Age of Steam and Steel: Gameplay Thread

[True Federalist (진정한 연방 주의자)]

조선 법원 선포
Proclamations of the Court of Joseon

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

Queen Regent Sunwon in accordance with the advice of the advisors of her grandson King Heonjong, announces on this Surital of the fourth year of his reign (1837) the following:

Edict Concerning Piracy

Given the habit of some countries to resort to privateers in time of war to attack the shipping of other countries and the habits of those privateers to not be particular of whose ships they prey upon, it shall be the policy of the Joseon Navy to treat as pirates all armed ships operating without a flag flying indicating their allegiance.

Edict Concerning the Batanes
It is our intention to to elevate a suitable notable among the natives of the Batan Islands to the rank of Grand Duke (대공 Daegong), to have autonomy in the domestic governance of the islands.  Military, navigation, and trade issues will be the responsibility of the Joseon Kingdom.

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

Regulation Concerning Shoddy Foreign Goods
Given the reports of shoddy goods being supplied to Egyptian forces, and the recent violent reactions of Persian customers towards Scandinavian merchants, the Ministry of Commerce announces that effective immediately, goods of Scandinavian origin shall be subject to a 4% surtax when imported, the proceeds of which shall be used to test said goods so that any found to be of inferior quality may be barred from the Joseon Kingdom. Unless renewed, this regulation shall lapse in one year.

[Spamage]

Age of Steam And Steel

Turn 3: 1837

(Source: Self-Made)

Nations, Leaders, and Players

Kingdom of France: King Louis XVIII Bourbon (Windjammer)
United Kingdom of Great Britain, Ireland, and the Americas: King Charles III of Hanover (Blair)
Ottoman Empire: Sultan Mustafa IV Osmanoğlu (Kingpoleon)
Kingdom of Scandinavia: King Frederick VI Oldenburg & Queen Catherine of Holstein-Gottorp (Ypestis)
Russian Empire: Czar Peter IV Pavlovich Romanov (HenryWallace)
Kingdom of Prussia: King Frederick III Hohenzollern (Lumine)
Habsburg Monarchy: Emperor Francis III Habsburg-Lorraine (Dereich)
Republic of Brazil: President Bernardo Pereira de Vasconcelos (Elcaspar)
Kingdom of Louisiana: King Louis-Philippe II Bourbon (DKrol)
Kingdom of Naples: King Francis I Bourbon (GoTfan)
Kingdom of the Netherlands: King William II of Orange-Nassau (JacksonHitchcock)
Tokugawa Shogunate: Shogun Tokugawa Ienari (Donerail)
Qing Dynasty: Yansheng Emperor (S019)
Xing Dynasty: Youfú Emperor (thumb21)
Confederation of New England: Chairman John Quincy Adams (NyIndy)
Qajar Persia: Mohammad Shah Qajar (PSOL)
Joseon Korea: Queen Regent Sunwon (True Federalist)

Economic Standing:

Kingdom of France: Strong
Kingdom of Quebec: Strong
Republic of Brazil: Strong
Joseon Korea: Strong
Kingdom of Scandinavia: Moderate
United Kingdom of Great Britain, Ireland, and the Americas: Moderate
Russian Empire: Moderate
Habsburg Monarchy: Moderate
Kingdom of the Netherlands: Moderate
Kingdom of Prussia: Moderate
Kingdom of Naples: Moderate
Kingdom of Louisiana: Moderate
Ottoman Empire: Weak
Qing Dynasty: Weak
Qajar Persia: Weak
Xing Dynasty: Very Weak

Popularity:

King Frederick VI & Queen Catherine of Scandinavia: High
Emperor Francis III Habsburg: High
King Francis I Bourbon: High
King Louis XVIII Bourbon: High
Sultan Mustafa IV Osmanoğlu: High
King Louis Henry of Quebec: Moderate
King Frederick III of Prussia: Moderate
Mohammad Shah Qajar: Moderate
King Louis-Philippe II Bourbon: Moderate
King Charles III of Britain: Moderate
President Bernardo Pereira de Vasconcelos: Moderate
Czar Peter IV Romanov: Moderate
Youfú Emperor: Moderate
King William II of Orange: Moderate
Queen Regent Sunwon: Moderate
Yansheng Emperor: Low

Current Global Conflicts:

Chinese Civil War: Qing Dynasty, Mongol Separatists vs. Xing Dynasty, Tokugawa Shogunate, Guang Dynasty vs. Secessionists (1825-)
Eastern War: Tokugawa Shogunate, Xing Dynasty vs. Kingdom of the Netherlands vs. Hakka People (1836-)
Mexican War of Independence: Kingdom of Mexico, Kingdom of Louisiana vs. Kingdom of Spain (1828-)
Quebecois Intervention in American Wars of Independence: Kingdom of Quebec vs. Kingdom of Spain (1835-)
Yucatan War of Independence: Yucatan State vs. Kingdom of Spain (1826-)
Colombian War of Independence: Holy Republic of Colombia vs. Kingdom of Spain (1823-)
Haitian Revolution: Republic of Haiti vs. Kingdom of Spain, Kingdom of Prussia (1831-)

(Source: Self-Made)

Kingdom of France:

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

-Outrage has swept through France as tragedy has befallen your family, King Louis. The murder of your son and daughter-in-law has left a mere nine-year-old as heir, severed your covert envoy to the liberals, and weakened the prestige and authority of monarchs throughout the entire Continent. A dark cloud has descended on the realm as there is a majority that demands revenge and a quick, painful execution of the Flemish dogs who were responsible. But there are other issues raised by the assassination, most the most important being potential Dutch involvement. The Netherlands would certainly have much to gain from a free Flanders, but thus far no direct evidence has been produced tying them to the barbaric act, some believe further investigation could yield the missing link. There’s also the question about what is to be done about the extended network of the Sons of Willem. Some have already fled France for Britain and the Netherlands, but there are others who remain, assuming their cover is intact. Governance over Flanders as a whole is in question. Will you undertake brutal reprisals against the region to ensure they know their future is as subjects of the House of Bourbon? What will you do about this horrible tragedy, King Louis?

-Although it was overshadowed by the death of your son, the events in Italy are also alarming. The collapse of the Papal States and the surging power of Naples has thrown everything up into the air in the region. Already nationalist protests have been observed by your garrisons in the north, the prospect of an open rising seeming more likely. The Pope being forced into the Vatican is another pertinent matter. According to the Foreign Ministry, there are several courses of action that could be taken. First, given that the Kings of Naples are fellow Bourbons, there are some who would have you cede your authority over the Northern Italian Bourbons to that realm, the property of your relatives being preserved in the North, but as vassals under the King of Naples. This move could be perceived as retreating though, potentially risky when your people have been so riled up into nationalist fervor by the murder of your son. Alternatively, you could maintain the status quo and brutally crack down on dissent. Unlike in Rome, your relatives certainly don’t have to worry about French soldiers shirking from cracking down on the Italian mob. Whatever course you choose, you must remain aware of Austrian actions as well. Certainly, the Habsburgs will be looking for any opportunity to further their grip on this site of so much historical conflict.

-The nationalization of the French Catholic Church has proved to be the first momentous act of your new liberal government. The subsequent incorporation of the Church into the education system was likewise met with broad approval. Still, domestic political issues being what they are, a new opposition is forming centered on the Conservatives. Feeling betrayed by your alliance with the Liberals, reform of the Church, and broader policies towards modernizing France, deep resentment has quickly become apparent. This in and of itself is not necessarily dangerous, given the broader deference of the Conservatives to the Crown, but alarming connections are becoming apparent. Many generals in the French military have reportedly privately expressed contempt for the reforms. Some of the more salacious rumors say that at military dinners, toasts have been made to the assassins of your liberal son, though this has not been proven by any means. Likewise, the conservatives are seen as having a substantial presence in the judicial system, parts of the Church, and local governments. Some believe you should undertake a broad, systemic purge of this potential undermining faction. Others believe that personal opinions are the right of every Frenchman and, so long as they remain loyal to the government, they are perfectly allowed to express themselves. Where do you stand on the growing hostility of conservatives?

United Kingdom of Great Britain, Ireland, and the Americas:

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

-The plan to liberate the slaves in the British Empire has been met with widespread praise and support throughout Great Britain and the Northern American colonies. Yet, with the Southern Charter from the Charleston Convention, and the subsequent rise in support for secession, a major challenge has emerged from the Southern colonies. On top of this, advisors are particularly worried about the vultures circling your territory in Louisiana, New England, and Quebec, all of who have tried to undermine your presence in the Americas in various ways. Given Louisiana has thus far been an unabashed proponent of slavery, perhaps they should be watched the closest. How will this perilous situation in the Americas be navigated?

-British operations in Africa have secured a foothold in the West African Coast, although local opposition has been intense. With a minimal presence in the region there are now new issues that have arisen. What is the primary goal of British operations in the area? Is it the establishment of trade outposts, military bases, or direct colonization? Will military operations be expanded? How will you deal with the minor realms that see your coming as a grave affront and have responded with brutal force? There is undoubtedly much potential in the new region, as Scandinavia and Prussia have already demonstrated. What will you do to seize it?

-The assassination of the Dauphin in France has been deplored by Parliament, but even more concerning is the potential for a French overreaction. It has been a cornerstone of British policy since the days of Queen Elizabeth to keep the Low Countries from falling fully into the French orbit. This has traditionally ensured a close relationship between the royal families of Britain and the Netherlands. Should hostile action be taken against the Netherlands by France, you could find yourself facing a European shoreline wholly owned by that hegemon, an unpopular prospect. Twice in the last century the Dutch have been overrun, there are some who fear that after a third instance the state may be wholly dissolved. Alternatively, the Netherlands also seems to be growing more alienated on the global stage, and some opportunists would have you use their struggles in Europe (and now Asia, with the Japanese seizure of Formosa) to pick off at their colonial empire. Will you stand with your fellow Protestants in the Netherlands against French tyranny? Alternatively, should Britain only focus on self-interest, striking strategically against a vulnerable state? Or, given the state of the Americas, are the affairs of the Continent outside of your purview?

Kingdom of Scandinavia:

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

-Stockholm celebrated on November 1st, 1836, the day the new proposed constitution was officially ratified in your realm. With this move has come the prospect of the first elections, set to occur this year. Already, great contestation is underway. Liberal, Conservative, and Socialist factions have all emerged, candidates seeking to win a seat in one of the many new political positions established in the new system. There are also some nationalist parties, not aiming for secession, but regional autonomy and representation. It is expected that the tacit support of the Crown could tilt the scales in the upcoming vote, your popularity being used in order to encourage the formation of a government in line with your interests. Will you tacitly, or overtly, endorse any ideology? Or should the Crown remain above petty politics, serving with whoever the voters decide to send to the National Assembly? Your precedents here may influence the style of government in practice under the new constitution.

-Your realm has been quite active abroad. The Egyptians have accused your realm of treachery and abandonment, while the Persians engaged in terroristic actions against your recently retaken concessions in the region (though some think the Russians were ultimately responsible). In Africa, your envoys to the minor realms north of the Prussian Congo came off more successful than anticipated, both seeking your protection against that expanding power. What’s next for Scandinavian colonial policy? A further focus on Africa or a consolidation of gains? Will you expand your trade networks towards Asia, especially in light of recent understandings with the Koreans? How will Scandinavia operate in the wide-open world?

-In Europe, the recent diplomatic system is already strained at the very moment the Russians have the time to look to the west. Prussia and the Habsburg Monarchy are at each other’s throats over the very well-founded accusations of Prussians treachery in covert dealings with the Saxon Imperial Princes. As the third member of the Prague Convention, some look to you as a potential mediator. This all comes as fears of Russian aggression in Finland have only grown, the Czar’s habit of toppling his neighbors being viewed with dread by the inhabitants of the region. How will you respond to the Saxon Affair and handle growing Russian assertiveness?

Russian Empire:

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

-Czar Peter, the operations in Central Asia have been a total success. The Qajars are enthroned, the Khivans absorbed, and the Durrani chastened by their recent defeat. Although this victory has meant economic damage and dislocation, none of those affected were Russian subjects, leaving your realm positioned to exert significant influence in rebuilding Persia and Central Asia should you so desire. With your primary goal achieved, you must now decide where your primarily foreign policy attention will be focused next. Some believe that your forces and Persia should continue west and mop up the Ottomans in Iraq, especially while the last embers of rebellion simmer in Egypt. Others would have you reorient yourself towards a new theater, exerting Russian power in a different direction. What are Russia’s aims for 1837?

-Russia is a vast realm, its population and growing economic influence undoubtedly important for the further development of its strength. Yet, in some aspects, the realm could be seen as falling behind. Literacy in Russia is atrocious and most of the population still toils on agriculture, despite limited movement towards French-backed industrialization. Some are calling for educational reform to be the challenge tackled in 1837, pointing to developments in Spain and France, where the Catholic Church was coopted into public education, as examples. Still, the idea of literate peasants is feared by many of the Russian nobles, wary of the fact their workers may get other ideas should they be exposed to the broader world. Will you institute some sort of public education system in Russia? If so, will it be universal? How will you balance the needs for a new workforce with the stability of life in one of the most conservative realms in Europe?

-Events in the west are alarming, albeit potentially tantalizing. Prussia and Austria are once again at each other’s throats, with the Scandinavians being pressured to get involved as well. France, distracted by the assassination with the Dauphin and developments in Italy, is likely too focused elsewhere to prove a potential counterweight to your influence in the region. The Ottomans are still handling Egypt. There seems to be a rare window for Russian initiative in the west, but what form will that be? Aggression and pan-Slavism? A self-interested actor among quarreling powers? Or perhaps it is better to act as the benevolent neighbor, using your weight to kill any potential war in its cradle? Alternatively, perhaps it is better for Russia to abandon any European ambitions and turn its eyes elsewhere. How will Russia respond to the slew of developments that rocked the lands to its west in 1836?

Habsburg Monarchy:

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

-Those Prussian dogs are at it again. The word of schemes to rob the Holy Roman Empire of the minor Saxon princes is a direct affront to the recent treaty with Prussia and could undermine the whole system that arose from it. Already the hawks have appeared in Vienna, determined to teach the Prussian upstarts their lesson once and for all, perhaps taking back Lower Silesia, if not Silesia as a whole. Certainly, the Prussians seem spread thinner than usual, given the decision by King Frederick to involve himself in the Spanish Americas. Yet, war is unpopular among some of those who could be on the front line. This is not to mention the outright insubordination of those in the Holy Roman Empire who have already pledged neutrality. How will the Habsburg Monarchy respond to the Saxon Affair?

-Events in Italy are alarming. The Papal States were never an Austrian satellite by any means, but their replacement by an enlarged, nationalist Bourbon Naples has unnerved some authorities in the region. Urbino, your protectorate in the peninsula, has been most rocked by unrest, where the House of Württemberg has proven quite unpopular and never fully shed its German image. Yet, the prospect of risings in other territories remains very real. The Venetians have still never forgiven your realm for the annexation of their republic. Milan too is a potential hotbed for pan-nationalism. Still not all is lost. It is some small comfort the French are facing similar troubles as you in the region. Tuscany, although home to some nationalist sentiment, still largely remains loyal, the events of the 1780s still leaving a dark shadow over that region, which saw firsthand the evil potential of Catholic Republicanism. On top of all this, there is the question of how you should approach the new pope, given your cardinals did play a role in his election. Clearly there is a lot to be resolved here, Emperor Francis. Where will you begin?

-Developments in East Asia have some concerned about the security of Habsburg possessions in China. In particular, the recent fighting between the Japanese, Xing, Koreans, Dutch, and Spanish means that your minor port concession of Ningbo, with so much economic potential, could be at risk in its infancy. Some would have you take a greater role in the affairs of the region, now that fighting has expanded beyond China itself. What role to you envision for the Habsburg Monarchy in Asia, especially now your supply chain is complete with continued expansion in the Nicobar Islands?

[Spamage]

Kingdom of Prussia:

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

-The Habsburgs are throwing out ludicrous accusations against your realm once again. Those Austrian fiends are besmirching your honor and attempting to undermine the sovereignty of your realm. Some believe that the crisis in Italy may prove to be the perfect opportunity to teach them a lesson they will not soon forget. The war faction in Berlin demands you live up to the legacy of your illustrious predecessor, King Frederick the Great, and thrash the antiquated Habsburg Monarchy. Others would have you not go quite as far as war, but perhaps undertake a blockade of Austrian trade in Africa or close the borders of the German League to Austrians wares. How will you respond to the Saxon affair, King Frederick?

-While the restoration of the old Prussian borders with Saxony has been highly praised by your direct subjects, the abandonment of Württemberg, a fellow Protestant government and loyal longtime ally, has enraged the members of the German League, who now fear they too could be unilaterally ceded back to the Holy Roman Empire on the whim of the King of Prussia. The Palatinate, Mecklenburg-Schwerin, Oldenburg, Brunswick, and Hesse-Kassel have all made protests about the Convention of Prague. Although your size is so overwhelming that Prussians alone can push through reforms to the German League, the opinion of these princes represents a potential thorn in your side and some in Berlin would have you concede that the remainder of them are under your protection, however hollow that may seem. Others believe that these minor Dukes and Margraves need to finally and once and for all learn their place in the new order, subordinate to the Prussian Monarchy, and any concessions are a sign of weakness. How will you respond to their actions in the German League, now that diplomatically you are in control of the situation?

-The seizure of the Panama Canal by the Colombian fanatics, the Brazilian invasion of Guyana, and the wretched turn of events in the invasion of Haiti may prove to be just minor setbacks for Prussia in the war for the Americas, but that all depends on the response of your government. As fighting in the Spanish New World shows no signs of stopping, especially with the Concessions of Zaragoza stabilizing the situation in Spain itself, it is time for you to figure out what the next step for Prussia is. Will you expand operations, perhaps by sending more soldiers? Or is it time to try and extricate yourself before the conflict becomes too costly, given tensions in Europe proper? Spain has firmly demanded you keep your word. What will you do, King Frederick?

Ottoman Empire:

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

-Egypt seems to have been subdued, their brief attempt at monarchy collapsing almost weeks later into anarchy. With the fall of Cairo and Alexandria, Ottoman victory seems all but certain. Undoubtedly though, threats remain with the tribes in the Sahara who have vowed to fight on, as well as the remnants of the Egyptian rebels to the south. Still, now you can afford to think about the future of your Egyptian territories. Will the region be fully annexed back into the Ottoman Empire or given a wide degree of autonomy? Now that the fighting has concluded in the north, will you avenge the backstabbing of the Seven Power Alliance and retake the now vulnerable Suez Canal? How will you treat collaborators and those who fought for Egyptian Independence? Will you punish the cities of Sudan and Ethiopia, who both provided aid to the rebel government? There is a lot to resolve in this region and your choices will be important.

-You may have won on the Nile, but the collapse of the Husaynians in Persia is a setback to the east. With the close cooperation between the Qajars and Russians, it is feared by some of your advisors that you will be the next target, your lands in the Mediterranean and Balkans prime targets for the greedy foes. Alarming reports even reached Istanbul in 1836 of Russian troop movements in Ukraine, a clear message. These advisors urge you to find a foreign friend that will ward off the threat of war. There is no shortage of options. France and Prussia have been traditional Ottoman allies at various points throughout history, though these relationships have fallen by the wayside in recent years. Scandinavia has an active presence in your theater, and a shared hostility towards Russia, but some worry they are not strong enough to ward off Russian aggression. Others would have you look towards Britain or even set aside ancient hostilities with the Habsburgs in the face of a common enemy. Will you pursue diplomacy in 1837? If so, to what end?

-The Ottoman Empire has not enjoyed the recent economic revolutions that are sweeping through France and Britain. Not yet, at least. Your realm is primarily agrarian with traditional social structures dominating society. Although the Suez Canal represented a major step forward for the Empire, it was not coupled with a widespread change in how most subjects go through their day-to-day life. Most of the realm is illiterate and industrialism almost unknown. Slavery still exists in most corners of the realm. Some would have you pursue efforts to bring this new economic movement into your realm, though others worry about potential long-term instability, as is becoming increasingly evident in states that are industrializing. Beyond supporting industrialization, will you support any broader social reforms, perhaps widespread education or emancipation, or would this too be potentially a source of trouble moving forward? How you approach domestic affairs?

Kingdom of the Netherlands:

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

-Outrageous! That is the only word that can be used to describe the vile accusations from France against yourself and your government over the past few months. Tension in the homeland is running quite high given recent events, but opportunity may be seized from this tragedy. Some would have you align yourself with the Flemish patriots, who undoubtedly do deserve the right to self-determination alongside their Dutch brethren. Perhaps you could gain the backing of foreign powers against French aggression, or even use it to pursue a reversal of French tyranny on the European continent? At very least it would be advisable to gain some sort of defensive alliance with one of the numerous other European great powers. Or you could capitulate to Paris, a move that would invite scorn from your subjects and your family alike, but would preserve your birthright. How will your government react to the assassination of the Dauphin?

-The Japanese and Xing instigated a surprise attack against your new colonial possessions, another move that has sparked outrage. In the view of your foreign ministry, you are essentially now at war with both powers, not to mention Spain, who is determined to defend what is left of the Philippines, though they have no means of resupply or reinforcement. War in Asia now seems likely to continue, what will your military orders in this region look like during the upcoming year? Will you align yourself with the Qing, as some have suggested, or get further involved in the collapse of the Guang Dynasty? How will you protect the recent Dutch ascendancy in Asian colonial affairs?

-The East Indies have historically been under control of the Dutch East India Company (VOC) for the last three centuries. Although the holdings of the company (Indonesia) are considered a part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, they are simultaneously the property of this trading firm. While this has suited the shareholders of the company, there are growing calls in Amsterdam for actual reform to the system to be enacted. Some would have you nationalize the VOC and undertake direct control over regional affairs, perhaps by offering shareholders a buyout opportunity. This move is primarily backed by reformers, liberals, and the military. Yet, others believe it is reckless to upset the status quo at such a crucial period, given fighting to the north, not to mention the potential alienation this could cause among the numerous VOC shareholders in your realm. Will you undertake reform of the Dutch East Indies, King William?

Kingdom of Louisiana:

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

-Victory seems to be within your grasp, King Louis-Phillippe, should operations continue to be successful in 1837. Yet, with the Concessions of Zaragoza in Spain, it is feared that Madrid will keep trying to assert itself in Mexico even if its forces are ejected in the coming year. Some believe that it is time to approach the Spanish with your demands. Your son, the King of Mexico, has already indicated that he will follow your lead and abide by whatever decision you make in regards to the Mexican Revolution, within reason. Will you pursue peace with Spain, or should the fighting continue longer, in order to ensure you are able to take every extraction that is feasible?

-The disunion in the British Americas seems to provide an opportunity for Louisiana. With the slaveholding colonies infuriated by British policies, perhaps in part due to a group of zealous pro-slavery Louisianan preachers, there is room to maneuver for you. Your realm is unapologetically, for now, based on slaveholding and some believe you could be a natural ally of the southern colonies, should it come to blows. Suggestions range from offering yourself as a potential monarch, giving protection, establishing diplomatic relations, offering another Bourbon as monarch, or covert aid. Still, the prospect of intervention at a time when you’re fighting the Spanish does not appeal to everyone. Some advisors believe any intervention would be a mistake, as Britain maintains sizable forces in the region. What will your approach be to the events happening in the east?

-As in Brazil, there has been a notable uptick in Catholic Republican literature in Louisiana over the past year. People are increasingly inspired by the Colombians, the Jesuits in Louisiana spreading further radical ideas. Although all found document have abided by your restriction against direct criticism of the royal family, the materials are still frightening, with aims of mass emancipation of slaves, property redistribution, and republicanism. Yet, acting too harsh could just force the opposition into action and outright defiance, not to mention challenge traditional civil liberties. How will you manage this growing group of malcontents, and what is to be done about the Jesuits?

Kingdom of Naples:

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

-Francis I, King of Naples, King of Sicily, Prince of Latium, Rome is yours. The quick response of the Neapolitan forces to the chaos in the Eternal City has resulted in a substantial and historic city being added to your realm. Now the whole Italian peninsula looks to you, hoping and praying that 1837 will be the year that marks the start of unification. Yet, foes lurk to the north. The Papal States was one thing, the protectorates of France and Austria another. Still, given the right actions you could very well see yourself at the head of a united Italy before long. What is in store for 1837?

-The collapse of the Papal States has left the pontiff himself in an awkward position. Alexander IX is refusing to leave the Vatican out of principle, arguing the dissolution of the theocratic government was both illegal and immoral. Some are calling for you to reach out and negotiate with the Pope, lest his criticisms become too loud and force your enemies to intervene. Others believe that negotiating with the Pope is unnecessary and counterproductive, as it makes it seem as though you ordered the seizure of Rome, rather than the citizens of that city choosing you as your sovereign. How will you approach the awkward relationship with Pope Alexander IX?

-The acquisition of Latium has undoubtedly changed the balance of power in Italy. One potential way to deter the Austrians and French from reversing this gain would be finding a foreign ally to help protect you. There certainly are no shortage of candidates, ranging from Britain in the west, Prussia and Scandinavia in the North, and the Russians or Ottomans to the east. A foreign friend would help deter potential attack. Or, perhaps you should align with either Austria or France and use your combined strength against the weaker power. Needless to say, now more than ever it is important Naples is not left out in the cold diplomatically. Will you approach someone?

Republic of Brazil:

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

-Your soldiers have been trained and equipped for operations in Colombia. Prussian Guyana, which is now fully under your control, will likely serve as the staging point for any potential intervention. What is to be done about the north? The Spanish are far closer distance-wise, but the Catholic Republicans in Colombia have caused a far greater degree of alarm. Some would have you use your northern army to operate in the Caribbean, others the Llanos, and still a third group hoping for a direct strike on Colombia itself. This war is proving to be very important. What is in store for the Brazilian forces to the north?

-It is becoming increasingly clear that radical elements in Brazil are not repulsed at events in Colombia, but inspired by them. Although the majority of the population supports your liberal republicanism, pro-Catholic Republican newspapers have emerged in most of the cities, and the presence of Jesuits has started to raise alarm in some corners, given their role in spreading the ideology in some other contexts. In this environment, some believe that it is right to outlaw Catholic Republicanism, expel the Jesuits as the Catholic powers of Europe did decades ago, and make a determined defense of secularism. Others argue that this violates the right of free expression enjoyed by these fellow citizens, who ought to be free to spread their ideology without hindrance. How will you respond to the growing Brazilian Catholic Republican organization?

-The events to your south are concerning. The La Platan Union has collapsed into civil war. Catholic Republicans, generals, a weak central government, and separatists are all vying for control. Given your recent success in seizing Montevideo, the conflict is occurring right on your border. With your strength far more substantial than any of the feuding factions, it is expected Brazilian intervention could sort out the situation. Yet, others argue for caution, believing that involving oneself in La Plata at the same time you’re fighting the Spanish, Prussians, and Colombians to be a big mistake. What is your response to events happening in the south?

Tokugawa Shogunate:

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

-War it is. With the assault on Formosa and the collapse of Dutch colonial rule, Japanese influence expands yet further in East Asia. Although there is now tension with the Hakka in the south, who view you as much of a foreign tyrant as they viewed the Dutch and Qing, much of the island is in Japanese hands. Now a broader theater of potential operations has opened up. Will you seize Hainan next? Or perhaps strike the Philippines? Others in Edo believe it would be wise to protect your gains and seek a negotiated settlement with the chastened Dutch. How will you handle this conflict outside of China proper that has now erupted?

-With the securing of Shandong, and the capture of the Dalian Peninsula, Japanese naval supremacy in the region is all but assured. Targeted intervention in China has worked quite well thus far, and allowed for flexibility in other areas, such as Formosa. Yet, the hawks in your government want you to undertake a variety of bolder moves in the next year, including intervention in the collapsing Guang Dynasty to secure economic or territorial gains, a strike at the moved Qing capital in Shenyang, a blockade of rebel territories, or even military strikes against Korean-held Manchuria in the north. Will you commit more resources to China, especially at the very moment that fighting has expanded outside of that realm? Or have the Xing been helped enough?

-Class tensions have been a key aspect of the Tokugawa Shogunate in recent decades. The peasants, in particular, have been increasingly assertive against the traditional social hierarchy for decades now. Local risings are not uncommon, though they are often handled by regional garrisons in short order. Although there is little indication that this assertiveness stems from any exposure to Western literature, it is nonetheless concerning. The likely cause of the issue is the fact that tax rates in the Shogunate have been fixed for decades now, thus not incurring any adjustment for inflation. This means that the relative rate paid by peasants to their samurai overlords is quite low, leaving some of your nobles far more impoverished than seems acceptable. Nobles throughout the realm are demanding you enact tax reform and force the peasants to pay an equal proportion to what they would have a century ago, had inflation not occurred. Yet, this move could alienate the broader public, which has benefited from lower tax rates. Still, how effective can a government be without revenue? What will your economic policy be Tokugawa Ienari?

[Spamage]

Qajar Persia:

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

-Mohammad Shah Qajar, the Zinatians and Husaynians have been crushed, Russian aid proving vital in securing victory. Persia stands strong and proud once more, no longer a mere supplicant of the Ottomans, Austrians, or Scandinavians. Now, with the end of the civil war, it is time to establish your diplomatic goals and objectives for the realm. Will you continue the hostilities with the Turks, who were tacitly supporting the Husaynians? Should the Durrani be challenged for having the gall to intervene in Persian affairs? How will you respond to the massive growth of Russia in the region? Your actions here are vital in establishing the political outlook and diplomatic stability of the new dynasty.

-The war is over, but your former enemies remain. Although both Zinat Shah and Hussein Shah were killed in the fighting, their deaths ending their respective factions, their families remain. Numerous children and wives of the dead leaders, as well as distant cousins and half-siblings, have been captured. All of these people are members of the Afsharid Dynasty and a potential threat to the stability of your ascendant Qajars. What is to be done about them? Some would have them killed, to eliminate any potential poles for opposition. Others believe mercy would be preferable, showing the kindness and tolerance of the new dynasty. Regardless of what you choose, many inside Persia await your decision.

-Persia has been won, but the realm has faced the ravages of civil war for the last few years. There has been great economic and social dislocation, damage to infrastructure, and a loss of confidence in the security of investments. Now that the fighting is complete, and Persia stands fully independent once more, it is time to find a foreign power willing to shell out the funds to rebuild Persia. Yet, whoever you draw close should not be allowed to domineer you. After all, it was tensions over foreign influence that undermined the Afsharids and started the recent civil war. The Russians seem the obvious candidate, given their recent military aid, but there’s fears they will view your realm as a mere client. The Habsburgs are near, and have already shown themselves willing to invest as they are currently doing in China. France probably has the global reach to be an economic partner, while the Dutch have already set the precedent of negotiated economic aid in the Durrani Empire and several other Asian realms. Or perhaps a further afield power such as Britain would be an ideal partner. Who will you approach?

Joseon:

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

-Your government may be trying to keep foreign interference at an arm’s length, but that interference seems to be occurring regardless of whether or not it is sought. The Dutch attack on the Batanes is alarming to many in Korea proper, who fear your effort to establish a foreign outpost could backfire in your face and undermine the prestige of your regency. This faction believes either an immediate diplomatic settlement is necessary or it is time for the Korean Navy to get involved in defending its sovereign territory. You paid good money for the Batanes, how will you protect your investment?

-Your foresight in regard to the economy seems to be yielding great dividends. The popularity of Korean porcelain is exploding, at the same time new trade deals with foreign powers have led to an influx of foreign capital. The prospect of industrialization and the acquisition of some of these new European practices seems far more feasible now than even a few years ago. With this economic expansion comes questions about the role of the dynastic government in economic affairs. Should your government actively intervene in, and police the affairs of, the numerous new firms arising in the economic boom? Or should the market be allowed to take its course, even if that means local officials get kickbacks and firms engage in cutthroat competition over industries that are deemed to be profitable? What degree of oversight will you pursue in the gradual development of capitalism in Joseon Korea?

-Dynastic factionalism of the yangban class remains a real concern for some inside Korea and, as your grandson grows older, some close to you believe that it is time to curtail the power of your own clan, in addition to that of your daughter-in-law in order to ensure that, when he does come of age, Heonjong will be able to rule without being sidelined by petty factionalism as his predecessors were. Yet, challenging the privileges of the yangban could lead to internal instability at a time when Europeans have been known to strike at vulnerable realms. Will you undertake any actions to reform the Korean social order?

Qing Dynasty:

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

-Your soldiers in the north are now accompanied by the Mongolians sent by that government to help in your defense of the region. Although the withdrawal in the face of a Xing advance may not have been popular at the time it was ordered, the lengthening of Xing supply lines and the concentration of your forces may mean that it is time to turn the tide in this theater of the civil war. Some in Shenyang would have you undertake offensive operations in the northern theater and push the Xing back south where they belong. Yet, more cautious courtiers have reminded you that the Koreans and Japanese are both nearby and could seize advantage of any perceived vulnerability. Will you remain on defense in the north or is now the time to launch a reinvasion of central China, restoring your dynasty to its natural place in power?

-The Guang Dynasty is on its last legs in the south, the regime facing imminent collapse in the face of your soldiers’ escape and the intervention of the Miao. The question is, what now? You could continue to wipe up the remnants of the Guang in 1837 or turn north and strike at the Xing in their exposed southern front. It should be noted that some sort of coastal acquisition in this region would be ideal, as presently communication with this army must be conducted through covert operations in Xing or Guang-held territory. Perhaps cooperation with the Dutch would prove productive, as they now are nearby and have shared enemies in this theater. What is your southern policy, Emperor?

-One of the reasons your government has seemingly collapsed so quick in the south has been the perceived corruption present in the Qing administrative system. It is alleged that the various meritocratic exams have been subject to bribery, officials in the government have used their position to seize land and power, and that policies can be changed if one knows the right people. Some in Shenyang believe that the Chinese Civil War presents the perfect opportunity to weed out the civil service of those deemed to be corrupt or insufficiently loyal to your dynasty, somewhat along the lines of recent anti-corruption campaigns in Joseon. Or is weeding out some minor corruption among the people that constitute your government a dangerous proposition at a time when the survival of your dynasty is in question. How will you approach the issue of corruption in the Qing Dynasty, Yansheng Emperor?

Xing Dynasty:

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

-The war with the Qing continues yet further, though there are hopes that the collapse of the Guang Dynasty in the south and the Qing retreat to a defensive position in the north means that all of China may soon be in your grasp. In 1837 you now have to decide what your course of action will be, especially given recent hostilities with the Dutch. Will you pivot to the south, and seek to prevent the Qing from reestablishing themselves in the region, even if it means technically violating your nonaggression pact with the Guang? Or should the north be prioritized, Beijing taken, and the Manchurians pushed back into their poor, nomadic homeland? How will you ensure it is you who wins the Chinese Civil War?

-1836 saw the minor separatist factions begin to cautiously intervene in the conflict. The Mongols and Miao seem to have thrown their respective lots in with the Qing, who have apparently promised regional autonomy or outright independence should they be restored unchallenged rule over China. The Hui have blocked your offensives in the west, including several minor clashes between your respective forces, but not directly backed the Yansheng Emperor. How will you respond to these developments? Is it time to strike the lightly-populated separatist territories as part of your current effort to unify China or should these regions be left to their own devices for the time being? Should you reach out to the government of Xinjiang as some have suggested, and encourage them to attack either the Hui or Mongols?

-Although your recent success has meant you have seized control of vast swathes of territory in central China, this land is devastated by the fighting. Peasants have been forced from their land as crop yields decline. For decades China has been pushed to the limit of agricultural production due to a booming population, the civil war now creating a serious risk of widespread shortages. Remember, your own dynasty rose against the Qing in response to a lack of food along the Yangtze just a few short years ago. Although famine has been avoided thus far, foreign economic aid will probably be necessary in reconstructing the regions. Would you approach any power for economic help? Some believe the Austrians to be the most obvious candidate, though others fear that you may be becoming too reliant on them. These courtiers would have you negotiate food shipments from either Joseon or Japan. How will you prevent famine from reversing your gains, Youfu Emperor?



Armies and Locations
Russian Empire
100,000 Army of St. Petersburg
55,000 Army of Poland
75,000 Army of Siberia
115,000 Army of Ukraine
74,300 Army of Persia
9,500 Army of the Suez
5,000 Army of Alaska
50,000 men garrisoned
(Can raise 356,000 more)

Kingdom of France
110,000 Army of Northern France
80,000 Army of Southern France
80,000 Army of Bengal
40,000 Army of Gujarat
21,100 Army of the Sacred Heart (Burma)
8,700 Army of Marseilles
40,000 men garrisoned
(Can raise 375,000 more)

Habsburg Monarchy
90,000 Army of Austria and Bavaria
90,000 Army of Italy
50,000 Army of Bohemia
50,000 Army of Poland
40,000 Army of Transylvania
9,800 Army of the Suez
36,000 men garrisoned
(Can raise 355,000 more)

Kingdom of Prussia
105,000 Army of Brandenburg
80,000 Army of East Prussia
90,000 Army of Poland
35,000 Army of Hanover
9,000 Army of the Cape
9,800 Army of the Suez
6,000 Army of Angola
750 Army of the Congo
1,400 Army of Borneo
600 Army of Singapore
30,000 men garrisoned
(Can raise 182,000 more)

United Kingdom of Great Britain, Ireland, and the Americas
90,000 Army of Britain
55,000 Army of Pennsylvania
35,000 Army of Georgia
20,000 Army of the Mississippi
10,000 Army of Australia
3,000 Army of the North
3,000 Army of the Midlands
1,700 Army of Ghana
1,500 Army of Nigeria
9,800 Army of the Suez
3,000 Army of Richmond
3,000 Army of Montgomery
3,000 Army of Atlanta
30,000 men garrisoned
(Can raise 230,000 more)

Qing Dynasty
156,500 Army of Beijing
20,000 Mongol Auxiliaries
70,000 Army of Manchuria
90,250 Army of Hunan
30,000 men garrisoned
(Can raise 76,000 more)

Ottoman Empire
3,000 Army of the Northern Egypt
61,700 Army of Cairo
50,000 Army of the Balkans
40,000 Army of Iraq
69,300 Army of Alexandria
30,000 Army of Istanbul
10,000 Army of Gaza
25,000 men garrisoned
(Can raise 87,000 more)

Xing Dynasty
107,000 Army of Jiangsu
100,500 Army of Hubei
76,000 Army of Wuhan
13,000 Army of Formosa
30,000 men garrisoned
(Can raise 22,000 more)

Kingdom of Spain
80,000 Army of Spain
49,800 Army of Mexico
50,000 Army of Peru
28,000 Army of the Llanos
21,300 Army of Ecuador
18,400 Army of Chile
20,000 Army of Cuba
20,000 men garrisoned
(Can raise 47,000 more)

Kingdom of Scandinavia
85,000 Army of Jutland
100,000 Army of Finland
25,000 Army of Lagoda
5,000 Army of Liberia
5,000 Army of Eritrea
8,000 Army of Kilwa
2,000 Army of Gabon
8,200 Army of the Suez
1,000 Army of Socotra
20,000 men garrisoned
(Can raise 100,000 more)

Tokugawa Shogunate
38,000 Army of Formosa
10,000 Army of Makeng
15,000 Army of Dalian Peninsula
5,000 Army of Weihawei
50,000 Army of the North
20,000 Army of Kyoto
10,000 men garrisoned
(Can raise 150,000 more)

Kingdom of the Netherlands
74,000 Army of Amsterdam
30,000 Army of the East Indies
10,000 Army of New Holland
5,000 Army of Ceylon
9,500 Army of the Suez
1,000 Army of Nigeria
15,000 men garrisoned
(Can raise 115,000 more)

Republic of Brazil
44,500 Army of the South
30,000 Army of the Colombian Campaign
8,000 Army of the Guyana
10,000 men garrisoned
(Can raise 121,000 more)

Kingdom of Naples
70,000 Army of Naples
20,000 Army of Rome
10,000 Army of Sicily
20,000 men garrisoned
(Can raise 82,000 more)

Joseon Korea
48,000 Army of the North
48,000 Army of the South
10,000 Corps of the Ussuri
10,000 Marine Corp
31,000 men garrisoned
(Can raise 10,000 more)

Kingdom of Louisiana
17,000 Army of Monterrey
20,000 Army of New Orleans
29,000 Army of California
20,000 National Gendarmerie
10,000 Army of the North
8,000 Army of Veracruz
10,000 men garrisoned
(Can raise 22,000 more)

Qajar Persia
64,000 Army of Teheran
27,000 Army of the South
(Can raise 45,000 more)


Navies of the World
United Kingdom of Britain, Ireland, and the Americas (First-Rate, Dominant)
Kingdom of France (First-Rate, Dominant)
Kingdom of Scandinavia (Innovative, Sizable)
Kingdom of Prussia (Advanced, Sizable)
Kingdom of the Netherlands (Advanced, Sizable)
Kingdom of Naples (Advanced, Standard)
Kingdom of Spain (Modernized, Sizable)
Kingdom of Quebec (Modernized, Standard)
Habsburg Monarchy (Modernized, Standard)
Kingdom of Louisiana (Modernized, Standard)
Republic of Brazil (Modernized, Limited)
Russian Empire (Reformed, Standard)
Ottoman Empire (Reformed, Standard)
Tokugawa Japan (Modified, Standard)
Qing Dynasty (Traditional, Sizable)
Xing Dynasty (Traditional, Standard)
Joseon Korea (Traditional, Standard)
Qajar Persia (Traditional, Limited)

[True Federalist (진정한 연방 주의자)]

조선 법원 선포
Proclamations of the Court of Joseon

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

Queen Regent Sunwon in accordance with the advice of the advisors of her grandson King Heonjong, announces on this Samjinnal of the fourth year of his reign (1837) the following:

Edict Concerning Commercial Standards

1. The Ministry of Commerce shall establish a Bureau of Standards (표준 국 Pyojun Gug).

2. The Bureau shall promulgate standards for various commercial and military goods.

3. The Bureau shall establish procedures by which merchants may obtain certification that their wares meet the Bureau's standards.

4. In letting government contracts, preference shall be given to products meeting the Bureau's standards.

Edict Establishing a Central Bank

1. To ensure an adequate supply of credit for both commerce and government, there shall be chartered a Bank of Joseon (조선 은행 Joseon Eunhaeng) modelled after the Bank of England (잉글랜드 은행) and the Riksbank (국립은행).

2. At least one branch shall be established in each province.

3. The Bank of Joseon shall be used to collect and disburse government funds.

[True Federalist (진정한 연방 주의자)]

조선 법원 선포
Proclamations of the Court of Joseon

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

Queen Regent Sunwon in accordance with the advice of the advisors of her grandson King Heonjong, announces on this Hansik of the fourth year of his reign (5 April 1837) the following:

Edict Creating the Ministry of Health

1.  There shall be established a Ministry of Health, within which shall be established the following bureaux: the Bureau of Hospitals, the Bureau of Physicians, the Bureau of Pharmacy, the Bureau of Sanitation, and the Bureau of the Environment.

2. The Bureau of Hospitals shall promulgate standards for the operation of hospitals and shall establish in each province at least one hospital to serve both as means of promoting the public health and to be a place where medical professionals may be trained.

3. The Bureau of Physicians shall promulgate standards for the knowledge, skill, and ethics of physicans, and certify those individuals who meet those standards.

4. The Bureau of Pharmacy shall promulgate standards for the preparation and dispensing of medicines, and certify those medicines that meet its standard and those pharmacists that oversee the preparation and dispensing of medicines.

5. The Bureau of Sanitation shall in conjunction with the Ministry of Public Works design, construct, and maintain such aqueducts, sewers, and other water works needed to ensure our cities and towns are well provided with fresh water.

6. The Bureau of the Environment shall promulgate and enforce standards on how the byproducts of mines, smelters, factories, and other workplaces are dealt with in a manner that does not contaminate the water or air with poisons or other noxious substances. It shall coordinate its efforts with the Bureau of Standards in the Ministry of Commerce.
Incheon-Seoul Railway
In accordance with plans ordered to be prepared last year, the Bureau of Railways is ordered to begin construction of a railway line from Incheon to Seoul with a track gauge of 5 cheok (5 feet), and to acquire or build locomotives and rolling stock for use thereon. Preference is to be given to rails, locomotives, and rolling stock of domestic manufacture.

[True Federalist (진정한 연방 주의자)]

Treaty of Bandar Abbas

The realms of Qajar and Joseon pledge to the promotion of peace and amity between our subjects.

Among the measures taken to so promote amity shall be measures to promote commercial intercourse.

To that end, Qajari ships and merchants shall be permitted to trade at the Joseon port of Incheon while Joseon ships and merchants shall be permitted to trade at the Qajari port of Bandar Abbas

x Queen Regent Sunwon on behalf of her grandson King Heonjong

[PSOL]

Treaty of Bandar Abbas

The realms of Qajar and Joseon pledge to the promotion of peace and amity between our subjects.

Among the measures taken to so promote amity shall be measures to promote commercial intercourse.

To that end, Qajari ships and merchants shall be permitted to trade at the Joseon port of Incheon while Joseon ships and merchants shall be permitted to trade at the Qajari port of Bandar Abbas

x Queen Regent Sunwon on behalf of her grandson King Heonjong

x Agha Mohammed Shah

[PSOL]

Proclamation by Agha Mohammed Shah

After much hard work, the territorial sovereignty and unity of the Sublime State of Persia is at last maintained. We have vanquished the Zintian and Husaynan forces in battle and have expelled the foreign presence of the Swedes and Durrani kingdom from mainland Iran. Our next objective is to start the vast process of modernization and prosperity.

I hereby proclaim that there be a pardon of the family of both rebel leaders from any punishment other then exile to Mazandaran. We need no more brutality nor inner conflict. With that, to mend the issues of religion, I am hereby setting up a specialized committee to address the needs of Armenians and Assyrians in our realm, as well as stopping unfair treatment of the Mandaean community.

To prevent such civil wars from happening again, I am expanding the centralization of our realm in our court in Tehran, as well as spending more money in modernizing and expanding the Army and Navy. I am also making it official that my nephew Fathali will take the throne after my death.

To the major powers of the region, I have no intentions of war with any of you and I’m open to establishing trade and diplomatic relations. Ultimately peace and the prosperity that comes with it is much more beneficial than war.

[True Federalist (진정한 연방 주의자)]

조선 법원 선포
Proclamations of the Court of Joseon

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

Queen Regent Sunwon in accordance with the advice of the advisors of her grandson King Heonjong, announces on this Dano of the fourth year of his reign  (1837) the following:

Edict Concerning the Export of Basic Foodstuffs

Whereas the fighting in the Middle Kingdom has greatly disrupted the agriculture there and we are concerned that certain merchants might seek to deprive our people of the food they have grown so as to feed their purses with silver, it is hereby ordered that an export duty of 1 tael of silver per 10 gwan of grains or lentils be enacted as an emergency measure for the remainder of this year. Said duty may be paid instead with a tithe of the grain or lentils sought to exported instead.

This export duty shall be suspended during any time the silos of the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries are at least 80% full.

(OOC: Roughly 40 Spanish silver dollars per ton of grains or lentils.)

[YPestis25]

Treaty of Hormuz

I. The Kingdom of Scandinavia and the Shahdom of Persia agree to a non-aggression pact in perpetuity.
   a . The Shahdom of Persia recognizes Scandinavian sovereignty over Kish, Lavan, and Hormuz.
   b . The Kingdom of Scandinavia reaffirms Persian sovereignty over the remaining Persian administered islands of the Persian Gulf.

II. Formal Scandinavian and Persian embassies will be established in Tehran and Stockholm respectively.

III. Scandinavian merchants will be permitted docking rights at Bandar-e Kangan and Bandar-e Lengeh and will be allowed to sell goods for a reduced tariff.

IV. Scandinavia will dispatch military advisors to the court of Mohammad Shah Qajar.

xFrederick IV and Catherine, King and Queen of Scandinavia

[PSOL]

Treaty of Hormuz

I. The Kingdom of Scandinavia and the Shahdom of Persia agree to a non-aggression pact in perpetuity.
   a . The Shahdom of Persia recognizes Scandinavian sovereignty over Kish, Lavan, and Hormuz.
   b . The Kingdom of Scandinavia reaffirms Persian sovereignty over the remaining Persian administered islands of the Persian Gulf.

II. Formal Scandinavian and Persian embassies will be established in Tehran and Stockholm respectively.

III. Scandinavian merchants will be permitted docking rights at Bandar-e Kangan and Bandar-e Lengeh and will be allowed to sell goods for a reduced tariff.

IV. Scandinavia will dispatch military advisors to the court of Mohammad Shah Qajar.

xFrederick IV and Catherine, King and Queen of Scandinavia

X Agha Mohammed Shah

[True Federalist (진정한 연방 주의자)]

조선 법원 선포
Proclamations of the Court of Joseon

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

Queen Regent Sunwon in accordance with the advice of the advisors of her grandson King Heonjong, announces on this first day of the month of Wonsungidal of the fourth year of his reign (1837) the following:
 Revised Flag Law of Joseon
In accordance with the international custom of using flags to designate ships and institutions holding allegiance to a particular realm, we order the following flags to be made official. Flags specified in previous flag laws may continue to be used until too worn to be flown or until the end of next year, but all new flags procured by the government must conform to the standards laid out here.
Government Flag
The following flag shall be used by government ships and institutions, except as otherwise specified:

Royal Standard
The royal standard shall be the same as the government flag except that the field shall be saffron gold instead of white.

Military Flag
The flag to be used by the Royal Joseon Army and the Royal Joseon Navy shall be the government flag with a black field and white trigrams instead of the white field and black trigrams of the government flag. Also, the blue portion of taegeuk shall be shaded more towards cyan so as to increase contrast with the black fiel. There shall no longer be distinct flags for use by the army and navy.

Civil Flag
The following flag may be used by our subjects in those contexts where a flag would be expected. It is the same as the government flag except that the trigrams have been removed to make the flag less costly to be procured.

All armed vessels shall fly the flag of the realm they are beholden to.  Any armed vessel without a flag flying to indicate its allegiance shall be treated as being pirates.  The Ministry of the Navy shall promulgate a regulation specifying the maximum caliber of weapon that will be considered a small arm and how many small arms may be carried by the crew without causing that ship to be considered armed for the purposes of the flag law.

[Blair]

A statement by the Foreign Secretary Viscount Melbourne, on the events in France, delievered to the House of Lords

This house, this Government and our nation sends its condolences to the the people of France and to King Louis over the appauling murder of his son, the Dauphin. This is an outrageous and brutal act of violence which rightly deserves to be punished.

Any individaul or group linked to this appauling murder that is found in these lands shall be dealt with to the full extend of the law.

We trust that our good friends in the Netherlands shall take similar action and shall not allow such tyranny and violence to go unchecked.

This responsbility goes hand in hand with the need for stability and co-operation on the continent; we know that it would be disastrous for this appauling murder to led to another act of reckless violence. We stand by our historic commimtent to the Netherlands and to their territoral rights and boundaries of the mainland Europe.

[DKrol]

Treaty of Potsdam
I. A state of peace shall exist between the King of Louisana, the King of Prussia, and the King of Spain.
II. A canal in Panama shall be built, funded, and administrated by a three member Panama Canal Commission. One member each shall be appointed by the King of Louisiana, the King of Prussia, and the King of Spain.
III. The Commission recognizes the territory and jurisdiction of Spanish America over the Canal.
IV. Spanish America recognizes the administrative authority of the Panama Canal Commission over said Canal.
V. Ships flying the Prussian and Spanish flags shall enjoy all rights and liberties in ports of the Kingdom of Louisiana, and such rights shall be recipricated to ships flyin the Louisianan flag.
VI. The borders of the Kingdom of Louisana, the Kingdom of Mexico, and Spanish America are recognized as thus:

x King Louis-Philippe II Bourbon

[Lumine]

Treaty of Potsdam
I. A state of peace shall exist between the King of Louisana, the King of Prussia, and the King of Spain.
II. A canal in Panama shall be built, funded, and administrated by a three member Panama Canal Commission. One member each shall be appointed by the King of Louisiana, the King of Prussia, and the King of Spain.
III. The Commission recognizes the territory and jurisdiction of Spanish America over the Canal.
IV. Spanish America recognizes the administrative authority of the Panama Canal Commission over said Canal.
V. Ships flying the Prussian and Spanish flags shall enjoy all rights and liberties in ports of the Kingdom of Louisiana, and such rights shall be recipricated to ships flyin the Louisianan flag.
VI. The borders of the Kingdom of Louisana, the Kingdom of Mexico, and Spanish America are recognized as thus:

x King Louis-Philippe II Bourbon

x Frederick III, King of Prussia

[GoTfan]

The Treaty of Tolentino

Be it therefore agreed that the Kingdoms of Naples and Prussia:

-Preapre an exchange of ambassadors and establishment of cordial diplomatic relations between the two nations

-Agree to a reduction f tariffs between the two kingdoms, to enable international commerce between the nations

x King Francis I of Naples

[Lumine]

The Treaty of Tolentino

Be it therefore agreed that the Kingdoms of Naples and Prussia:

-Preapre an exchange of ambassadors and establishment of cordial diplomatic relations between the two nations.

-Agree to a reduction of tariffs between the two kingdoms, to enable international commerce between the nations.

x Frederick III, King of Prussia

[DKrol]

A Proclamation from the Court of King Louis-Philippe II Bourbon

On Mexico: It is a great day for Louisiana and our Mexican brethren. The King in Spain has seen the tide of the war and agreed to take part in peace talks, hosted in Potsdam, Prussia. Today, those talks concluded with great success. A large, independent, Mexican Kingdom led by my son, King Louis, has been secured, from the deserts of Tucson to the mountains of Oaxaca. This is a great day and much celebration should occur, for Louisiana has proven itself as the preeminent power in the New World.

On the Governance of the Cuban Island: With the settlement in Potsdam, the Kingdom of Louisiana has acquired the western half of the island of Cuba. This settlement, to be known henceforth as Saint Denis, will serve as a critical commercial hub and vital naval outpost. P.G.T. Beauregard, a recent graduate of the Army Academy, will serve as the first Royal Governor of Saint Denis, serving at my pleasure, and will be charged with the task of rooting out the Spanish influence and bringing the infrastructure up to Louisianan standards, as well as crafting laws and administering justice from Havana.

On the Events in Charleston: I applaud the great efforts undertaken by John C. Calhoun and the leaders in Charleston. A government, no matter how far away, must understand the needs, desires, and lifestyles of those being governed. The British Government has failed to meet that standard with respect to their Southern colonies. I declare myself a friend and ally for the Charlestonians and their cause, and lend them my support in protecting their way of life.

On the Death of Princess Louise, Dauphine of France: It is with great sadness that the death of my daughter, Princess Louise, Dauphine of France, has to be announced. A weak Dutch madman took her life in France, along with her husband, the Dauphin. Both were deeply loved by the French people and all hearts in the Francophone world hang heavy today. All flags in Louisiana are to be flown at half-staff for a fortnight, and all government buildings are to be draped in black mourning clothes and the Royal Family will wear black mourning dress for a month. I will spare no expense in bringing her murderers to justice, as my family in France sees fit.

By Order of His Majesty King Louis-Philippe II Bourbon

[DKrol]

A Proclamation from the Court of King Louis-Philippe II Bourbon

On the Governance of the Kingdom: As our great Kingdom has grown in size, claiming its manifest destiny to serve as the dominent power in the New World, the ability to govern the entire realm directly from New Orleans has become a challenge. To better serve my subjects, I have deemed it fit to create political subdivisions within our Kingdom, to better preserve local customs and to be more responsive to local needs. There will, henceforth, be seven provinces of the Kingdom, as well as the administrative center of New Orleans. Each Royal Governor is charged with administering justice and ensuring the rule of law within their borders and will be responsible to myself. New Orleans will continue to be ruled directly by the Crown.

The seven provinces and their Royal Governors shall be:

Des Moines - William W. Chapman
Du Nord - Lilburn Boggs
Platte - Stephen W. Kearney
Colorado - Robert F. Stockton
California - John D. Sloat
Texas - Samuel Houston
Saint Denis - P.G.T. Beauregard



By Order of His Majesty King Louis-Philippe II Bourbon

[True Federalist (진정한 연방 주의자)]

조선 법원 선포
Proclamations of the Court of Joseon

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

Queen Regent Sunwon in accordance with the advice of the advisors of her grandson King Heonjong, announces on this Jungyangjeol of the fourth year of his reign (1837) the following:

Coinage Act, 4 Heonjong
The Bureau of the Mint is directed to produce the following coins:

Brass Coins
Brass coins shall consist of at least 8 parts copper to 1 part alloy, the alloy to be of 8 parts zinc to 1 part tin.

Brass coins shall be minted using the cast cash method in the denominations of 1, 2, and 3 mun, with at least 1 don (3.75g) of brass per mun.

Silver Coins
The Bureau is directed to acquire the equipment necessary to begin production of milled silver coins. Once acquired it is to use the equipment to produce silver coins, which shall bear the image of a mugunghwa flower on one side and a dragon on the other.

Silver coins shall consist of at least eight parts silver to one part brass.
They shall be minted in denominations of 1 don, 2 don, 3 don, 1/2 nyang, and 1 nyang, containing the stated amount of silver. (1 nyang = 1 tael = 10 don = 375 g ≈ 11 Spanish or Mexican silver reales )

Gold Coins
As the purpose of minting coins is to facilitate commerce, gold has such a large value per unit of weight, and it will take time to produce an adequate amount of silver coinage, the Bureau is forbidden to mint gold coins of any standard or purity. Moreover, unlike some realms we do not presume to be able to set a fixed ratio in value of any two metals.

[Spamage]

THE FOUR REVOLUTIONS
Mass Risings Sweep Through Western Europe
Year of Revolution?

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

   There may have been subtle signs of the events that exploded forth in 1837, but there was no clear indication that the European order would be shaken so quickly, in so many different areas, at the same time. With the Swiss Revolution in February, long-term nationalist discontent at various locations throughout Western Europe, toppling regimes in Italy, the Rhineland, and Flanders. Inspired by one another, the cascading effect of revolutionary sentiments has been directed at two powers in almost every instance: France and/or the Habsburg Monarchy. The Flemish demanded independence from French tyranny. The Rhenish rose against Austrian power and the threat of French intervention. The Swiss remained literally sandwiched between both regimes. The Italians determined to kick both out of the peninsula.

February: Switzerland

  The Swiss Confederacy has long been thought of as one of the most stable European regimes. Emerging from the chaos of the Reformation, the various cantons were able to largely maintain a balance, albeit a tense one, between the Catholic and Reformed populations in the region. The Confederacy was republican, watching silently as other republics emerged in Europe and were subsumed by the monarchies in the end of the eighteenth century. Seemingly remaining aloof from the crises that have exploded all around it in the past few centuries, the situation may soon change given the rapid pace of developments in the region.
   On the surface, the Swiss Confederation remained one of the most stable regimes in the area at the beginning of 1837. Yet, this ignores the wear centuries of internal division took. Political institutions have become rotten and ineffective, the beloved Swiss system becoming the domain of internal rivalry and cantonal feuds. No true reform has been achieved in the past century or two, and the Swiss people took notice. Not immune to the ideological waves permeating the continent, it would only take a small spark to bring the whole system down.
   That spark came in February 1837. During the session of the moribund Tagsatzung in Zurich a wave of preorganized protests struck the city. The common Swiss, fed up with internal rivalry and factionalism and seeing the benefits of centralization in other realms, demanded a new constitution and the reformation of the Confederacy. Their demands were refused. The result was the Siege of Zurich on the 8th of February, where the people of the city surrounded the Tagsatzung and refused to let anyone in or out. Attempts to disperse the crowd were ineffective, many of the Swiss soldiers siding with their fellow citizens over their commanders. The “siege” lasted a week, after which the Tagsatzung reluctantly agreed to the demands of the rebels once it became clear aid was not coming, establishing a Constitutional Committee. It was a rare instance of a political body refusing to give itself more power until it was forced to do so.
   Yet, once the first concession had been made, the proposed reforms spread like wildfire. In the following weeks, fueled by the zeal of revolutionary sentiment, the cantonal system was abolished, religious toleration declared, economic reforms enacted, and the Swiss Republic formally established. French, German, and Italian were decreed three equal languages in the new state. Switzerland would be reestablished as a largely centralized, democratic system. Although neutrality was maintained, national conscription was also expanded, with the creation of the Swiss National Guard.
    Naturally, many of the cantons resisted the efforts of the new central government in Zurich to establish itself, but they found their citizens unwilling to defend the old Confederacy. In fact, risings in solidarity with Zurich swept through the rest of the country, toppling the cantonal authorities in Geneva, Bern, and Luzerne. By late March the whole of the old Swiss Confederacy had been consumed from within by the new Swiss Republic. The Constitution of 1837 was adopted in a hastily-held national referendum in April as the new regime looked outwards, watching the chaos it had helped spark spread in the north and the south.

March: the Rhineland

  For the past century and a half German politics seems to have been dominated by one question: who will dominate, north or south? Would the Habsburgs unite and centralize the Holy Roman Empire or would the Prussians kick out the Austrians and establish their own Germanic state? In all of this constant back-and-forth, war after war, one area has largely been overlooked: the west. With the spread of German nationalism, it has become clear to some that the German people need not rely on the absolutist Prussians or the multicultural Austrians to unite the scattered states of the region and protect against the designs of France. Although inspired by the events in Switzerland, the events of 1837 had in truth been a long time coming.
   The events in the Rhine occurred only because of an unlikely intersection of interests between three groups: nationalists, liberals, and the secular nobility. Nationalists watched the economic and demographic expansion of France year-over-year with dread, as some French papers called for seizing the west bank of the Rhine. Liberals, long unsatisfied with the sluggish pace of economic reform in the convoluted Holy Roman Empire because of localized noncompliance, saw the potential for rapid reforms. The Habsburg decision to ostensibly side with the Prince-Bishops agitated the secular nobility and minor knights of the Holy Roman Empire, who saw some of their seized Church lands returned to the clergy. A marriage of convenience would occur between these factions.
   Cologne erupted into revolution on March 3rd, 1837. Long dissatisfied with the presence of the Archbishop-Elector and the heavier tax burden of the ecclesiastical lands, the people of the city expelled the bishop in a sudden rising when news had arrived of the collapse of the Swiss Cantons. A municipal council, established by leading businessmen in the city, took control and invited delegates from the surrounding principalities and clerical territories to the Convention of Cologne. Some secular princes (Zweibrucken, Württemberg, Nassau), eager to demonstrate their independence, sent delegates, while revolutions toppled the archbishoprics in Muenster, Trier, Speyer, and Mainz. The Free Cities of Dortmund, Worms, Frankfurt, and Speyer also sent delegates. In some principalities, where the sovereign declined the invitation, they too were overthrown in rapid and sudden coups, being forced to join the growing exodus of Prince-Bishops and dethroned secular princes heading east towards Vienna. The Margrave of Baden (nephew to the Emperor’s wife) was dethroned, as was the Duke of Hessen-Darmstadt, both trying to remain loyal to Vienna.
   This would not be a crisis merely for the Austrians though, as became evident when the Duke of the Palatinate, a member of the German League, was forced by his council to send delegates to the Convention of Cologne, weeping as he signed the agreement. In the meantime, local authorities in the Prussian enclaves of Kleve and Mark, caught up in the jubilation of the moment, renounced their loyalty to King Frederick III and declared themselves loyal members of the ‘Kingdom of the Rhine.’
   Indeed, that would be the political system proposed by the rebel government in Cologne. In a two-week rapid session, the Kingdom of the Rhine was established, promising the maintenance of local autonomy under central authority, the creation of a constitutional monarchy, and the establishment of a Rhenish Assembly in Cologne.
   As for the sovereign, Duke William of Wurttemberg was elected by unanimous consent as King of the Rhine. What better candidate was there? Here was a man who loathed the Austrians because of his Protestant heritage and upbringing, but likewise disliked the Prussians because of their unceremonious abandonment of him in exchange for a slice of Saxony. He was a perfect representative of the ‘third way’ championed by German nationalists in Cologne. Accepting the crown, the new King prepared for battle, warily eyeing the Prussians and Austrians for their potential response to events in that region.
   The events in the Rhineland would not sweep across Germany as the most zealous nationalists had hoped. The Archbishoprics of Wurzburg, Augsburg, Bamberg, and Kempten saw little unrest. Bavaria, Austria proper, and Saxony likewise remained completely stable, the people of these regions watching the events to the west with horror and distaste. Likewise, to the north, besides the loss of the Palatinate, Kleve, and Mark, the German League too remained stable for the time being, though some of the members commented dryly that King Frederick was receiving his comeuppance for abandoning the Duke of Württemberg.
   In the meantime, as in Switzerland, a wide bevy of reforms would be introduced in the affected regions. The members of the Kingdom of the Rhine declared religious toleration, confiscated Church property and began ambitious land redistribution programs. All affected provinces declared their secession from the Holy Roman Empire and images of Emperor Francis were burned in several cities. Mass mobilization has begun, though whether it is for offensive or defensive operations is entirely unclear.

April: Italy

  If there had been any region where unrest seemed most likely based on events of the past year, that would have been Italy. Already emboldened by the events of the past year, well-funded, and widespread, Italian nationalists took action in mid-April. Unlike in Germany or Switzerland, this revolution was not necessarily liberal in nature, enjoying the support of broad sections of the conservative, rural peasantry.
   The Italian Risings began in Modena on April 15th, where the Bourbon Duke was expelled ignominiously. French garrisons in the region, aimed at subduing the mob, were overwhelmed by the sheer numbers of angry Italians, one general reporting ‘for every one bullet we spend, five more Italians seem to appear.’ Women and children would join in on the events in Modena, the French garrison eventually forced to surrender.
   It would take mere days for the unrest to spread elsewhere. Urbino, where the Dukes had largely retained their German ways in the past half-century, proved to be the next fertile territory for an uprising. A general mutiny in the military at Ancona saw the Duke of Urbino arrested and a Regency Council declared, that body quickly deposing the German Duke and electing King Francis of Naples as Duke of Urbino, although the King of Naples had not been consulted and issued no immediate response.
  Chaos would arise in the north next. The Duke of Romagna would be forced to shelter in Ravenna, vast swathes of his territory falling to pressure from Modena and Urbino. Parma and Genoa collapsed rapidly once the sovereigns of both duchies had fled back over the Alps in a panic, seeking help from Versailles. Venice, once the site of the Serene Republic, erupted into anarchy, the Habsburg garrison expelled as the island city declared its allegiance to the Italian dream. It would be joined by mass risings that would sweep through Lombardy and Piedmont, overwhelming much of the region.
   Yet, all hope would not be lost for the Austrians. Although the citizens of Milan fully intended to join in the nationalist wave, the brutal crackdown of the Austrian garrison and expulsion or execution of the most radical voices held off the immediate threat of revolution, leaving that metropolis an island of Habsburg loyalty in a sea of revolutionary sentiment. Mantua and Verona likewise proved loyal to the Habsburgs, limiting any threat of spread into mainland Venetia. Tuscany, too scarred by the events of the Great Italian War, saw only minor demonstrations, little desire indicated to join in broader Italian unification. In Piedmont, Xavier once again proved to be a brave sovereign, remaining in Turin in the face of nationalist calls for his deposition. Unlike his cowardly cousins in Genoa, Modena, and Parma, he has stood firm. Some in Paris have even whispered he could be the key to uniting Italy under French supervision.
   Unlike the risings in Switzerland and the Rhineland, the Italian Risings have not yet resulted in a clear leader, though most assume Francis of Naples will assume that role, all the various rebel factions throughout the Peninsula swearing allegiance to him and offering to join the Kingdom of Naples if the King would have them. The combination of rebel forces with the Army of Naples could very well prove to be a formidable force. Yet, given the likelihood this would mean conflict with the Habsburgs and French, there are some who are apprehensive of the prospect. Regardless, after a half century of peace, war has returned to Italy. As to what that means for the Peninsula? Only time will tell.

May: Flanders

  The fourth site in this quartet of blood would be Flanders. Of the four revolutions, this would be the bloodiest. The reasons for the scale of this uprising were twofold. The Flemings were afraid of French retribution for the assassination of the Dauphin and upset by the liberalization of the Catholic Church which, although popular throughout France as a whole, was deeply resented in Flanders. Inspired by outside agitators and seeing an opportunity with the risings in Italy, Switzerland, and the Rhineland, the remainder of the comprised “Sons of Willem” organized riots that swept through Antwerp and Brussels in late April and early May. Although the French government had attempted to organize a greater degree of repression, oversight, and policing, their methods proved too inadequate for the scale of problem they were facing within their borders.
   The first rising, and bloodiest, was in Antwerp on May 3rd. Presaged by raids in the countryside against French speakers and damage to local infrastructure, mobs of rebels overwhelmed the French garrison in the city. Brutal fighting occurred for 12 hours, word spreading throughout the Kingdom of France of the atrocities. Grapeshot was employed against the Flemings, while no mercy was shown to any captured French soldier. Any Wallonian or Frenchmen unlucky enough to be in public or caught by the mob was summarily executed as the city descended into two days of senseless violence. With word of the fall of Antwerp, the countryside joined in the rising.
   Brussels, Leuven, Ghent, and Bruges would all repeat the story of Antwerp. Riots erupted, the French garrisons were surrounded and overwhelmed, and a brutal orgy of reprisals would occur against anything associated with French tyranny. Priests loyal to the reforms of King Louis XVIII would be shown no mercy, the mob convinced that they had renounced their Holy Orders, while mass mobilization began here as well, moderates forced into siding with the radicals out of fear that a serious line had been crossed.
   King William of the Netherlands has been declared the King of the Flemings by an Assembly of Notables, though he was elected in absentia and, as in the case of the King of Naples in Italy, was not consulted prior to the decision. The Flemish have called on Europe to aid in their struggle for liberty, locals genuinely worried that French reprisals will break the back of their culture and result in the destruction of their way of life.
   For the first time in more than a century, the Kingdom of France is facing a domestic threat inside its borders. Although the threat may be from nationalists who don't speak French, many observers will be watching carefully to see if French projections of strength abroad could be undermined by disorder at home.

Broader Implications

  The Four Revolutions have caused alarm to spread throughout Europe. Berlin and Vienna, up to their usual tricks, continue to eye each other warily, determined that the one party will use the unrest to undermine the other. Slavophiles in Russia have openly hoped the chaos in the west will sweep east and unleash the Poles, Bulgars, and Serbs, ignoring their own problem with Ruthenian loyalty. The Scandinavians face the prospect of holding their first national election in times of great unease, especially as excluded nationalities in the Baltic states have become more vocal, calls emerging in Stockholm to postpone the elections. Irish nationalist pamphlets have been captured by British authorities, already strained by events in the Americas, raising the prospect of disloyalty at home. Notably absent, however, has been the presence of the Catholic Republicans. Perhaps due to their dark legacy in Europe, or the broader religious diversity of the rebel sites, no such movement has arisen, in stark contrast to the unrest in the Americas.
   Will the revolutions spread, igniting the whole continent? Will the forces of traditionalism and monarchism overcome the rising tide of liberalism and nationalism? How will powers of the broader world take advantage of European distraction in their own theaters?

Europe in May 1837

(Self-Made)

[Dereich]

A Proclamation by the Holy Roman Emperor

IN RESPONSE to the concerning events occurring through the Holy Roman Empire and the Kingdom of Lombardy–Venetia, two hundred thousand additional men will be mobilized and are hereby ordered to muster in Vienna in the coming weeks to await further instruction.

[True Federalist (진정한 연방 주의자)]

An Open Letter from the Queen Regent
The disturbances we hear are occurring in Europe should not be ignored just because they are happening so far away. They serve as a reminder that the Mandate of Heaven lasts only so long as those entrusted with the mandate act as faithful shepherds of those placed under their charge.

That is why in conjunction with my grandson's advisors, my primary focus has been on eliminating corruption within the government and improving the economy of our realm.

To further those ends, I am announcing the appointment of Gim Jeong-hui as Minister of Personnel.

[thumb21]

Edict of the pathetic failure of the Guang faction

The Emperor has recieved reports of the collapse of the Guang Faction's siege against Manchu forces in the South. We had signed a ceasefire with the forces of the Guang Faction on the condition that we concentrate our efforts on dispensing with the forces of the Manchu regime. We consider their failure to be a breach of the terms under which the ceasefire was signed and thus consider the agreement void. Our forces will act accordingly.

The Emperor calls on supporters of the Guang Faction to support the Emperor, whose forces have proven to be the only ones capable of dispensing with the Manchu regime and who has undeniably obtained the Mandate of Heaven. Now is the time for supporters of all other factions to lay down their arms, end the war and suffering and begin a new era of serenity, peace and prosperity throughout the Middle Kingdom.

Edict on the Dutch enemy

Dutch citizens are unwelcome within the Empire due to the present state of hostilities that exists. Dutch citizens who are determined to be of value or who recieve permission from the Emperor or one of his high ranking representatives, shall be permitted to remain.

Edict on the matter of food shortages

The issue of food shortages, particularly in newly liberated regions where fighting has been very harsh, is of great concern to the Emperor. This is the time for patriotic citizens to work together to ensure the wellbeing of the Empire. All tariffs and other restrictions on food imports shall be repealed for the Tokugawa Shogunate and the Holy Roman Empire. The Ministry of Works shall be instructed to stockpile more food by buying excess produce from farmers as well as food from traders.