China. The “Western” Faction believes that you should open up China to the world after centuries of relative quiet isolation. They believe trade deals should be signed and the Qing Dynasty seek to become a major player, even if its weapons are getting somewhat dated. The “Eastern” Faction though, believes the status quo is preferable. They point to the potential destabilizing effect of allowing too much western goods, ideas, and people to flood the realm. China’s traditions are its strengths in their view. Which path will you choose? Or perhaps neither party is to be favored as you balance them against one another and seek to forge your own path?

-Your dynasty has emerged from the Northern Steppe and not from within China itself. As such, there are many who resent your rule as that of a foreign occupation, even if most of the population recognizes your family possesses the Mandate of Heaven. Your Empire is a diverse one. Most of your subjects are Han Chinese, but there’s also Tibetan, Mongol, Manchu, and Uyghur populations spread throughout your territories, all with different languages, cultures, and customs. While some believe that you should further emphasize Chinese values, this could alienate the Machu elite and the people of the traditional homelands in the north. Undoubtedly there are some who will never recognize a Manchu as the Emperor of China, no matter how Chinese they act. Will you emphasize Chinese culture or maintain the current configuration?

-As the most powerful government in the region, the Qing Dynasty has many tributaries and vassals. The two most prominent are the governments of Korea and Tibet. Both locations, taking advantage of a series of powerful revolts by the Mongols and other groups to the north in the past decade, have begun to pursue more independent means of existence. There are some in Beijing who believe it is time for your government to crack down on these regimes, either through direct invasion or economic pressure, in order to ensure they are Chinese vassals once more. Will you pursue action?

Armies & Locations

Kingdom of Prussia
70,000 Army of the West
70,000 Army of the East
5,320 Army of Angola
3,101 Army of Mozambique (in New Prussia)
13,901 Army of the West Indies
5,000 Madagascar Expedition
40,000 men garrisoned
(Can raise 2,000 more)

Kingdom of France
100,000 men raised and mobile
60,000 men garrisoned
40,000 Army & Garrison of India
(Can raise 90,000 more)

Kingdom of Great Britain
34,900 Garrison of Britain
25,000 Army & Garrison of the 15 Colonies
3,000 Army & Garrison of Australia
100 Falklands Garrison
(Can raise 100,000 more)

Kingdom of Scandinavia
40,000 Army of Helsinki
30,000 Army of Oslo
20,000 men garrisoned
(Can raise 45,000 more)

Kingdom of Spain
50,000 men raised and mobile
30,000 men garrisoned
5,000 Army & Garrison of New Spain
10,000 Army & Garrison of South America
2,000 Army & Garrison of the Philippines
(can raise 60,000 more)

Russian Empire
150,000 men raised and mobile
50,000 men garrisoned
(can raise 90,000 more)

Archduchy of Austria
130,000 men raised and mobile
35,000 men garrisoned
(can raise 75,000 more)

Ottoman Empire
90,000 men raised and mobile
29,201 Army of Tripolitania
1,700 Army of Timor
1,000 Army of Mauritius
45,000 men garrisoned
(can raise 67,300 more)

Polish-Lithuanian Republic
100,000 men raised and mobile
30,000 men garrisoned
(can raise 80,000 more)

Kingdom of Portugal
47,000 ‬Army of India
6,720 Army of Saint Domingue
9,000 Royal Guard
10,000 Army of Portugal
28,000 ‬Army of Brazil
6,731 ‬men garrisoned
(‬Can raise ‬2,000 ‬more)

Safavid Empire
50,000 men raised and mobile
25,000 men garrisoned
(Can raise 40,000 more)

Republic of Quebec
25,000 men raised and mobile
10,000 men garrisoned
(Can raise 25,000 more)

Provisional Government of Sardinia-Piedmont
30,000 ‬men raised and mobile
10,000 ‬men garrisoned
 (‬Can raise ‬40,000 ‬more)

Republic of Venice
25,000 Army of Venice
9,500 Army of Tripoli
5,000 men garrisoned
(‬Can raise ‬25,000 ‬more)

Kingdom of the Netherlands
40,000 ‬men raised and mobile
7,000 Army of the East Indies
2,000 Army of Guyana
15,000 ‬men garrisoned
 (‬Can raise ‬38,000 ‬more)

Qing Dynasty
90,000 Army of the North
75,000 Army of the East
90,000 Army of the South
30,000 Imperial Army
(Can raise 200,000 more)

Navies of the World
Kingdom of Great Britain
200 Ships of the Line
125 Frigates

Kingdom of France
110 Ships of the Line
50 Frigates

United Provinces of the Netherlands
52 ‬Ships of the Line
40 ‬Frigates

Kingdom of Spain
53 Ships of the Line
29 Frigates

Russian Empire
40 Ships of the Line
12 Frigates

Kingdom of Scandinavia
40 Ships of the Line
15 Frigates

Kingdom of Prussia
35 Ships of the Line
17 Frigates

Kingdom of Portugal
33 Ships of the Line
14 Frigates

Polish-Lithuanian Republic
16 Ships of the Line
16 Frigates

Ottoman Empire
25 Ships of the Line
10 Frigates

Republic of Venice
13 ‬Ships of the Line
22 ‬Frigates

Archduchy of Austria
11 Ships of the Line
3 Frigates

Provisional Government of Sardinia-Piedmont
10 Ships of the Line
2 Frigates

Republic of Quebec
3 Ships of the Line
7 Frigates

[Spamage]

1783 Crises

KING MAXIMILIAN IS DEAD!
FEUDING IN BAVARIA AS TWO COMPETING WILLS MADE PUBLIC

    In the midst of all the other European drama, much of the continent’s attention had been drawn away from one of the most significant issues under the surface. After a surprise stroke in Munich, King Maximilian of Bavaria was rendered unable to speak, drifting in and out of consciousness over the next twelve or so hours. Exhausted, the King finally expired on March 30th, ending a line of Wittelsbach Bavarians dating back to the early 1300s. Of course, with no heirs, the immediate issue on everyone’s minds was the matter of the succession. King Maximilian had been rather vague on the issue during the last months of his life, viewing talk of his death as insulting. With his stroke, the only way his true and private opinions on the matter would be known was through his last will and testament. It was sought after by courtiers and officials within minutes of his death, everyone praying its words would not lead to war.
     Within a week two competing copies of the late King’s will would be released, one in Munich and the other in the Palatine. The copy in Munich was backed by Maria Anna Sophia of Saxony, the former Queen of Bavaria, and it named Prince Maximilian of Habsburg-Lorraine, the younger son of Joseph II and a nephew of the late King, as his heir. Until the Prince came of age, he is currently 12, this document states that Emperor Joseph II and his wife would rule Bavaria as regents.
    A second copy has emerged in the Palatine, ruled by the other branch of the Wittelsbachs. It arrived in the Electorate accompanied by much of the late King’s cabinet. They claim the Munich copy is a fraud and their document is the legitimate will of the late King. It names Charles Theodore, the elector of the Palatine, as heir to the whole Kingdom of Bavaria as the nearest male-line relative. Indeed, unlike in the Munich copy, this will argues staunchly in favor of keeping the Crown of Bavaria out of the hands of the Habsburgs.
    Both sides claim their copy is legitimate and their rival’s a fraud. Both have the royal seal stamped on them and what appears to be genuine signatures, though clearly one must be a forgery. As each is undated, there is no way of determining whether or not the late King had a change of heart at some point.
     The Elector of the Palatine has called on other subjects of the Holy Roman Empire, the King of Prussia, and the King of France to protect his right to the throne of Bavaria as the true heir of the Wittelsbachs. In Vienna meanwhile, while Emperor Joseph has taken no action, his wife is reportedly a very strong defender of her younger son’s claim to the throne. She has written to her sister (the regent of Saxony) calling on her to publicly back her son’s claim to the throne. The former Queen meanwhile, is trying to keep the peace in Bavaria as an interim ruler, though there have reportedly been clashes in several outlying villages between supporters of Prince Maximilian and Elector Charles Theodore. How Europe will manage this very pressing issue could determine the course of history on the Continent for decades, if not centuries, to come.
    Many are curious as to who the various sovereigns of Europe will recognize as the ruler of Bavaria. Indeed, the next few weeks will be crucial for both candidates.

Spanish and Dutch Launch Surprise Invasions of Portugal As Brazil Declares Independence!
Crises Across the Empire! Can the House of Braganza Recover?

    While Portugal was able to survive the surprise Prussian-Ottoman attack, signing peace early in the year, what followed would be disastrous. King Charles III of Spain, eager to join the fray, ordered a wide range of attacks on the Portuguese Empire, attacking without warning in a move that could only be seen as self-serving by most Europeans. A 60,000-man army stormed into the Algarve, capturing much of the Kingdom in the south and putting Lisbon under siege. Queen Maria and her family escaped the city hours before the bombardment began, cannon fire destroying many buildings constructed since the terrible earthquake of the 1750s. As the halfway mark of the year approached the city seemed close to surrender.
    Meanwhile, in Brazil, the people had had enough of Maria’s reforming instincts. In particular, her decision to abolish slavery in a portion of her dominion where the sugar-focused economy depended on it, sent the colony spinning into chaos. When it was clear that the landowners would rather declare independence than free their slaves, a great unease gripped the region. Tens of thousands of slaves who heard the news of their liberation fled plantations and murdered their oppressors, fighting loyally for a Queen on the other side of the world. Even so, they were only about one-third of the total population, meaning the realm is in a state of civil war. Thus, with the decision of the colonists to rebel and officially proclaim the “Republic of Brazil”, most of the land sits in the hands of the would-be Brazilians. The Portuguese force stationed there split in half, some backing the locals and other backing the Queen.
     The Spanish arrived in the middle of this chaotic situation, quickly surprising the local forces and seizing Sao Paolo. Indeed, a fair portion of the south was captured before it was clear what was happening. Their attempt on Rio de Janiero, the initial capitol of the rebellion against Maria, proved to be less effective. Following an extensive siege, the Spaniards were forced back. Both the pro-Portuguese slave rebels as well as the Brazilian Republicans have vowed to expel the foreign invaders.
      Spain was not alone in attacking Portugal though. The Kingdom of the Netherlands, under William I, was apparently eager to join in the carving up of one of the oldest colonial powers’ empire. A small expeditionary force arrived in Northern Brazil, landing in areas the Dutch had held more than a century ago. While disease is wracking this force, there was a sizeable foothold captured, though it’s a mystery whether or not it can be held. A second Dutch attack targeted Saint Domingue. With the power vacuum left by the departed Prussians, they sailed into Le Cap, occupying part of the north, while instituting a blockade of that half of the island. Spain, not to be outdone, also launched an invasion of this colony. Indeed, vast tracts of land were captured by the Spanish, breaking the back of the white Portuguese settler’s resistance. Even so, the slave revolt continued. Inspired by their brethren in Brazil, the slaves in Saint Domingue have re-embraced Queen Maria’s rule and attempted to liberate slaves held by the Spanish on the other half of the island.
     One bright spot for the House of Braganza was in India, where they managed to hold onto the loyalty of the Kingdom of Mysore. Even so, the Dutch have instituted a blockade of the Portuguese-held or allied areas on the subcontinent, hoping to keep the large army trapped.
     Thus, on Hispaniola, there is currently a three-way war between the pro-Portuguese slave rebels, the Dutch, and the Spanish. Spain is seen as having the upper hand, though the slave rebels are giving them a run for their money Meanwhile a four-way war is occurring in Brazil between the Dutch, the Spanish, the Brazilian rebels, and the pro-Maria loyalists. African and Indian territories are secure for the time being.
     The reaction in Europe has been decidedly negative. With Portugal first calling for a Conference of Peace prior to the Prussian-Ottoman attack and then following up with a convention on the rules of war following the peace treaty, both Spain and the Netherlands have been painted as opportunistic scavengers outside their realms. At home their actions were framed as a show of strength, though. With the Braganzas leading the Portuguese from the Duchy of Braganza there are now open calls for Maria I to be forced to abdicate or yield to a regent for her decision to end slavery causing the revolt of Brazil, the largest colony (though it, interestingly enough, slightly improved her position in Haiti). Furthermore, when considered in the context of her other actions (expanding suffrage and mandatory military service) there has been a great departure from the Portuguese history. Maria has consistently insisted that history will vindicate her for her bold reforms, though the time to save her throne is running out. She only has weeks to ensure she is not overthrown by her own family as the situation is on the verge of collapse. Can Maria ensure that the Portuguese realm will survive or will it be snuffed out roughly a century after it freed itself from Spain?

[Spamage]

1783 News, Events, and Happenings

Diet Sides with Maximilian of Habsburg-Lorraine, Despite Surprising Level of Support for Charles Theodore
Elector of the Palatine Rejects Decision! Vows to Take Inheritance by Force!

The New Constitution

     Events in Sardinia-Piedmont rapidly evolved throughout 1783. Entering the year with an unformed government and high levels of revolutionary fervor, the result has been a major shift and the introduction of a new political way of thinking. Rather than having established religion and republicanism be enemies, as many thinkers of the Enlightenment advocated, Verri instead sought to reconcile the two. Declaring the Holy People’s Republic of Sardinia-Piedmont, a whole new political order has been established. Elections will occur every ten years and freedom of the press and assembly have both been guaranteed. Yet, rather than embracing controversial measures on religious freedom as occurred in Portugal, the government has firmly cemented Catholicism as the state religion. This would be especially evident in the treatment of the royal family and nobles of the Kingdom.

Genoese Revolution

     It was expected that the events in Sardinia-Piedmont would have an impact on the other Italian states. What was not forseen was how rapid that impact would be felt in some areas. In early 1783 the people of Genoa were enflamed following rumors that Austrian soldiers would be brought in by the government to keep the peace. The palace of the Doge Marco Antonio Gentile was stormed by a mob, the leader being executed on the spot by over-zealous rebels. Framed as a "corrupt and most impious man", the rebels here too, as in the north, couched their grievances in the language of the Catholic Church. Within a week a citizen's council issued a petition to the government centered in Turin, requesting permission to join the "Holy Republic of the People". While there's no indication that instructions for this revolt came from outside Genoa, where people were already fed up with the political system, that has not stopped some from pointing the finger at Verri and his allies.
     Pope Adrian VII was terrified by the events in both Sardinia-Piedmont and Genoa and he reportedly referred to Verri as "Giancomo Savornola come again". Even so, recognizing the many Roman subjects who could get ideas if he was to vocal in his opposition, not to mention the widespread support of the local parish priests in Italy for the Revolution, he has publicly urged moderation. Especially wary of Austrian or French intervention in the region, which he sees as potentially disastrous for his own lands, Pope Adrian VII has urged "diplomacy to come before the drawing of swords". Indeed, many in the Vatican do see an alliance with the rebels as fruitful. Monarchs of Europe have ignored the power of the Papacy in recent years. First the Jesuits were expelled, then Portugal (one of the staunchest Catholic realms) and Poland both announced freedom of worship. Now, with his land reform, Emperor Joseph seized 1/3rd of monastic lands in the name of increasing productivity. Some believe it is time for the Pope to stop dealing with monarchs who seek to usurp or challenge his authority, as has been the case for a millennium, and instead deal directly with the faithful.
    Indeed, the problem facing the Pope will undoubtedly be one other leaders in Northern Italy will be forced to reckon with. The events in Turin, even with their highly radical pro-Church turn as the year continued, were broadly supported by a peasantry that had grown fed up with powdered nobles and educated elites debating concepts such as science, law, and philosophy while they toiled day-in and day-out in the fields. Venice has insulated itself from further discontent by being a republic itself, though what will happen in Modena, the other minor realms, and the dominions of Joseph II remains to be seen.

Fate of the Royal Family

     Victor Amadeus III, a staunch defender of absolutism throughout his father’s reign and during his own, absolutely refused to recognize the authority of the court to try him. Inspired by the example of his great-grandfather King Charles I of England, he did not enter a plea and argued that, as he had been anointed by God, only God could remove him from the throne. This did not stop the tribunal from moving forward. Much to the shock and outrage of royalists, a document was produced, signed by his son Prince Charles Felix and a group of other nobles and clergy, which claimed the King was guilty of a wide variety of crimes. It directly stated, “the former King made a compact with the Devil, was known to converse with animals in strange languages, and that he oft spoke of the riches he gained upon signing his name in Lucifer's book and rejecting the trinity.” Indeed, there were hints by some fervent supporters of the Revolution that the King had even been plotting to prepare the way for the anti-Christ. These were revealed in extensive testimony conducted during the trial. These charges were too much for Victor Amadeus, who burst out and condemned the judges and prosecutors to hell for their treachery. In such an environment of paranoia though, the audience took it to mean he held a connection with the devil. This was seemingly confirmed in the eyes of some when the volcano in Iceland erupted, news of the horrible ash spreading throughout Europe being blamed on the King.
    The ruling was probably a foregone conclusion. Found guilty, the former King of Sardinia-Piedmont was executed publicly in Turin. This move has shaken Europe far more than the execution of Augustus II of Poland three decades ago. Whereas Augustus had been an elected monarch who had made war on his own subjects (so his death did not truly mean that much), Victor Amadeus was an absolute monarch of one of Europe’s oldest dynasties, cut down by his people for no other reason than they hated him. Subjects all over Europe have taken note, so too have nobles.
     Victor Amadeus would not be alone in dying though. Two days later his son and heir Victor Emmanuel was led to the same scaffold and beheaded. A week after that Queen Maria Antonia Fernandina, a Princess of Spain and sister of King Charles III, followed her husband and son on the chopping block. Both were accused of aiding Victor Amadeus in his satanic plotting and working to undermine the people. Princess Maria Anna of Savoy (married to her uncle Benedetto, who was the only male-line member of the dynasty to escape the Revolution and flee to Tuscany) has been consigned to a convent. Charles Felix, presumably for his (likely forced) aiding of his captors too has joined a monastic order. Meanwhile Prince Giuseppe of Savoy, the youngest of Victor Amadeus’ children at thirteen, fell ill and died while imprisoned. Indeed, it seems, unless the exiled Benedetto has children (which is unlikely considering his age and the captivity of his wife) the House of Savoy, a contender with the Capets and Wettins as one of Europe’s oldest ruling dynasties, could go extinct. Victor Amadeus’ other two children, wives of the sons of Louis XVI of France, seem to be the only members of their family to have escaped the plight of the Revolution. Now, there are real disputes as to whether Princess Maria Giuseppina or her uncle Prince Benedetto is the correct heir to the vacant Sardinian Throne (the actual chair and the crown jewels being melted down by the Revolutionaries, so perhaps the question is moot). Even if either were to claim it, with Charles Felix still alive, could it ever hope to be recognized?
     It was not just the royals who have suffered. While dozens of nobles agreed to “confess” their crimes, joining religious orders, others refused. There have been several dozen noblemen executed, not willing to live in a world without them on top. Only those who escaped abroad have been saved a dark, dark choice. Across the countryside meanwhile, a tremendous wave of paranoia has gripped the Kingdom. “Savornola Brigades”, formed by zealous peasants, have taken to enforcing religious authority throughout small towns and villages. Mob violence, personal vendettas, and traditional rivalries have resulted in sham trials, executions, and revenge killings under the guise of purifying the realm. Some wonder if Verri realizes the sheer level of superstition and paranoia his new government has unleashed.

War in the East
Qianlong Emperor Faces Conflict Against Shah Dynasty, Joseon Following Attacks

    Feeling secure in his own realm, the Qianlong Emperor determined that it was long past time for the Qing Dynasty to restore control over its former vassal states, namely Tibet and Korea. Indeed, a massive show of force was enough to humble the Dalai Lama, who has agreed to become a vassal of Beijing once more. Tibet had largely governed itself following unrest earlier in the reign of the Qianlong Emperor when the tribes in the north rebelling allowed such luxuries. No more.
     The forces under the command of General Agui did not stop there though, the Emperor too concerned about the growing influence of the Shah Dynasty in Nepal over his Tibetan vassals. A massive surprise attack was launched on the border crossing of Kadari, with the locals surprised and retreating in a panic. Then attempting to push on Kathmandu, yet facing serious logistical issues, the Nepalese met and did battle. This young Kingdom has only recently come into being following the bold leadership of Prithvi Narayan Shah during the 1760s and 1770s. He is dead though, his son following him to the grave within a couple of years and leaving the throne to his young grandson. With the Queen Mother Rajendra, regent for the seven-year-old monarch, in attendance, the Chinese have been pushed back, taking heavy losses. Within Nepal the strife between Bahadur Shah (uncle of the King) and the Queen Mother has been put on hold as they continue to resist Chinese assaults. General Agui has returned to Kadari, but still possesses a sizeable force with the potential to continue the campaign. He has requested further instruction from the Emperor with the failure to take Kathmandu.
    Korea, unlike Nepal, was determined to retain its independence. Calling on his subjects to remember past victories against Chinese invasions, King Jeongjo managed to hold off the massive Chinese force by tying them up with sieges in Northern Korea while he assembles an army. Here too further Chinese action will be needed if their wayward subject is to be pulled back into the extended Qing Empire. No major battles have been fought yet, though General Fuk'anggan is reportedly optimistic about the prospects here. Even so, nationalistic fervor in this kingdom can only be underestimated at one’s own peril. 

[Spamage]

Braganzas Flee Portugal
British and French Aid Aims to Deter Spanish and Dutch Threat

     The situation halfway through the year was dire for Portugal. Lisbon fell shortly after June and intense fighting continued in both Saint Domingue and Brazil. Recognizing the potential destabilizing effects of the collapse of the House of Braganza, both France and Britain intervened in the conflict in different ways. While neither declared war, their aid was crucial in allowing Maria to continue to fight.
     The French aid came in the form of allowing Portuguese soldiers to circumvent the Dutch blockade in India by departing from French ports. Indeed, this was a major gain for Maria, as she had ordered most of her soldiers there in 1782. Britain meanwhile, decided to give aid to its longtime friend. When it was clear the situation in Portugal itself was no longer tenable, following the collapse of Lisbon and a Spanish turn north, the British Navy conducted an orderly evacuation of Queen Maria, her extended family, and a sizeable army from the mainland to England. The Queen was booed by angry subjects as she stepped off the dock and into exile.
     Maria is hated in Portugal for several reasons besides her departure. Ordering that her Kingdom should be utterly sacked so the Spanish could not live off the land, many peasants have starved with their crops seized and their livelihoods ruined. Among the nobility, her vindictive actions to punish anyone who acted against her before her departure drew many families straight into the arms of the Spanish. Indeed, there is now a sizeable pro-Spanish faction throughout the Kingdom that sees the restoration of Queen Maria as one of the most terrible calamities that could befall the Kingdom.
     In Brazil, the slave rebels and the Portuguese forces have coalesced, with the Republicans capturing much of their former territory. Spain abandoned its assault and fled the realm, while the Dutch have also made modest gains, attempting to side with the rebels but being forcefully rebuffed. The jewel of the Braganzan Empire could very well be where this war is ultimately decided.
     The King of Mysore has finally renounced his protectorate status with Portugal, the majority of the Braganzan Army leaving the subcontinent. Unimpressed with Spanish threats of invasion and conversion (viewing them as impractical) and, for the time being, rejecting French offers of a protectorate status, he has vowed to govern as a free sovereign. It remains to be seen if Portugal will attempt to recapture his loyalty, France will take his offers of an alliance seriously, or Spain will launch an invasion.
     Vowing to form a government-in-exile, Maria seems to have stayed a coup if only because Louis XVI and George III decided to come to her aid. Both London and Paris seem to be urging Spain to make peace with the Braganzas, though there are some at Charles III’s court who see Portugal itself as ripe for the taking. Indeed, now that many locals have had it with Maria and are offering to negotiate on behalf of the Kingdom, could Spain upset the balance in this region?

Prince Henry of Prussia Crowned in Montreal as King of Quebec
Conflict Quiet for Another Year as Powers Begin to Recognize New Kingdom

     President Vaudreuil determined in 1783 that the best way to preserve the independence of Quebec, faced with overwhelming numerical odds in favor of the Spanish who had thus far refused to actively prosecute the war, was to secure recognition from other European powers. In his mind this could only be accomplished by crowning a King of Quebec. Unlike in Poland or Sardinia-Piedmont, the Quebec Revolution was not so much anti-monarch as it was anti-Spanish. Early attempts were made to negotiate with the French and secure a member of the French branch of the Bourbons the title of King. When his failed, due to French efforts to redirect the conversation towards reconciliation with the Spanish Bourbons, Vaudreuil instead reached out to the Prussians. Frederick William II suggested Prince Henry as Prussia as heir. In exchange for renouncing any claims to the Prussian throne, he agreed.
    Following a harrowing journey across the Atlantic with the fogs from the events in Iceland making navigation difficult, Prince Henry arrived in Montreal at the end of the year. Greeted warmly by the assembly, who with his arrival see hope for their cause and legitimization on the international stage, the vote to appoint him King was nearly unanimous. As a constitutional monarch he has very little personal power, Vaudreuil still governing the Kingdom of Quebec now as Prime Minister, but his arrival has been celebrated nonetheless.
    King Henry I of Quebec, with Prussian military advisors in tow, has vowed to defend the Kingdom and will seek to cement its independence. With Britain and Prussia now both friendly with the Quebecois rebels, the time for Spain to reassert its claims is running out. Madrid ordered Spanish soldiers to evacuate any remaining forts, a move some take as a hopeful sign. After two years with no conflict, could it be time for both powers to negotiate peace?

Viennese Slave Conference Ends Inconclusively
Prussia and Britain Mildly Condemned, Some Individuals Issue Stronger Statements

     Amid all the tension caused by events in the west, north, and east, the Conference on Slavery continued as planned in Vienna. Delegates from most realms met and discussed the divisive issue at length. It soon became clear there were real divisions over the agenda of the meeting. Prussia, who sent a delegation arguing that slavery must be forbidden in Europe, was condemned by abolitionist delegations when it became clear that, with Portugal’s abolition of slavery, they were determined to take over the role of capturing and delivering slaves. Using both this and the issue of the Bavarian Succession as justification, Frederick William II’s men withdrew from the gathering in protest.
     The British, who were ostensibly in attendance to observe the proceedings but not participate, were caught between growing abolitionist sentiments at home and the economic demands of the colonies across the sea. Even while some of the most outspoken delegates offered occasional encouragement on the topic of emancipation, it was reported that the government in London was increasing the number of slaves transported across the Atlantic, hoping to bolster its Southern and Caribbean colonies.
     Thus, the conference concluded at the end of the year. A blanket statement condemning slavery and offering a vague commitment to halting its appearance in Europe was issued. Mild criticisms of powers participating in the slave trade were also signed, seen as a reference to Prussia and Britain. No official pronouncements were made on the colonies, serfdom, or slavery within the Ottoman Empire. Indeed, the strongest abolitionists throughout the continent have condemned the final statement of the conference as too weak and tepid. Slaveholders in the Americas are outraged that one was issued at all. While the conference ignited debate on this very sensitive issue, it appears little will come out of it. In fact, two non-participants, Sardinia-Piedmont and Portugal, have taken stronger positions on the issue of slavery than any of the nations who sent delegates to either participate or observe.

Death of a Generation
As Old Leaders Pass, a New Cohort Must Govern Europe

     1783 would see many individuals who had formerly played major roles in Europe over the past few decades pass away, a sobering reminder that earlier events of the 18th century are fading from collective memory and a whole new generation is coming of age, one which perhaps will see the world quite differently. Indeed, besides the highly significant deaths of Victor Amadeus III or Maximilian I of Bavaria, numerous other former power players passed away.
    Queen Mother Luisa Ulrika Hohenzollern of Sweden, the mother of Gustav III, was the first to die in January. Once the center of the absolutist faction in Stockholm, she went to far as to flee her husband’s realm rather than live under a compromise with an empowered Riksdag. A sister of Frederick the Great, her death severs dynastic connections between Prussia and Sweden.
     Former King Alexander Czartoryski, who ruled Poland during the late 1750s and attempted to return to power during the Civil War in the 1770s, passed away in Magdeburg in March as a broken and defeated man. Aged 85, his death was celebrated in Warsaw as long overdue, though it also means his tenuous claim to the throne is now held by his son, former Prince Adam Kazimierz Czartoryski.
      Sebastião de Melo, the controversial Marquis of Pombal, died in Portugal roughly halfway through the year, the strain of the Spanish invasion too much for the 84-year-old. Effectively ruling Portugal during the reign of King Joseph I and returning to power later in life under Queen Maria, his policies saw the nobility crushed, Jesuits expelled, and both India and Saint Domingue acquired. Some wonder if he lived for too long, seeing all his gains of the 1750s imperiled during the 1780s.
     A death overlooked by many, but by no means less significant, was that of the former Mistress of King Louis XVI, Madame de Pompadour. A defector to the Prussians following her former lover’s rejection of her, she played a major role in increasing the tensions between the two realms that would ultimately result in the War of the Grand Coalitions. Yet, later in life she lost both her beauty and reputation, becoming a largely destitute hanger-on at the court of Frederick II, and later Frederick William II, of Prussia.
     In the Kingdom of Georgia, Solomon I also passed away. The unifier of his realm during the 1760s, he had ruled in relative peace following his decision to accept Russian protection following the War of the Grand Coalitions. In the middle of marriage negotiations with the Safavid’s his death means that his cousin, a far more independence-minded sovereign, has succeeded him on the throne as King David X of Georgia. He has renounced Russian protection, expelling their agents, and seeks to govern on his own terms.
     Finally, but perhaps most importantly, was the stunning news out of Russia of the death of the former Empress Catherine at her isolated convent. Her son had been planning to move her from Siberia, but it was all too much for the former Empress. While her relative youth (she was 54) raised a few eyebrows, it does seem that she genuinely died of natural causes, unable to cope with no longer controlling the Russian Empire. Emperor Paul is now largely the unquestioned ruler on the Russian throne, having outlived Ivan VI, Peter III, and now Catherine II. This development, while saddening for many, is also a big blow to those who would seek to exploit internal Russian divisions.

[Spamage]

The Encore of Europe

Turn 3: 1784

Nations, Leaders, & Players:
Major Powers:
Russian Empire- Emperor Paul Petrovich (HenryWallace)
Kingdom of France- King Louis XVI Bourbon (Windjammer)
Kingdom of Prussia- King Frederick William II Hohenzollern (Lumine)
Archduchy of Austria- Emperor Joseph II Habsburg (Dereich)
Kingdom of Great Britain- King George III of Hanover (Blair)
Kingdom of Spain- King Charles III Bourbon (LouisvilleThunder)
Ottoman Empire- Sultan Abdul Hamid I (Kalwejt)
Polish-Lithuanian Republic- President Tadeusz Kosciuszko (Sjoyce)
Kingdom of Scandinavia-King Gustav III of Holstein-Gottorp (YPestis)
Kingdom of Quebec-President Louis-Philippe de Vaudreuil(Dr Novella)
Kingdom of Portugal- Queen Maria Braganza (New Tennessean Politician)
Safavid Empire- Shah Ismail III Safavid (Kingpoleon)
Kingdom of the Netherlands- King William I of Orange (JacksonHitchcock)
Holy People’s Republic of Sardinia-Piedmont- President Pietro Verri (X)
Republic of Venice- Doge Gian Rinaldo Carli (GOTfan)
Qing Dynasty- Qianlong Emperor (Dkrol)

Economic Standings:
Kingdom of France- Strong
Kingdom of Great Britain- Strong
Archduchy of Austria- Strong
Safavid Empire- Strong
Ottoman Empire- Strong
Russian Empire- Strong
Qing Dynasty- Strong
Kingdom of Prussia- Moderate
Republic of Venice- Moderate
Holy People’s Republic of Sardinia-Piedmont- Moderate
Kingdom of Spain- Moderate
Republic of Poland-Lithuania- Moderate
Kingdom of Quebec- Moderate
Kingdom of Portugal- Weak
Kingdom of Scandinavia- Weak
Kingdom of the Netherlands- Weak

Popularity:
President Tadeusz Kosciuszko- Very High
Emperor Joseph II Habsburg- High
King George III- High
Qianlong Emperor- High
King Charles III Bourbon- High
Council President Pietro Verri- High
President Louis-Philippe de Vaudreuil- High
King Gustav III of Holstein-Gottorp- High
Emperor Paul Petrovich of Russia- Moderate
King Louis XVI Bourbon- Moderate
Doge Gian Rinaldo Carli- Moderate
Sultan Abdul Hamid I- Moderate
King Frederick William II Hohenzollern- Moderate
Shah Ismail III Safavid- Moderate
King William I of Orange- Low
Queen Maria Braganza- Very Low

Ongoing Conflicts:
Quebec War of Independence: Republic of Quebec vs. Kingdom of Spain (1781-)
Tripolitanian Rebellion: North African Tribal Rebels vs. Ottoman Empire, Archduchy of Austria, Republic of Venice (1779-)
Prussian-Portuguese War: Kingdom of Prussia, Ottoman Empire vs. Kingdom of Portugal
War of the Bavarian Succession: Archduchy of Austria, Russian Empire, Kingdom of Bavaria vs. Ottoman Empire, Kingdom of Scandinavia (1783-)
Sino-Nepalese War: Shah Dynasty vs. Qing Dynasty (1783-)
Sino-Korean War: Joseon Dynasty vs. Qing Dynasty(1783-)

Russian Empire:

-War has been launched successfully, though the gains in the two theatres varies. In Crimea there seems to be a real possibility of ending the polity that first terrorized Muscovy and then Russia for centuries. In Finland the Scandinavians retain a slight advantage, your attempts to seize Finland having stalled for the time being. How will the conflict be carried forward, if at all, during the next year?

-The events in Georgia are quite disturbing. While Solomon I followed your command and expelled the Ottoman diplomats, he died shortly afterwards. His cousin has seized the throne as David X and announced he no longer will be a Russian protectorate. In fact, he has claimed outright neutrality in the current dispute between you and the Ottomans. While some see this as an advantage, as it closes off the Caucuses to both yourself and the Ottomans, the renunciation of Russian “protection” is a blow to your influence in the region. Will you take action against David X, and risk creating an enemy, or allow the current situation to continue?

-The Ottoman call for Muslims to rise up against your rule has caused unease. Many remember the terrible civil wars during the last period and, among Russians, there is a real desire to keep internal peace. You have several large Muslim minority populations though, in Kazakhstan, north of the Caucuses, and in the Turkic homelands. Some think brutal repression will cow them into submission, such as the closing of mosques and arrest of leaders. Others advocate tolerance and mercy until traitors make themselves known. Perhaps garrisoning a few men here could be another way to keep the peace. How will you respond to the Ottoman call for a Muslim rising?

Archduchy of Austria:

-Well, your son has been enthroned as King Maximilian II of Bavaria, though now your realm is also at war with the upstart Charles Theodore. He seeks to rob your family of what is yours by right. The diplomatic situation is exploding, many expecting that Prussia will get involved and not to mention the potential conflict between yourself and both Scandinavia and the Ottomans. Will you go to war? How will you defend your son’s inheritance? Furthermore, despite the potential damaged status of Anglo-Austrian relations, where will you look for aid outside of the immediate combatants? Austria must triumph unlike in the past and finally avenge both the murder of your mother and your early Prussian captivity.

-The situation in Italy is evolving rapidly. With your Court in Vienna largely distracted by Bavaria, the rebels have executed most of the royal family and unrest exploded in Genoa. There are many who, with the Pope’s recent lukewarm support for the Verri government, fear that your territories could be next. Indeed, especially after the seizure of some Church land with your reforms, Milan, Lucca, and Tuscany would be the next areas where civil unrest becomes outright revolution. Will you seek to crush any ideas of freedom? Or should you strike some sort of deal with the government in Turin, hoping they’ll leave your lands be? How will this area be managed, keeping in mind Venice has an alliance with Sardinia-Piedmont and yet also has enacted a self-defense bill of neutrality? Italy is an issue that must be handled.

-As the Diet backed your son, only to have Charles Theodore reject its verdict, there are some in Vienna who see this as an opportunity to help restore the power and unity of the decaying Holy Roman Empire. If you were to attempt to get the other princes to back your throne their aid could be crucial, especially if Prussia were to call on the German League at a later date. Indeed, they could be the key to victory in that region, though you must also remember the past, where Princes would realize the danger of a strong Emperor after aiding him (see the Thirty Years War). Furthermore, as events showed in the previous war, it is one thing to get people to support your cause, another for them to actively prosecute the war. Will you call on the Princes to help punish Charles Theodore? Or is this too risky, endangering your prestige should there be a widespread refusal (which is also quite likely)? How should the Empire be managed now that war is taking place in it once again?

Kingdom of France:

-War rages all around France, both to the west and east. Various powers, recognizing your influence, have thus sought to involve you in their struggle and there are several potential avenues your policy could take. Naturally there are some who argue France must continue to be neutral, allowing your nation to be stronger relative to your competitors. With the Portuguese conflict looking more desperate though, especially with the flight of the Braganzas, some believe it is time to put your foot down and make Spain stop. With the conflict over Bavaria raging as well, France could also step into this theater. There are still some who remember the cooperation of France and Austria in the past, whatever disputes you have had since then, and believe you should aid Joseph II. Charles Theodore of the Palatine though, has also openly sought your aid. How will your realm steer through these European diplomatic storms on either side of your borders?

-The execution of Victor Amadeus has been portrayed as an act of barbarism within France. Both your daughters-in-law have taken up to rallying for intervention in the Revolution, though some advisors fear this could make the situation worse and lead to the cancer of Catholic Republicanism spreading into France. Especially with the Pope’s backing of Verri’s government, you must tread carefully. There is a faction leaning towards diplomacy as well though, even if it is much smaller. They think the Revolution could be manipulated if France handed over all the noble exiles from Sardinia-Piedmont in return for some sort of alliance. While this would be an anathema to your two sons and their wives, a King must always consider his options wisely. How will you respond to the execution of the King, Genoese Revolution, and political developments in Sardinia-Piedmont?

-Several other rulers have come forward to propose matches with the Petit Dauphin. The King of Naples, eyeing the threat of Sardinia-Piedmont has suggested his daughter Princess Maria Theresa (born 1772) be betrothed to your young grandson. The Duke of Wurttemburg, having no children himself, has offered the hand of his youngest niece Henriette Charlotte Friederike (born 1767). Frederick Augustus, the Duke of Saxony, offers his daughter Amalie Frederika of Saxony (born 1771). Will you accept any of these offers or look elsewhere?

Kingdom of Great Britain:

-Your realm sits outside of the current explosions in Eastern Europe and Iberia, George III, yet some are wondering if it is time for Britain to take a more active role. The events in Germany are quite concerning. If Prussia and Austria go to war an argument could be made for joining either side. Many were disappointed by the cancellation of the Austrian marriage, none more than the Princess herself, and if you were to aid them in the war it is likely the offer could be renewed. Prussia meanwhile has been Britain’s ally in the past. Or will you get further involved in the Portuguese crisis? Maria and her army have arrived in England thanks to your aid and it is an open question as to whether or not you should give direct military aid. While there are certainly many potential colonial gains from such a move (either from the grateful Portuguese or their many enemies) others fear this could only further extend to the conflict. What is Britain’s foreign policy in these times of uncertainty?

-Your decision to increase the slave trade has been popular in the southern of the Fifteen Colonies but resented by a growing pro-Emancipation movement in Britain. Indeed, radical newspapers in London have lambasted your government as one of “slaveholders, scoundrels, and Satan”. Will you yield to their calls to restrict the practice of the slave trade rather than expand it or seek to continue to please the American colonists? Certainly, there are rumors of a Congress of Grievances in Charleston if London takes any action to restrict slavery or the slave trade in the colonies. Furthermore, with the settlement of a base in Ghana some over-eager capitalists have financed slave-trading here as well, it becoming an early departure point of captives. Local leaders have taken issue, threatening war. What is your solution to these problems?

-The creation of a police force has been praised as an unprecedented development in Europe. Considering French espionage, which does in fact seem to have resulted in them acquiring their own steam engine after all, it has been generally supported. So too have your parliamentary reforms. Now the most radical voices are demanding you expand the number of potential voters by allowing those without property in their own right to participate. While this is strongly, strongly opposed by those who already have the right to vote, there are some in Parliament who see it as a necessary development. Others point to what happened in Portugal when the government attempted to reform too fast. Will you expand the enfranchisement in Britain, emulating radical governments in Poland and Sardinia-Piedmont, or seek to maintain the status quo, maintaining stability at the expense of true representative government?

Kingdom of Prussia:

-Your previous tacit support for Charles Theodore and the Russian attack on your Scandinavian and Ottoman allies has ensured that there is almost universal support in Berlin for heading to war once again. Yet, there are many reasons why you should tread carefully. Poland, once the target of Prussian intrigue, could very well turn on your realm following news of a proposed partition. Furthermore, while it is likely they will say yes, you would still need to request the other members of the German League come to your aid. In the Empire, while there were many willing to support Charles Theodore at the Diet based on your urging, it is something else entirely for them to take up arms. Also, with the mysterious weather of the last year, some fear that if it continues the war could only be made worse. Will you head to war regardless? How will Prussia demonstrate she remains as strong as in the days of King Frederick?

-Events in Sardinia-Piedmont, while distant from Berlin, are in fact closer to your realm than it appears. The execution of the King and the radical Catholic Republicanism poses a threat to only one area of your domains and it happens to be the most isolated, Corsica. While those who approve of Frederick William remain a majority, there have been reportedly parish priests who, inspired by events in mainland Italy, have denounced your Calvinist beliefs and the Lutheran religion of Prussia. Local officials are requesting guidance on how to handle the situation? You could use brutality, and hope to intimidate them into submission, though that also risks driving them underground and becoming more radical in their preaching. The religious gap has always been an issue in Corsica, what will you seek to do about it now?

-Winning trade rights with the Qing Empire was seen as a major boon for Prussia, though you lack any major ports between that region and New Prussia. Indeed, the journey can be quite perilous over such long distances. Fortunately, there are several potential solutions. You could seek to establish a colony somewhere in the region, another power could be convinced to open its support in exchange for a commission, or perhaps you should look into investing in more long-distance trade vessels. All three options have downsides as well. Yet another new colony could be expensive, giving another power a portion of revenue from Chinese trade limits profits, and a new fleet would take quite a bit of time (especially with the potential cloud of war throughout Europe). How will you ensure Prussia can take advantage of this great opportunity?

Kingdom of Scandinavia:

-The disaster in Iceland cannot be overstated. A key area of your realm has been utterly devastated, thousands are dead as volcanic ash haunted Europe. Though the eruption is now over, much repair work must be done. The number of domesticated animals needs to be increased, more settlers should be dispatched to replace the fallen (though it may be hard convincing people to move), and your Kingdom’s sense of security needs to be repaired. How will you go about restoring Iceland? Some wonder, with so much damage and a war raging, if it is even worth restoring at all. Whatever you decide, it must be acknowledged that the horror of the past year has shaken parts of your realm, not to mention the world, and its implications could be felt for a long time. Another aspect you will have to address is the food crisis. With grain from Russia shut off due to war and another bad winter on the way, some are asking if drastic action ought to be taken within the realm. They think noble and Church lands need to be seized, redistributed, and cultivated. Others eye Denmark, and its vast fields, hoping Prussia could be convinced to turn over Jutland to your control. What is to be done?

-The treacherous Russians have attacked you in Finland, your men managing to save Helsinki, but the fighting ability of both sides remaining even. The attack has rallied your people around the throne, with the Russians seen as the aggressors. Now, with the Ottomans at war and Central Europe falling into crisis, you must decide what your plans for this conflict will be. Should you attempt to seize control of the Baltic? Is a counterattack against Russia desirable? Is so, where? Others advocate defeating Austria before moving against Paul, warning you of the disastrous reign of Charles XII. What role will Scandinavia play in the War of the Bavarian Succession?

-There have been a variety of offers for the hand of your daughter and heir Princess Catherine. King Christian VII of Denmark has proposed that she marry his son and heir, Prince Frederick. Ironically, this would restore the Kalmar Union that the Vasas sought to get Sweden out of more than a century ago, only this time led by Sweden. Frederick Francis, the heir to the Duchy of Mecklenburg-Schwerin, has approached you with an offer of a betrothal between Princess Catherine and his young son Frederick Louis, which would eventually result in the union of Mecklenburg-Schwerin and Sweden, restoring a Swedish presence in Northern Germany. Your brother, the Duke of Ostergotland, has also put forward his candidacy for the hand of your daughter, pointing out their eventual marriage would keep the traditional royal family on the throne, though there is the matter of the close relationship. How will you respond to these offers? Or will you wait to betroth Catherine until she is older?

Kingdom of Portugal:

-You have fled Portugal, leaving the land of your birth aflame and mostly occupied by the Spanish. Pombal is dead. The nobility has even gone so far as to send out offers to Charles III in exchange for peace. Now that you sit in England, exiled but still in possession of an army, you must decide how you will go about fixing your situation. What actions will you take to ensure the House of Braganza will reign from Lisbon once more? Or, should bold action be taken in some other direction, such as moving to Brazil and pacifying that portion of your dominion before making peace with Spain? What will resolve this dire crisis for your family?

-You have been greatly aided by both France and Great Britain. Yet, neither realm has shown itself willing to enter the conflict on your behalf. Now that you’re in exile and the situation could hardly seem any more desperate, there are some who feel you should strike a deal or make offers to George III or Louis XVI in exchange for aid. Either promising them colonies (your own or Spanish), favorable trade terms, a royal marriage, or any other of potential concessions in return for outright military aid could help you triumph, or at very least limit the amount taken by Spain. What will be your diplomatic policy now that you no longer control the heartland of your Empire?

-With all the crises in your American colonies, it was hardly noticed that the Ottoman Empire launched a successful seizure of Macau, despite your recent peace treaty. As this colony was obtained directly with the permission of a former Emperor of China, there are many who demand you lodge an official protest with Beijing and request the Ottomans be expelled (with the city returned to you). Others fear that if the Chinese intervene Macau will never be Portuguese again. Perhaps being vocal about Ottoman aggression, especially given they are now at war with Russia and potentially Austria could be crucial? How will you protect Portugal’s last possession in the Far East outside of India?

[Spamage]

Kingdom of Spain:

-The Kingdom of Portugal has largely collapsed, resistance remaining only in patches of the north. With the flight of Queen Maria and her vindictive orders commanding the ransacking of the countryside and punishment of the nobility, there are many Portuguese nobles who have approached you privately, hoping to sign peace on their own terms. They would be willing to declare Maria I unfit to rule and establish a government in its place, perhaps with one of your own relatives as the King. While this could be a solution, it does not solve the problem of the exiled Queen. Furthermore, both Britain and France have supplied Maria with aid in direct defiance of you. How will you assuage their concerns about Spanish success in Portugal?

-The rebels in Sardinia-Piedmont have had the gall to execute your own sister. Alongside her your nephew and brother-in-law were both killed as well. While it has been years since you last saw Maria Antonia Ferdinanda, the move was a clear provocation. Some are calling on you to punish the revolutionaries directly, others think that you should suggest to your son, the King of Naples, that he crush the insurrection. Yet, it must also be remembered that, for the time being, the Pope stands by the rebels. Furthermore, you are at war with Portugal and the conflict could expand further. How will you respond to the murder of your sister?

-The events in Brazil have reportedly begun a stirring, albeit a very minor one, within your own vast territories in North America. Particular areas of concern are Louisiana, which was already eyeing independence along the lines of Quebec (if not petitioning that realm for annexation outright), the Caribbean, with vast numbers of slaves who could revolt if they were informed of events in Hispaniola, and Mexico, where the growing population increasingly resents the faraway rule of the House of Bourbon. Thus far dissent has been limited to meetings and pamphlets, though revolutions have been started by less. Will you seek to crack down on dissent with harsh new laws or police action? Others think sugar would work better, perhaps lowering taxes or granting minor local concessions. How will you maintain control of the second largest empire in the world?

Ottoman Empire:

-Your realm has been attacked by the evil Orthodox menace, Sultan. Russia has assaulted your longtime Crimean protectorate, forcing the Khan into his weakest position in memory. With the Palatine’s public backing of you, it is likely Austria could get involved in the struggle as well. How will you manage this new, potentially dangerous war? It seems now, with the advances in military technology and doctrines across the Continent during the past few decades that situations can change more rapidly than ever before. While this could be beneficial and allow for an Ottoman comeback, it could also mean the shattering of your historic empire. Think and act with caution.

-While you were one of the major grain suppliers last year, greatly benefitting your economy, the events in faraway Iceland seem to have taken a major toll on your own output of food. Egypt in particular is in grave trouble. With the failure of normal weather patterns and the selling of so much grain last year, it is difficult to see how this region will have enough to survive potentially major population losses this year with the onset of famine. You must seek food from somewhere, anywhere, if you hope to keep this key region fed, otherwise it could be damaged for decades to come. Less severe crises are emerging in Turkey itself and Mesopotamia, so any food will not come from within your existing borders. Some suggest a ration, others buying food elsewhere, and still a third group believes that you should let the situation unfold naturally. What will you do?

-The war with Russia has reminded many in Istanbul the wide number of groups in your own realm that could prove sympathetic to them. The Greeks share and Orthodox faith with the Romanovs. There are Bulgarian, Serbian, and Bosnian Slavs in Ottoman Europe. Armenia and Assyrians also could be drawn to Russian “liberators”. How will you handle these groups, it at all? Will you give any concessions until the war is completed or will a show of strength be enough to keep them loyal? While they probably wont act out unless too grave a defeat is inflicted, it is wise to be prepared for any eventual attempts to do so. Perhaps the Patriarch of Constantinople could be of some assistance?

Kingdom of Quebec:

-King Henry of Prussia has been crowned in Montreal, crowds cheering the arrival of the new figurehead leader of the Kingdom of Quebec. There is one problem. King Henry has remained a bachelor his whole life, therefore has no clear successor. While he is still just 36, clearly something must be done. In the event of Henry’s death there is really no clear heir to the Throne of Quebec. While undoubtedly another member of the House of Hohenzollern could be furnished, the situation is not ideal. Another matter of dispute is the King’s religion. King Henry is a Calvinist governing a staunchly Catholic realm. He has avoided discussion of religious matters with his ministers, but public opinion seems to be in favor of a demand that he convert to Catholicism. Will you force the King to convert, and risk his refusal, or allow him to practice his religion, despite the negative effect this could have on his, and your own, popularity?

-Spain has evacuated the forts of Quebec and you have achieved diplomatic recognition by several other powers. Perhaps it is time to approach King Charles III with the offer of a peace treaty. If you do, the terms must not be too unfavorable to your fellow citizens though. Will you make peace with your former Bourbon overlord, especially now when he is distracted with the Portuguese War or should the matter be settled later when conditions might even be more opportune? Perhaps intercession from your friends across the Atlantic could move him towards signing a formal peace treaty….

-Britain’s refusal to sell Hudson’s Bay has not in any way decreased the desire of some in Quebec to expand. Instead their eyes have now turned towards the Great Lakes region to the southwest of Montreal. They think that settlements should be founded in the northern area and claims be laid all the way west towards the Pacific Ocean. While Britain does currently claim this land, it is largely unsettled by Europeans. Indeed, with the conflicts against the natives, perhaps you already possess a reason to expand in this area. Others are warier though, fearing the British could launch a war to defend the region. Will you seek to settle these tracts of land across the Great Lakes?

Safavid Empire:

-The decision to sell grain to Europe was highly beneficial for your economy. Profits were made as desperate Europeans clamored for some sort of nutrition. While there are questions about whether or not Persian goods were tampered with when crossing through the Ottoman Empire, as much more spoiled than expected, as a whole you have been successful. Now, with another year of famine, only this time far worse, Persia itself still maintains a slight grain surplus. You will likely be able to assist one other power in its time of need, but only one. Will you aid someone or seek to save your food for the future, keeping in mind how unpredictable weather has been as of late?

-Your agreement with the Ottomans has directed many eyes east towards the Durrani Empire. Once the bane of Persia and Northern India, the realm has stagnated over the past few decades and has internal political divisions. Recently news emerged that they signed a non-aggression pact with France in India, meaning they could be eyeing your own lands. Will you attack the Durrani and seek to restore Persian rule to the region after centuries of absence, or should Persia use the time of Ottoman distraction to focus on preparing internal defenses and profiting?

-The death of King Solomon of Georgia has put negotiations to a halt, though his cousin King David X seems willing to negotiate a betrothal between his young daughter Princess Tamar (she is 3) and one of your sons. Furthermore, in the hopes of deterring either Russian or Ottoman aggression, he is willing to sign a pact of mutual defense. Some at Court believe you should ignore his offers, attack the realm, and force Georgia to either become a satellite or a province of the Safavid Empire, though this could provoke other powers. What will you do about his offers?

Polish-Lithuanian Republic:

-The people of Warsaw are utterly outraged, Mr. President. A massive plot of the reactionary, monarchist governments against your realm has apparently been revealed by Emperor Joseph II. Indeed, the premise seems plausible (Prussia, Russia, the Ottomans, and Scandinavia working to end the existence of the Republic). While Austria claims they made the matter public in order to be a good friend (they were allied to the Republic during the wars against Prussia in the 1760s), some are skeptical and expect their involvement was deeper than they are letting on. Will you listen to the hawks in the National Assembly who are calling for war against Prussia, Scandinavia, and the Ottoman Empire now they they’ve come into conflict with Russia and Austria over the matter of the Bavarian Succession? Or should Poland remain neutral as the monarchs of Europe squabble over their minor principalities? With Polish soldiers the most experienced and your situated in the middle of any potential conflict, the choice is yours. Choose wisely.

-Congratulations on the new Constitution! The citizens of the Republic have widely praised your reforms as wise and far-sighted. Now, with the political system set, rights assured, and your control of the nation continually on the rise comes the question of what domestic issues should be tackled next. While many have praised your economic reforms, there are some who think even more radical action is necessary, eyeing the rights and privileges of the guilds which have been thus untouched throughout the chaos of the past few decades. Some believe the bodies are cumbersome and obsolete, pushing for their abolition alongside your new tax reforms and infrastructure projects. Others fear that the men, out of work and obsolete in a changing economy, will turn to revolutionary aims in their free time and blame you for putting them out of work. Will you pursue further economic reforms or did you go far enough?

 -Despite the general popularity of your reforms, there are whispers of a simmering conspiracy. Foreign funding for conservative and reactionary forces has apparently resulted in growing networks throughout the realm, primarily consisting of people who feel the Revolution has not benefitted their standing in society. Primarily members of the former nobility and officials under the old government, they are reportedly seeking to eventually restore the monarchy. Even so, there has been no violence yet, the groups primarily taking advantage of your laws on freedom of speech to publish broadsheets denouncing your government for its “radicalism”. Some believe you should order an immediate suppression of these “subversives” while others argue that this is a real test to see whether or not you are truly committed to the principles of freedom of speech that you included in the new constitution. Will you suppress the reactionary organizations or allow them to continue to operate?

Kingdom of the Netherlands:

-Dutch activity in the Portuguese War has thus far had moderate success. You have established a base on Saint Domingue as well as two successful landings in Brazil, though there are many on your general’s staff who are worried about the prospect of maintaining your forces. In particular, the successful Portuguese evacuation of India with French help, thereby bypassing your blockade, was concerning. With the Brazilian Republicans refusing to give you aid, Saint Domingue continuing to be a chaotic situation, and new fears of other realms coming to Queen Maria’s aid, you must carefully decide your final goals. Some think binding yourself to Spain could be useful as a deterrent against other powers intervening, though memory of your checkered past with them is a sizeable deterrent. How will you win the war?

-The Ottoman Empire, secure in its new colony of East Timor, has begun to establish trade and political contacts with the minor states on the border of the Dutch East Indies. Emphasizing their common Islamic heritage and the Ottoman role as their religious defender, it seems aimed at undermining further Dutch expansion in the region. Hawks in Amsterdam believe your soldiers should march on these independent realms and establish some protectorates, if you don’t annex them outright. Others believe patient economic policies should be pursued in order to demonstrate dealing with the Dutch is preferable to closer Ottoman ties. How will you secure the loyalty, or obedience, of these small independent principalities in Indonesia? Or should you focus elsewhere until your conflict with Portugal is resolved?

-Your ships in Japan were greeted with utter shock and a bit of hostility. Remembering the former extensive ties between the Shogunate and the United Provinces, local officials have redirected your ships to the traditional ports of Nagasaki, where there is a small, old Dutch trade mission at Dejima. While the leader of Japan is willing to slightly expand this trade settlement, he retains his desire to keep Japan isolated from the rest of the world, as has been custom. If you wish to open up Japan or press for more advantageous concessions, it is generally agreed that military action will be necessary. While your ships are probably superior, it is expected that the Japanese would be able to overwhelm your meagre presence in Nagasaki rapidly. What will you do?

Holy People’s Republic of Sardinia-Piedmont:

-The satanic King is dead. His Jezebel wife is dead. Their wretched spawn are either imprisoned, out of your reach, or dead. The Revolutionary fervor continues to sweep your realm, though some in your government fear it is going too far. In particular the violence in outlying communities and in Sardinia of the “Savornola Brigades” is concerning, as their groups are not under your control. They demand you use the military to reassert control of the realm. Others think that you would work with these supposed radicals and emphasize the commitment of these groups to Catholic doctrine. Will you continue the Revolution on a radical path or seek to moderate somewhat?

-The collapse of Genoa has inspired many revolutionaries and they look at further expansion of the Holy People’s Republic. In particular Modena, the Habsburg lands, and Corsica are all eyed by the most militant souls in the Republic. Some have even suggested “protecting” Pope Adrian VII by occupying the Papal States. Will you seek to spread the tide of Revolution across Italy and the rest of Europe? Or should these voices be quieted, lest they draw the ire of more powerful European realms?

-With the spirit of republicanism and Catholicism entwined in your government, you have been approached with a unique demand. A group of “Poor Clares”, nuns from Piedmont, have demanded that they should have full voting rights. Arguing that all are equal before God and pointing to the example of Portugal, they believe full female suffrage should be the next step. Others in the realm see this as too radical, pointing to St. Paul’s less than flattering views on the role of women in the Church. There is a middle way too, which believes that only women who enter religious orders should be given the vote. Keeping in mind events elsewhere, what is your government’s position of female suffrage?

Republic of Venice:

-Your neutrality act has passed and defenses are being constructed throughout northern Italy. While Venice has been out of the European fray for many years now, this has not stopped factions from forming in your own government. With your permission of political parties, they have both adopted names for themselves. The two divergent groups, while both seeking to prevent military aid outright, back the Ottomans and Austrians respectively. Both have evoked the name of famous Venetians for dramatic effect and nationalist appeals. They believe Venice should profit off of the conflict by supplying aid, food, and loans to one side or the other. The pro-Ottoman camp, calling themselves the “Dandolo Party”, is primarily wealthy Venetians who have helped ship grain over the past year. They formed a connection, and see the potential for cooperation, with the Ottomans and grain merchants. The lower-class representatives are pro-Austrian, taking the name the “Loredan Party”, unwilling to forget the historic Ottoman-Venetian rivalry. Will you seek to supply a power while remaining neutral? Or should Venice remain armed, but not seek to profit off of the misfortunes of others? Which party to you favor? The conservative Dandolos or the reformist Loredans?

-With the Ottomans now distracted by a larger war, closer to their centers of population, there are many who are worried about the situation in Tripoli. Certainly, Venice has made gains over the past few months, restoring its former borders and weakening the local sultanate. That was with Ottoman cooperation though. Will you continue to try and defeat the Sultan of Tripolitania on your own or wait until the Ottomans are able to resume operations, taking a defensive position in the meantime? Furthermore, what is to be done about the towns you’ve recaptured, some of which are full of people that betrayed your administration and surrendered to their fellow Muslims without a fight?

-The events in Sardinia-Piedmont, a realm you have aligned yourself with, have concerned some within Venice. While the reformation of your government under Francesco Loredan was largely peaceful, transforming from an oligarchy to a genuine republic, the events in Turin have been far more radical. The King was executed alongside much of his family, a radical embrace of Catholicism has occurred, and the nobility is stamped out. There are some in your government who fear your fellow citizens could get radical ideas about reforming the, albeit small, remaining pieces of the old order in Venice, in particular the still-powerful aristocracy. Catholic Republicanism also is showing signs of appearing in your realm. How will you handle Sardinia-Piedmont? Will you, as some have suggested, seek to serve as an intermediator between the new republic there and the ancient monarchies of Europe, your government being a Republic most powers have become used to dealing with, or instead focus on preserving tranquility in your own realm and let the Sardinians make their own decisions, even if it means other powers could get more involved in Italy? Clearly you must think hard about how the old Republic of Venice will relate to the new Holy People’s Republic.

[Spamage]

Qing Dynasty:

-The Middle Kingdom is at war. While your show of strength subdued the Tibetans and quashed their ideas of full independence, other realms have not been so submissive. The Shah Dynasty was shocked by your attack, though they are determined to resist it. Indeed, the Queen Mother has rallied thousands to her cause in the name of preserving the freedom of her son’s realm from faraway bureaucrats in Beijing. In Korea, likewise, the King of the Joseon Dynasty is determined to maintain his independence. How will you manage these two different conflicts? Are there any specific strategies you wish to adopt?

-China has seen a population boom over the last century. With no expansion though, thus the holdings of individuals families getting smaller and smaller over time, the food surplus decreases every year. There are arable parts of the Empire that are currently untouched, in particular in your family’s Manchurian homeland, but the locals there jealously guard their territory from Han settlement. With your recent decision to grant representation in the Forbidden City to most groups, it appears everyone except the Han Chinese opposes allowing them to settle in other areas of the Empire. They are a clear majority in population though. Will you open up your constituent realms to Han cultivation or allow to status quo to continue, easing local tensions in ethnic and cultural minority communities?

-Your decision to open up trade with the Prussians has been a success thus far. Though there are traditionalists who claim that even this was too much opening to the outside world, many in Beijing think you struck the right balance. Even so, this has apparently not stopped other powers from wanting access as well. The Ottomans invaded the Portuguese trading settlement of Macau, other realms such as the Netherlands have expanded trade operations in the region, and private individuals have sought to sneak into China. Naturally they were caught, and Chinese prisons house dozens of westerners seeking to circumvent trade restrictions? What is to be done with these individuals? Some advocate death in order to send a lesson, others that you should strike a deal with them and further open up China. Naturally, most people have an opinion somewhere in between.

Armies & Locations

Kingdom of Prussia
154,000 Royal Army of Prussia
10,000 Army of New Prussia
2,000 Army of Guyana
5,000 Madagascar Expedition
40,000 men garrisoned
(Can raise 1,000 more)

Kingdom of France
80,000 men raised and mobile
60,000 men garrisoned
60,000 Army & Garrison of India
(Can raise 90,000 more)

Kingdom of Great Britain
10,000 Army of Britain
32,900 Garrison of Britain
35,000 Army & Garrison of the 15 Colonies
3,000 Army & Garrison of Australia
3,500 Army of Charleston
2,500 Ghana Garrison
100 Falklands Garrison
(Can raise 78,000 more)

Kingdom of Scandinavia
65,042 Army of Helsinki
40,000 Army of Stockholm
20,000 men garrisoned
(Can raise 7,000 more)

Kingdom of Spain
74,331 Army of Portugal
2,000 men garrisoned
10,000 Garrison of New Spain
38,610 Army of Santo Domingo
21,046 Army of South America
2,000 Army & Garrison of the Philippines
(can raise 2,000 more)

Russian Empire
40,000 men raised and mobile
50,000 men garrisoned
40,000 Army of the West (Prague)
58,062 Army of the North
96,872 Army of the South
(can raise 4,000 more)

Archduchy of Austria
80,000 Army of Bohemia
120,000 Austrian Army of Bavaria
45,000 Army of Bavaria
10,000 Imperial Ration Army
45,000 men garrisoned
(can raise 5,000 more)

Ottoman Empire
90,000 men raised and mobile
27,542 Army of Tripolitania
1,700 Army of Timor
1,000 Army of Mauritius
42,100 men garrisoned
(can raise 69,300 more)

Polish-Lithuanian Republic
100,000 men raised and mobile
30,000 men garrisoned
(can raise 80,000 more)

Kingdom of Portugal
20,000 ‬Army of India
11,720 Army of Saint Domingue
34,400 Army of Queen Maria (exiled in Britain)
20,250 ‬Army of Brazil
6,731 ‬men garrisoned
(‬Can raise ‬0 ‬more)

Safavid Empire
50,000 men raised and mobile
25,000 men garrisoned
(Can raise 42,000 more)

Republic of Quebec
25,000 men raised and mobile
5,000 Army of the Frontier
10,000 men garrisoned
(Can raise 22,000 more)

Provisional Government of Sardinia-Piedmont
30,000 ‬men raised and mobile
10,000 ‬men garrisoned
 (‬Can raise ‬55,000 ‬more)

Republic of Venice
25,000 Army of Venice
17,761 Army of Tripoli
1,500 Trade Expedition
3,500 men garrisoned
(‬Can raise ‬15,000 ‬more)

Kingdom of the Netherlands
25,000 ‬men raised and mobile
5,000 Army of New Holland
17,420 Army of Saint Domingue
7,401 Army of Brazil North
5,000 Army of Brazil South
7,000 Army of the East Indies
2,000 Army of Guyana
15,000 ‬men garrisoned
 (‬Can raise ‬13,000 ‬more)

Qing Dynasty
90,000 Army of the North
72,170 Army of the East
84,732 Army of the South
30,000 Imperial Army
(Can raise 200,000 more)

Navies of the World
Kingdom of Great Britain
205 Ships of the Line
126 Frigates

Kingdom of France
110 Ships of the Line
50 Frigates

United Provinces of the Netherlands
52 ‬Ships of the Line
40 ‬Frigates

Kingdom of Spain
55 Ships of the Line
32 Frigates

Russian Empire
40 Ships of the Line
12 Frigates

Kingdom of Scandinavia
40 Ships of the Line
15 Frigates

Kingdom of Prussia
35 Ships of the Line
17 Frigates

Kingdom of Portugal
33 Ships of the Line
14 Frigates

Polish-Lithuanian Republic
16 Ships of the Line
16 Frigates

Ottoman Empire
25 Ships of the Line
10 Frigates

Republic of Venice
15 ‬Ships of the Line
24 ‬Frigates

Archduchy of Austria
11 Ships of the Line
3 Frigates

Provisional Government of Sardinia-Piedmont
10 Ships of the Line
2 Frigates

Republic of Quebec
3 Ships of the Line
7 Frigates

[Spamage]

QUEEN MARIA POISONED IN ENGLAND!
Spanish Agents Apprehended by British Authorities

     Even with her exile, Queen Maria of Portugal remained a force to be reckoned with. Possessing a sizeable army, British support, and the legitimacy of being the established monarch, she was determined to regain her throne. Even with all of the challenges she remained in relatively good health, both physically and mentally. Then, she suddenly fell ill around March. Dying withing twenty four hours of first reporting sick, an investigation by her Portuguese physician and local British experts determined that she had been murdered by the insertion of strychnine into her food.
    While her staff was determined to be innocent, it was  only several days before the newly established British police force apprehended several suspicious Spaniards. Soon documents came to light, in Spanish, revealing the extent of the conspiracy. Reportedly Charles III of Spain himself was responsible, though perhaps not directly. Nowhere is the Spanish King's name openly stated, with the closest reference being an allusion to the "highest authority". High officials at Court in Madrid did seem to have consented to the planned killing though. While the men arrested vehemently deny any involvement and claim that they were framed, the evidence from the British investigation does seem rather compelling.
     Maria died an unpopular monarch, kicked out of her central Kingdom and seeing the Portuguese Empire descend into chaos. Brazil is in revolt, Saint Domingue is collapsing, Mysore has asserted independence, and both East Timor and Macau have been lost. While there are some Braganzan loyalists still fighting in northern Portugal, Spain has seized much of the realm. She repeatedly asserted during her exile that history would vindicate her bold moves, though the London press mocked her for these sentiments. Even so, her passing may be a boon for the rest of her exiled family, depending on how they act. Perhaps the right moves could restore national pride and instigate a revolt against Spain?
    Her twenty-two-year-old son has declared himself King Joseph II of Portugal and is determined to be given the throne that he sees as his by right. Whether or not the British will be willing to support his cause as strongly is an open question, but a necessary one. How will peace talks, recently proposed for Marseilles, develop now that Maria is no more? Can the Portuguese Empire be saved or will the Braganzas now be relegated to a footnote in history?

DURRANI ATTACK SAFAVIDS!
Upset by threats from Ishfahan, War is Declared

    The demand of Ismail III that the Durrani surrender and become vassals of the Safavid Dynsaty was greeted with indignation by the Durrani Empire. Timur Shah Durrani, whatever the problems his realm faced internally, was determined to emulate his father and teach the Safavids a lesson. A series of brutal border raids from the mountains of Afghanistan have been launched against the Persians. Villages have been sacked, Shia imams murdered, and local wealth seized. The move caught the local garrisons somewhat off-guard following the Ismail's agressive posturing north rather than east. The diplomats sent with the message of the Safavid shah were murdered, their heads being sent back to their leader in a clear indication of Durrani opinion.
    During the border raids, Timur Shah himself has been gathering his army and preparing for war against the Safavids. It now appears there will be another conflict in the Middle East between the resurgent Persians and the recently dominant Durrani. While Ishfahan has strength in numbers, the war will still likely be a bloody and close one. This could have major implications regardless of what happens. Either power, if weakened, could find themselves vulnerable to the Ottomans or French in India. A shattering of Persia could return the region to the dynastic chaos of the past few decades or the collapse of the Durrani could signal a new, even more powerful Safavid state. The events here will likely be determined on the battlefield. The future religion, government, and culture of thousands up for debate as the two leaders dig in and prepare for war.

[Spamage]

1784 Military Update

War of the Bavarian Succession
Kingdom of Prussia, Electorate of the Palatine, Ottoman Empire, Kingdom of Scandinavia, Crimean Khanate, German League, Qing Dynasty Vs. Archduchy of Austria, Kingdom of Bavaria, Russian Empire

Summary: Despite both sides attempting to push for peace, at least seeming to indicate they were open to peace, the dispute over Bavaria opened with bloody fighting around the Continent. Appeals to nationalism, loyalty to the Crown, and historical rivalries all played a role as battles raged from the forests of Finland to the shores of the Danube. Neither side has emerged with an advantage during the tumultuous year of 1784.

Austrian Invasion of Corsica: Slight Austrian Victory

Just a year ago it would have seemed absurd for Frederick William’s authority in Corsica to be challenged. His treatment of the priests, while intended to be gentle, pushed to radicals into flight towards the Corsican interior rather than face exile or be forced to recant their views. Some went as far to nickname him Frederick William “the Priest-Hater”. When an Austrian force, modest in size, landed on the island, the priests urged support for the invaders. The island has been torn into a civil war. Frederick William remains beloved by half the people and despised by the other portion, his rule becoming polarizing. In the chaos the Austrians have largely gained the allegiance of the interior, the region always the most skeptical of Protestant Hohenzollern rule. Ajaccio and the major settlements remain firmly Prussian. Only 1785 can determine who will control this island.

Battle of Belgrade: Major Russian/Serbian Victory

Preaching the glory of pan-Slavinism, the wretchedness of Ottoman tyranny, and the upcoming four-hundredth anniversary of the Ottoman invasion of Serbia, the Russian Army of the West crossed the Danube, laying siege to Belgrade. It was a short siege. Immediate Ottoman aid was not forthcoming due to the distraction of border raids and counter raids against the Austrians in Bosnia. Centuries of resentment had been building in the region and the Serbs of the city overthrew their oppressors in bloody house-to-house fighting. After two weeks under Russian cannon fire, the gates were opened. Before any major Ottoman resistance could be organized, much of the countryside joined the city in rebellion. Peasants have burned the Ottoman flag, calling for a new Serbia to be organized. The Russians now sit in Belgrade, a major bridgehead on the Ottoman side of the Danube secured.

Battle of Olomouc: Stalemate

The Prussians attempted to employ trickery to distract the Austrians from their true plans. It did not entirely work, with the Habsburgs having set up a defensive position on the route from Lower Silesia into Bohemia. Even so, it took them time to get organized during which the Prussians launched a series of raids and seized a fair portion of Moravia. The two armies came face-to-face at Olmouc. Though the Prussians enjoyed a sizeable numerical advantage, the Austrians enjoyed being in the defensive position, standing in between the Prussian army and their objectives. Part of the Prussian problem was the absence of the Russians, who they had assumed could be manipulated before the main battle. The Battle of Olmouc lasted all day, the bloodshed harkening back to the worst days of the Wars of the Grand Coalitions. Prussia took the city, forcing the Austrians to retreat towards the west, but they did so at a heavy cost. In a reminder of the increasing efficiency of warfare, they took heavy casualties. Even so, the way into the remainder of Moravia and perhaps the rest of the Habsburg realm could be opened with the right move.

Prussian Invasion of the Sudetenland: Major Prussian Victory

With the Russian evacuation of Bohemia and the main Austrian army distracted by events in Moravia, the Prussian reserve army invaded the Sudetenland, a territory briefly ruled by Frederick II. The Austrian garrisons were overwhelmed by the surprise arrival and were overpowered. The army then continued onto Prague, attempting to occupy the historic city. While there was enough of an advanced warning to close the gates, the Prussians have put it under siege and once again threaten one of the constituent realms of the Habsburg Monarchy

Prussian Raids into Hungary: Decisive Austrian Victory

Upon arriving in Moravia, the Prussian Royal Army dispatched forces to raid Hungary, hoping to distract the Austrians. The Habsburgs were prepared, having some alternate source of information. The Prussian raiders were met at the border, surrounded, and slaughtered. The survivors were captured, having failed in their attempt to sow chaos in the Magyar homeland.

Prussian Raids into Tyrol: Decisive Austrian Victory

A small band of Swiss mercenaries was likewise detached to raid towards the Austrian heartland. In a rare Prussian miscalculation, these cavalry regiments had a miserable time attempting reach Vienna over the mountainous terrain. Local Austrian garrisons easily beat the exhausted soldiers by the time they were nearing Steiermark.

War in Crimea: Major Russian Victory

The Ottoman-Crimean alliance remained on the defensive in 1784. This time nearly the entire peninsula of Crimea was seized following a series of skirmishes. The Khan of Crimea was captured and brutally murdered by vengeful Russian soldiers while the remaining Ottoman soldiers have been forced into the walls of Sebastopol and Kerch. Ottoman holdings north of Georgia were also seized in the fighting. This is a major regional turning point. For the first time, perhaps ever, there are no major nomadic independent realms on the Steppe. Furthermore, Ottoman influence here is damaged, perhaps irreparably. Many are already calling for the men here to withdraw and be sent to another front.

Battle of Ansbach: Major Austrian Victory

The Austrians sent a light force to take the Palatine but received word of a massive combined German League-Swiss Mercenary Army. Thus, following orders, they reconvened with the larger Austrian Army of Bavaria. In the Battle of Ansbach the two large armies did battle, the largest engagement of the year. Despite the skill of the Duke of Brunswick, the Austrians managed to seize the day, forcing him, the Palatinate soldiers, and the Swiss mercenaries south towards Stuttgart. The main Austrian army quickly occupied northern Wurttemberg and garrisoned it before returning west while the invasion of the Palatine commenced.

Invasion of the Palatine: Major Austrian Victory

Fresh off of their victory in Ansbach, the Austrians attacked the Palatine. Charles Theodore fled his realm when it was clear his men were far outnumbered. Mannheim, the capital, fell to the Habsburgs as the locals looked on in horror. The move reminded many of the Thirty Years War, the last time the Habsburgs had invaded their homeland. The entire principality has been seized, in a major blow to the would-be King of Bavaria’s authority, but the tensions are high. It is only the number of Austrian soldiers that is keeping the peace.

Naval Battle of the Baltic: Decisive Scandinavian Victory

Determined to restore Scandinavian authority in the Baltic, and with the support of their allies, the Scandinavian fleet engaged the Russians on the open sea, just south of Finland. Both sides were employing their entire fleets, underscoring how crucial of a moment it was. It was a naval battle that may only occur once in a generation. The Swedes swept the Russians into a jumbled mess before launching a series of fire ships at the Russian vessels. Hundreds of Russian sailors drowned as the fleet based in St. Petersburg was severely mauled, some wondering if it can ever recover. While a contingent managed to flee the horrors, there is now no question who will control the waters of the Baltic for the next few years.

Raid on St. Petersburg: Decisive Scandinavian Victory

The victory at sea was only a prelude to something more sinister though. The path was clear towards St. Petersburg, the Scandinavians launching a small raid on the Russian capitol. Paul and his Court managed to flee the city just hours ahead of the Scandinavian arrival, citizens forming a guard around their sovereign as he moved towards Moscow. The soldiers, mostly Swedes, ransacked the city in front of the horrified inhabitants. After raiding storehouses and stockades they departed, the navy bombarding the city while the soldiers set fires. Peter the Great’s finest achievement has been severely damaged. Indeed, Russia’s finest port has been greatly damaged. As survivors survey the wreckage, there is little question that a great gem has been lost.

Battle of Viborg: Decisive Russian Victory

A second Swedish army was organized to land at Viborg and cut off the Russians if they marched on Helsinki. There was confusion though, and the Scandinavian commanders would be taught a tough lesson about separating soldiers. The Russians, eliciting the landing by feinting an attack towards Helsinki, turned and mauled the smaller Scandinavia force. In a rare moment of irony, it was the Scandinavians who had their backs on St. Petersburg and the Russians with their back on Stockholm at the Battle of Viborg. Easily able to defeat the Swedes here, the survivors have fled north while the Russians again eye Helsinki hungrily.

Qing Invasion of Chita: Slight Qing Victory

The Russians in the Far East were surprised by the arrival of the Chinese, who quickly occupied local territory under the reasoning that they were reclaiming it. Indeed, the limited garrisons have been easily overwhelmed, though that is not to say it is smooth sailing for the Chinese. The logistical issues have been a nightmare, only exacerbated by the presence of the Emperor and his entourage. Poor supply lines have meant that disease, starvation, and exposure have been the biggest enemies of the Chinese here, not necessarily the Russians.


Spanish-Portuguese War
Kingdom of Spain, Kingdom of the Netherlands Vs. Kingdom of Portugal

War in Hispaniola: Decisive Spanish-Dutch Victory

The last embers of the loyalist slave army have been crushed following increased cooperation between the large Spanish army and the Dutch expeditionary force. As it currently stands with the last of the slave leaders captured, the island is three-quarters Spanish and a quarter Dutch. Despite hardly looking possible several years ago, slavery has been forced back on the rebellious Portuguese colony.

Braganza Landings in Oporto: Major Spanish Victory

The attempt by some loyalists to land in Northern Portugal failed after locals tipped off the Spanish. Joseph II’s men, likely sent ahead of a larger army, have been captured by the Spanish Army garrisoning the area before any solid action could be taken. With their capture, the last active pro-Braganzan Army in Portugal has been defeated. Now only the Army of Exiles remains in Britain.

Sino-Korean War, Sino-Nepalese War
Qing Dynasty Vs. Joseon Dynasty, Shah Dynasty

Battle of the Duman River: Major Korean Victory

The Qianlong Emperor decided to divide his forces, launching two campaigns against the Joseon. In the Northeast, a sizeable force under the command of Yongyan, one of the Emperor’s sons, sought to cross into Korea. In the middle of crossing, the Koreans launched a massive attack, catching the Chinese in a confused state and inflicting a major defeat. Thousands of Chinese were killed in the fighting, the death toll only rising as desperate soldiers sough to ford back across the water and were weighted down by armor and supplies. The shattered half of the Eastern Army has limped back into Manchuria. Perhaps most humiliatingly of all has been the death of Prince Yongyan, a development that caused his father great grief. Can the situation be saved?

Chinese Invasion of Amnok: Major Chinese Victory

With the bulk of the Korean forces concentrated on shattering half of the Chinese invasion force, General Fuk’anggan was able to operate largely freely. He fulfilled most of his objectives before word reached him of the defeat of the other Chinese force in the north. He now sits in Korea alone, possessing a large force but in highly hostile territory.


Persian-Durrani War

Durrani Invasion of the Oxus: Major Durrani Victory

With the Persians concentrating their efforts on seizing the city of Peshawar, the Durrani were easily able to launch a lightning campaign to the north. The Oxus River was quickly captured as the local Persians were caught off guard.

Persian Assault on Peshawar: Slight Persian Victory

The main focus of the war for both sides was invasion of the Durrani Empire by the Safavid army. Ismail III ordered a huge invasion, but the region is not called the “graveyard of Empires” for nothing. Failing to reach Peshawar due to poor supply lines and constant raids, the Persians did battle with the smaller Durrani force at Qambar. Although they carried the day, taking the settlement and expelling the Durrani, there is still much work to be done if the Empire is to be defeated.

[Spamage]

News 1784

Eastern Europe Ablaze
War Returns, With a Vengeance

    Austria and Prussia have returned to their usual pastime, fighting each other. Each power scored a major win, Austria by knocking out the Palatine and the Prussians with their move against Prague. In Finland the Russians beat back a reinforcing Scandinavian Army and now sit between two smaller armies that are larger than the Russian force if combined. In Crimea, Suvorov continued to prove his worth, putting an end to the historic khanate and threatening Russian rule.
    Despite the bloody fighting raging in the German states and Bohemia, the most followed development in the War of the Bavarian Succession was the surprise rising of the Serbians in Belgrade. Emboldened by Russian aid, they seek to tear down Ottoman influence in the Balkans after four centuries. The rebels crowned Emperor Paul’s younger son, a boy of nine, as King of the Serbs in absentia, though whether the Russian Emperor will acquiesce to this action remains to be seen. Whatever the case, as the fighting spread throughout the region there are many Ottoman officials who have begun to eye other areas of the Empire with worry. In particular there are fears in Istanbul that Bulgaria and Bosnia could follow the Serbs into revolution, not to mention Greece, which has been surprisingly quiet.
    The general outlook in Europe is one of quiet discontent. The worst winter in memory has passed, with thousands dying in famine despite the best attempts to alleviate the suffering, and conflicts continue to spiral out of control.

CRISIS IN ITALY
Pope Adrian VII is DEAD, Rome and Naples Invaded by Sardinia and Zealous Rebels

The war in the north, fighting in North Africa, and harsh words with Persia has not stopped the Ottomans from moving forward with what could be one of the world's greatest marvels, a canal connecting the Red and Mediterranean Seas. Indeed, the Sultan has been praised for his innovative idea and construction has begun in the arid region. This project, if completed, would make trade between Asia and Europe far easier than at present and could limit the need for a whole journey around Africa by sea. While some Prussians have grumbled that this could limit the importance of New Prussia, Europe as a whole is watching the development here very closely. It is estimated it will be several years before the canal can be opened and in the meantime, trade will continue on its traditional routes.

[Spamage]

The Encore of Europe

Turn 4: 1785

Nations, Leaders, & Players:
Major Powers:
Russian Empire- Emperor Paul Petrovich (HenryWallace)
Kingdom of France- King Louis XVI Bourbon (Windjammer)
Kingdom of Prussia- King Frederick William II Hohenzollern (Lumine)
Archduchy of Austria- Emperor Joseph II Habsburg (Dereich)
Kingdom of Great Britain- King George III of Hanover (Blair)
Kingdom of Spain- King Charles III Bourbon (LouisvilleThunder)
Ottoman Empire- Sultan Abdul Hamid I (Kalwejt)
Polish-Lithuanian Republic- President Tadeusz Kosciuszko (Sjoyce)
Kingdom of Scandinavia-King Gustav III of Holstein-Gottorp (YPestis)
Kingdom of Quebec-President Louis-Philippe de Vaudreuil(Dr Novella)
Safavid Empire- Shah Ismail III Safavid (Kingpoleon)
Kingdom of the Netherlands- King William I of Orange (JacksonHitchcock)
Holy People’s Republic of Sardinia-Piedmont- President Pietro Verri (X)
Republic of Venice- Doge Gian Rinaldo Carli (GOTfan)
Qing Dynasty- Qianlong Emperor (Dkrol)
Republic of Louisiana- President Etienne de Bore (TimTurner) 

Economic Standings:
Kingdom of France- Very Strong
Kingdom of Great Britain- Very Strong
Safavid Empire- Strong
Ottoman Empire- Strong
Qing Dynasty- Strong
Kingdom of Prussia- Moderate
Archduchy of Austria- Moderate
Republic of Venice- Moderate
Holy People’s Republic of Sardinia-Piedmont- Moderate
Kingdom of Spain- Moderate
Republic of Poland-Lithuania- Moderate
Kingdom of Quebec- Moderate
Kingdom of Scandinavia- Weak
Republic of Louisiana- Weak
Kingdom of the Netherlands- Weak

Popularity:
President Tadeusz Kosciuszko- Very High
Emperor Joseph II Habsburg- High
King George III- High
Qianlong Emperor- High
King Charles III Bourbon- High
King Frederick William II Hohenzollern- High
President Louis-Philippe de Vaudreuil- High
King Gustav III of Holstein-Gottorp- High
King Louis XVI Bourbon- Moderate
Doge Gian Rinaldo Carli- Moderate
President Etienne de Bore
President Pietro Verri- Moderate
Sultan Abdul Hamid I- Moderate
Shah Ismail III Safavid- Moderate
King William I of Orange- Low

Ongoing Conflicts:
Quebec War of Independence: Republic of Quebec vs. Kingdom of Spain (1781-)
War of the Bavarian Succession: Archduchy of Austria, Russian Empire, Kingdom of Bavaria vs. Kingdom of Prussia, Qing Dynasty, Ottoman Empire, Kingdom of Scandinavia (1783-)
Sino-Nepalese War: Shah Dynasty vs. Qing Dynasty (1783-)
Sino-Korean War: Joseon Dynasty vs. Qing Dynasty(1783-)

Archduchy of Austria:

-The war has been mixed so far. Bohemia is under grave threat from the invading Prussians, but your army to the west has evicted the pretender Charles Theodore from his holdings and mauled the primary army of the German League minors. Now, unless you seek a settled peace, the war continues. What actions will you take to push back the Prussians and defend your son’s throne? How will victory be assured?

-Considering you still have many holdings in Italy even with the sale of Lucca, Austria must respond to developments there. Many are alarmed at the supposed “rescue” of Pope Adrian VII and his subsequent death. Yet, with your recent agreement with Sardinia-Piedmont and the disconnect between your Italian lands and the rest of the Habsburg Monarchy (both culturally and geographically), you must be careful. More cynical observers believe an alliance with Sardinia-Piedmont could be beneficial as it would create a Papacy that would be more supportive of your government. Others, a majority, believe that Verri cannot be trusted. His government has killed the House of Savoy save for Benedetto, launched surprise attacks, and pushed against the social order that has stood in your lands for centuries. What is to be done?

-While the Ottoman Empire is seen by much of Europe to be a powder keg of competing nationalities and different religions, your realm is not much different. In fact, just as in Ottoman Europe, so too does Austria rule over a large population of Slavs, Hungarians, and Romanians. Needless to say, there are some who see the revolt of Belgrade as a harbinger of what could come to Austria if its ideas spread. Some would like you to abandon the rebels. Others think you should seek to steer their rebellion, preventing their rhetoric from becoming anti-Habsburg in addition to anti-Ottoman. Perhaps some concession could be made to minorities in your realm in order to preempt any sort of disorder? How will you handle this potential challenge and ensure Austria retains its control of its diverse empire?

Kingdom of France:

-France is surrounded by crises. As a pious Catholic, undoubtedly the situation in Italy is the one that has drawn most of your attention. The death of Adrian VII, a distant relation by your shared descent from Louis XIII, was shocking, but some wonder if you could profit from it. One faction thinks this is the excuse you need to seize the papal lands at Avignon and further unite the French-speaking people of Europe. Others think that the Papacy, stained by events in Rome, ought to be restored to Avignon as in centuries past. There are also two other wars on your borders. Spain and the Netherlands may have defeated the Portuguese, but it seems tensions between them and Britain could erupt into war. Meanwhile, the War of the Bavarian Succession continues to rage throughout Central Europe. How should you navigate this unstable diplomatic environment?

-The most concerning domestic issue is undoubtedly the contentious Estates General of 1784. Your power to rule without question was severely challenged and, in the months since, those opposed to you have been far more open about their opinions. While some still maintain loyalty to you personally, only wanting a constitution or other concessions to limit your absolute authority, it has not stopped others from pushing for a Republican form of government. These radicals are a minority, but a vocal one. They point to Poland, Louisiana, and even the chaotic Republic of Sardinia-Piedmont as examples of how reform can be achieved. Broadsheets have even been published in Paris denouncing you, your children, and your wife. How will you handle this internal challenge, especially with such a volatile situation on your borders?

-Many at Versailles also are worried about the French situation in India. While internally your prized possession remains at peace, the region around it is fraught with conflict. The Shah Dynasty has been further destabilized by Chinese gains during the past year, Kathmandu now under threat. The loss of Nepal to the Qing Dynasty could make your own provinces vulnerable and some think action should be taken. To the northwest, the Safavids have made gains against the Durrani Empire, but the fighting is far from complete. Some in Kabul have suggested to French officials that it would be beneficial for their cause and region stability if you were to provide aid in their struggle. They believe a weaker Durrani state is preferable to a strong Persia on the edge of India. What will your East Asian policy be?

Kingdom of Great Britain:

-It appears you are in a sort of proxy war with your father-in-law, Charles III of Spain. Spanish newspapers blame you for inciting Louisiana to rebel and accuse you of tacitly supporting them. You have hosted the Braganzas for the past year and your ships launched landings back into Portugal that, although failed, represented the first time Britain was active in what had largely been a war fought between Spain, the Netherlands, and Portugal. Will you escalate the conflict, declaring war outright, and seek to reassert British supremacy or should conciliatory steps be taken? What actions will you take towards the “Emperor of Hispania”?

-The matter of representation for the Fifteen Colonies keeps rearing its head. With a now substantial population, especially when compared to some of the constituent Kingdoms of your realm, the Congress of Annapolis has demanded representation by population in Parliament. Naturally this is unpopular in England, Scotland, and Ireland. It would mean diminished influence for less populated areas and could result in colonists voting on matters that would only affect small portions of the British Isles. Needless to say, there are two very impassioned groups on either side of the issue. Some think that you could sidestep the matter by allowing each colony a greater degree of independence, though this would mean London would no longer be able to direct them as efficiently. Furthermore, it is argued that doing so could cause them to protest further, having observed that London can be bent to their will. How will the Parliament question be handled?

-Quebecqois have begun to settle in land formally claimed by the British Empire (OTL upper Michigan). While this land is completely unoccupied by your realm’s settlers, traders, or soldiers, some see it as a betrayal. Others think that it’s time for you to reconsider your borders in the American continent by striking deals with Quebec and perhaps even Louisiana. Even more concerning than the arrival of French-speakers has been the increased cooperation between the native tribes. Upset about unmanaged colonization from the Fifteen Colonies, leaders have begun to forge a pan-tribal confederation. This could be dangerous if not handled properly, but what is to be done? Too little aggression could give the group time to grow, too much could ignite further sympathy. Or perhaps the natives should be left to their own affairs…

Kingdom of Prussia:

-Prussia once again is knocking on the gates of Prague. Even so, the opening stages of the War of the Bavarian Succession have not been a complete success. Charles Theodore has taken up residence in Berlin following his embarrassing flight from the Palatine, your allies are struggling to hold back a tide of Russians, Corsica is in crisis, and the Austrians stalled your main drive into Moravia. How will the war be prosecuted in 1785 in order to ensure Frederick II’s victories are repeated? Or, alternatively, should some new sort of strategy be adopted?

-Dangerous republican propaganda has been spotted in the streets of Berlin throughout much of 1784. Condemning your absolute rule, pamphlets call for a full-on revolution in the style of Poland or Sardinia-Piedmont. Many in Berlin suspect that either Austria, Poland, or France is responsible. Whatever the case, there does seem to be some sort of resonance in Hanover. The region was sold to Frederick II and lacks the sort of dynastic loyalty present in many other German principalities (even if your grandmother came from Hanover, memory of her has largely begun to fade). Will your government crackdown on this treason as a wartime necessity or tolerate it and hope that it is just a phase?

-Johann Christoph von Wöllner, a close friend and advisor of yours, has enacted a series of religious reforms within Prussia during the early years of your reign. Condemned by Frederick II as “a treacherous and intriguing priest”, you have generally protected your friend and he has returned the favor with loyalty. As the head of a religious office established early in your reign he has sought to increase state control over religious appointments. In particular Wollner has tried to protect “orthodox” Christianity against those modernists who would wish to see it reformed further or left open to criticism. Will you continue to support Wollner, who sees religion as a partner of government (and therefore open to government oversight) or rescind his policies and move the regime out of the Church? How will you handle this religious controversy at such a tense time throughout your realm?

Kingdom of Scandinavia:

-Well done! Russia has been severely weakened at sea and it is clear that Scandinavia will largely enjoy free movement through the Baltic. Furthermore, St. Petersburg has been devasted, a burned-out shell of its former self thanks to Swedish raiders. Though there have been setbacks in Finland and Emperor Paul escaped, the war is still probably winnable. What will be your plans moving forward?

-The formation of the Icelandic Relief Company was undoubtedly a good decision, though as can be expected from a situation involving so much money, goods, and people, corruption has already become endemic. Subjects in Iceland report being pressured to give bribes for their cases to move forward. Furthermore, a variety of wealthy individuals from Sweden have purchased land from the largely destitute displaced individuals for quite a low price. Some are calling on you to rein in these practices, while others believe that too much punishment could force out officials who are quite talented, whatever dealings they may have on the side. How will you deal with the supposed corruption in the IRC?

-While Scandinavia is undoubtedly a force to be reckoned with, as recent events in Russia and Denmark have clearly demonstrated, there are some in Stockholm who feel you are being left behind in a key area of great power competition, colonies. In recent years Prussia, Sardinia-Piedmont, and Austria have all joined the colonial race across the globe. Scandinavia, outside of your holdings in Iceland and Greenland, does not possess much of a colonial empire. Will you seek to change this? Or are colonies a risky and expensive debacle that your realm ought not get involved in?

Kingdom of Spain:

-Your son-in-law, the King of Great Britain, has been undermining your authority across the globe and many in Madrid are losing patience. It seems clear that the Louisianan Revolution was made possible by British weapons and aid. Furthermore, in 1784 the British Navy was the transporter of the preliminary invasion with the attempt of restoring the Braganzas to the throne. With the defeat of Portugal, undoubtedly this, along with the traumatic events in Italy where your son was attacked, has become the issue dominating Spanish attention. How will you respond to British undermining of your authority, the revolution in the Americas, and your son’s fight for survival?

-Another foreign policy crisis demands your attention. Your son, King Ferdinand of Naples, is in an all-out war against the Verri regime. He demands immediate Spanish aid in his struggle, hoping that you will help him overcome the difficulties posed by such a fervent foe. There’s also the matter of the confusion over the papacy of Benedict XVII to be considered. While the events surrounding his elevation are suspect, he was chosen by cardinals in the Eternal City, exactly along the same lines as his predecessors since the 1500s. While some desire a separate Pope be set up, others are loathe to challenge tradition. How will you manage this confused situation in Italy?

-As technical controller over Portugal, some are wondering how that realms new government should be structured. There is a growing divide between those who hope to retain many former Braganza officials in their role and rely on their expertise and those who would have a whole new system constructed with former enemies punished. As Emperor of Hispania, the new King of Portugal has deferred the final decision on the matter to you. Retaining too many loyalists to Joseph II could leave the Kingdom vulnerable, while removing everyone creates a vacuum of experience. What will you decide?

Ottoman Empire:

-The war has not gone well for the Sublime Porte thus far, whatever gains your allies may have made in far-off lands. Crimea has largely been lost, the Serbs are in rebellion, and the Russians have an army on your side of the Danube. Yet, the situation is not completely disastrous. Your armies remain in tact and able to fight. The Patriarch of Constantinople agreed to issue a short statement of support for your regime, which largely quieted Greek opposition for the time being (though this could change if the situation worsens). How is the war to be managed and what must be done to overcome these setbacks?

-Ottoman investment in Asia seems to be paying off, some in Istanbul are even wondering if you should expand your role in the region. In the minor Indonesian territories, locals are happy to have an alternative to the Dutch with which to trade and even are willing to propose agreements of mutual defense. Furthermore, your friendly actions towards Mysore were appreciated, you becoming the only realm outside of France that is allied to them. Russia declared themselves the protector of Eastern Christians quite some time ago. Some are wondering if the Ottoman Empire should declare itself to be the protector of Sunni Muslims, wherever they may be. While this would undoubtedly raise your prestige, it could also get you embroiled in distant wars. How will you handle the friendly response of your fellow Muslims?

-There is a growing conservative backlash to the changes of the past few years. Some in your borders resent the new ways of doing things (such as your introduction of British technology in mining), war against fellow Muslims (as in Tripoli), and the extensive military reforms continued during your rule. The believe that if too much reform is enacted, the true Turkish identity of the Empire will be lost in the desire to emulate the West. How will you placate these angered subjects? Are their concerns justified or do they represent the last cries of a dying old system, one which will be replaced by a more efficient government?

Kingdom of Quebec:

-A matter of domestic concern has begun in your government. Although the people of the Kingdom were unified in throwing out the Spanish and founding an independent nation, since then the level of division has been growing. With your government a parliamentary democracy, some wonder if it is time to permit the formation of political parties in Quebec and allow active campaigning. Others believe this would only further serve to cement the growing divide and that nonpartisan governance should be the answer, even if it is challenged from both sides. Will you allow the political cliques in the Kingdom to become political parties outright?

-As a relatively free realm, and one without the old social distinctions that dominate Europe, Quebec has become a center of immigration. Austrians fleeing war, British colonists looking for self-government, and Italian traditionalists are all arriving day-by-day. With such an influx of people, and a small base population, the original Quebecois are worried about the retention of traditional values and culture. They would like to see greater restrictions placed on new arrivals and also an expedited process for French-speaking arrivals. Otherwise they see themselves as being outvoted and outbought by outsiders seeking to piggyback off of their achievement. Others see the migrants as a source of strength, ensuring your realm will continue to expand. What will your policy be in regards to migration?

-King Henry, after much private contemplation and prayer, has agreed to become a Catholic. Baptized in Montreal, he now has put quite a few awkward questions to rest and opens up the possibility of marriage into several Catholic royal families. Even so, there is a new crisis of religion in Quebec. The events in Italy have startled the people and divided the nation. Some condemn Sardinia-Piedmont for their aggressive action, while others, remembering the revolutionary fervor in Quebec just years ago, believe the distant Republic should be supported. These is also a sizeable isolationist faction which thinks your realm should extricate itself from European affairs. What is your response to the controversy in Italy?

[Spamage]

Safavid Empire:

-The Durrani and yourself remain locked in a bitter fight. It seems your gamble to assembly most of your forces in a unified army has not paid off, as the losses along the Oxus indicate. Furthermore, supply difficulties remain in the remote portions of Afghanistan and Pakistan. There are even some indications a major foreign power is supplying the Durrani, who have weapons stockpiles they could not have created on their own. As the war enters its second year, it is time to consider what moves will be taken next. Some want you to keep pushing towards Kabul, others believe a slow, measured march would be ideal. What tactics will you employ to assert Safavid supremacy?

-Some question the nature of your rule. In the past few decades Persia has enjoyed a wide variety of sovereigns with varying degrees of power. While the Safavids have always been absolutist, there was a period during the Zand interregnum where they sought to portray themselves as acting in accordance with popular will. Now, with the crises spreading across Europe, some in Persia have reexamined the role they think the monarchy ought to play. Will you listen to calls to limit your power or preserve the traditional and divine power of the Safavid Shahanshah? Perhaps moderate concessions could be made? What will be the way forward for Persia internally?

-Your decree of religious toleration impressed many. David X of Georgia praised you in a personal letter, the Sunni likewise have been elated. Minorities are coming out of the shadows and practicing out in the open. The one group opposed to this, and also the largest religious denomination in your realm, is the Shi’ites. There have been assaults on Sunni imams and damage to Christian churches in the Caucuses. Indeed, after centuries of being their ally, many Shi’ites are wondering how you could turn your back on them. Though it has been limited to grumbling so far, some fear that dissent could evolve to sabotaging the war effort, refusing to pay taxes, or even open rebellion. At very least the Shi’ites demand a preferred status in all government positions. How will you deal with the indignation of Persia’s largest sect?

Polish-Lithuanian Republic:

-The Republic surrounded by war, is facing a massive wave of refugees. Bohemians fleeing the Prussians, Russians fleeing the Swedes, and Crimeans/Cossacks fleeing the Russians are all entering your lands. The question is, what will be done? Your realm has always been a patchwork of different nationalities, but these arrivals have no connection to the existing system. Some want them to be welcomed, even given full voting rights and a place to stay. Others believe that you can ill-afford so many mouths to feed in such an unpredictable time, therefore they should be sent back. How will you handle these refugees?

-Of all the European Catholic realms, Poland is the most sympathetic to the actions of the Holy People’s Republic of Sardinia-Piedmont. Indeed, Catholic republicanism is spreading like wildfire due to the free publishing and distribution of materials that the Polish Constitution provides. There are many in Warsaw who believe you should recognize Pope Benedict XVII as the true heir of St. Peter and also issue a vow of protection to your fellow republic. A minority of Poles have denounced the actions of the Verri regime and want to restore the prewar situation in Italy. For the most part though, among Poles, many would agree that the Papacy had become a space for hanger-ons and corruption and it was perhaps time for some house cleaning. How will you respond to the events in Rome?

-Your abolition of the guilds has been praised by people outside of the system but condemned by those who benefitted most from it. Indeed, there has been a wave of strikes in several industries, creating a shortage of employable labor in formerly guilded occupations. Craftsmen and artisans are in short supply, but there are several actions. First, some proposed negotiating with the strikers, offering former members of the guilds a higher, government-paid wage than those joining their field. Others believe you should establish state schools to deal with the shortage, though the workers would probably be of lower quality due to the loss of institutional memory. How will you ensure your economy continues to strengthen following the abolition of the guilds?

Kingdom of the Netherlands:

-You find yourself in an awkward position with the ratcheting up of tensions between London and Madrid. The Netherlands has historically been friendly towards Britain, even sharing a monarch for several decades. You yourself are the grandson of King George II and a cousin of George III. Yet, you have also signed an alliance with Spain that could pay off well with the collapse of the Braganza Dynasty. Dutch and Spanish cooperation has brought Saint Domingue back to heel and shattered Portuguese power the world over. If the two nations you have had close ties to come to blows, with whom will you side? Perhaps you could serve as an intermediary, though that would only work if both sides were willing to listen.

-The Ottomans have begun to cultivate friendly relationships with the minor powers on the borders of the Dutch East Indies. Needless to say, local colonial officials are resentful of the Turkish diplomatic push in the region and understand now how much of an economic competitor they could become. Some believe you should undercut the Ottomans with more favorable offers yourself. Others think that negotiations with Istanbul should be begun to get them out of the region. Or, you could even test the Ottoman commitment of their new allies by outright assault on one of these states. How will you protect Dutch influence in the East Indies?

-While the situation in Saint Domingue was saved due to cooperation with the Spanish, the Dutch expedition to Brazil is in dire straits. If your realm truly hopes to annex part of that realm, you will probably need to send more men to fight a brutal and confused war. This theater has become the most controversial at home, with some condemning it as a pointless and doomed foreign adventure while others defend your actions and believe it is a solid long-term investment. Will you double-down and get more involved in Brazil or admit defeat and make an embarrassing withdrawal?

Holy People’s Republic of Sardinia-Piedmont:

-Rome has been saved, Naples has launched a war of aggression, and foreign powers are disputing the undoubtedly legitimate election of Pope Benedict XVII. Needless to say, the level of controversy on the Italian peninsula has greatly increased during 1784. Now many are calling on you to explain yourself and some are even stating that you murdered the Pope outright. How will you respond to these lies?

-Naples is under your control, but the level of enthusiasm among the locals is nowhere near as fervent or devoted as in Northern Italy. Ferdinand has been able to rally his armies to his side, not to mention the inhabitants of part of the Papal States. The King of Naples has declared war on the Revolution and vowed to avenge his aunt and cousins. How will you prosecute this war of Neapolitan aggression? Some believe you should encourage a social revolution, but how would that be accomplished? Should your armies be harsh or gentle to the natives of Italy?

-There are whispers of a reactionary coup building in Turin, disgusted by the excesses of the past year. Although your intelligence forces do not have any solid evidence, there are undoubtedly some officials in your government whose loyalty is suspect. Not only are there holdovers from the rule of the House of Savoy, but some of the moderate revolutionaries, who intended to form a secular republic rather than a theocratic one, has been reportedly deriding you in private. How will you treat these fifth-columnists? Should an investigation be established and punishment meted out or is this just hysteria of those with overactive imaginations?

Republic of Venice:

-The events in Rome and Turin are most concerning, even more so because they are occurring in your neighborhood. Sardinia now has solid control of both the Vatican and the Papacy, even with all the hand-wringing and statements of protest by the other powers. Venice itself is divided on the issue as well. The aristocrats would like to head to war immediately, smash the rebellion, and restore the status quo. The lower-class faction though is mixed to warm towards Sardinia. They see business opportunity where the nobles see social revolution. The lower class (the Loredans) was fairly disappointed by the rashness of the Sardinian actions, but they do highlight that a legitimate criticism about Papal extravagance could be argued. Will you further condemn Sardinia or seek a rapprochement? How will Venice manage the crisis to its west?

-The Sultan of Tripolitania has been captured and killed, putting an end to his mischief. Now the question remains of what to do with the prisoners of war captured during the fighting and the Venetian raids? Furthermore, some are wondering whether or not voting privileges should be extended to Muslim residents of the Republic in Tripoli and other cities in North Africa, a prospect that is highly unpopular in Italy. So, while you have maintained your right to rule in North Africa, what will be done to ensure that the region does not try to secede again?

-There has been a fourth political party forming in Venice outside of the existing three (your own, the Loredans, and the Dandolos). These partisans are rabidly pro-French and seek closer ties with Paris instead of Istanbul or Vienna. Many government officials suspect that there is foreign funding involved and call for an investigation of foreign interference. Others argue that the political actions are protected by the general consensus on liberty in the Republic. How will you handle this party, one which could continue to grow and disrupt the existing system?

Qing Dynasty:

-Your extensive foreign involvement, while successful in Russia and Nepal, has faced growing opposition at home. The death of your son in Korea has been used as a rallying cry by those seeking to restore Chinese isolation. Others at Court highlight there is still much to be done and caving to the demands of a vocal opposition would demonstrate weakness. Will you look inward or seek to protect the growing Chinese influence that has been championed by your government during the past few years? What will be done in Korea, Nepal, and Russia?

-There are worrying reports from the south of the Empire. The White Lotus society, a group supposedly responsible for the expulsion of the Yuan and the establishment of the Ming Dynasty, is reportedly active once again, opposing your Manchu rule. This apocalyptic group is focused on restoring Han governance to China. Now it must likely be dealt with, though how? Some believe a brutal crackdown could scare the Han back into submission, while others argue that could backfire and provoke a rebellion. Or perhaps these are just rumors after all? What will you decide?

-With the death of Prince Yongyan, you must designate another one of your many children as your heir or risk the dynasty falling into civil war upon your demise. Which, of many, offspring is fit to govern China in the future? Perhaps the former heir’s younger brother? Or should you choose one of your sons from your other consorts? This decision will undoubtedly have consequences for decades and could determine the overall trajectory of your dynasty, so you must be very cautious.

Republic of Louisiana:

-You have been chosen to lead the Revolution, Etienne de Bore. As the President of the Congress of New Orleans, it will be up to you to win freedom from Spain and ensure that your realm can expand freely. Naturally, with the Spanish expelled from Louisiana proper, you must now decide between offensive action into their other territories or a defense of your small republic. How will this war of independence be won? Perhaps you could look for help from foreign powers? Quebec, like you, technically is at war with the Spanish and seeks independence. British arms were crucial in ensuring the murder of Spanish officials. France is naturally a cultural friend. Where will you look for help?

-You may be a small republic, but that does not mean your fellow citizens do not have big ambitions. In the past, Louisiana once extended from Quebec to the Gulf. Now, having been partitioned and defeated, you only control a small part of the Mississippi River. Even though Britain has technically claimed the area, some believe that you should demand the whole Mississippi, or at very least the lands west of that river for the Republic. The British presence is largely superficial and would be quickly outnumbered by any influx of Louisianans. Will you seek to expand your claims?

-The oppressors expelled, you must decide what form the government of Louisiana will take. There seems to be two major paths. You could either become a constitutional monarchy, offering the new throne to a scion of one of the many European dynasties like in Quebec or Brazil, or you could embrace republicanism along the lines of Poland and Sardinia-Piedmont. How will your government function? Will you create a presidency, monarchy, or something else entirely? What is to be protected in your constitution?

Armies & Locations

Kingdom of Prussia
111,462 Royal Army of Prussia
84,302 Army of Germany
45,000 Reserve Army
10,000 Army of New Prussia
2,000 Army of Guyana
5,000 Madagascar Expedition
20,000 men garrisoned
(Can raise 1,000 more)

Kingdom of France
80,000 men raised and mobile
60,000 men garrisoned
60,000 Army & Garrison of India
(Can raise 90,000 more)

Kingdom of Great Britain
10,000 Army of Britain
32,900 Garrison of Britain
35,000 Army & Garrison of the 15 Colonies
3,000 Army & Garrison of Australia
3,500 Army of Charleston
2,500 Ghana Garrison
100 Falklands Garrison
(Can raise 78,000 more)

Kingdom of Scandinavia
66,542 Army of Helsinki
29,306 Army of Stockholm
3,376 Army of St. Petersburg
20,000 men garrisoned
(Can raise 3,500 more)

Kingdom of Spain
70,864 Army of Portugal
2,000 men garrisoned
10,000 Garrison of New Spain
36,809 Army of Santo Domingo
21,046 Army of South America
2,000 Army & Garrison of the Philippines
(can raise 2,000 more)

Russian Empire
48,800 men garrisoned
36,492 Army of the West
78,052 Army of the North
103,719 Army of the South
(can raise 4,000 more)

Archduchy of Austria
72,977 Army of Bohemia
98,670 Army of Bavaria
34,042 Army of the Palatine
18,760 Austrian Border Army
6,756 Army of Corsica
45,000 men garrisoned
(can raise 5,000 more)

Ottoman Empire
114,600 men raised and mobile
27,542 Army of Tripolitania
1,700 Army of Timor
1,000 Army of Mauritius
42,100 men garrisoned
(can raise 39,300 more)

Polish-Lithuanian Republic
100,000 men raised and mobile
30,000 men garrisoned
(can raise 80,000 more)

Safavid Empire
50,000 men raised and mobile
25,000 men garrisoned
(Can raise 42,000 more)

Republic of Quebec
25,000 men raised and mobile
5,000 Army of the Frontier
10,000 men garrisoned
(Can raise 22,000 more)

Provisional Government of Sardinia-Piedmont
20,000 men raised and mobile
18,950 ‬Army of Rome
19,306 Army of Naples
10,000 ‬men garrisoned
 (‬Can raise ‬55,000 ‬more)

Republic of Venice
25,000 Army of Venice
14,599 Army of Tripoli
1,500 Trade Expedition
3,500 men garrisoned
(‬Can raise ‬15,000 ‬more)

Kingdom of the Netherlands
25,000 ‬men raised and mobile
5,000 Army of New Holland
13,324 Army of Saint Domingue
5,558 Army of Brazil North
3,101 Army of Brazil South
7,000 Army of the East Indies
2,000 Army of Guyana
15,000 ‬men garrisoned
 (‬Can raise ‬13,000 ‬more)

Qing Dynasty
87,000 Army of the North
36,000 Army of Southwest Korea
19,568 Army of Northeast Korea
79,462 Army of the South
30,000 Imperial Army
(Can raise 200,000 more)

Republic of Louisiana
17,000 Army of New Orleans
2,000 Northern Frontier Force
(Can raise 10,000 more)

Navies of the World
Kingdom of Great Britain
205 Ships of the Line
126 Frigates

Kingdom of France
110 Ships of the Line
50 Frigates

United Provinces of the Netherlands
52 ‬Ships of the Line
40 ‬Frigates

Kingdom of Spain
55 Ships of the Line
32 Frigates

Russian Empire
21 Ships of the Line
7 Frigates

Kingdom of Scandinavia
47 Ships of the Line
18 Frigates

Kingdom of Prussia
35 Ships of the Line
17 Frigates

Kingdom of Portugal
33 Ships of the Line
14 Frigates

Polish-Lithuanian Republic
16 Ships of the Line
16 Frigates

Ottoman Empire
25 Ships of the Line
10 Frigates

Republic of Venice
15 ‬Ships of the Line
24 ‬Frigates

Archduchy of Austria
11 Ships of the Line
3 Frigates

Provisional Government of Sardinia-Piedmont
10 Ships of the Line
2 Frigates

Republic of Quebec
3 Ships of the Line
7 Frigates

[Spamage]

CHARLES III OF SPAIN ASSASSINATED!
INTERNATIONAL CONSPIRACY?

    Things were looking quite well for the new Emperor of Hispania in the early part of 1785. Portugal was quiet, Europe at peace, and Spain fairly united around the prospect of seeking revenge in Italy. Then, the reign of one of Spain’s greatest leaders in more than a century was brought to an unjust end. While enjoying festivities in Madrid for his anniversary on the Spanish throne, there was a sudden explosion below the royal chambers, boxes of gunpowder having been disguised and hoarded in part of the building. In the ensuing chaos, the Royal Palace of Madrid was severely damaged as flames tore through the building. Charles III, sovereign of Spain for almost thirty years and widely admired, was found dead amid the wreckage. Alongside him his unmarried daughter Infanta Maria Josefa and son Infante Gabriel of Spain died shortly afterwards.
     Investigation has revealed a former soldier for the House of Braganza is responsible, vowing revenge following the loss of his position and the death of relatives in the Spanish-Portuguese War. A relative nobody, it is highly likely that the man had foreign aid. A member of the King's guards, he had planted the gunpowder and died in the explosion. The materials he was supplied with could only have come from a foreign government or from someone within the Spanish government itself. Although the investigation is ongoing, there are no clear leads at the moment.
     Naturally, people were quick to accuse Sardinia-Piedmont, given the relative stunning events in Italy, but as time passed, more and more recognized the British could just as likely be responsible. Had George III not armed Louisiana and landed Braganza invasions in Portugal just the previous year? Many already considered the two realms engaged in a proxy war, but murder of a sovereign seemed a bit much. There is a third train of thought that pins the blame on Louis XVI of France, who, resenting Charles declaring himself Emperor, sought to teach his Bourbon relative a lesson. Or, perhaps just as likely, none of these powers were involved. Even so, the people of Spain are out for blood and looking for answers.
     Charles III is succeeded by his son, Charles IV. The new King lacks the reputation of his father and is seen as far weaker. Whether or not this will be the case remains to be seen. The new King of Portugal has yet to state whether he recognizes the new ruler of Spain as his sovereign and there are also those who worry this could damage the Spanish Bourbon’s attempts to be declared Emperors.
     Laid to rest by his late wife, Charles III leaves Spain far stronger than when he came to power after the turbulent reign of his half-brother Ferdinand. Yet, his Empire is also showing some serious cracks. Can Charles IV hold this massive body together?

End of the Karamanli
With Execution of Heirs, Tripoli is at Peace

    After years of brutal warfare, it seems North Africa is finally at peace. This has been symbolized by events in Istanbul. Half of the male heirs of the “Sultan” Ali Karamanli were executed publicly, their claimed royal status doing little to save them from the executioner’s blade. The other portion of his sons were castrated and sold off to the highest bidder in the street slave markets. It is an ignominious end to a family that once threated Ottoman influence in the region.
     Yet, with this peace, there are still concerns. While many of the rebel leader’s advisors, assistants, and soldiers are in Ottoman custody, quite a few have escaped to Tunis, Algiers, and the other pirate realms in North Africa. There are already advisors in both Venice and Istanbul calling on these regions to meet the fate of Tripoli with a show of brute strength. Perhaps they could even be subjugated. Others believe that this peace is an opportunity, however fragile it may seem, and must be protected. It will be up to the Sultan and the Doge to decide if these stray officials are worth the effort or if they should drop the matter.
     Whatever the case, on the ground in Tripoli the locals have welcomed an end to fighting. There were many along the coast who came to resent the would-be Sultan’s raids as much as the Venetian and Ottoman garrisons did. It was their lands and towns that were plundered for scanty supplies. Perhaps there is an opportunity in this to restore government and build strong local ties.

TREATY OF PARIS!
GERMANS CELEBRATE END OF FIGHTING!

    The signing of the Treaty of Paris was greeted with joy throughout all of Europe, the powers seeming to have learned from the Wars of the Grand Coalitions of the dangers of long conflicts. Each side was also able to claim victory, pointing to points in the agreement that they thought showed they had gotten the best of the enemy.
     In Vienna, the fact that Maximilian would remain the King of Bavaria was a victory in and of itself. Charles Theodore, the major loser of the agreement, was forced to give up seizing his claim by arms and accept the results of the Imperial Diet. This too is a win for the Emperor, as it seems to give some power to the decaying Reichstag.
    In Berlin, Frederick William II claimed victory by virtue of the strengthening of the German League. There were several princes of the Empire who took up the invitation to leave. Ostfriesland, Ansbach, the Palatinate, and Saxony all announced their intentions of joining the German League. Certainly it did not look good for Joseph II to have two electors depart the Empire.
    St. Petersburg was also elated by the peace, though there were some who wanted even more concessions. Gains in the south were great, but had more been squandered? Scandinavia and the Ottomans had seemed vulnerable. Russia, it seems, would never know if her dreams in both the north and south could have come to fruition.
   Indeed, in both Stockholm and Istanbul the treaty was praised precisely because it ended the war before the situation got too out of hand or either nation faced an existential crisis. The recognition of Muslim rights was a boon for the Ottomans, but most saw it as a face-saving measure.
    The two biggest losers in the peace were Charles Theodore, who felt ignored and forced to sign something with which he did not agree, and the Serbs.  Having risked their lives to gain independence following Russian propaganda urging them to do so, they have been abandoned. With the declaration of peace it is unlikely their attempt to crown Emperor Paul's son will be allowed to pass. Even so, the Serbs have refused to lay down their arms and surrender unless given broad concessions by the Ottomans,. The Balkans seems to be one area where fighting will continue. Just as the Turks secure the south, their threat to the north remains a festering wound.

[Spamage]

1785 News

A Tale of Two Popes
Rival Conclaves Elect Separate Popes, European Catholicism Severely Divided

Green- Regions Supporting Benedict XVII
Blue- Regions Supporting Gregory XVI
Dashed Lines indicate support of the government compared to support of the people

    Despite some last-minute efforts to avert a divide within the Catholic Church, negotiations failed and two rival conclaves convened following the resignation of Benedict XVII. Indeed, after several centuries, there is now a Second Western Schism. Many are worried that the divisions caused in 1785 will go down in history like those in 1517 or 1054.
     In Rome representatives of many European states convened. Polish clerics were attracted by their government’s recognition of Benedict. German Catholics (except Bavaria), looking for a way to assert their continued independence with the further weakening of the Holy Roman Empire, also sent representatives. In a shocking move the new King of Portugal sent his delegates to the Roman Conclave as well. Thus, most of Italy, Germany, Portugal, Switzerland, and Poland were determined to elect their own candidate. Yet, Austria too sent a delegate. Archduke Maximilian Francis of Austria, the Archbishop-Elector of Cologne and the younger brother of Joseph II, attended in order to represent Vienna. His first action was to invoke the Jus Exclusivae, a power granting certain European monarchs the ability to veto potential Popes. The problem was that this authority had never been recognized officially by the Papacy, meaning there was little forcing the other delegates to act in accordance with it. While the College of Cardinals had deferred out of respect in the past, the South Germans led the charge to challenge Joseph II’s assertion of authority. Maximilian Habsburg was largely ignored and following several rounds of balloting, Benedict XVII was chosen to lead the faithful once more, a move many in Rome ascribed to divine intervention on his behalf, he becoming the first Pope chosen by multiple conclaves. In the eyes of many, he is the legitimate Pope. Critics of what would occur in France highlight that whole delegations had ignored past conclaves in the past, but that did not make the result any less legitimate. Furthermore, even if Adrian VII’s death had been untimely, had not Popes died suspiciously in the past? Certainly, having Rome as the site of his election, not to mention his gracious decision to step aside, has strengthened Benedict XVII’s position greatly, as a plausible argument could be made of French usurpation, especially given the candidate chosen at that conclave.
     The first actions of the restored Benedict XVII were to excommunicate Pope Gregory XVI and also George III of Great Britain, who was proclaimed to be an “antichrist”. With the Irish backing the Roman Papacy, certainly there was confusion and tension in the Kingdom. Even so, they show as little action of rebellion against George III as the English Catholics did under Elizabeth I when she was excommunicated in the 1500s. Only time will tell if this will change.
     The traditional European leaders of Catholicism convened at Avignon, alleging that Benedict XVII was an illegitimate puppet with no right to sit on the Papal Throne. This Papal possession was the seat of the former Avignon Papacy, lending legitimacy to the cause of these realms. France, Spain, Venice, Naples, Austria, and Bavaria were all present at this conclave. Derogatorily refereed to as the “Bourbon-Habsburg Conclave”. Despite the Austrian delegation pushing for an Italian candidate, keeping with centuries of precedent, the larger French body outvoted them, seeing an opportunity for a French Pope for the first time since 1378. After several rounds of balloting, François-Joachim de Pierre de Bernis, a French minor nobleman and the Archbishop of Albani was elected. French representatives alleged that, as he was technically the archbishop of Albani, a suburb of Rome, it was a suitable compromise. The new Pope, a former friend of Madame de Pompadour and Voltaire, took the name Gregory XVI in an apparent allusion to the last Avignon Pope. While his nomination has caused indignation in Italy, particularly the Habsburg and Venetian lands, it was greeted with enthusiasm in France, eager to finally break the Italian grip on the Catholic Church. The Avignon Conclave was the site of much tension. Rumors abounded that Sardinian agents had enflamed the populace. There was minor rioting, but Louis XVI’s decision to greatly expand security ensured that the delegations were all protected and able to make their decision without the interference of a mob.
     Pope Gregory XVI excommunicated Verri, Pope Benedict XVII, and any member of the Savornola Brigades. While has asserted, along with the French government, that Avignon is merely a temporary residence until Rome is retaken, it has not stopped those seeking patronage across the continent from coming to that enclave.
     Thus, the Catholic Church is divided. Minority groups in Spain and France have rejected their government’s decision and recognize Benedict XVII, as do most traditional clergy outside of either realm. The problem is though, that France, Spain, and Austria contain and extremely high number of their own clerics. Indeed, the Church is roughly split in half when one considers distribution of support across the continent. When the New World colonies are included, Gregory XVI may have a slight majority in followers, though these territories have been largely ambivalent about the distant dispute and their conviction is not yet known. Even so, with the political developments in Italy, it is likely that the situation will only result in further divisions as time goes on.  

The Great Italian War
France, Spain Join Naples in Fight Against Revolution, Venice Attacked!

    With the attack on Naples and the invasion of Rome seen to be unacceptable by France and Spain, these powers were determined to act against the People’s Republic of Sardinia-Piedmont. Military actions were conducted by all three powers, seemingly having some success in containing the Revolution, but also causing its supporters to become even more fervent in their opposition to the hierarchical system of the dynastic realms.
     The mere rumor of French raids on Sardinia-Piedmont from the Alps was enough to cause ripples in their allied state, the Duchy of Modena. Ercole III d'Este, Duke of Modena, was faced with internal chaos before his French allies could arrive to save him. His own forces mutinied, attacking any French soldiers that were already present and bottling up the support army right on the coast. The Duke of Modena, the last surviving male-line member of the House D’Este, another old Italian family, was shot by a firing squad of a newly organized Savornola Brigade in his realm. Yet another old noble, Italian family has been destroyed after centuries of rule. Now his daughter, the Dauphine of France, stands to bind her claims to those of the House of Bourbon.
     The 60,000-man French force that arrived in Modena was not to be underestimated. Their initial landing was uncertain, the cannons of the Revolutionaries, who disguised themselves as Modena loyalists, launching surprise attacks on the fleet. Even so, the French were too numerous and overwhelmed the defenders. They then turned northwest, marching towards Piedmont. Their progress through staunch Revolutionary territory has been slow-going. Ambitious plans to reach the Alps were scrapped as every walled settlement has determined to face a siege rather than surrender, the sorties, scorched-earth tactics, and intrigue by the Italians undermining French morale, whatever their numerical advantage.
     The Modena landings were not the only French action though. A landing in Rome, attempting to duplicate the success of the Sardinians failed to take the city, was forced to retreat south towards Naples following defeat. Even so, with the arrival of a larger French army, Spanish aid, and the existing Neapolitan forces, the Revolutionaries were pushed of out Naples and those captured were slaughtered by the royalists. The way to Rome appears open, but the allied forces were unable to take action this year due to such a severe level of resistance by the rebels. Supplies are sabotaged daily, bridges destroyed, crops burned, and scouts murdered. The fight in Italy, especially with the incorporation of religion, has become intense and personal. Savornola Brigades roam the countryside of Naples, recruiting peasants, denouncing a French Pope, killing stragglers, and making life in the Kingdom difficult.
     The Revolutionaries, due to the delay caused by their forces successfully took back much of the former Papal States. Even so, their attempt to land men in Sicily was a debacle. Their 10,000-man army was unaware that the Spanish were sending far more men through there en route to Naples. In the Battle of Palermo, the invading Sardinian forces were pushed back, slaughtered in a chaotic retreat back towards the sea as Sicily remains a solid territory of the Kingdom of Naples thanks to Charles IV of Spain.
     Another Spanish expedition landed in Sardinia, 10,000 men catching the locals off-guard and invading this isle of revolution. Though there were no organized forces of the Turin government on the island, the Spanish have been forced to gradually occupy the island, the reinforcements from Corsica not arriving due to events on that island.
     Spanish success was not universal though. Taking possession of Corsica from Prussia, this did not mean that the localized revolts would be finished. While Spanish commanders intended to garrison Corsica before moving south towards Sardinia, the Corsican nationalists were furious. Those who had been loyal to Frederick William felt betrayed, easily falling into line with those who had opposed the Prussian occupation. Thus, with Austrians and Prussians departing, for the second time the Republic of Corsica has been declared, various factions now united against foreign rule. The locals, sympathetic to the Verri regime in mainland Italy, have sought to fight the Spaniards. They control most of the inland regions, the Spanish holding the population centers on the western coast of the island. This fighting has delayed any Spanish efforts to conduct further operation with this army.
     A second Sardinian attack, this time against Venice, was more successful. While the Venetians seemed to be anticipating war, building trenches and expanding forts, they were not quite envisioning one in the form it took. While their borders were well-manned and prepared for an invasion, Venice itself was less so. 8,000 Sardinians appeared in the middle of the night, landing in conjunction with a series of protests by the growing Catholic Republican movement. For several hours the city, which was not extensively garrisoned, was the site of intense confusion. Gian Rinaldo Carli, the popular Doge who had just won a victory in Tripoli was murdered in his residence by a group of Venetian rebels and a contingent of the Sardinian force. His guards were overwhelmed and his house being set ablaze with him still inside. Venetian morale has cratered, with there being little clear information in the Republic’s constitution about who succeeds a Doge in the event of their assassination. With his death, the Venetian Senate, or at least those Senators that escaped the city before Sardinia completed its occupation, has fled to Verona while what to do next is considered. Certainly, holding elections will be challenging with the capitol temporarily in enemy hands. Thus, while Venice has been drawn into the war, its leadership was decapitated.
     Meanwhile many Venetians, who had welcomed an Austrian army in order to provide protection, are now eyeing the force with growing suspicion. Though the Habsburg men have been well-behaved (not wanting to seem like invaders) it was this well-behavior that left Venice itself open to a surprise raid and the death of Doge Carli.
     One interesting power that seemed to be posturing itself, yet not taking concrete action, was Austria. Joseph II sent men to both Naples and Venice to act as a defense force but ordered that no invasion of Sardinian territory ought to take place, seeming to be hedging his bets. Even so, his reinforcement of Tuscany and Milan was welcomed by local elites who were extremely worried following the collapse of the Duchy of Modena. Austrians were onlookers as the allied forces retook Naples, providing crucial guardianship of the siege lines.

The Opening of China

   1785 would continue the trend within the Qing Dynasty of the past few years, greater foreign involvement and opening of the Middle Kingdom. Yet, for the first time, the opposition would also take concrete action against this interventionalist foreign policy.
     The reign of the Qianlong Emperor would end peacefully after more than fifty years on the throne, the aged ruler abdicating in favor of his new heir, Prince Yongrong. Taking the name Zhizhuang Emperor, the new leader of the Qing Dynasty has begun his reign in a period of grave crises. China is at war, with opposition internally and externally challenging the Qing Supremacy. Yet, not all is bleak. A trade expedition to Africa seems to have been a success, Chinese officials venturing outside the Middle Kingdom, and Asia itself for that matter, for the first time in living memory.

War in Russia

    The Russians, free from fighting in the west with the Treaty of Versailles, turned east to attack the Chinese, a realm that had not been a party in the negotiations. Both sides wanted the city of Irkutsk, the Chinese in order to encourage future settlement and the Russians in order to protect their possessions further north. Going along the Great Siberian Route, Russian forces arrived in relatively good time, just as the Chinese were preparing a final push towards Irkutsk. The ensuing Battle of Irkutsk was a stalemate. While the Russians under the famed and undefeated General Suvorov drove the Chinese from the field, bolstered by superior weaponry and experience in warfare, they were unable to pursue any sort of counter-offensive against the Chinese, who only had modest losses. Thus, they battle lines remain consistent and war between the two powers looks likely to continue.
    Meanwhile, small Russian raiding parties have assaulted some of the Uyghur territory, making large territorial gains. Even so, whatever land they take is without any clear resources and very sparsely populated.

Collapse of the Shah Dynasty

    After a year of low-level conflict, the situation in Nepal took a decisive turn. With French aid not forthcoming, and behind-the-scenes intrigue reigniting a feud between the Queen Mother and the Uncle of the King, the Shah Dynasty found itself unable to survive. Appeals to the French went unheeded as Kathmandu was stormed following the decisive defeat of the Nepalese, the young King and his court being captured by General Agui. Indeed, the entire Shah Dynasty was largely apprehended in the confusion, being sent to Peking and escorted by a sizeable contingent of guards. It will be up to the new Emperor to decide which, if any, is a suitable candidate to govern the territory. In the meantime, General Agui has assumed the title of military governor while the government debates what to do next. China is now in control of land that implicitly is seen by many as a direct challenge to French control of the region.

White Lotus Rebellion!

    It was no secret the Han Chinese felt betrayed by their government. First, the Qianlong Emperor had granted groups such as the Uyghurs and Mongols a voice in government affairs by reforming government. Then, he had refused to allow settlement in Manchuria in order to relieve the extensive strain placed on the land in China by a growing population. Finally, China began to open itself up to the rest of the world, the expedition to Africa was the final straw. Tens of thousands of Han Chinese have raised the flag of rebellion as members of the White Lotus Society. This group, largely responsible for the expulsion of the Mongol Yuan Dynasty, has become active once more due to the rule of the Manchu Qing over the Middle Kingdom. Initial reports are of a major rising in Southwest China, Chengdu being the momentary capitol of this rapidly growing movement. With most of the active forces off fighting in Nepal, Korea, and Russia and local garrisons beginning to defect, this situation shows the potential of escalating into a grave civil war.
    Indeed, the actual spark of the rebellion was ironically an attempt by the government to avert it. By sending 25,000 men to patrol the region, it was not long before rumors spread among the rebels that the Emperor was seeking to slaughter them and root out their movement. The force was not large enough to stave off the rising in Chengdu but has been enough to prevent it from washing over more of the realm.
    There have been actions outside the territory controlled by the rebels as well though. In the port city full of Prussian trade, a mob organized by the White Lotus Society slaughtered any Prussians that they could get their hands on. “We will no longer see the Middle Kingdom sold to barbarians and foreigners, it is time for your men to vacate the Middle Kingdom” states one letter sent to the surviving Prussians and addressed to Frederick William II. Though the local Qing forces restored order and saved the remaining foreigners, this delay shows how desperate the situation is becoming.

Joseon War

    The situation in Korea continued to frustrate the Qing Armies in 1785. The Joseon Emperor refused the insulting suggestion by Peking that Northern Korea be ceded in order to become a Chinese farming region. Demanding that all of Korea should be ruled by a Korea dynasty, his forces continued their stubborn resistance. Unlike in Nepal, they seem to be enjoying success. The Kingdom is unified around the idea of protecting their new independence. While the Army of Manchuria completed the crossing that ended with the slaughter of the Crown Prince last year, and thus both major forces are finally in Korea, the locals continue to resist. Joseon will not make peace until the Qing agree to their total and irrevocable independence, as they see their position strengthened by the arrival of the Russians, Chinese intervention in favor of the Durrani, and the early signs of the White Lotus Rebellion.

[Spamage]

Battle of Florida Keys
Spanish and British Ships Engage in Skirmish, Tensions At Record High

    It was no secret tensions were high between London and Madrid. Even as both powers denounced the idea that George III was responsible for the murder of his father-in-law, lingering disputes over British aid to Louisiana and Quebec meant that relations were frosty. Events in the Americas would further exasperate the situation. Off the coast of Florida, a British vessel came upon a ship flying the Spanish flag, clearly in distress. Coming it its aid, whatever the differences between the two governments, the British sailors noticed the ship was carrying weapons and gunpowder. While the Spanish alleged that it was a standard supply run to New Spain, the British captain suspected that these were supplies that were being sent north to the Indians in North America. Although what happened next is unclear, the situation devolved into outright fighting. The Spanish crew was defeated, taking heavy casualties, and their ship commandeered by the British. Spaniards have demanded the return of the prisoners, vessel, and the extradition of the British crew for a trial. British officials meanwhile allege that, as the ship was carrying weapons of war to Britain’s enemy, they are justified in keeping it.
     Now, yet again, London and Madrid are faced with another facet in an escalating crisis. Will the peace hold? As both powers have been reinforcing their New World garrisons over the past year, many are doubtful. That has not stopped some from continuing to urge moderation though.

Foreign Aid on Both Sides in Durrani-Safavid Conflict
Austria, Georgia, China, and Prussia, Oman All Funnel in Resources

    Both the Safavids and Durrani would enlist foreign powers in their war, some outsiders openly approaching the feuding parties. Ismail III was able to win over David X, who sent an army in order to aid the Safavid leader. So too did Oman and Austria send aid, providing intelligence that would prove to be most useful. They would not be the only foreigners getting involved though.
    The Qianlong Emperor, in one of his final acts as sovereign, sent a large force to aid the Durrani against the Safavids, joining the war. 50,000 Chinese soldiers would prove crucial in stunning the Persians and forcing them back towards their homeland. Prussia too would get directly involved on the side of the Durrani, offering weapons and military advisors in exchange for the ceding of the port of Karachi. Needless to say, while both powers received foreign aid, the Durrani were undoubtedly strengthened far more than the Safavids due to the arrival of the Chinese host.
     While a side contingent of Persians seized Kabul, the main Safavid army was pushed forcefully back in a severe defeat in central Afghanisan. The arrival of the Chinese on the field eliminated the Persian numerical advantage and, coupled with the enemy’s knowledge of the terrain, meant that Ismail III’s force would be made to retreat in bloody confusion. As he had gambled much, concentrating his forces in an attempt to knock out the Durrani in a single blow, there are many in Ishfahan worried that this is a severe blow to the war effort from which the Safavids may be unable to recover. It will take careful action moving forward by the Shahanshah if he hopes to still win the war.
    Now, with the closing of the year, the main Durrani-Chinese Army lays siege to the Persian-held Kabul, the main Safavid Army has fled back into Persian territory, and the raids along the Oxus continue.  The White Lotus Rebellion or Russo-Chinese War may be the only things that can avert catastrophe for the outnumbered Persians.
    Indeed, within Persia the Shah’s actions would provoke further backlash. His creation of the title of Ayatollah (not used until recently OTL) was viewed as a slap in the face by Shi’ite clerics. Normally apolitical, among the clergy there has been a widespread feeling of resentment, resulting in tax revenues lowered in protest. This was coupled with hatred for the idea of praising the Shah among other religious congregations. Sunni Muslims, Christians, and Buddhists have all refused the Shah’s command that his name be included in their religious ceremonies. In effect, his bold religious proclamation divided the realm at a time it is facing serious challenges abroad.

Brazil Declares Republic! Foreigners Expelled!
With No Suitable Candidates, Monarchy is Abolished

     The only two candidates proposed for the throne of Brazil were an Austrian Archduchess and a Spanish Bourbon Prince. The leaders of the provisional government found neither candidate acceptable, the Habsburg because of Joseph II’s heading of the anti-slavery conference and the Bourbon because of the Spanish invasion. Thus, recognizing reality, it was decided that Brazil would become a republic after all. A National Convention has convoked in Rio de Janiero and the drafting of a Constitution of Brazil has begun.
     A young and enthusiastic professor, José da Silva Lisboa, has been named the President of the Convention and is largely governing as executive until a more permanent form of government is established. Many in the region are optimistic that this new government will be able to provide for region needs as Lisbon never truly could.
     In the meantime, the last embers of the pro-Braganza slave revolt have been crushed and the Dutch, despite attempted to settle, have been expelled. Brazil stands entirely independent; the rebels having outlasted all the other forces that so recently seemed likely to doom their cause and result in the partition of the realm. With that freedom though, comes the new challenge of being a player on the international stage. Brazil joins the relatively small club of nations of the New World.

Collapse of the "Kingdom of Serbia"

     The end of the War of the Bavarian Succession clearly meant the end of the Serbian Rebellion. Without consistent Russian aid, that army withdrawing back east as soon as the Treaty of Versailles was signed, the Serbs were left to their own devices. Those most fanatically loyal to the idea of independence went with, encouraged by Russian offers of free land in Ukraine to Serbs wishing to be free of the Ottomans. Thus, paradoxically, it was those most committed to independence that undermined it the most. Ottoman forces captured Belgrade following a several month siege and quietly brought the entire region back into line. Attempts to stir other groups into rebellion went nowhere, Istanbul quashing propaganda and restoring some level of stability to the Balkans. It seems Abdul Hamid has avoided a terrible alternative path of events.

Glorious Germania
Frederick William Leads Celebration of Expanded German League

     With the expansion of the German League, Prussia has further strengthened its power within the group. Frederick William II hosted a convocation of the various members in the city of Hanover. Every sovereign was in attendance with a series of elaborate displays celebrating their victory being held. It was here too that Frederick Augustus, the former Elector of Saxony, was recognized by all the members in attendance as the King of Saxony. He becomes the third monarch in this alliance, alongside the rulers of Prussia and Denmark.
     The celebration seems to have quieted talk of rebellion in Hanover, the region joining in on the festivities. Yet, business was conducted as well. The members of the German League spent the summit working on how the body could be further reformed. Some in Prussia have expressed a desire for further centralization of the League, an idea admittedly supported by some members but opposed by most. Many other delegates believed some sort of assembly of representatives would be a good way to ensure coordination of the League members. Naturally the question of representation on the basis of population or one vote for each realm became the major dispute on that issue. Other ideas floated, but not acted upon, included centralizing defense into a common military force, the idea of a unified foreign policy, the needs for greater trade policy cohesion with non-members, provoked following Frederick William’s decision to raise Prussian tariffs against Russia, Austria, and the Netherlands. In short, a lot was discussed and the question of how the German League will move forward is largely an open one.

The Portuguese Question
With Death of Charles III of Spain, Issue Becomes Even More Muddled

     It was shocking when the new King of Portugal sent his clerics to the conclave in Rome rather than Avignon, in a direct challenge to his supposed overlord in Madrid, but it was even more surprising when King João VI announced his vassal-like relationship had only extended to Charles III and he would not recognize Charles IV as overlord of Portugal. Promising peace with the international community, and even going so far as to recognize the former colony of Brazil as independent, the new King has reorganized his forces in a move he claims is for self-defense. Diplomats have been sent to London, Paris, Vienna, and Berlin all calling on other powers to guarantee the age-old right of Portugal to exist. Yet, the issue of who truly controls the kingdom remains an open question. With Spain now focusing on Italy, some wonder if Portugal will finally be at peace and independent after years of invasions and the complete loss of their colonial empire or if this is merely a prelude to another round of civil war, invasion, and domestic chaos.
    The “legitimist” claimant Joseph II has been crowned in London as the King of Portugal, the Algarves, and Brazil. His mother’s son, he has consistently refused to recognize Brazilian independence and retains the loyalty of many British officials. While the Portuguese Army of Exiles has greatly decreased in strength, there remains a solid base of loyalists who are committed to seeing the senior line of the House of Braganza placed back on the throne. With the tensions between Madrid and London, their hope only continues to grow, even if it requires overlooking the new King’s push for greater independence from Spain.
    Portugal’s fate will probably be determined by larger powers, but that has not stopped the realm from asserting its own position forcefully and vocally. Spaniards have been expelled, though surprisingly not murdered, as matters in this corner of Europe remain uncertain.

[Spamage]

The Encore of Europe

Turn 5: 1786

Nations, Leaders, & Players:
Major Powers:
Russian Empire- Emperor Paul Petrovich (HenryWallace)
Kingdom of France- King Louis XVI Bourbon (Windjammer)
Kingdom of Prussia- King Frederick William II Hohenzollern (Lumine)
Archduchy of Austria- Emperor Joseph II Habsburg (Dereich)
Kingdom of Great Britain- King George III of Hanover (Blair)
Kingdom of Spain- King Charles IV Bourbon (LouisvilleThunder)
Ottoman Empire- Sultan Abdul Hamid I (Kalwejt)
Polish-Lithuanian Republic- President Tadeusz Kosciuszko (Not_Madigan)
Kingdom of Scandinavia-King Gustav III of Holstein-Gottorp (YPestis)
Republic of Quebec-President Louis-Philippe de Vaudreuil(Dr Novella)
Safavid Empire- Shah Ismail III Safavid (Kingpoleon)
Kingdom of the Netherlands- King William I of Orange (JacksonHitchcock)
Provisional Government of Sardinia-Piedmont- Council President Pietro Verri (X)
Qing Dynasty- Zhiazhuang Emperor (Dkrol)
Kingdom of Louisiana- Prime Minister Etienne de Bore (TimTurner)
Republic of Brazil- Provisional President José da Silva Lisboa (Not_Madigan)

Economic Standings:
Kingdom of France- Strong
Kingdom of Great Britain- Strong
Archduchy of Austria- Strong
Kingdom of Scandinavia- Strong
Kingdom of Prussia- Strong
Russian Empire- Moderate
Republic of Poland-Lithuania- Moderate
Qing Dynasty- Moderate
Ottoman Empire- Moderate
Republic of Brazil- Moderate
Kingdom of Spain- Weak
Kingdom of the Netherlands- Weak
Holy People's Republic of Sardinia-Piedmont- Weak
Safavid Empire- Weak
Kingdom of Louisiana- Weak
Republic of Quebec- Weak

Popularity:
President Tadeusz Kosciuszko- Very High
King George III- High
King Frederick William II Hohenzollern- High
Council President Pietro Verri- High
Prime Minister Louis-Philippe de Vaudreuil- High
King Louis XVI Bourbon- High
Emperor Paul Petrovich of Russia- Moderate
Emperor Joseph II Habsburg- Moderate
Sultan Abdul Hamid I- Moderate
King William I of Orange- Moderate
Zhiazhuang Emperor- Moderate
Provisional President José da Silva Lisboa- Moderate
King Charles IV Bourbon- Moderate
King Gustav III of Holstein-Gottorp- Moderate
Shah Ismail III Safavid- Low
Prime Minister Etienne de Bore- Low

Ongoing Conflicts:
Quebec War of Independence: Republic of Quebec vs. Kingdom of Spain (1781-)
Great Italian War: Kingdom of France, Kingdom of Naples, Republic of Venice (nominally) vs. Holy People’s Republic of Sardinia-Piedmont (1785-)
Russo-Chinese War: Qing Dynasty vs. Russian Empire (1784-)
Sino-Korean War: Qing Dynasty vs. Joseon Dynasty (1783-)
Safavid-Durrani War: Safavid Dynasty vs. Durrani Empire, Qing Dynasty (1785-)
Louisianan War of Independence: Republic of Louisiana vs. Kingdom of Spain (1784-)

Russian Empire:

-Emperor Paul, despite peace in the west with the Treaty of Versailles, your Empire remains at war with the distant Qing Dynasty. The Chinese launched a treacherous surprise attack in 1784 and at the end of last year your men seemingly managed to halt their advance at the Battle of Irkutsk. Now the path forward must be decided, especially considering they have devolved into civil war. Will you continue to fight the Chinese or seek to make a white peace? What will Russian policy in the east be? Some see the potential for fabulous concessions, others are wary your realm could overextend. What do you think?

-Russia has annexed a great deal of land that was once a part of the Crimean Khanate or Ottoman Empire. Needless to say, while you pledged to act as a sort of protector to the Muslims of these regions under the treaty, there are some at Court who want the existing inhabitants to be expelled south into the Crimean Peninsula, allowing for Russians, Serbian emigres, and others to settle the region in their place. While this would violate one clause of the agreement, it would also ensure a high degree of long-term loyalty among the populace. Will you take these harsh actions or will you genuinely try to respect the rights of the Muslims in your borders?

-St. Petersburg, the city of your great-grandfather Peter the Great, has been devastated by the Swedes, all the wealth stripped and the palace burned to the ground. Now the question of what ought to be done next has emerged. Where will you make your capitol? Will you rebuild the city in your image? Should some other city become the new permanent home of the monarchy such as Moscow or Kiev? Will you build a city somewhere else? It must be remembered how important of a trading center the burned out capital was, one of your few warm-water ports.

Archduchy of Austria:

-There is utter chaos in Italy and severe disagreement in Vienna over how Austria should proceed. While undoubtedly Sardinia-Piedmont must be punished, with the leadership crisis in Venice, some are wondering if that realm should not be brought under Austrian “protection” first? The rump senate is vulnerable and with Austrian persuasion could probably be coerced into doing your bidding. While taking out Venice would supply a reliable route to Italy, connecting that territory to the rest of your holdings, it could push more into the arms of the radicals. Beyond Venice, you must also be sure to maintain order in Milan and Tuscany. The example of the Duke of Modena should serve as a warning to your local government what can happen if you are not cautious. There is also another matter you must avoid, a Bourbon Italy. The Bourbons control Naples. By marriage they stand to inherit Sardinia, Piedmont, and Modena. If this comes to pass, your influence in the region will be at its lowest level since Charles VIII of France invaded centuries ago. How will this Italian nightmare end?

-Catholicism is in a state of schism. The choice of a French pope at Avignon was embarrassing for your delegation and a nonstarter entirely in your Italian lands, where priests still are invoking the name of Benedict XVII in religious ceremonies. Even so, the alternative was little better. Many have commended the bravery of your brother, the Archbishop of Cologne, who at very least had the courage to go to Rome and attempt to invoke your Jus Exclusivae, though the result was embarrassing. Some of the Germans (eyeing the strengthening and centralization of the German League suspiciously) seemed to vote for him precisely because he was unappealing to you in order to assert their continued independence and highlight that they will retain their local autonomy if it means annoying Austria. What is the religious way forward? There are some, following the example of the First Western Schism, who believe it is time for a third conclave, but that didn’t work out so well in the past. Others see Gregory as your candidate, whatever the problems with him, and hope that you will work to set him up in Rome. Your devout mother would be rolling over in her grave if she saw the state of the Church now. How will you rectify the situation and make her proud?

-Your colony at Delagoa Bay has been reestablished, much to the joy of Imperial officials. Even so, there has been a highly concerning development. Local tribes possess European weapons and have even killed several traders. Their hostility towards Austria is alarming and there is grave concern it could put the potential of Austrian ambitions in the region at risk. Of course, there are several courses of action. Some believe you should begin to supply this Zulu leaders’ enemies, provoking a crisis for him to handle and establishing local ties of your own. Others believe a military expedition should be launched to teach the tribesmen a lesson. Or, if you do not want to risk casualties, your people could always withdraw. Whatever the case, if this investment is to pay off, something must be done.

Kingdom of France:

-You have ensured that a true Pope has been elected, King Louis, but not without backlash. The election of Gregory XVI, a Frenchman, to the Papacy ensured that any internal squabbles have been temporarily put aside in a moment of national pride. Even so, it has also severely divided European Catholicism. There are some in your own realm who refuse to recognize him at the true Pope (residents of the former Austrian Netherlands) and invoke the name of Benedict XVII in religious services. Perhaps the only solution is to force the issue by taking Rome yourself… How will you ensure that the false Pope is defeated and the Catholic Church united once more under the Avignon Papacy? This war is vital for the future security of the House of Bourbon.

-While the commons have been pleased with your proclamation of Social Catholicism and promises of a constitution, there are many in the nobility who only see it as the first step towards the anarchy in Sardinia-Piedmont, even if it is decades away. Had not Charles Emmanuel III similarly issued a constitution of his own free will? The Princes of the Blood have begun to use the issue to undermine your authority, joined by your son the Comte de Artois (a strong conservative). In short, they threaten that unless the nobility is given its own assembly (the clergy being excluded from the upper house) and the right to be the only chamber where laws originate (as in, the lower common chamber only gets to vote on laws, not propose them), they will flee the realm in protest. Their conservatism has only been bolstered by the refugees in your realm from Sardinia-Piedmont, who denounce the very idea of constitutionalism. Clearly there are many groups you must please as you move France forward. How will you manage this tense situation?

-France stands dominant in India. It will only be a couple of years before the oldest of the Army of the Sacred Heart will be ready to serve, but in the meantime there are some urging you to return to a policy of expansionism, especially given the Qing Dynasty showing a desire to control those powers near its borders. The Durrani could be either a new conquest or a loyal ally if you were to get involved there. Others look towards Myanmar and Southeast Asia. Naturally, there are some in Versailles that look to join the rush to colonize in Africa. Or, you could break your agreement with Mysore and expand southwards. Will you choose to expand your colonial holdings, or should the government focus on consolidating its current gains before seeking to add more lands to the Empire?

Kingdom of Great Britain:

-What an outrage! The tensions with Spain are at a boiling point, as the Battle of the Florida Keys indicates. Public opinion firmly believes that the Spanish were in fact supplying the natives, perhaps an explanation for the growing tensions on your frontiers. This comes on the heel of insulting intimations by some Spanish nationals that you were personally responsible for the death of Charles III. Whatever the case, either the offer of Ottoman mediation with Spain should be pursued or war seems to be the only way forward without appearing weak to the British people. The Spanish issue has even come to overshadow the Papal Schism in Catholic Europe, to the extent that your excommunication has only received secondary coverage. What will be done in regards to foreign policy?

-Joao VI of Portugal has approached you with a compromise. In order to resolve the disputed Portuguese succession without further bloodshed, he is willing to return the throne to Joseph following his death. As he only has a daughter, Ana de Bragança, his extended proposal is her confirmation in all of his lands in order to ensure the safety of his progeny. Ana would marry Peter III, the widower father of Joseph, in order to further cement ties between the two families. Considering Joseph is at your court, the decision is largely yours to make. While some see the idea as a great way to avert further tensions in the Kingdom and restore Portugal as a British ally, others believe that Joao will always be a usurper and recognizing him would put thrones everywhere at risk, setting a grave precedent. What will be your response to these Portuguese negotiations?

-You reestablished the Catholic Church hierarchy in Britain and have consistently worked towards toleration. That was with Pope Adrian VII though, and his supposed successor in Rome has excommunicated you and deemed you to be an antichrist. While the Church hierarchy in Britain remains loyal, your increased toleration seen as key, there are some who believe that greater restrictions should be placed on Catholicism in order to ensure public safety throughout the British Isles. In Ireland particularly, there is always the risk of the locals being driven to rebellion by fanatic priests. Perhaps a recognition of the French Pope would solve this, though it also causes problems of its own. The idea of an Avignon Papacy is repugnant to nationalists everywhere, be they Irish or English. Will you increase pressure on British Catholics?

Kingdom of Prussia:

-At the recent German League conference there were many proposals for reforming the alliance put forward. Indeed, on the matter of further centralization, most of your fellow members are looking to Prussia to indicate which way it is leaning. As the largest political, economic, and military power in the bloc, your voice tends to carry the most weight. Yet, whatever you decide, your government must keep in mind that too much centralization could scare away the new members and larger regional powers such as Denmark. Will you seek to reform the German League or is the status quo acceptable?

-Your attempt to expand the slave trade into Mozambique has been greeted with fury by the locals. The slave trade had previously generally consisted of West Africans acquired by other local tribes and sold to foreign powers. Instead, you have created a settlement that actively seeks out slaves in East Africa. There has been armed resistance by the locals, who have outright refused the demands of undiplomatic officials. It does not help that slavery had been officially prohibited in the region during the reign of Maria I. Will you force the issue and risk rebellion or should the matter be dropped and the focus remain on West Africa to supply slaves?

-Yet another advisor has proved to become the center of attention during the previous year. Hans Rudolf von Bischoffwerder, a close friend of yours since your time as Crown Prince, has reportedly been practicing necromancy at court. You have even been alleged to have enjoyed the mysticism and intrigue around this strange practice. While most at Court have deferred to you, among the common people the actions are greeted with suspicion. Yet, for all this controversy, like Wollner, Bischoffwerder is a loyal advisor. Will you expel him from Court as some have demanded, ignore the issue, or counter it by praising your friend?

Kingdom of Scandinavia:

-Your colonial expeditions in Africa and North America have both been successful, a boon to your nation in these desperate times. While Baffin Island shows every sign of developing into a prosperous outpost, some wonder if you should not organize an expedition into North America itself, where fur would likely be far more plentiful and the climate slightly milder. Your African settlement likewise could be expanded, though the natives there have been standoffish and some fear an attack. Now that Scandinavia is an active colonial power once more, the question is what can you do to further these aims?

-There has been an alarming increase in pro-nationalistic propaganda throughout Norway and Finland, another power clearly seeking to undermine the unity of the Kingdom of Scandinavia. Needless to say, there are serious concerns in Stockholm about the effect this could have on the realm in the aftermath of the crisis in Iceland and the instability in other regions. There are naturally numerous suspects for the spread of these lies, Poland, Prussia, Russia, or Britain seeming to be the most likely sources. Some have even whispered of secret societies forming, nationalists hoping that your power will be challenged and one day overthrown. How will these traitors and conspirators be handled? Is a gentle touch or a strong hand necessary?

-With their pact with your realm, and their recent desire to extricate themselves from the growing German League, the King of Denmark has personally requested you intercede on his behalf with the King of Prussia. The main reason Denmark joined the body was to protect against your realm following the loss of Norway. Considering your alliance, he no longer sees it as necessary and is worried that Berlin will confiscate his German-speaking lands in Schleswig-Holstein is he were to act unilaterally. Will you take up his petition? Or is Prussia too strong to risk alienating at the moment?

[Spamage]

Kingdom of Spain:

-War it is! Your decision to defend your brother’s throne has been approved of by the entire realm, save for in Catalonia. Charles IV, following the brutal assassination of your father the people have rallied to your side for the time being. You face insurrection in Corsica, fierce resistance in Sardinia, and an enemy that controls the Vatican. How will Spain remind the world that it is still one of the great powers in these trying times? What is to be done in the Mediterranean Campaign?

-Portugal under the insolent Joao VI has had the nerve to reject your authority after all your father did for him. Needless to say, many in Madrid are angry at his abandonment of the protector-vassal relationship that had existed between you two. This could even hurt your lingering claim to the title of Emperor of Hispania. Yet, what can be done? With war in Italy there are those who would have you ignore Portugal, giving that realm time to repair its defenses, while the lunatic in Turin is dealt with. How will you respond to the provocative actions in Lisbon?

-With their acquisition of holdings in West Africa, both Prussia and Great Britain have begun to corner the market for slaves, a key requirement for your colonies. Recent Prussian reforms have meant that slaves are now becoming more and more expensive, with the British prioritizing their colonies before selling to Spain. Needless to say, this matter is becoming an issue. Some think you should reach a deal with the Prussians, others that perhaps it is time for Spain to expand into West Africa. Of course, the slave trade could be halted as well until either power agrees to be reasonable (your Empire is the place of highest demand) but this could cause a lot of short term pain. What will you decide on this unsavory issue?

Ottoman Empire:

-Venice, a trade partner and recent ally, but before that a centuries-old enemy of the Ottoman Empire, has been thrown into chaos. Even with your statements of sympathy for the Venetians, there are some in Istanbul who have looked greedily upon their colony in Tripoli and Illyria. Extremely lightly defended due to the withdrawal of soldiers to protect the Serene Republic, there are those who would have you take over the region in the name of maintaining stability in this unpredictable region. Perhaps it could even open a path to retaking other states. Yet, with your public praise of Venice, there is another faction that urges you to use your political sway to protect the Republic, perhaps even by meddling to ensure a member of the pro-Ottoman faction is elected as the next Doge. How will you respond to the crisis to the northwest of your lands?

-The Suez Canal construction continues apace, albeit expensively. Even with several years before the first ship will sail through this marvelous achievement of engineering, there are those looking to establish some sort of regulatory body in order to ensure a smooth transition from construction to operation. How will it be structured? Will it be owned by the Sultan? Who shall be allowed passage through the future canal and what prices and rates will they be charged on their goods? These are all questions it would be good to answer before such a monumental project is completed.

-With numerous other powers getting involved in the Persian-Durrani War, including your Prussian allies and former Austrian foes, there are some pushing for you to intervene as the strongest power in the region. Whether to keep peace, make gains, or restore order, you do probably have a part to play here. As the supposed Sunni Caliph, this could be popular among your Muslim subjects if framed properly, especially given the Shah’s attempts to declare himself the Ayatollah. There is a pro-peace faction, desiring that Ottoman-Persian cooperation be expanded in the face of the growing threats from the European colonial powers, as the intervention in the war seems to demonstrate. How will the Ottoman Empire manage the conflict to its east in a way that will prove beneficial?

Kingdom of Quebec:

-Two political parties have been formed in Quebec: the Conservatives and the Reformists. Naturally, these two groups represent various factions in the realm. The Conservatives are generally the Quebecois, Roman Catholic, and pro-monarchy. The Reformist Party is the new arrivals, of mixed religious affiliation, and generally is more in favor of limiting royal authority. Will you support either group? The assembly is roughly evenly divided, with a group of stubborn independents in the middle that will join whatever coalition you form. How will your government be composed?

-With the Second Western Schism emerging, Quebec finds itself in a unique position. Predominantly Catholic, your realm has no high-level Church officials and was thus denied a voice at either conclave. Public opinion in the Kingdom is divided on the matter of which candidate to back. Gregory XVI enjoys the support of the original Quebecois families and settlers, who admire his French birth. Benedict XVII is backed by the more recent immigrants and those on the left of the government, who see his alliance with republicanism as a nice change. Who will you back? Will priests in Quebec be compelled to invoke the name of either priest in religious services?

-Quebec’s economy has primarily been centered on the fur trade following your declaration of independence. Indeed, such has largely been the case for more than a half century. Needless to say, having an economy dominated so fully by one resource is risky, as price fluctuations could determine the rise and fall of governments, stability, and trade for your nation. How should the economy be diversified? What are additional resources or products that you think your realm could produce in order to ensure greater economic security. Furthermore, how will new trade partners be found? Thus far, your realm has primarily relied on trade with Prussia and Great Britain. Will you attract other governments to strike deals?

Safavid Empire:

-The Chinese and Prussians have committed serious faults against you, Sultan Ismail, by bolstering the cause of the Durrani. Their aid has resulted in the death of thousands of your subjects. Now, the war must be managed carefully if you are still to emerge with some sort of gains from the conflict. There are those who wish to see the Austrians, who merely acted in a defensive capacity, forced to do more in order to counter the Prussian aid sent to your foes. Russia too, even with your trade of insults several years back, could be a major force of assistance given the Chinese intervention in Afghanistan, considering their current war against the Qing. Forced conscription could be another solution, bolstering your ranks at the expense of local loyalty and experience of soldiers. Others think that perhaps you should surrender or offer peace, sacrificing power in exchange for a stable realm. What will be your military policy?

-As has been detailed, your attempt to claim the title of Ayatollah has caused consternation among Muslims and non-Muslims alike. Some suspect Ottoman agents of ratcheting up concerns through intrigue, but no solid evidence has been found. Shia clerics, perhaps jealous of your claimed authority, have urged protests and non-Muslims have refused to invoke your name in religious ceremonies. Needless to say, you must either force the religious groups into submission or withdraw your claim. Both options have potential upsides and downsides. You don’t want to appear weak, but neither should the realm be so divided at a time of such an important external crisis.  

-The actions of the Durrani, offering a trade port to the Prussians, could be replicated by your government. In the first Safavid Era the Empire opened up trade by granting concessions and inviting merchants to set up trade missions. Perhaps this policy could be pursued once more in order to get other powers to join your side and tilt the balance of the war in your favor. Others believe that Persia debased itself in the past by granting concessions and that there is little reason to do so again. Certainly, it does tend to make your economy more reliant on a specific power. Will you offer trade concessions, or even port cities, to other powers in return for aid? Who would you approach?

Polish-Lithuanian Republic:

-The decision in regards to both the refugees and the guilds has yielded success, improving the Polish economy further and expanding the stability of the realm as more people can try their hand at various trades. With this sorted, naturally other economic concerns are coming to light. It’s no secret your republic is a diverse one. Besides Poles and Lithuanians, Latvians, Estonians, Ruthenians, Ukranians, and other groups all reside in your borders and are technically citizens. Even so, civic participation among these groups is extremely low. Some believe it is because of a lack of outreach or due to the inaccessibility of information due to a language gap. Will you expand the use of languages in government or seek to teach these areas one of the two existing tongues? Language uniformity could be useful, but it could prompt resistance. Too much leniency may leave the Republic vulnerable to fracturing. What is to be done about these ethnic minorities?

-You sent men to the Roman Conclave of 1785, a move that was praised throughout the Republic. Now, with Europe divided over the matter of the Papacy, some are wondering if you should not seek to protect Pope Benedict XVII diplomatically, whether by issuing a guarantee of his protection or some other means. Others urge you to act as a mediator between the warring factions in the Church. Even so, there is great unease in your realm at the thought of a Catholic Pope based in Avignon and controlled by Louis XVI, a man who represents the very ideals the Poles rebelled against decades ago. With the growing Catholic Republican organizations in Poland increasing their political strength daily, their opinion must be considered as well. Another issue that must be resolved is, given the relative toleration of religion in your realm, whether pro-Avignon priests should be allowed to practice in public. What will be the response of the Polish-Lithuanian Republic to the crisis in Catholicism?

-With the Treaty of Versailles, there are growing concerns that, with all of your various foes no longer at war with each other, they will turn on you, whatever non-aggression pacts have been agreed in the past. You’ve already seen ample evidence they were plotting against you in 1782, why should 1786 be any different? Perhaps it is time for formalize an alliance with any of these powers, or a more distant great power like Britain to ensure you can prevent any such ideas of partition from returning. Alternatively, the continued investment in the military and expansion of the national guard could be helpful.

Kingdom of the Netherlands:

-The Dutch sit in a unique position diplomatically. Your decision to dump the Spanish and form an alliance with the British was praised by many, though it doesn’t change the fact that on the ground in other parts of the world your men are still friendly with Spaniards (in particular by keeping the peace in Hispaniola). Meanwhile, Prussia has increased tariffs on Dutch goods in a surprising move. Now, with the schism in the Catholic world, some think that if you were to back the Roman Pope over the French one you could induce your fellow Dutchmen to the south to revolt for independence and eventually reincorporate them into the Kingdom. With all of these various diplomatic issues in mind, what will be your policies for 1786?

-A situation has developed in the Dutch East Indies, rapidly spreading and potentially causing long-term problems for Dutch officials. Opium has been arriving in your ports, the locals (and even some Dutch) getting hooked on this terrible drug. Most blame some other power for this, though there is also the potential that people within your dominions have sought to profit from it. What will you do? While leaving the situation as is could be a viable option, expect addiction to increase and the productivity of these colonies to decline. Others are convinced that the best option is to brutally punish those using and distributing the drug. Perhaps you could get involved in the trade yourself, it does seem to be rather lucrative. Whatever the case, some response will be necessary.

-A recent corruption scandal has shaken Amsterdam. Royal officials, including some favorites of yourself, have been revealed to have been profiting off of their positions as government officials. Namely, when individuals would request the money you offered to settle, they would take a small fee in order to speed the application along and get the resettlement on the way. The common people are indignant, angry at seeing their tax dollars send to already wealthy officials, while your favorites allege that it is common practice and does no real damage. How will the Crown handle this growing scandal? Some have even gone so far as to accuse yourself of involvement and demand you be placed on a budget.

Holy People’s Republic of Sardinia-Piedmont:

-1786 is going to be the most important year of the Revolution so far. Your people stand loyally by your side, facing an onslaught of French, Spanish, and Neapolitan armies. How will you ensure the evil force of monarchism does not kill off this movement that has been the work of God? Some believe it is time for you to find allies in the realms that have embraced Benedict XVII over the French usurper. What must be done to win this war and teach the old feudal powers a lesson they will not forget?

-There have been some concerning developments in New Sardinia and Rabat. The initial shock of Sardinian arrival has worn off in both locations and locals are beginning to resist the “tyranny” of your rule. In New Sardinia, several priests have even been murdered, the locals preferring their own religious practices to the Catholicism of your missionaries. Needless to say, with events in Italy, some see the colonies of being only of secondary importance and a matter to be dealt with later. Others want a forceful response to the terrible actions of the natives. How will the Holy People’s Republic ensure its priests are well-protected?

-The conduct of the Savornola Brigades has become rather controversial, at least outside of Italy. Their excesses, including violent murders, execution of local monarchist leaders, and quick religious trials has really never been condoned by the Church. Some think you should distance yourself from them, others that they should be embraced and used to further your ends. Will Benedict XVII recognize the Brigades? What is your government’s view of their espionage and outright murder of the Duke of Modena?

Qing Dynasty:

-Welcome, great Zhizhuang Emperor. You take the throne at a time of great strife in China. The White Lotus rebellion threatens from the south, Persia insults you to the west, the Russian bear prepares for another round of conflict to the north, and the obstinate Koreans hold out to the east. Your father has left your realm involved in five different conflicts. While one is concluded, you must determine the path that the other four will take. How can the Middle Kingdom emerge from this crisis stronger than ever before?

-Nepal has been captured, the Shah Dynasty falling easily into your hands with the capture of Kathmandu. General Agui has established a provisional government in that city, but it is now up to you to determine the future of that realm. Outright annexation is a bold proposition, though a highly risky one. Many locals remain furious and will continue to resist. Others think the young King should be restored to the throne as a puppet, along the lines of the Dalai Lama in Tibet. Perhaps a new member of the family could be procured? Or maybe it is time for Nepal to move beyond the Shah Dynasty? Now that the war against them is concluded, you must chart a way forward.

-There are two paths you can take in regards to the opening up of China at this point, as the status quo is seeming to be untenable. Some believe you should use the White Lotus Rebellion as a pretense to open up the Kingdom entirely, enlist aid from your foreign trading partners, and expand your economy. Certainly, it would allow for harsh measures against those who voice any opposition. This risk is this could drive more people towards the cause of the rebels. The other path is to restore isolation, seeking to assuage the concerns of the White Lotus Society. This is risky too, potentially economically damaging and not guaranteed to have any success at dispersing the rebels who hate you for being Manchu as much as opening up China. Will you take decisive action in either direction as your new advisors are urging? Or is your father’s slow and steady approach the way forward, even if it appears uncertain at times?

Republic of Brazil:

-The Republic of Brazil is free! With the expulsion of the Dutch, defeat of the Braganzas, and restoration of the existing social order, Brazil is largely at peace internally. With the chaos and conflict in your borders subsiding, it is time to decide the form your new nation will take. How will the Republic be structured? Who can vote? All of this must be decided by you as leader of the National Convention as you decide your new national Constitution.

-Brazil stand alone, the only independent nation in South America. Thus, you will have a largely unique foreign policy. Some are calling on friendly relations to be established with far off former colonies in Quebec and Louisiana. Others look to major European colonial powers such as Britain, Spain, and Prussia for protection. There is a third group that thinks Brazil, being so large and distant from the other nations, can afford to isolate itself and go it alone. What will your foreign policy goals, aims and ambitions be? How will you position your nation on the world stage?

-There is already a matter of great controversy sweeping the Republic on the issue of slavery. While the institution has universal support throughout Brazil, it being a key part of the economy, with the defeat of the pro-Maria rebellions that were spurred by emancipation, there are questions about what is to be done with former slaves captured in the fighting. Their onetime owners are demanding their return. Others think that they are too much of a risk and want them to be expelled from your realm immediately. It’s an unpleasant issue, but one that must be managed. How will you deal with the former pro-Braganza rebels?

Kingdom of Louisiana:

-You have decided to implement a constitution along the lines of Quebec, a promising development for many Louisianans. Yet, due to this, at the moment you are a Kingdom without a King. This situation must be resolved. While most suspect that you will approach the old European houses for a sovereign, there is also the possibility of crowning someone within your own realm and establishing the first American dynasty. Or you could create an elected monarchy. How will you solve the matter of finding a head of government?

-Catholicism is in a state of schism. As a former French colony, there has been general enthusiasm for the election of Pope Gregory XVI in Avignon, but the praise is not universal. Adamant republicans, already upset at you for having following Quebec’s example, have now begun to push for you take either back Benedict XVII or take a neutral stance. With so many Catholics, the issue is becoming pretty major in the region. What will you do?

-The war for independence has started quietly. Spain has done little to act against you, focused on events in Italy, but a state of war continues to exist between your two realms. In addition, a staunchly pro-British party has been forming in New Orleans, bolstered by foreign funding. Will you take offensive action now that Madrid is distracted? What will be done to ensure that you are not continually at risk of being invaded and subjugated once more? There are some proposing expeditionary settlements be sent into Tejas, a sparsely populated Spanish province as insurance in case Louisiana collapses. Will you condone such expeditions?

[Spamage]

Armies & Locations

Kingdom of Prussia
50,000 Army of the East
50,000 Army of the West
15,000 Army of New Prussia
2,000 Army of Guyana
40,000 men garrisoned
(Can raise 40,000 more)

Kingdom of France
78,944 Army of the Alps
53,867 Army of Modena
23,062 Army of Naples
60,000 men garrisoned
60,000 Army & Garrison of India
(Can raise 1,000 more)

Kingdom of Great Britain
25,000 Army of General Wolfe
32,900 Garrison of Britain
15,000 Army & Garrison of the 15 Colonies
20,000 Army of Savannah
3,000 Army & Garrison of Australia
3,500 Army of Charleston
2,500 Ghana Garrison
100 Falklands Garrison
(Can raise 88,000 more)

Kingdom of Scandinavia
100,000 Army of Finland
4,000 Army of Stockholm
20,000 men garrisoned
(Can raise 6,500 more)

Kingdom of Spain
49,701 Army of Naples
8,972 Army of Sardinia
9,502 Army of Corsica
22,000 men garrisoned
10,000 Garrison of New Spain
16,809 Army of Santo Domingo
21,046 Army of South America
2,000 Army & Garrison of the Philippines
(can raise 2,000 more)

Russian Empire
48,800 men garrisoned
37,000 Army of the West
78,000 Army of the North
82,128 Army of China
9,760 Uyghur Raiding Army
(can raise 8,000 more)

Archduchy of Austria
52,000 Army of Bohemia
99,000 Army of Milan
30,000 Army of Tuscany
20,000 Austrian Border Army
20,000 Army of Venice
10,000 Army of Persia
45,000 men garrisoned
(can raise 5,000 more)

Ottoman Empire
61,089 Army of the Balkans
27,000 Army of Tripolitania
1,700 Army of Timor
1,000 Army of Mauritius
42,100 men garrisoned
(can raise 89,800 more)

Polish-Lithuanian Republic
100,000 men raised and mobile
30,000 men garrisoned
(can raise 80,000 more)

Safavid Empire
67,972 Army of Persia (includes allies)
10,000 Army of Kabul
23,200 men garrisoned
(Can raise 15,000 more)

Republic of Quebec
25,000 men raised and mobile
5,000 Army of the Frontier
10,000 men garrisoned
(Can raise 22,000 more)

Provisional Government of Sardinia-Piedmont
60,000 Army of Italy
4,902 Army of Sicily (at Ostia)
32,250 ‬Army of Rome
7,890 Army of Venice
10,000 ‬men garrisoned
 (‬Can raise ‬1,000 ‬more)

Kingdom of the Netherlands
25,000 ‬men raised and mobile
5,000 Army of New Holland
21,324 Army of Saint Domingue
7,000 Army of the East Indies
2,000 Army of Guyana
15,000 ‬men garrisoned
 (‬Can raise ‬15,000 ‬more)

Qing Dynasty
72,463 Army of the North
31,069 Army of Southwest Korea
44,998 Army of Northeast Korea
71,051 Army of the South
46,058 Army of Afghanistan
22,053 Army of Sichuan
(Can raise 125,000 more)

Republic of Brazil
25,000 Army of the South
30,000 Army of the North
(Can raise 20,000 more)

Republic of Louisiana
17,000 Army of New Orleans
2,000 Northern Frontier Force
(Can raise 10,000 more)

Navies of the World
Kingdom of Great Britain
205 Ships of the Line
126 Frigates

Kingdom of France
150 Ships of the Line
50 Frigates

United Provinces of the Netherlands
52 ‬Ships of the Line
40 ‬Frigates

Kingdom of Spain
65 Ships of the Line
42 Frigates

Russian Empire
21 Ships of the Line
7 Frigates

Kingdom of Scandinavia
48 Ships of the Line
20 Frigates

Kingdom of Prussia
35 Ships of the Line
17 Frigates

Kingdom of Portugal
33 Ships of the Line
14 Frigates

Polish-Lithuanian Republic
16 Ships of the Line
16 Frigates

Ottoman Empire
25 Ships of the Line
10 Frigates

Republic of Venice
15 ‬Ships of the Line
24 ‬Frigates

Archduchy of Austria
11 Ships of the Line
3 Frigates

Provisional Government of Sardinia-Piedmont
10 Ships of the Line
2 Frigates

Republic of Quebec
3 Ships of the Line
7 Frigates