Age of Steam and Steel: Gameplay Thread

[True Federalist (진정한 연방 주의자)]

Treaty of Okhostk

The realms of Russia 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, Russian ships and merchants in general shall be permitted to trade at the Joseon port of Donghae while Joseon ships and merchants shall be permitted to trade at the Russian port of Okhostk.

Moreover, the merchants and ships of the Russian-American Company shall be treated as a separate customs regime from Imperial Russia, such that reciprocal tariffs under the Joseon Edict on Import Duties, 2 Heonjong for their goods shall be determined solely on the basis of the tariffs imposed on goods imported to Russian America and not by the tariffs on imposed on goods imported to Imperial Russia.

Furthermore, the merchants and ships of the Russian-American Company shall have access to the ports of Incheon, Donghae, and Jeju in exchange for Joseon merchants and ships having access to the ports of New Archangel (Sitka), Ounalaska (Dutch Harbor), and Paul's Harbor (Kodiak).

x Queen Regent Sunwon on behalf of her grandson King Heonjong of Joseon

[Wikipedia delenda est]

Treaty of Okhostk

The realms of Russia 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, Russian ships and merchants in general shall be permitted to trade at the Joseon port of Donghae while Joseon ships and merchants shall be permitted to trade at the Russian port of Okhostk.

Moreover, the merchants and ships of the Russian-American Company shall be treated as a separate customs regime from Imperial Russia, such that reciprocal tariffs under the Joseon Edict on Import Duties, 2 Heonjong for their goods shall be determined solely on the basis of the tariffs imposed on goods imported to Russian America and not by the tariffs on imposed on goods imported to Imperial Russia.

Furthermore, the merchants and ships of the Russian-American Company shall have access to the ports of Incheon, Donghae, and Jeju in exchange for Joseon merchants and ships having access to the ports of New Archangel (Sitka), Ounalaska (Dutch Harbor), and Paul's Harbor (Kodiak).

x Queen Regent Sunwon on behalf of her grandson King Heonjong of Joseon

x Peter IV, Emperor of all the Russias

[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 Dongji (Winter Solstice) of the fourth year of his reign (1837 CE) the following:

Nobi Reform Act, 4 Heonjong

It is far past time to restore the nobi system to its original, noble, and ancient purpose of giving people a way to repay their debts to society or specific individuals.

Is is thereby ordered that beginning in the auspicious eighth year of our reign (1841 CE) that upon reaching adulthood in their twentieth year of life, the children of nobi shall be emancipated from any obligation of service arising from the status of their parents as nobi.

This act does not emancipate any children of nobi who reach adulthood before the eighth year of our reign.

This act does not affect any other law by which a person may enter nobi status as a means of repaying a debt to society or a specific individual, nor any other law which provides a means to leave nobi status.

[Spamage]

1837 News of the World

POLAND RISES
A Dream, or a Nightmare?

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

   It has been half a century since the Polish state was wiped off of the map, but the people have not gone anywhere. No people in Europe witnessed such a stunning and rapid collapse of their state as the Poles had in the 1780s. Their realm went from the birthplace of moderate liberal republican rule, a bastion of Enlightenment aspirations, to a scattered and poor region, divided among authoritarian enemies. With the revolutions sweeping Western Europe, it was all but certain that nationalist sentiment would explode as well. It did, but no one foresaw how complex the events in the region would be in 1837.
   Although Poland had perished as a republic under the rule of Tadeusz Kosciusko, that did not mean that most Polish nationalists adhered to his ideology five decades later. Years of oppression splintered the unity of the Poles. A wide variety of experiences depending on what side of the imaginary border former citizens had ended up on, coupled with different perspectives on why the Republic had collapsed, meant there was no consensus on how to move forward. When coupled with the meddling of the regional powers, each seeking to undermine the others, the result was a splintering of the cause. The Polish nationalists were divided into numerous camps: moderate liberals, Czartoryski monarchists, Catholic Republicans, Commonwealth restorationists, Pan-slavists, socialist reformers, etc.
   Now, in 1837 the result of this splintering became apparent. Three separate movements would arise in the region, each claiming to be the legitimate revolt, with the ultimate result creating a muddled and chaotic situation.
   Although the Habsburg Monarchy stationed ample soldiers in the region, one army could only do so much against a mass movement. The first rising occurred in Warsaw, in June. The city saw coordinated efforts by rebels explode throughout neighborhoods, barricades being erected as the flag of Polish liberty was raised in the city. It was clear that some outside power, if not several, had provided the insurrection with supplies, initial word on the ground implicating either the Ottomans or Russians. Unwilling to face down a whole city that seemed set against the government, and taking sizable casualties during initial attempts to maintain order, Habsburg forces under the command of Archduke Maximilian (the 66-year-old uncle of Emperor Francis II) withdrew. He was roundly criticized in some corners for what was perceived as weakness, though others in Vienna pointed out that he preserved the Army of Poland from annihilation by some sort of rash action. He would move towards East Galicia, where the Ruthenians remained firmly loyal to Vienna, intent themselves on helping to crush whatever was emerging in Poland. His leadership would prevent the rising from spreading further south or east, Lublin and Krakow remaining in Austrian hands, though protests would be seen in both cities.
   It was not immediately apparent that there were differences in opinion in the Warsaw insurrection. A Fourth Polish Republic was declared in the city, a liberal constitution enacted, and Michał Gedeon Radziwiłł elected the Commander-in-Chief of the newly established Polish National Guard. Radziwill’s first opponents would be his fellow Poles though, as a rival Regency Council in Siedlce convened within the week. This group ostensibly advocated for the return of the Czartoryski family, which had held the throne briefly during the Polish Revolution nearly a century ago. Adam Czartoryski, the grandson of the late Augustus III was proclaimed King of Poland, though he would not be on the scene. Polish Legions loyal to the Regency Council established themselves quite rapidly, and Radziwill would openly complain that the monarchists were using Russian Poland as a base to conduct operations, though this would be denied in St. Petersburg.
   A third rising would occur in Prussian Poland, despite the best attempts of authorities in that region to ensure that the chaos in Austrian Galicia did not spread. Vienna had ordered the expulsion of all known Polish nationalists from their lands as soon as word spread of events in the Rhineland and Italy. Where else were they to go but north? Although Russia had seized vast tracts of Polish land in the Partition, most Poles resided in either the Habsburg Monarchy of Prussia. Thus, a group of notable nationalists set themselves up in Plock. Here the mainstream nationalists quickly immersed themselves in a seething bubble of Catholic discontent and hatred for the Prussians. A series of attacks on infrastructure in Prussian Poland presaged the rise of the Catholic Republican rising in Poland. Denouncing the King of Prussia as a satanic heretic set on exterminating the Polish people, the Catholic Republicans seized control of Plock and declared the Holy Polish Republic.
   What occurred next was entirely without precedent in contemporary European Revolutionary History. Emilia Plater, a heroine of the rising fashioned in nationalist literature as a Polish Joan of Arc, emerged as the primary commander through her fervor for the cause, revolutionary eloquence, and wide following. Elected the President of Poland by her Catholic Republican peers, a move that would be derided as extreme and horrifying by the male observers throughout Europe including Pope Alexander IX, Plater claimed that the risings in Austrian Galicia had been organized by the Prussians, denouncing her fellow nationalists who would make a deal with the devil. The men under her command had fervor, if not military organization. A series of risky charges and reckless gambles on the field of battle surprised the well-trained Prussian soldiers, who had not expected some tactics that flew squarely in the face of military orthodoxy and common sense. Yet, this meant her casualties were quite heavy and some have doubted the longevity of her struggle in the face of hostile powers on all sides. Plater’s Catholic Republican forces have found their support strongest in rural areas, where hatred of the Prussians runs the deepest.
   And so, Poland has awoken. Yet, some wonder if this is a nightmare. Cross-purposes and double-dealing have meant that any idea of national unity has been shelved in favor of partisan self-interest. Too busy accusing one another of collaboration with Poland’s numerous enemies, the Second Polish Revolution has become a muddled, uncertain affair. Three governments in the mere span of 80 miles have each claimed sovereignty over the entire Polish nation, too focused on their own self-interest to undertake offensive action against the masses of Prussian, Austrian, and Russian soldiers that could pounce at any moment. Furthermore, vast Polish regions remain in enemy hands, having not risen in the first place. If momentum is to be achieved, and this false start repaired, Poland will need to emerge with some clear sort of leadership in 1838. Whether this will emerge from compromise between the rebel factions or one emerging victorious over the other two, something must change.

Flemish Terror
French Soldiers Seek to Crush Rebellion, Parts of Netherlands Invaded

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

   France would respond with brute force to the rising in Flanders, deploying more than 300,000 soldiers to the region to crush the very idea of Flemish nationalism. The result has been one of the ugliest fields of conflict since the Great Italian War. Infrastructure has been razed, crops destroyed, civilians killed in the crossfire.
   Western Flanders was pacified first, Ghent and Bruges falling to a relentless French onslaught. After the fall of Bruges Europe would be shocked by the brutal reprisals inflicted by the French soldiers against the Flemish civilians. Alleging a conspiracy to kill all Frenchmen, soldiers massacred the inhabitants of the city in their bloodlust, sparing individuals neither by sex nor age. The Massacre of Bruges has entered European parlance and served as a reminder that, no matter how civilized it may seem, war remains hell.
   News of the horrors in the west would only serve to embolden the risings in the east. This was not a fight for national freedom, or for freedom of worship, but a life-or-death struggle. The prospect of death at the hands of a French firing squad was enough motivation to keep desertion in the Flemish ranks at a minimum and zeal for the struggle at an all-time high. The “Martyrs of Bruges” as they have become known in revolutionary circles as far afield as Italy, Switzerland, and Poland have inspired thousands. France itself has gained somewhat of a black reputation, no matter how justified repression of the Flemish rebellion seems on the surface. Neither Antwerp nor Brussels fell in the latter half of 1837, though French guns began to launch shells into Brussels in December, fighting beginning on the outskirts of the city.
   The great scandal, and a move that has ignited massive controversy, stems from the actions of one of the French generals in the western theater, who seems to have operated of his own initiative, but had reason to do so. Thomas Robert Bugeaud, the general in charge of pacifying Terneuzen, alleged that Flemish rebels in full regalia were seen crossing into Dutch Zeeland. Infuriated and not wanting his foes to escape, Bugeaud ordered a crossing into Zeeland, bringing fighting into the Netherlands. Numerous Flemings were captured when the town of Middelburg surrendered, but this did not change the fact that technically France had not declared war and the Netherlands had never outright supported the rebellion. Although he has been chastised by some in the high command, Bugeaud has been steadfast in defense of himself, maintaining that his move was necessary. The Dutch response would be brutal though, a strong defense preventing the further seizure of any more territory in Zeeland. In Amsterdam there is mass outrage and hatred towards the French, as it is now accepted that King William should embrace the Flemish offer and rally the people to war against the French tyrants.
   On the home front, the Flemish have not been above using terrorism and sabotage to achieve their goals. A series of coordinated bombings have hampered efforts to construct rail lines throughout France in 1837. Several French officers and military officials have been assassinated, including General Auguste de Marmont in Paris. This is at the same time their nationalist pamphleteers coordinated efforts with the socialists in Paris.
   Some quarters of global opinion have been outraged by the French assault on the Netherlands, who had not previously offered direct aid to the Flemish cause. The seizure of Zeeland has led to calls for intervention from Britain, the population of the British Isles already riled up by Francophobia engendered by war with Louisiana in the Americas. Observers in Scandinavia likewise condemned the move. The most vocal opposition would come from the Socialists, both in and out of government. Chastising Louis XVIII for exporting tyranny and trampling on self-determination, the Socialists have raised the specter of more vocal opposition should the atrocities continue. Yet, with most of Europe facing revolutions on their doorstep, there is a real question as to who, if anyone, could provide the aid the Dutch and the Flemings so desperately need?

Assault in the East
Joint Russo-Persian Assault on the Ottoman Empire
Greece Fans the Flames of Freedom

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

   With the major powers of Europe too busy managing revolutions on their doorstep, and the Ottomans mopping up the rebellion in Egypt, the Sublime Porte’s opponents saw an opportunity to strike. The Russian Empire, alongside its newly established Persian ally, ignited a war that would initially span the Danube to the Tigris. This assault, and the opportunity it created, ignited the spark of revolution in Greece, a region that has remained largely loyal to the Ottomans over the last century despite increasing foreign attempts to encourage rebellion.
   Russia coordinated its actions across the various theaters so the unannounced attack would commence almost simultaneously, preventing the Ottomans from getting word the Empire had been attacked. The first incursion occurred in Moldovia, where the Russians crossed into the Ottoman satellite duchy. The locals, largely Orthodox and not necessarily loyal to Istanbul, bowed before the massive 95,000 Russian force and some even joined in. The Duke and his family however, largely owed their title to the Sultans, gained during the partition of Poland 50 years ago. They fled to Istanbul, bringing news of the crisis north of the Danube.
    The Ottoman Army of the Balkans and the Army of Istanbul went into immediate defensive mode, coming together in Bulgaria with around 80,000 men. From there, they moved forward to face the Russians, hoping to blunt the stab into the Balkans. The two forces did battle at Constantia near the mouth of the Danube, the Russians having completely pacified Moldavia. It was a brutal affair, both sides seeing substantial losses, but the Russians were ultimately able to push the outnumbered Ottomans back and seize the city. As the Turks fled into Bulgaria to regroup, and hopefully raise reinforcements, the Russians moved into Wallachia, where the Duke abandoned any pretense of fealty to the Sultan and declared his independence under Russian protection.
   The second Russian assault occurred in the Crimea, where there was no substantial Ottoman presence save for the garrison at Kerch. 20,000 Russians, using the route of Suvorov from half a century ago, stormed into the peninsula, the Ottomans falling back into their walled city. Kerch, which has frustrated Russian attempts to capture it for a century and a half, now has sealed itself off once more, bracing for a siege. Ottoman Crimea has survived the Russian onslaught before, many throughout the Empire are praying they can do it one more time.
   The Caucuses would be the first major scene of Persian and Russian cooperation. Here there was no Turkish military presence beyond the garrisons of the settled towns. When word arrived that a joint Russian-Persian force was charging north towards Baku, there was little that could be done but prepare for a siege. Even with this preparation, the Ottoman soldiers in the region found themselves overwhelmed, the city falling after two days of bombardment. As went Baku, so went most of Azerbaijan, the region annexed by the Ottomans during the collapse of the Safavid Dynasty in the 1780s now returning to Persian control.
   The final area facing the initial onslaught was Mesopotamia. Two armies were launched into Ottoman territory, one heading towards Mosul in the north, the other seeking to seize the Persian Gulf in the south. The Ottomans had 40,000 men on the scene, against a northern army of 55,000 Russians and Persians and a southern army consisting of 75,000. The Army of Iraq had to make a decision, commanders on the ground ultimately opting to strike at the Russo/Persian Army heading towards Mosul given numerical parity and the threat of being isolated from the rest of the Empire should that city fall. The Battle of Bazian, which was where the forces met, was ultimately a slight Ottoman victory, the push towards Mosul stalled and northern Mesopotamia protected. The army fled back into Qajar territory, licking its wounds and hoping for reinforcements.
  Yet, protecting the north meant sacrificing the south, Al-Basra and Kuwait passing silently into enemy hands. With the collapse of Ottoman authority along the Persian Gulf, Turkish officials have begun to look warily at the tribesmen of the Arabian Peninsula, hoping they will stay loyal in their hour of weakness.
   There was good reason to question the loyalty of the non-Turkish subjects, as would be evident in Greece once the shock of the initial attack had worn off. Greek nationalism had existed for decades, but the moment for rebellion never had quite seemed right. The strengthening of the Ottoman Empire in the 1780s and gentle policies had staved off opposition in the region even when Egypt launched its ill-fated rebellion early on in the 1830s. Yet, with the Russian-Qajar advances, the soldiers of the Empire far from the front line in Egypt, and nationalism sweeping Europe, the moment arrived. The flag of Greek liberation was raised in Athens, peasants pouring in from the countryside, ill-equipped, but out to avenge four centuries of oppression.
   From Thessalonica to Athens, Sparta to Volos, the Ottomans were pushed out, garrisons being brutally murdered if they did not surrender at once. A weak central government has established itself in Athens, self-appointed delegates debating the form and function of the proposed Greek state, as envoys have been sent to the courts of Europe, calling for direct aid in the struggle of Christian against Muslim.
   While the setbacks appear quite numerous for the Ottomans, hope is not yet lost. The remnants of the Egyptian rebellion have collapsed along the Nile, the only remaining regional opposition being the desert-based tribal raiders. The losses of land all occurred in regions where the army was not present or was undermanned, so effective redeployment could stop the bleeding of land or perhaps even reverse it. Although the Greek Revolution is alarming, it has been noted that most of the Balkan Slavs have not been active in supporting the Russians. With their long memory of the abandonment of the Serbs under Emperor Paul, it is clear the nationalists in this region will not constitute a majority so long as Ottoman rule seems somewhat stable. How Istanbul hopes to reverse the losses of 1837 or what the next step of the Russian-Persian invasion will be both remain to be seen. Those not distracted by revolution on their borders will likely be following events in the Near East with great interest.

[Spamage]

War Comes to Americas
Southern Colonies Renounce British Monarchy, Louisiana Intervenes
Fighting Stretches from Frontiers to Atlantic

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

   King Charles III attempted to assuage the concern of the southern colonies with the offer of a last-minute compromise and substantial concessions. Yet, this was not to be. Bolstered by Louisianan offers of direct military intervention, and infuriated the offers of the British Crown included no mention of keeping slavery, John C Calhoun led the Southern Convention signatories to declare independence on August 6th, 1837.
   Members of the 8 seceding colonies (Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Tunica, Transylvania, and Henrysland) convened in Charleston and declared the establishment of the American League, a loose confederation of the rebel colonies that would aim to eject the British from their land. This was initiated with the full seizure of the city and the expulsion of the enemy garrison from the harbor. It was agreed by the representatives that the final form of the League’s government would be decided after independence was achieved.
   British soldiers found themselves in a unique position. Although they maintained their location and conducted operations as commanded, the land all around them instantly became hostile. Their fellow subjects turned into implacable foes; the hatred engendered by warfare tearing the region asunder. This problem would be particularly acute for the British forces in the Deep South, which would be forced to hunker down.
   Matters were not helped by the arrival of Louisianan soldiers, who saw their numbered augmented by southern allies. They smashed through the British forts on the Mississippi, securing the region for the rebellion. The British Army of the Mississippi was forced to retreat north. An attempt by British soldiers to secure the coast of Florida was halted by the arrival of Louisianan soldiers, who not only defeated that entire force of 3,000, but captured all of the survivors. These initial setbacks seriously hampered the war effort in the heart of the South, yet all would not be so bleak for King Charles III. Atlanta remains surrounded, supplies being totally cut off as the sizable British garrison there is now under a state of siege.
   Although their war effort in the Deep South has been hampered, British soldiers retained control of much of Virginia and Cumberland. In fact, parts of northern Virginia, not content to fight to preserve slavery, abandoned their rebel neighbors and reaffirmed their loyalty to London. The northern colonies have, as a whole, become staunch supporters of the Crown and thousands of men have enlisted, hoping to teach their southern counterparts a lesson. On the frontier, the British aligned Sioux launched a series of brutal raids at Louisianan settlements on the Plains, the Osage aid to the Louisianans not enough to plug all the holes. The result has been numerous stories of dead pioneers, the indigenous Americans wreaking their revenge in a war they did not start for an issue about which they mostly do not care. Of course, the rebellion has also created a potential second pool of recruits: the enslaved. Given the treason in the rebel colonies, some are calling on the Crown to expedite the process of emancipation and destabilize the Southern League by whatever means necessary.

East Asia Aflame, Fighting in China Heads South
Russia Launches Invasion of Mongolia, Japanese Assault Against Netherlands Continues

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

Russian Invasion of Mongolia

  Given Russia’s intervention in far-off Persia and declaration of war against the Ottoman Empire, the people of the Far East largely considered themselves secure. The only reason the government of Mongolia felt itself able to intervene in favor of the Qing was because of a striking lack of activity on the Russian frontier in the years before. This would change in 1837. Emperor Peter IV ordered an invasion of this breakaway state, 75,000 men crossing the border in short order.
   Although the Mongols were undoubtedly understaffed, this realm is no Khiva, small and easily added to the Empire. The Russians have been forced to try and secure vast tracts of uninhabitable territory, fighting primarily nomadic foe. Granted, most of the small settled towns have been taken with ease, Ulaanbaatar first among them. Although used to fighting on rough terrain, the first few months in Mongolia did take a numerical toll on the Russians. It was only with the construction of forts, ordered by some officers of their own initiative, that the Army has begun to gradually exert greater and more lasting influence over Mongolia. 1838 is almost certain to see the Mongols continue to resist, though their fate looks bleak as more Russians mass to the north.

Chinese Civil War, 1837: And Then There Were Two (Or One? Or Three?)

  Northern China has been the center of the Chinese Civil War since 1835, but in 1837 both the Qing and Xing would focus their attention southwards, seeking to take advantage of the collapsing Guang Dynasty. Although minor officials in both regimes would express themselves outraged by Russian intervention in Mongolia, the attention both of Nanjing and Shenyang remained firmly fixed on the struggle in the south.
   Ultimately, the Xing brought more men into the field in southern China in 1837, which severely undermined a Qing strike at their advance southwards. A series of battles in Hunan and Jiangxi saw the Qing routed and forced to flee south. Continued experience with Habsburg weaponry, numerical superiority, and the sympathy of former Guang loyalists ensured most of the south joined the Xing, unwilling to return to Manchurian subjugation. Although Guangzhou itself would be seized by the desperate Qing army, the Guang Emperor being slain and thrown into the harbor, they would find themselves shortly under siege, the war effort in the south looking bleak after a flash of hope.
   The last few years had seen defeat after defeat for the Qing. It was here that members of the dynasty took action against the Yansheng Emperor, who was deemed to have upset the divine order. The Prince of Beizi, a distant male-line cousin of the Emperor, collaborated with the Manchurian nobility in Shenyang and launched a coup against the Yansheng Emperor. Although the palace guards remained loyal to the young Emperor, they could not hold back the mass of soldiers that stormed into the royal apartments, murdered the Emperor, and threw his body out into the streets. The Prince of Beizi promptly declared himself the leader of the Qing Dynasty, taking the name of Xingyun Emperor. Continuing to govern from Shenyang, much of Manchuria and Inner Mongolia joined him.
   Yet the coup in Shenyang would not be supported by all, particularly the younger brother of the slain Yansheng Emperor. The Prince of Qinwang had been in Beijing when word reached him of the murder of his elder brother. Much more Chinese in outlook than Manchu, he proved to be the choice of the Qing armies in the north and south of China itself as the next emperor. Operating out of the traditional capitol, he has been proclaimed the Zuigao Emperor.
   The collapse of the Qing into civil strife has signaled to most that the Xing are now the undoubted favorites to unite China proper. Controlling most of the population, territory, and armies it is assumed that the Xing have assumed the Mandate of Heaven. It will be up to the Youfu Emperor to ensure that this is the case, with Beijing and Shenyang standing in opposition to his rule in the north, as the Russians have started an invasion of an ostensible vassal of China. Yet, given the success of his soldiers against the Dutch, many are optimistic about his prospects.

Continued Struggle Between Dutch and Japanese, Fighting in Hainan, Batavia, Philippines

  With the results of the Chinese Civil War seeming to become clearer, events outside of the mainland would be far more muddled. A joint Xing-Japanese expedition sought to expel the Dutch from Hainan. Yet, unlike in Formosa, now the Dutch were prepared. Although the numbers eventually forced the garrison to retreat to the Philippines, heavy casualties were inflicted on the invaders, who have shared occupation of the island for the time being.
   The Dutch would see their greatest success of any location occur in the Philippines, with the surrender of Manila on April 5th. Largely unaided, the Spanish control of the islands collapsed suddenly and in surprising fashion. Island by island the Dutch, reinforced, advanced and won the loyalty of the locals. After two centuries, Spain’s outpost in East Asia has been largely mopped up. Although a few scattered islands hold out loyalty to Madrid, the distance involved has caused most in Spain proper to view the preservation of the Philippines as a hopeless cause for the time being, it assumed by most that the islands would be returned in any peace treaty with the Dutch.
   A great naval engagement occurred at the Dutch port of Batavia in November, the Japanese fleet seeking to surprise the Dutch and catch their ships off-guard. Although there would be some initial success in the endeavor, the Japanese would be pushed back by the superior naval tactics of the Netherlands. After 7 hours of engagement, the Japanese assault was repulsed and the surviving fleet forced to limp back to the home islands. Some in Japan fear that this may damage the capability for further naval operations, unless the Dutch are somehow otherwise occupied in 1838.

Scandinavian Electoral Chaos
First Vote Rocked by Assassination, Insurrection, and Opposition

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

   While many commended the monarchs of Scandinavia for moving forward with the planned elections in 1837, even with rebellion sweeping the European continent, the vote itself would be marred by ethnic tension, protest, and foreign intervention. Although Scandinavia exits 1838 with its first democratically-elected government, internal tensions have undoubtedly increased as a result of the recent campaign.
   The election of 1837 was vicious. The various political groups portrayed their opponents as threatening the survival of Scandinavia as a world power. A meeting of conservative candidates in Gothenburg was bombed, killing 4, the liberals being blamed. Several wealthy liberal candidates were mobbed in the streets and beaten, newspapers blaming socialist agitators. In Riga protests would turn bloody as nationalists resenting their exclusion from the national vote were gunned down by the Scandinavian garrison. A socialist rally in Copenhagen would see street fights with the monarchists when images of the King and Queen were burned in protest. The expansion of holdings in Africa proved to be controversial in other quarters, some newspapers arguing the government was wasting resources on pointless colonial expeditions. Nationalists made their voices heard everywhere from Helsinki to Trondheim.
   Election day itself would be somewhat more stable. The 300 seats of the national assembly were distributed as follows: 103 mainline conservatives, 98 liberals, 44 monarchist reactionaries, 33 socialists, 11 Finnish nationalists, 7 Norwegian nationalists, 4 German nationalists. Although no party has been given a majority, it is expected that cooperation between the conservatives and the reactionaries (which have 147 combined seats) is the most likely route for a coalition.
   More dramatic than the election itself would be the information that was discovered afterwards. A thorough investigation by agents of the Crown revealed a broad network of foreign interference, intelligence networks tracing leads to Berlin, St. Petersburg, and Cologne. Although it is unclear if the Russian, Prussian, or Rhenish governments themselves sanctioned interference, or if this was merely citizens acting of their own accord, opinion in Stockholm has been outraged by the development. Scandinavia may yet be thrown into continental conflict.

The Second Italian War

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

   The possibility of Italian Unification was too tantalizing for the Neapolitans to resist. King Francis I declared himself firmly on the side of the Italian Nationalists, moving armies north as the second general war over the fate of Italy in the last century has begun.
   The first clashes would occur on the sea, where the Neapolitan navy, the people of that realm renowned for their shipbuilding skills, launched operations in the Adriatic against the Habsburg Monarchy. Never quite a top-tier seafaring power, the Habsburgs were humiliated in initial engagements, the mouth of the Adriatic being sealed off to Austrian trade, effectively placing a blockade on the Austrian powers in the region. Although the Austrians cut their losses by returning to port after their humiliation, it has become clear to most that, save for French assistance on sea, Austria’s triumph will have to occur on land.
   Switzerland, which maintained its neutrality in the surrounding nationalist risings, nonetheless saw 40,000 of its new citizens “volunteer” to fight in Italy. These men were suspiciously well-supplied and trained, some international observers denouncing the Swiss as trying to cover their military intervention in Italy with technicalities and nice words. The arrival of Swiss volunteers echoes that nation’s role as provider of mercenaries in European conflicts for centuries. Yet, for the first time, perhaps ever, Swiss intervention in Italy would not involve playing the French off against the Austrians or vice-versa. No, in 1837 the Swiss were supporting the Italian people themselves.
   France itself sought to intervene and restore the minor Bourbon princelings to their possessions. With the surprise arrival of the Swiss, coupled with the strength of the local Italian rebels, this was not necessarily to be. At the Battle of Turin, the 88,000-man strong French forces were defeated in stunning fashion, as they faced a mere 67,000-man force. It was Swiss discipline that won the day, forcing the quite popular Grand Duke Xavier to flee alongside his father’s forces back across the Alps. Although some French observers believe an operation in 1838 would be more successful, it is unclear whether the Swiss-Italian force could be larger due to Neapolitan aid.
   While the French were defeated at the Battle of Turin, the Austrians under Marshal Radetzky would be successful in relieving the siege of Milan and asserting control over most of the traditional Habsburg possessions. Although sporadic guerrilla activity continues, particularly in the hills and mountain regions, the cities are under control. The story of the year would be Austrian success north of the Po, Neapolitan victories in the south, with some exceptions.
   Naples initiated mass mobilization, pushing north from Rome into Tuscany. Although the locals in the region largely remained loyal to Habsburg control, what could they do in the face of over 100,000 soldiers from Naples invading? The Austrian force fought valiantly to defend Florence, the Battle of Florence being a largely pyrrhic victory for the Neapolitans. Still Austrian losses here were not light, and some are calling on the Emperor to withdraw his men from Tuscany while a small path has opened up due to success in Romagna.
   The pacification of Romagna by the Austrians would be a slow-going, bloody affair. Although it was easy enough to seize Ravenna, it would take methodical action to crush the rebels in the countryside. Operating outside of the Neapolitan army, the volunteer Italian nationalists had the ability to blend into the countryside with ease, locals willing to shield them in the event of Habsburg reprisals. It has only been with brutal repression that the opposition has been weeded out, village by village.
   Italy stands on a knife’s edge. France has suffered a rare humiliation in the north, the Austrians only gaining their territory back at the cost of thousands of civilian lives. The Pope, so long a vocal presence in the region, sits silent in the Vatican, having signed a Lateran Treaty in Rome that provides the Church with a serious role in Neapolitan affairs. Naples is mobilized, but has largely tapped its available reserves. 1838 will undoubtedly be a crucial year in determining the shape of things to come. Will the French and Austrians come smashing back, or will the various other revolutions sweeping to continent provide a window for Neapolitan success?

The German Revolution

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

   The Rising on the Rhine was undoubtedly the most shocking of the revolutions to occur in 1837, alarming all the regional powers with its sudden ferocity. The ensuing conflict would not disappoint, the fate of the venerable Holy Roman Empire and entire German people hanging in the balance.
   The rump Imperial Diet at Regensburg would pass a series of rapid emergency measures, granting Emperor Francis II broad prerogatives and general control of the armed forces of all the various princes. While the Rising on the Rhine attracted many upset princes, the clergy and small landholders of the Empire have fled into the Emperor’s camp, afraid that the “rationalization” championed in Cologne would see them sidelined. Issues that had been debated for centuries were passed in a dazed frenzy, the Emperor’s power growing as the Holy Roman Empire seems to be collapsing all around him.
   Militarily, two major operations would occur. The Austrians, determined to prevent Swiss intervention, rushed westwards, smashing into southern Baden and meeting limited resistance. Both Freiburg and Offenburg returned to Imperial control, the Duke of Baden hastily setting himself back up in his capitol, thanking his uncle by marriage profusely. Operations then commenced in Württemberg, the seat of the King of the Rhine. King William himself led his forces in a defense of his home region. An Austrian attempt to take Stuttgart was beaten back, the combined irregular rebels and standard soldiers of the former Duchy succeeding after hours of combat.
   The second area of conflict would be in central Germany. The Kingdom of the Rhine initiated a surprising strike southeast, aiming to make a rapid charge into Bavaria and depose Francis II as King of that realm. The bishopric of Wurzburg fell easily, overwhelmed by the enemy. What happened next was a betrayal of a general understanding between the German rebels and the German League. Rhenish soldiers marched into the Margraviate of Ansbach, the possession of a cadet branch of the Hohenzollern Dynasty and a member of the German League. Frederick Alexander, the Margrave of Ansbach, led a valiant defense of his principality, halting the advance of the Rhenish soldiers. It was his defense that prevented the fall of Bavaria and when news arrived of the aforementioned Habsburg invasion of Württemberg, the Rhenish army turned west.
   Yet, the Margrave was killed in the surrender of the city of Ansbach, ending that line of the Hohenzollern Dynasty and putting the succession of the Margraviate into dispute. His advisors, not wanting to imperil the war effort and grateful for the aid of their Imperial neighbors, immediately declared their secession from the German League, loyalty to Emperor Francis II as overall sovereign, offered the Emperor the honor of naming a new Margrave.
    News of the Rhenish assault on Ansbach was coupled with accusations from Cologne that intercepted letters revealed the King of Prussia had been urging the Prince of the Palatinate to hold firm, news which immediately made both men suspect. This was viewed as a betrayal and a sign that, as had been initially thought, neither the Prussians nor the Austrians could be trusted. Although no fighting broke out in northern Germany, relations have certainly been chilled and the Prince of the Palatinate has been placed under house arrest, his powers suspended.

[Spamage]

The Fire Continues: Spanish America, 1838

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

Holy Republic of Colombia

  It would prove to be true that the Spanish commanders in Peru had been overconfident in their ability to relieve the siege of the forces in Quito. An inconclusive battle at Chiclayo saw the Spanish forced back, news of their defeat causing the men in Quito to surrender at long last. What followed was a terrifying sack of the city. The Spanish soldiers themselves were executed to a man, as a somewhat bizarre occupation took place. In the past the sacking of the city was a disordered, chaotic affair. Under the leadership of the Catholic Republicans, observers have noted how disturbingly restrained it is. Soldiers go from house to house, assembling those deemed to be subversive and executing them for heresy without appeal. The wealth of the city has been catalogued, distributed, and removed without the usual wave of savagery. Anyone expressing opposition was summarily executed. Those deemed to be risky are torn from their houses, children separated from parents to be raised in either a church school or with a loyal family, while the parents are sent to labor on missions or plantations in place of the liberated slaves.
   Colombia would follow up on this success with modest gains in the Llanos, though no larger offensive would be planned in the region, the Spanish advance in Panama causing the Archbishop of Bogota to order the realm into much more of a defensive posture.

La Plata

  The Union of La Plata had survived the mass breakaway in 1837, but it would ultimately be absorbed by the dictatorial Republic of La Plata led by General Juan Manuel de Rosas. Although he had ostensibly renounced his allegiance to the weak central Union government because of the Catholic Republican rising in Paraguay, he had sensed the vulnerability of the weakened central government. Moving his capitol to Buenos Aires, the first decree of de Rosas has been a general suppression of the Jesuits throughout his territory, identified members of the order either being arrested or executed on sight. The second action was a renunciation of cooperation with Brazil, viewing the democratic government of that realm as domineering and dangerous for Spanish speakers in the southern part of the continent. Finally, in the later half of the year de Rosas launched a reconquest of Mendoza, bringing the separatists of heel.
   The Catholic Republicans in Paraguay and Upper Peru were not idle, however. The pro-indigenous Catholic Republicanism sponsored here resulted in the signing of the Accord of Cochabamba. The two governments have agreed to total military cooperation against the Spanish, Brazilians, and La Platans. Although this would not stop the Spanish seizure of the Upper Peruvian coastline, many in the Lima have been alarmed by the move, given the recent defeat in the north at the hands of the Colombians.

Brazil

  The Prussians and Spanish were determined that the government of Brazil would not get off lightly for their assault on Guyana and broader aid to separatist causes throughout the Americas. A joint Prussian-Spanish naval squadron appeared off the shore of Rio de Janiero and conducted what has been perhaps the largest naval bombardment in history. The brief attempt by the small Brazilian navy to prevent their advance was swatted aside, shells raining fire down on the wooden city. Fires spread and within hours blocks of the town were aflame.
   President Bernardo Pereira de Vasconcelos, in the city when the bombardment began, refused to flee to safety and abandon his fellow citizens to their fate. Hoping to fight the fires raging throughout the city, he was killed when a burning building collapsed onto him. He was just one of many casualties of this unsparing attack, but his death has left the central government confused and leaderless, at perhaps the most inopportune moment. As of December, the Congress of Brazil has seized ultimately authority while debate rages about how the successor of the slain president is to be chosen, various politicians vying for the role and undermining one another.
   When the bombardment ceased, the Prussians and Spanish conducted supply raids in the region over the next few weeks, intercepting valuable exports such as coffee and sugar and preventing the important of foreign manufactured goods. This has led to rampant price movements within Brazil, locals unsure of whether or not shipping will be restored to normal as many speculators have taken severe hits to their fortunes.
   On land, the Spanish launched operations from the Llanos into Guyana and Brazil proper, sticking close to the shore. Their successes in the region ensured that Guyana was returned to Prussian control by December.

Central America

  With the Peace of Potsdam ending hostilities between Spain, Mexico, and Louisiana, Philip VI ordered his armies south to retake Panama in order to resume construction of the canal. The Colombians in the region were easily forced back, the result being the new defensive posture advocated in Bogota for the time being.
   The second operation undertaken by the Spanish would be the crushing of the Yucatan rebellion. The Yucatan State, which had been independent for almost 11 years, was brutally forced back into colonial status, its past success stemming largely from neglect and isolation than any inherent military skill. Although nominal fighting continues in the interior of the peninsula, most of the cities and populated areas have fallen to Spanish administration once more.

[Spamage]

Age of Steam And Steel

Turn 4: 1838

(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)
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)
Xing Dynasty: Youfú Emperor (thumb21)
Qajar Persia: Mohammad Shah Qajar (PSOL)
Joseon Korea: Queen Regent Sunwon (True Federalist)

Economic Standing:

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

Popularity:

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

Current Global Conflicts:

Chinese Civil War: Qing Dynasty vs. Xing Dynasty, Tokugawa Shogunate vs. Secessionists (1825-)
Eastern War: Tokugawa Shogunate, Xing Dynasty, Kingdom of Spain vs. Kingdom of the Netherlands vs. Hakka People (1836-)
Colombian War of Independence: Holy Republic of Colombia vs. Kingdom of Spain (1823-)
Flemish Revolution: Flemish Rebels, Kingdom of the Netherlands vs. Kingdom of France (1837-)
German Revolution: Kingdom of the Rhine vs. Habsburg Monarchy, Holy Roman Empire (1837-)
Second Italian War: Kingdom of Naples, Italian Rebels, Swiss Republic vs. Habsburg Monarchy, Kingdom of France, Italian Principalities (1837-)
Polish Revolution: Republican Poland vs. Catholic Republican Poland vs. Czartoryski Poland vs. Habsburg Monarchy vs. Kingdom of Prussia (1837-)
Great Turkish War: Russian Empire, Qajar Persia, Greek Rebels vs. Ottoman Empire (1837-)
Russian Invasion of Mongolia: Russian Empire vs. Mongol State (1837-)

(Source: Self-Made)

Kingdom of France:

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

-King Louis, thousands now lie dead because of the events of 1837. Flanders is aflame. Part of the Netherlands has been seized. After perhaps decades of tension, it seems the crucial moment for the future of French power in the Low Countries has arisen. The Dutch public, yet again, shows itself willing to stand against you, yet the question now is whether they will stand alone. The British public in particular has been outraged by the seizure of part of Zeeland, the event being portrayed outside of France as the acts of a despotic superpower. How do you propose to crush the Flemings and bring the Dutch to heel? What will your response be to other powers who could join in the cause of Flemish liberation?

-The wretched Swiss have joined with the Italians in their ill-advised effort to unify the peninsula. 1837 saw your men expelled from Piedmont and the prestige of the French-backed Bourbon princes plummet due to their cowardly flight. Given the ongoing situation in Flanders and rapidly escalating conflict with the Netherlands (not to mention the potential for war with Britain) some in Paris believe it is time for you to cut your losses and support the Neapolitan Bourbon war effort against the Habsburgs. Others believe that it now more important than ever to ensure that Vienna remains a close ally, so continued intervention in Italy is a must. How will you respond to the Swiss-Italian assault on your protectorates?

-Although the French public broadly supports the war in Flanders, political opposition has emerged and is growing. The socialists have made common cause with many Flemish and Italian sympathizers in the Kingdom. Their newspapers denounce French intervention in both the north and the south, while on the ground they have begun to organize the French workforce. The threat of strikes and protests has emerged, the grassroots leadership growing more vocal each passing month. Their demands are simple: autonomy for minorities, improvement of worker’s rights, and the ability to organize unions freely. Although most socialists would also like to see broader political reforms, the general consensus of the movement for the time being has been to use the joint crises to pressure the French government for economic reform. Of course, both the liberals and conservatives in government see the demands as outrageous and non-starters. How will you respond to the growing threats from the left?

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

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

-The Southern cowards have aligned themselves with the Louisianan Papists, igniting a war for the future of North America. Although initial results have been disappointing, most observers of the fight note that Britain retains a substantial presence throughout the would-be American League. How will you prosecute the war? What will be done to teach the Louisianans a lesson to not meddle in the internal affairs of Britain? Will you push forward emancipation in recaptured regions to further punish the rebels?

-The French have invaded sovereign Dutch territory, outraging British public opinion. Even with the fighting in the Americas, there are some who would have Britain come to the aid of the Netherlands and ignite a crusade against the Francophone countries worldwide. Certainly, the collapse of Dutch resistance would be horrifying to consider, especially if France were to annex that realm. Yet, the war in North America is no easy affair and spreading yourself too thin could be unwise. How will you respond to the French invasion of Zeeland and atrocities in the Rhineland?

-The revolutionary sway the swept through Europe has not yet come to Britain, but there are signs that it could soon. Of particular concern is the issue of who ought to be enfranchised. Traditionally, British voting rights have been restricted to the wealthy landowning men, but given developments elsewhere, the growing middle class is pushing for a more active role in government. A wide range of reforms have been proposed, ranging from voting based on wealth, lowering the landowning requirements, or even the radical prospect of universal male suffrage. Parliament itself is highly divided on the prospect and pushing too hard could imperil your government of national unity. Will you respond for these whispers for greater enfranchisement?

Kingdom of Scandinavia:

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

-The first elections are concluded, but the fallout continues. It is without dispute that there was foreign interference in the campaign, responsibility likely coming from Berlin and St. Petersburg. The population of the realm, although divided by political outlook, are almost universally outraged that these neighboring powers have tried to run roughshod over the new constitutional system. Will you enact any reprisals? Some are calling for you to reject the King of Prussia as protector of the Schleswig-Holstein Germans. Others believe that you ought to send arms and supplies to the Ottomans in their struggle against the Russians. Perhaps you could close the Danish strait to ships from either Prussia or Russia. There are doves, who would have you maintain peaceful relations, but they are in a minority. What will you do?

-The Scandinavian election gave none of the parties an outright majority and coalition building will undoubtedly be required before governing can begin. As the constitutional government is only weakly established, the leaders of the various political factions have looked to the Crown for some sort of guidance, requesting your input as to how they should proceed. Will you involve yourself in parliamentary affairs, recognizing this will set precedent moving forward? If so, what party alliance will you recommend?

-Scandinavian soldiers have seized Mombasa, but the locals are furious. Your growing presence in the region has been apparent for decades and it is feared that backlash is growing. Local officials on the ground report their fears of a rising or attack by the local governments, especially as word spreads of the chaos in Europe, which is assumed will take up most of your attention. There, of course, are a wide amount of ways to respond. You could continue to undertake military operations, perhaps a few preventative strikes in the area. A conciliatory response would probably play well. Or maybe trade is the way to win peace in the region? How will you ensure that the locals in East Africa do not pose a long-term challenge to the expansion of Scandinavian colonial authority?

Russian Empire:

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

-You have overseen great gains against the Ottomans, Emperor Peter. Your namesake would be proud. The Turks have been bloodied in the Balkans, Crimea stands on the verge of surrender, and joint action with the Qajars has resulted in gains in far-off Mesopotamia. Yet, the Ottomans are now alerted to the attack and will undoubtedly relocate men to counter your advances in the Balkans and Caucuses. The Russo-Turkish War will require great ingenuity, strategy, and patience. How do you propose to win it?

-Revolution swept through the west in 1837 and Russia seems to have weathered the storm largely intact, for the time being at least. No nationalist risings have plagued the Empire and the Russian people themselves have not made any demands for constitutional reform. This has created the perception abroad of Russia being the bastion of the conservative, absolutist order. Given the chaos in the Scandinavian elections, the risings in Poland, and the events further afield in Germany and Italy, some in St. Petersburg are urging you to reiterate your role as defender of the status quo, perhaps by intervening directly in the crises to the west. Or, perhaps it is time for Russia to find a new path, one where it focuses solely on its own self interest. How will you reconcile your traditional conservative role with the advantages that could be gained from cooperation with the various rebellions?

-Your soldiers have made substantial gains in Mongolia over the previous year, but resistance continues. With the collapse of the Qing Dynasty into civil war, some would have you extend Russian involvement in the Chinese Civil War, advocating for an invasion of Manchuria itself. Others believe that Mongolia must be subjugated before intervention elsewhere can be considered, especially given the major conflict against the Ottomans in the west. How will you bring the Mongols to heel? Will Russia intervene further in Chinese affairs?

Habsburg Monarchy:

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

-Emperor Francis, you are leading the Habsburg Monarchy through its greatest crisis in a generation. Not since the days of Maria Theresa has the Empire had to juggle to many different crises at once. Of foremost importance to your advisors has been the events in Germany. Your forces had some limited success last year, recapturing most of Baden and even part of Württemberg, but the fight continues. The Kingdom of the Rhine remains a very real problem, as the near invasion of Bavaria has so clearly demonstrated. How will you prosecute the war in 1838? Furthermore, with the death of the Margrave of Ansbach, who will you name as his successor? Some would have you take the title yourself and expand Bavaria, though perhaps giving it to a Hohenzollern could placate the Prussians for a short time…

-Aside from Germany, the news out of Italy is also of great concern. Your ports on the Adriatic sit under a Neapolitan blockade, forcing you to rely on overland trade with Russia, Prussia, and the Ottomans. Naples itself has launched an assault against Tuscany, making gains and leaving your forces there exposed. Yet, the rebels have not been entirely victorious, being pushed away from Milan and out of part of Romagna. Thankfully, Swiss intervention seems confined to the French principalities for the time being. What will be your approach to this theater in 1838?

-The Poles have risen, but it is clear the rebellion is not as bad as it could have been had the various factions been united in purpose. With this bizarre three-way uprising in Poland, there are some in Vienna who would have you establish contact with one of the factions and support it against the other two, creating a loyal friendly regime. Yet, this could mean ceding territory to a nationalist rising, a precedent many are not willing to even consider in a realm such as your own, afraid of the long-term results. How will you deal with the Polish situation? Will your uncle be left in command of the forces in the region? What is to be done about the alarming reports, with some small evidence, of Russian, Turkish, or Prussian incitement of violence?

Kingdom of Prussia:

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

-Berlin was stunned by the risings in Prussian Poland. The fact that the rebellion has been led by a Catholic Republican woman has been no less surprising. For a long time, it was assumed that Prussia had little to fear from Catholic Republicanism though, judging by the dead in Posen, this is obviously not the case. On top of the threat from the Catholic Republicans, two other Polish factions have arisen in Austrian lands. There are fears the Polish nationalist contagion could spread further if action is not taken. What is to be done about the rising to your east?

-Relations with the Kingdom of the Rhine have gotten, to put it nicely, awkward. The interception of your letter to the Prince Palatine was highly embarrassing, as has been the Rhenish invasion of Ansbach. At the same time, the Habsburgs have generally seemed hostile, officials of that realm suspicious of your contacts with the minor Saxon princes and Emilia Plater’s allegations of your interference in Austrian Galicia. Now, with the death of the Margrave of Ansbach, the potential for conflict with the Habsburgs seems just as immediate as the threat of war with the Rhinelanders. In short, Germany is a mess and it’s not clear what Prussia should do to prevent the situation from spiraling out of control. King Frederick, how will you handle this complex issue?

-1837 was undoubtedly a year of revolution and it is not yet clear whether the unrest will continue into 1838. While the risings have been primarily nationalist in nature, the growing socialist movement in France and the recent elections in Scandinavia has raised alarm in some quarters of your kingdom. Prussia has been long a symbol of autocracy; no pretense of democracy being foisted upon the realm. The reformist class in Berlin would see this changed, any threat of rebellion headed off with the promulgation of a constitution, however symbolic a gesture. Yet this belief is not universal. In particular the Junkers and conservatives believe this proposal is premature and irresponsible, pointing to Prussia’s long success under an enlightened despotic model of government over the last century. King Frederick, will you concede to growing constitutional whispers or should Prussia remain a conservative, monarchical state?

[Spamage]

Ottoman Empire:

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

-All good Turks have been outraged by the surprise attack against the Sublime Porte launched by the Russians and their Persian dogs. Russians encamp along the Danube, Crimea looks nearly lost, and the collapse of Mesopotamia has only narrowly been avoided. Yet, 1838 will give you a chance to redeploy your armies in the face of this foreign threat. How will you ensure the Russian treachery does not go unpunished? Some in Istanbul have also called for the expulsion of the Russians from the Suez, where they maintain partial ownership after the foreign seizure of the canal a couple of years ago, though this could alienate the other European powers.

-Greece has risen in rebellion, calls for national liberty emanating from Athens and roiling the surrounding region. The Greeks, heirs of your Byzantine foes, could be a formidable threat. Some advisors believe a diplomatic solution would be preferable to an extended war at the same time the Russians are knocking at the door. Others believe that you will only be able to preserve your inheritance by showing harsh punishments to those who challenge the status quo. How will you handle the Greek rebellion, Sultan?

-With the Nile secured, it is time to decide on the future governance of Egypt. In previous centuries that realm possessed a good deal of autonomy, with the local nobles maintaining a substantial voice in governance. Yet, with the recent uprising, some in Istanbul believe that old course is no longer sustainable. Rather than restoring a loosely autonomous Egypt, they would have it annexed to direct rule. What system do you believe should be used to govern this extremely valuable province?

Kingdom of the Netherlands:

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

-Those perfidious French have attacked your sovereign territory, driving into Zeeland without a declaration of war or any hostile action on the part of your government. A nationalist fervor, focused on defending the country against the foreign scum has swept the realm, bolstering your popularity. Now that France has struck, will you send men to aid the Flemings or even take control of that rebellion as their King? What is to be done about this pressing crisis on your southern border?

-Further afield, fighting with Japan continues in Asia. You prevented a catastrophe at Batavia, saving much of your Asian fleet and the Philippines have finally been fully taken from the Spanish. Still, you have lost Hainan and are no closer to retaking Formosa. Some in Amsterdam would have you make peace here so you can focus on the larger French threat, French India particularly threatening the Dutch East Indies. Others believe that surrendering or making a compromise deal with the barbaric Japanese and Xing insurrectionists is unthinkable. How will you handle the war in East Asia?

-You stand alone for now. Yet, the French assault and their atrocities in Flanders have created wide sympathy for the plight of the Dutch. The obvious potential allies are those who have helped the Dutch people in the past, such as Britain or Scandinavia. Alternatively, you could embrace the rebel wave of 1837 and make overtures to the Kingdom of the Rhine, which has thus far only expressed itself friendly towards your government. Far-off Naples could be another potential friend of convenience, you two having shared enemies. Will you assemble a coalition to beat back the French or will the Dutch do better without the complications of foreign intervention?

Kingdom of Louisiana:

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

-You are at war. The generous aid you have provided to your eastern neighbors has meant that Britain now views you as an enemy. Although the British have been pushed from their forts along the Mississippi, Atlanta remains under their occupation. The nascent army of the American League has indicated it will follow your lead in the war effort, so strategy for 1838 will be up to you. How will you ensure that the Americans are freed from British tyranny?

-There has been an alarming string of attacks by the Sioux against your frontier settlements in the Plains and along the Missouri River. The Osage have done the best they can to repel native incursions, but the death toll makes it clear this has not necessarily been successful. Continued instability in the region could drive off future potential settlers, hampering growth efforts in the region. How will you respond to the native raids? Some have proposed providing arms and ammunition to the Osage, an idea that would have been scoffed at years ago. Others urge you to construct forts and use the military to deter further Sioux aggression. Perhaps you could launch counter-raids into their land?

-You have assumed control over your portion of California and for now the region is at peace, Louisianan officials establishing government in the region in line with your recent proclamations. It is an open question what is to be done with the Spaniards who already own sizable tracts of land in the region, having lived in the region for more than a century. You could seize their land and distribute it to loyalists, though this could undermine your authority in the region. Or, alternatively, perhaps some sort of understanding could be reached? Some in New Orleans have suggested buying out the Spaniards, though this would probably be expensive. What will you do?

Kingdom of Naples:

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

-The day is here, King Francis. Fighting has commenced against the Habsburgs throughout central Italy. Tuscany is falling into your hands, while the Austrians have pushed back into Urbino. Neapolitan ships have blockaded the Adriatic, forcing the Habsburgs to rely on overland trade. What will your commands be to the army in 1838? Will you undertake a further offensive in Tuscany or start a new one in Urbino? Or is a defensive posture more ideal, forcing the Habsburgs to stumble into prepared defenses? How will you ensure the Italian people are liberated from foreign oppression?

-The situation in Northwest Italy is uncertain. While the Swiss and the Italian rebels expelled the forces of your distant cousin Louis XVIII, potentially inaugurating conflict with France, no Neapolitan soldiers were in the region and your commanders had no input in the battle of Turin. This could allow you to escape some of the blame, were you so inclined. Will you send men north to prevent a second French invasion? Or should a settlement of some sort be reached with Paris, preferably one which sees your authority over the north be acknowledged?

-In the lands controlled by yourself or the rebels aligned with the Crown of Naples, most of the nobility, (i.e. sizable property holders) have fled. There are growing calls at your court for their properties to be granted to loyalists to yourself in both the Neapolitan nobility, the military, or even the general public. While such a move would create a powerbase of loyalists in northern Italy, it could also further alienate Vienna and Paris, not to mention inaugurate long-term property disputes. What will you order to be done with the vacant estates?

Tokugawa Shogunate:

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

-The fighting against the Dutch continues. Although your naval raid against Batavia was repulsed, you did inflict damage on the Dutch fleet. Hainan has fallen to the joint Xing-Tokugawa occupation. With news arriving that the Netherlands now faces France in their homeland, some in Edo believe it is the perfect opportunity to make peace. Others see the potential distraction of war with France as giving your more room to undertake offensive operations. What will you do in 1838?

-The Hakka people have been most intrigued about your offer of establishing a semi-independent Republic of Formosa. For the time being they have established a cease-fire on the island, but the issues of this proposal are becoming clearer. Many at the Xing court have expressed themselves upset about the proposed tearing away of Formosa. The inhabitants of the island, on the other hand, demand independence from China as one of their main conditions. How will you balance these conflicting interests?

-Your handling of the taxation issue has been well-received, albeit with some peasant grumblings about the proposed increase, but in the meantime a secondary class issue has arisen. Within the Tokugawa elite, the Daimyo are divided. The Fudai daimyo have long been loyal to your family, their primary distinction being that they backed the Tokugawa prior to its seizure of control. On the other hand, the Tozama daimyo joined the Tokugawa shogunate later and have been punished for this for centuries. Increasingly, the Tozama have called for discrimination against them to be lifted, while the Fudai have resisted, jealously guarding their privileges. This matter has become even more complex with the tendency of the Tozama daimyo to embrace western trade and the imported western practices that have been growing apace, while the Fudai daimyo have argued for staunch traditionalism in Japan. Which side, if either, will you back in this intra-class dispute?

Qajar Persia:

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

-Your forces have pushed their way into Ottoman territory alongside the Russians. 1837 saw success in the north and the south, with both Baku and Basra falling into Persian hands for the first time in decades. Throughout your newly establish realm the Persians have turned towards the conflict with enthusiasm, the goal of ending Turkish supremacy a popular one. Yet, Ottoman resistance in 1838 may be stronger, now that the element of surprise has worn off. What will you have your soldiers do in the coming year?

-The Kurds acquiesced to your victory fairly peacefully in 1836. In return, they have hinted that they ought to be granted broader autonomy in the regions they inhabit, not to mention any Kurdish regions that could be gained from the Ottomans. Some in Teheran fear this would undermine your new dynasty and make it look weak when it has just established itself. Will you listen to Kurdish demands for autonomy or hold them close for the time being?

-Expansion into Mesopotamia and Azerbaijan has further increased the religious diversity of your holdings. Although Persia is predominantly Shi’ite, the gains made have given you control over sizeable Sunni population and substantial Christian minority. This will probably become an even more severe problem the more you grow. Some believe that you should declare tolerance for the religious diversity. More hardline religious officials in your circle urge you to at very least maintain the jizya and perhaps only to promote faithful Shiites. How will you deal with religious diversity in your realm?

Joseon:

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

-Your grandson has been married in ceremonial fashion; a move widely seen as a triumph of Joseon’s stability while the rest of the world was aflame. Yet, it is becoming increasingly clear that the growing contact with the West has not been lost on young Heonjong. The 10-year-old sovereign has repeatedly questioned officials about the stories, values, and lifestyle practiced outside of the realm. Although they have attempted to divert his attention with other matters, namely the traditional education of a future Korean sovereign, he seems bored and unmotivated by these topics. His mother has been unable to redirect his attention and some would have you step in, it being unthinkable the ruler of the Joseon dynasty could be infected with western sympathies.

-Your focus on rooting out corruption and ensuring stability has coincided with growing calls for governmental reform. Although you have done well in keeping western influences from disrupting the mainstream life of Korea, many elites have begun to clearly feel the sway of reform. Your proposals to reform the Gwageo has elicited a wide array of proposals. Some would have you scrap the traditional exams entirely and embrace western methods of focusing on mathematics, history, and humanities. Others believe that the traditional system could be modified, but that at its core the Gwageo have served the royal family well for decades. There is also the possibility of opening the exams up to a larger proportion of the population, no longer having them be so regional and narrow-focused. What will you do about these calls for reform?

-The collapse of the Qing into civil conflict, at the very moment their dynasty seemed defeated in China itself, could present a golden opportunity, Queen Regent Sunwon. Your occupation of the Trans-Ussuri could be turned into a full-blown annexation, seeing as your agreement to oversee that territory was with the Yansheng Emperor, who was so brutally murdered and left no clear successor. While the move is popular in Korea itself, there are some scholars who express concern over the reaction of the Xingyun Emperor, who controls Manchuria and Inner Mongolia. Still, with the Russian expansion in the north and continued fighting in the south, this window of opportunity could close. Will you absorb the territory on behalf of your grandson?

Xing Dynasty:

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

-Youfu Emperor, dominance over China is nearly in your grasp. The Qing have fractured into feuding factions and you control by far the most people and territory of the remaining factions. Yet, the war is not yet over. Qing forces still operate in the far north and south, holding Beijing and Guangzhou. How will you lead your dynasty to victory and crush the opposition once and for all?

-With the collapse of the Qing, numerous collaborators and former officials from that regime have fallen into your custody. Ranging from governors and bureaucrats to generals and noblemen, many of your subjects wonder what should be done to these traitors, who so willingly served foreign oppressors. Nationalists are out for blood, seeking to avenge the humiliations of Manchu governance, while other groups seek clemency for the prisoners. What will be your policy towards the former Qing officials?

-The so-called Xingyun Emperor has approached you with a tantalizing offer. In exchange for recognizing his independent control over Inner Mongolia and Manchuria, he is willing to renounce any claims to China. This would leave you at war with the Zuigao Emperor in Beijing alone. While this offer would probably seal your power over China, it could set the dangerous precedent of letting regions operate freely. Furthermore, there is some concern in the foreign ministry about the trustworthiness of the Xingyun Emperor, who had his own cousin murdered so he could seize the throne. Will you entertain his proposal?

[Spamage]

Armies and Locations
Russian Empire
100,000 Army of St. Petersburg
55,000 Army of Poland
75,000 Army of Siberia
86,500 Army of Ukraine
17,000 Army of Crimea
19,000 Army of the Caucuses
24,300 Army of Arabia
24,000 Army of the Gulf
9,500 Army of the Suez
5,000 Army of Alaska
50,000 men garrisoned
(Can raise 358,000 more)

Kingdom of France
343,000 Army of Flanders
110,000 Army of Northern France
79,400 Army of Southern France
80,000 Army of Bengal
40,000 Army of Gujarat
21,100 Army of the Sacred Heart (Burma)
40,000 men garrisoned
(Can raise 2,000 more)

Habsburg Monarchy
184,000 Army of Wurttemburg
91,000 Army of Romagna
79,000 Army of Italy
55,000 Army of Bohemia
50,500 Army of Poland
30,000 Army of Transylvania
9,800 Army of the Suez
36,000 men garrisoned
(Can raise 155,000 more)

Kingdom of Prussia
120,000 Army of Brandenburg
120,000 Army of Berlin
108,700 Army of Poland
128,000 Army of Hanover
9,000 Army of the Cape
9,800 Army of the Suez
6,000 Army of Angola
5,000 Army of the Congo
3,000 Army of Borneo
1,000 Army of Singapore
30,000 men garrisoned
(Can raise 3,000 more)

United Kingdom of Great Britain, Ireland, and the Americas
90,000 Army of Britain
35,000 Army of Pennsylvania
20,000 Army of Illinois
20,000 Army of New York
20,000 Army of Richmond
33,000 Army of Georgia
18,200 Army of Transylvania
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
30,000 men garrisoned
(Can raise 192,000 more)

Beijing Qing Dynasty
156,500 Army of Beijing
67,250 Army of Hunan
20,000 men garrisoned
(Can raise 6,000 more)

Shenyang Qing Dynasty
64,000 Army of Manchuria
12,000 Army of Inner Mongolia
10,000 men garrisoned
(Can raise 10,000 more)

Ottoman Empire
3,000 Army of the Northern Egypt
59,700 Army of Cairo
64,000 Army of the Balkans
36,400 Army of Iraq
69,300 Army of Alexandria
10,000 Army of Gaza
25,000 men garrisoned
(Can raise 89,000 more)

Xing Dynasty
107,000 Army of Jiangsu
87,400 Army of Guangzhou
54,000 Army of Wuhan
23,000 Army of Hainan
10,000 Army of Formosa
30,000 men garrisoned
(Can raise 32,000 more)

Kingdom of Spain
80,000 Army of Spain
41,000 Army of Yucatan
63,000 Army of Peru
24,000 Army of Guyana
20,000 Army of the Llanos
16,400 Army of Chile
20,000 Army of Cuba
20,000 men garrisoned
(Can raise 9,000 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
7,500 Army of Mombasa
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
36,000 Army of Hainan
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 152,000 more)

Kingdom of the Netherlands
72,000 Army of Amsterdam
40,000 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 107,000 more)

Kingdom of Naples
133,000 Army of Tuscany
20,000 Army of Rome
10,000 Army of Sicily
20,000 men garrisoned
(Can raise 4,000 more)

Joseon Korea
48,000 Army of the North
48,000 Army of the South
10,000 Northern Flying Corps
10,000 Corps of the Ussuri
10,000 Marine Corp
31,000 men garrisoned
(Can raise 12,000 more)

Kingdom of Louisiana
16,000 Army of Florida
29,000 Army of the South
29,000 Army of California
20,000 National Gendarmerie
9,000 Army of the North
10,000 men garrisoned
(Can raise 25,000 more)

Qajar Persia
24,000 Army of Baku
21,000 Army of Lake Van
49,000 Army of Basra
27,000 Army of the South
(Can raise 7,000 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, Limited)
Kingdom of Louisiana (Modernized, Standard)
Republic of Brazil (Modernized, Limited)
Russian Empire (Reformed, Standard)
Ottoman Empire (Reformed, Standard)
Tokugawa Japan (Modified, Standard)
Joseon Korea (Modified, Standard)
Xing Dynasty (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 Seollol of the fifth year of his reign (1838) the following:

Survey and Census Act, 5 Heonjong

For the planning purposes of the government and commerce of the realm, the following is ordered:

1. Within the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries, there is to be established a Bureau of Survey.

2. The Bureau of Survey is to undertake a grand survey of the realm to include the ownership, leasing, area, and usage of land. Once the initial survey has been completed, the bureau shall conduct annual updates so that reports can be issued
before the start of Baemdal (the fourth month of the Korean calendar) on
crop acreage planted for the current year, as well as crops, timber, and fish harvested in the previous year.

3. Within the Ministry of State, there is to be established a Bureau of the Census.

4. The Bureau of the Census is undertake an initial census during the seventh year of our reign, two years from now, so as to provide for a population register. It also is to keep track of births, deaths, marriages, and population movements so that our officials can update the population register established by the census so that population information may be used to plan for the commonweal of the realm. To verify that information, an additional decennial census shall be taken every ten years.

Industrial Promotion Act, 5 Heonjong

For the well being of both our realm and our subjects, it is desirable to promote certain industries by making it easier for industrious individuals to obtain financing for their pursuits when they will enhance the commonweal of the realm. To that end it is ordered:

1. The Ministry of Commerce shall promulgate and periodically revise a list of favored industries.

2. The Bank of Joseon shall be encouraged to make loans for such industries by the provision of a subsidy of interest payments by those who take out such loans. The subsidy shall be the lesser of five per cent per annum of the outstanding principal of the loan and half of the interest paid. Subsidized loans must be collateralized by the project for which they were taken out, and shall be for a term of no more than thirty years. Once granted, the subsidy for a given loan shall remain in effect for the term of the loan, even if a new loan for that project would not be eligible for a subsidy.

Edict Concerning Basic Foodstuffs, 5 Heonjong
1. The Edict Concerning the Export of Basic Foodstuffs, 4 Heonjong is made permanent, but at a duty rate of 1 nyang per 16 gwan of grains or lentils.

2. Once the population register established under the Survey and Census Act, 5 Heonjong is ready, each household is to receive a monthly bounty of 1 gwan of rice per person in the household, and an annual bounty of 1 gwan of pat (팥 adzuki beans) and 1 gwan of kong (콩 soybeans) per person in the household. Such bounties shall be available at the beginning of each month or year respectively and withdrawn from a government silo located in that household's county anytime during that time period. Any bounty not withdrawn in a timely fashion shall be forfeited. The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries shall ensure that the ministry silos of each county have sufficient supply to provide for the bounties allocated to that county to be distributed. Foreign subjects are not eligible to receive bounties under this act.

Edict Concerning Trade with Manchuria, 5 Heonjong
For purposes of trade with those portions of Manchuria that may be under Joseon administration, no import or export duties shall be imposed.

Regulation Concerning Favored Joseon Industries
For the purposes of the Industrial Promotion Act, 5 Heonjong the following industries are eligible for loan subsidies:
1. Machine tool production
2. Woodworking tool production
3. Steam engine production
4. Cloth making machinery production
5. Iron, steel, and bronze production
6. Shipbuilding
7. Porcelain production

[windjammer]

Treaty of Amsterdam
Peace Treaty between the Kingdom of France and the Kingdom of the Netherlands
1) The Kingdom of Netherlands shall deliver all the "sons of Wilhelm" being part of its realm who have been making terrorist attacks against France
2) The Kingdom of France shall withdraw immediately from the Netherlands

XKingLouis XVIII

[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 Samjinal of the fifth year of his reign (1838) the following:

Expeditionary Forces Act, 5 Heonjong

When Joseon military forces operate outside the boundaries of Joseon, the following shall be expected of their conduct:

1. They shall refrain from fraternizing with the local population.

2. Except for the confiscation or destruction of property as ordered by military commanders for military purposes, they shall not molest the civilian population of the areas they operate in.

3. The civil law of areas in which military forces are operating shall be that in force before our forces were present. If military necessity should require the formation of a military government to perform civilian functions, the existing civil law shall be followed except where it is judged that doing so would impair military capabilities.

Railway Construction Regulation
1. For the purposes of the Industrial Promotion Act, 5 Heonjong the production of railway engines, railway carriages, railway equipment, and rails are eligible for loan subsidies.

2. Construction by the Cheoldogug of the Busan to Daegu, Nampo to Pyeongyang, and Seoul to Kaesong railways is authorized.

[Orwell]

Treaty of Amsterdam
Peace Treaty between the Kingdom of France and the Kingdom of the Netherlands
1) The Kingdom of Netherlands shall deliver all the "sons of Wilhelm" being part of its realm who have been making terrorist attacks against France
2) The Kingdom of France shall withdraw immediately from the Netherlands

XKingLouis XVIII

XKing William II

[Spamage]

CATHOLIC REPUBLICANS TOPPLE BRAZILIAN GOVERNMENT!
LA PLATA DECLARES WAR

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

   The death of President de Vasconselos in 1837 created a power vacuum in Brazilian politics. While this was not necessarily a new experience for the republic, which had faced a similar uncertain situation when President da Silva Lisboa died in 1834, this time no clear liberal champion emerged. Pedro de Araújo Lima was named interim president in March 1838, with elections planned for the second half of the year. Issues over slavery, the power of the central government, and foreign policy caused the various liberal democratic and conservatives to squabble, while the true enemy organized.
   Catholic Republicans had long been a presence in Brazilian politics and had initially been hopeful after the death of Lisboa in 1834. When Vasconselos proved to be just as a much of a liberal as his illustrious predecessor, these hopes had seemed dashed. Rather than championing the radical ideology, Brazil instead positioned itself as a defender of moderate republicanism and secularism. Intervention against Spain was coupled with a hostility towards radicalism emerging in Colombia and Paraguay. The vast majority of society was willing to follow his lead, as long as he was successful. Yet, given the resulting Prussian-Spanish assault and the death of the President, it was clear the traditional policy had failed. Sensing the vulnerability of the government in the aftermath of the assault, all the Catholic Republicans were waiting for was the spark.
   This came in April 1838, when word leaked from the foreign ministry that the new President had expressed himself open to peace negotiations with the Spanish and Prussians, privately professing the the Cabinet that he was willing to cede more territory in Guyana and surrender gains made in Uruguay. This ignited a firestorm. Catholic Republican papers denounced the move as that of a coward, willing to waste the sacrifices made by Brazilians over the last few years. Protests and strikes began to pop up in several cities, local police forces proving inadequate to handle the situation. Here the political principles were married to nationalism and jingoism, bringing together a broad but bizarre coalition of conservative reactionaries, radical republicans, the Church, and the military elite.
   President Lima attempted to counter the dissent, calling an emergency session of the National Assembly. Although the delegates came, operating out of Sao Paulo given the state of Rio, political opportunism proved too tempting. Both the mainstream liberals and conservatives demanded substantial concessions from the President in order to grant him broader authority to deal with the Catholic Republican menace. Once it became clear action was not forthcoming, the rebels struck.
   The garrison of Sao Paulo mutinied, led by their commander General Luís Alves de Lima e Silva (a hardcore, anti-democratic reactionary) surrounded the assembly and arrested those delegates who did not surrender before him. President Lima meanwhile, was arrested in his offices and quickly disposed of, executed by firing squad. Bishop of Sao Paulo Manuel Joaquim Gonçalves de Andrade, Minister of Justice Cândido José de Araújo Viana, and General General Luís Alves de Lima e Silva declared a suspension of the Brazilian Constitution. The Bishop was declared the Head of State of the Divine Brazilian Republic, yet another South American government falling under the sway of a prince of the Church.
   News of events in Sao Paulo was largely accepted with a shrug throughout Brazil, given the size of the anti-Liberal coalition against President Lima and the traditional ruling class of the Republic. Although there was a brutal purge of the civil service in early summer, only liberals were targeted. The military accepted the change of power, hoping the new government would allow them to maintain the gains of the previous years. The wealthy planters have eyed the events warily, well-aware of how abolitionism was championed by the revolutionaries in Colombia Bishop de Andrade faces a difficult dilemma, being at the head of a diverse movement (reactionaries, religious reformers, abolitionists, the military, the Church) with conflicting interests and many observers are expecting infighting in the months to come unless he can get a handle on the situation.
   Abroad, reactions would be more alarming. In La Plata General Juan Manuel de Rosas, the rabid anti-Catholic Republican, declared war on the Divine Brazilian Republic, offering peace terms to Spain in the hopes Madrid and La Plata could unite in the face of a common enemy. La Platan soldiers have begun to mass in preparation for an assault on the Catholic Republicans, though it's unclear where this will be directed. In Colombia, Upper Peru, and Paraguay, the new government was congratulated, calls for direct military cooperation emerging. How the more established powers in the region (namely Spain, Prussia, and Britain) will react is not yet clear.
   Many have noted with great interest how the two revolutionary phenomena in Europe and the Americas are so similar, some speculation arguing they are inextricably bound, the success of revolution in one theater only igniting more in the other. This dialectic has been criticized by conservatives though, who point out the various different aims of these rebel groups. Regardless, a new government has taken power in Brazil, and the rest of the world would do well to take notice.

Korea Awakens
Joseon Dynasty Strikes Into Manchuria

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

   
   Korea has long been seen as the most cautious powers in East Asia. As the Chinese factions engaged each other, Europeans intervened, and Japan began to strike outward, Korea remained at peace. By focusing instead on domestic improvement, Queen Regent Sunwon brought prosperity to the realm as real economic advancement became evident, celebrated in early 1838 with the completion of the first Korean railway. Although small, it was seen as a major step forward for the realm.
   The events in Manchuria, and the collapse of the Qing into feuding factions, proved too tantalizing for the Koreans to resist. In quick and decisive action, Sunwon declared the Prince of Beizi a wretched murderer, denouncing him for the murder of his cousin. The Joseon soldiers quickly seized the Transamur region, pushing towards the Songhua river. The Paektu Mountain was likewise captured. Of most importance however, was a lightning strike towards Shenyang, aimed at deposing the usurping Prince of Beizi. Although the small Qing garrison was caught off-guard, surrendering the city, the would-be Emperor was nowhere to be found. He had already left the city for military action elsewhere. Masses of Qing officials surrendered to the Koreans, promising that they had only served the Prince of Beizi under duress.
   Unaware of the assault on his capitol, the Prince of Beizi's 64,000 men in the Army of Manchuria faced off against the 60,000 Koreans in the Army of the North. The Battle of Tonghua was a long, bloody affair, neither side winning a decisive victory. Both were forced to flee the field after a second day of engagements, though it was evident the Manchurians had taken slightly more casualties. This interrupted what had been a string of thus-far unbroken Korean successes.
   The Prince of Beizi did have one small victory in Tonghua, in that the 10,000 men of the Northern Flying Corps were now besieged in Shenyang, the Army of the North not having arrived to help secure the area. Many Koreans will be watching closely as to how Queen Regent Sunwon will seek to push the Qing back further and save her soldiers in the second half of the year.
   Thus, Korea too has proven unable to resist the potential gains from a China in turmoil. Joining the Russians, Habsburgs, Scandinavians, and Japanese, their territorial acquisitions have shown them a force to be reckoned with. Although the Zuigao Emperor in Beijing has provided them with ostensible cover, praising them for trying to avenge his brother, it is expected the Xing Court will be outraged.

[YPestis25]

(Source: Alternate History Weekly Update)

A Proclamation From Stockholm

On the Formation of a Government
   Following lengthy negotiations between representatives of the conservative Lantmannpartiet and the liberal Vansterparti, and in this time of national crisis, His Majesty King Frederick and Her Majesty Queen Catherine are pleased to announce the formation of the National Assembly’s first government. Severin Lovenskiold, the eminent statesman from Christiana and leader of the Lantmannpartiet, has been appointed Statsminister of Scandinavia and invested with the honors of that office. Johan Gabriel Richert, leader of the Vansterparti, has been appointed Finansminister. The Crown is confident in its ministers’ abilities and welcomes wholeheartedly the arrival of constitutional rule to the Kingdom of Scandinavia. The cabinet is as follows: 

Statsminister: Severin Lovenskiold (L)
Utrikesstatsminister: Gustaf Algernon Stierneld (I)
Finansminister: Johan Gabriel Richert (V)
Justitiestasminister: Arvid Mauritz Posse (V)
Krigsminister: Gustaf Albrecht Bror Cederstrom (L)
Marinminister: Steen Andersen Bille (L)
Baltiskaministerstatssekreterare: Peter von Scholten (V)
Danskaministerstatssekreterare: Adam Wilhelm Moltke (L)
Finskaministerstatssekreterare: Robert Henrik Rehbinder (V)
Norskaministerstatssekreterare: Jonas Collet (L)
Svenskaministerstatssekretare: Johan Nordenfalk (V)
Kolonialminister: Johannes Sobotker (L)

On Foreign Interference
   With the full support of the National Assembly and the Crown, Statsminister Lovenskiold has opened a full inquiry into the ongoing matter of foreign interference in Scandinavia’s domestic matters. The Statsminister requests the full cooperation of both the Prussian and Russian governments in these matters. Refusal to cooperate with the inquiry will be viewed by the Scandinavian government as an unnecessary provocation and in response further action may be required.

On the Danish Straits
   Recognizing that commerce is the lifeblood of the Baltic, the Danish Straits shall at the present remain open to commerce from all nations.

On Baltic Unrest
   The Crown and the National Assembly are prepared to take steps to alleviate the ills of Scandinavia’s Baltic subjects. To that end, Peter von Scholten (V) has been appointed Baltiskaministerstatssekretare, and will oversee a commission of the locally elected Baltic governors in order to determine the course of action for restoring domestic tranquility in the region.

On Industrialization and Modernization
   With the appointment of Johan Gabriel Richert as Finansminister, Scandinavia will recommit itself to the modernization of its infrastructure and economic systems. Richert will coordinate the sponsorship of four new private railway companies, and will support the expansion of Scandinavia’s mills and iron mines, particularly those at Bergslagen. These ventures will serve as the foundation for Scandinavia’s further industrial development. To promote new enterprises, the national monopoly on trade in handicraft is hereby abolished.
   Richert will additionally be tasked with modernizing Scandinavia’s tax system, ensuring that waste, grift, and the practice of overtaxation are removed root and branch from Scandinavian administration.
   To further these aims, the Severin Ministry is pleased to announce the introduction of a free and mandatory four year public education in the year 1839.

[True Federalist (진정한 연방 주의자)]

An Open Letter from Queen Regent Sunwon of Joseon

Forces of the Joseon Kingdom have entered Manchuria to bring the murderous Prince of Beizi to justice. While given the turmoil that has befallen the Middle Kingdom in the last few years, it was not surprising that some would seek to test whether the late Yangsheng Emperor retained the Mandate of Heaven, it was surprising that any who would hope to succeed to that mandate would so egregiously violate filial piety by plotting to murder their cousin.

Moreover, it would appear that our intervention was well timed, as the massing of the murderer's army so near our border and so far from his ostensible rivals can only mean he was intending to bring the ravages of war to the Joseon realm and seize our resources to prosecute his nefarious designs.

We have learned many things about the cowardly prince's plots from the people and papers left behind in his abandoned palace in Shenyang. We call upon those forced to serve him to come to us for succor from his paranoid panics and help us to restore peace to the Middle Kingdom that has gone so long without it. Our enemies are not the Han people or the Manchu people, but fear, hunger, and impiety. The sooner peace is restored, the sooner the bountiful blessings of Heaven can be again enjoyed by a land securely under the governance of an emperor that enjoys the Mandate of Heaven.

[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 Chilseok of the fifth year of his reign (1838) the following:

Dumanju Act, 5 Heonjong
1. There is to be organized a tenth province of the Joseon Realm consisting of such territory acquired by the Joseon Realm north of the Duman River to be called Dumanju (투멘주).

2. A city to be named Hwanhang (환항 "Hwan Port") is be founded to serve as the capital of Dumanju at in the vicinity of the village of Haesamwi (해삼위 "future Vladivostok" ). Until such time as sufficient infrastructure is in place for Hwanhang to serve as the capital of Dumanju, the province is to governed from the city of Raseon, Hamgyeong.

Additional Railway Routes Act, 5 Heonjong
The following routes are to be added to the routes to be planned under the Edict Concerning Railways, 3 Heonjong:

• Wonsan to Hamheung
• Hamheung to Raeson
• Raeson to Hwanhang
• Raeson to Manpo
• Manpo to Sinuiju
• Suwon to Gongju
• Seoul to Wonju
• Wonju to Donghae
• Seoul to Haeju
• Sariwon to Haeju
• Daejeon to Jeonju

[YPestis25]

Joseon-Scandinavian Treaty of Amity

The Kingdom of Joseon and the Kingdom of Scandinavia, hereafter referred to as the signatories, agree to the following:
I . The signatories, recognizing the benefits of a mutually friendly relationship, agree to undertake no actions which would infringe the sovereignty of the other.
II . The signatories agree to render aid to one another's merchantmen in need of aid on the high seas.
III . To further their existing commercial relationship, the signatories commit to keep bilateral tariffs to a minimum.

xGustaf Algernon Stierneld, Utrikesstatsminister

[True Federalist (진정한 연방 주의자)]

Joseon-Scandinavian Treaty of Amity

The Kingdom of Joseon and the Kingdom of Scandinavia, hereafter referred to as the signatories, agree to the following:
I . The signatories, recognizing the benefits of a mutually friendly relationship, agree to undertake no actions which would infringe the sovereignty of the other.
II . The signatories agree to render aid to one another's merchantmen in need of aid on the high seas.
III . To further their existing commercial relationship, the signatories commit to keep bilateral tariffs to a minimum.

xGustaf Algernon Stierneld, Utrikesstatsminister

Queen Regent Sunwon on behalf of her grandson King Heonjong

[YPestis25]

A Proclamation From Stockholm

On Railroads
   With the previous creation of the Statliga Jarnvagsforetag (state railway companies), Johan Gabriel Richert has approved the creation of railway lines between the following cities:

Stockholm-Bergslagen-Gothenburg-Malmo
Gothenburg-Fredrikstad-Christiana
Helsinki-Viborg
Aarhus-Kiel

On Industry
   With the approval of the National Assembly, state textile mills shall be founded on the Akerselva River in Christiana, along the Molle River in Copenhagen, and on the Gota Alv River in Gothenburg. These mills shall be subsidized by the Scandinavian government before transferring to fully private ownership. State subsidies will also be extended to the Brede Works in Copenhagen and the Bergslagen Iron Mines.

On the Baltic Territories
   Following the conclusion of the Baltic Commission, the government is pleased to announce the following reforms for the Baltic Territories:
   I . Beginning in 1839 the position of Baltiskaministerstatssekreterare shall be elected at large from all voting eligible males in the Baltic Territories. This position will have a guaranteed in every government.
   II . The governors of the ten Baltic provinces shall be convened into the Baltiska Statsradet which shall advise the Baltiskaministerstatssekreterare  on local matters of state.
   III . The Baltiska Foretag is hereby established and shall direct funding for the modernization of the Baltic Territories. With its governing body in Riga, this corporation will be tasked with investing funds into the nascent Baltic industry, and in beginning the process of land reform in the Baltic Territories.

[True Federalist (진정한 연방 주의자)]

Treaty of Kolkata

The realms of France 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, French ships and merchants shall be permitted to trade at the Joseon ports of Incheon, Gunsan, and Mokpo while Joseon ships and merchants shall be permitted to trade at the French ports of Mumbai in Maharashtra, Kolkata in Bengal, and Yangon in Burma.

The navies of France and Joseon will cooperate to protect the commercial vessels of both realms.

In the event of storms or other dangers, our commercial vessels shall be able to seek shelter and succor in the harbors of either of our realms.

x Queen Regent Sunwon on behalf of her grandson King Heonjong

[PSOL]

Tour of the Land

I am taking me and my court to a journey throughout Persia to see where in my realm needs investment. Such locales will include Charbahadar, Esfahan, inland Fars province, and the coasts of Rasht in the first year. The second shall navigate the newly conquered territories of Ahvaz, Abadan, and the Shatt-Al Arab delta the second year if I see fit, along with the Ardabil mountain range and northern Iran near Tabriz and Qom.

Mainly the Sublime State shall build a port in the city of Abadan to reconnect khuzestan back into the heartland. The State shall also be greatly funding reconstruction in the war torn delta to turn it into a more prosperous region. I expect the next few years to be one of prosperous production and consolidation.

Now that I have access to pearls and more date trees, I urge for all European powers to realize that their inner strife as of late can be solved with prosperity and commercial ties. We are willing to establish these ties, yet so far there have been few takers aside from Russia and the maritime and commercial nations of the East, which has been a shame.

[thumb21]

Edict on the need to re-unify the Middle Kingdom

The Emperor's forces have achieved clear victories and has undeniably assumed the mandate of heaven. It is time for all people across the Middle Kingdom to be loyal to their Emperor and their Empire, to provide a swift and decisive end to this war.

Supporters of the former Manchu regime from either faction must recognise the futility of their actions and lay down their arms. The Emperor offers rank and file enemy soldiers a simple amnesty: surrender, disarm and help build a new peaceful and prosperous Empire.

Edict on enemy prisoners

The Emperor orders that prisoners who were found to have simply been ordinary soldiers of the Manchu regime with little commitment to that regime be released from jail. Most officials shall remain in jail for the time being.

Edict on the tyrant of Shenyang's "offer"

Having recieved word that after the brutal murder of his own cousin, the tyrant of Shenyang decided to make a delusional offer to the Emperor of the Middle Kingdom, the Emperor laughed and then continued with the day's business.

Edict on food tariffs

In an edict from the previous year, the Emperor repealed tariffs on food imports from various realms. This policy is hereby extended to Joseon and Scandinavia.

[YPestis25]

Treaty of Leizhou

I . The Chinese Empire recognizes the Leizhou Concession as a legitimate holding of the Kingdom of Scandinavia.
II . The Chinese Empire agrees to a 50% reduction on tariffs on imported Scandinavian goods.
III . The Kingdom of Scandinavia agrees to permit trading at Leizhou from Joseon and other merchants engaged in trade at Leizhou prior to the establishment of the concession.
IV . The Kingdom of Scandinavia agrees to forbid the settlement of missionaries at Leizhou.

xGustaf Stierneld, Utrikesstatsminister

[windjammer]

Treaty of Kolkata

The realms of France 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, French ships and merchants shall be permitted to trade at the Joseon ports of Incheon, Gunsan, and Mokpo while Joseon ships and merchants shall be permitted to trade at the French ports of Mumbai in Maharashtra, Kolkata in Bengal, and Yangon in Burma.

The navies of France and Joseon will cooperate to protect the commercial vessels of both realms.

In the event of storms or other dangers, our commercial vessels shall be able to seek shelter and succor in the harbors of either of our realms.

x Queen Regent Sunwon on behalf of her grandson King Heonjong

xKing Louis XVIII