The Zenith of Power: Gameplay Thread

[Spamage]

The Zenith of Power: Concert of Europe Part IV
Turn 1: 1871

The World in 1871
(Made by Me)

Nations, Leaders, and Players

Kingdom of France: Queen Mother Charlotte von Hohenzollern (Windjammer)
Habsburg Monarchy: Emperor Charles VIII von Habsburg-Lothringen (Dereich)
Kingdom of Scandinavia: Queen Catherine II von Oldenburg (YPestis)
Russian Republic: President Aleksey Suvorin (KaiserDave)
Ottoman Empire: Sultan Murad V Osmanoğlu (Kingpoleon)
Divine Republic of Brazil: Archbishop-President Manuel Joaquim da Silveira (X)
Kingdom of Naples: King Charles VIII Bourbon (GoTfan)
Tokugawa Shogunate: Shogun Tokugawa Yoshinobu (iBizzBee)
United Kingdom of Louisiana: King Henry-Philippe Bourbon (DKrol)
Qajar Iran: Naser al-Din Shah Qajar (PSOL)
Kingdom of Quebec: King Henry II von Hohenzollern (Lumine)
Kingdom of Mexico: King Luis de Bourbon-Orleans (Hijodeagua)
United Provinces of New Holland: Stadtholder Pieter Mijer (Orwell)
Holy Republic of Colombia: Archbishop-President Vicente Arbeláez Gómez (Kuumo)
Confederation of New England: Chairman Henry Wilson (OBD)
Kingdom of the Netherlands: King William IV of Orange (Ishan)
Durrani Empire: Emir Abdul Samad Khan (AverageFoodEnthusiast)

Economic Standings

Kingdom of Scandinavia: Strong
Kingdom of France: Strong
Holy Republic of Colombia: Moderate-Strong
Ottoman Empire: Moderate-Strong
Divine Republic of Brazil: Moderate
Kingdom of Quebec: Moderate
Kingdom of Naples: Moderate
Kingdom of the Netherlands: Moderate
Russian Republic: Moderate
Qajar Iran: Moderate
United Province of New Holland: Moderate
Tokugawa Shogunate: Moderate
Confederation of New England: Moderate-Weak
Kingdom of Mexico: Moderate-Weak
Habsburg Monarchy: Moderate-Weak
United Kingdom of Louisiana: Moderate-Weak
Durrani Empire: Weak

Popularity

King Charles VIII Bourbon: Very High
King Henry II von Hohenzollern: High
King Luis de Bourbon: High
Archbishop-President Vicente Arbeláez Gómez: High
Queen Mother Charlotte von Hohenzollern: Moderate
Emperor Charles VIII von Habsburg-Lothringen: Moderate
Shogun Tokugawa Yoshinobu: Moderate
President Aleksey Suvorin: Moderate
Sultan Murad V Osmanoğlu: Moderate
Naser al-Din Shah Qajar: Moderate
King Henry-Philippe Bourbon: Moderate
Archbishop-President Manuel Joaquim da Silveira: Moderate
Queen Catherine II von Oldenburg: Moderate
Chairman Henry Wilson: Moderate
King William IV of Orange: Moderate
Emir Abdul Samad Khan: Moderate

Current Global Conflicts:
Chinese Civil War: Xing Dynasty vs. Chinese Republicans vs. Russian, Korean, Japanese, Scandinavian, Habsburg Expeditionary Forces (1867-)
Spanish Revolution: Spanish Republic vs. Royalist Spain (Peru) (1869-)
Tibetan Civil War: French-Backed Tibet vs. Xing-Backed Tibet (1870-)

Kingdom of France

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

-Queen Regent Charlotte, you find yourself at the head of one of the foremost powers on Earth. From Europe to India and Indonesia, the French flag flies supreme. In an increasingly complicated global situation people look to you for leadership. All sides of the political divide agree that the Splendid Isolation of Marie Fernandina will no longer do, and the realm must be more engaged in global affairs. Never again must France be consigned to the sidelines when a future Treaty of Breslau is signed. This will require lasting partnerships. Will you maintain your recent ties to Prussia and your fellow Hohenzollern cousins? How will the complicated relationship with Naples and Spain be handled? Further east, should Constantinople continue to be aided or is it time for a Franco-Iranian partnership?

-The situation in Padania was both complicated and embarrassing to your regency. While you have secured the approval of the local assembly, it is clear that there are probably many in that realm who wish to see you fail. Ranging from outright Italian nationalists to discontented liberals, this group probably has the support of the majority of the populace, but the conservative and reactionary factions outvoted them thanks to limited suffrage. Many Padanians have come to resent French influence over their lives, despite decades-long government policy aimed at forging a separate Padene identity. How will you respond to the recent embarrassment? Some urge conciliation, perhaps even naming Xavier to some significant post in Padania, and an end to the attempt to build a unique national identity. Others, particularly in the reactionary camp, have gone so far as to suggest Padania itself be dissolved and reabsorbed into France. You have the power to call new elections as well, though this could be risky.

-While France was one of the foremost colonial powers at the turn of the century, increasingly you are finding yourself in a competitive environment. Save for a few token ports in West Africa, French presence on that continent is severely lacking, undercutting claims to global prestige. Many in Paris would have you direct your energies towards a conquest of Algiers, that wretched former hive or piracy. The situation further east requires attention as well. Your Indian officials have ignited a civil war in Tibet over the succession of the next Dalai Lama and on the vast Indian subcontinent, the aggressive activity of some Catholic missionaries has caused angst. What are your proposed colonial policies?

Habsburg Monarchy

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

-Emperor Charles VIII, your vast multitude of nationalities and subjects looks to you for leadership in an increasingly hostile Europe. Rivalry with the militaristic Queen Regent Charlotte of France threatens the west. To the north, Prussia has flagrantly violated the Treaty of Breslau. The Ottomans, once allies, seem to have gained some hostility towards your realm. Naples has taken Tuscany, coercing your sister Maria Sophia into pledging fealty to the Bourbon King. Further east, Russia’s growing boldness threatens your staunch ally, King George of Poland. Still, Vienna’s strength should not be underestimated. With the Holy Roman Empire, extensive dynastic ties, and loose friendships with Scandinavia and Britain you wield a significant weight. More recently, Spain could provide an opening for detaching that realm from France. Will you seek to shake up the European order or operate in a defensive manner? How will the vast Habsburg Empire navigate these troubling times?

-To the surprise of many, your realm has become quite a significant colonial and mercantile power. Recent developments in China and Africa seem to be providing an opening to expanding that role. The Austrian Expeditionary Force has secured the area around Ningbo in an attempt to create some semblance of order, but there are many who believe that you could be kingmaker in the growing conflict. In Africa, Habsburg control of Madagascar, where the Merina monarchs have become subjects alongside thousands of others, you could have a base for further expansion. Will you enter the mainland and join the growing struggle for glory or should these potential distractions be ignored until your position elsewhere is more secure?

-Winning the Great Eastern War and then crushing the Kingdom of the Rhine were some of your father’s crowning achievements. They were also quite expensive. Initially Russian and Prussian reparations were to help alleviate the problem, but both governments have since refused to pay. This was not an issue at first, but the need to increase spending with the Panic of 1862 caused the debt to increase again. While you’ve managed a slight surplus since, the vast amount of debt, and the paramount importance of a strong military, has limited the government’s ability to fund economic projects over the past few decades and probably slowed economic growth. Some call on the government to declare bankruptcy and go through a few hard years as the debt is restructured or forgiven. Others believe taxes ought to be raised, though the Spanish Revolution shows what happens when an income tax is implemented against popular will, let alone the administrative headache of imposing a universal tax across so many dominions and constituent states. You could rattle the sabre against the Prussians and Russians in a bid to get them to pay up, but this would probably require a commitment to fighting should they refuse. How will you handle the vast interest payments taking a drag on the economy?

Kingdom of Scandinavia

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

-Queen Catherine II, you lead a significant power with global ambitions. Ever since the marriage of Frederick VI and Catherine I, Scandinavia has had a major role to play on the global stage. While success in the Great Eastern War left your realm expanded and would-be rivals chastened for a time, Prussia and Russia have each demonstrated some degree of resurgence. Now Scandinavia must chart a diplomatic course that keeps your subjects safe. There is no question that the British are your closest ally. At Court in Stockholm your mother (born Princess Elizabeth of Britain in 1821) and grandmother (born Princess Anne of Britain in 1797), represent the pro-British faction. They constantly urge you to seek ever-closer ties with their home. Your husband Archduke Frederick of Austria meanwhile is unabashedly pro-Austrian, reminding you of your realm’s success alongside the Habsburgs in the Great Eastern War. The liberally-social democratic civilian authorities led by Prime Minister Ditlev Gothard Monrad urge you to ignore these family ties if necessary and do what is best, even if it means jettisoning traditional friendships. Will you shake up the existing diplomatic order in Europe? Or should old friends be trusted over potential new partners?

-Scandinavia is undoubtedly a colonial power, and now finds new challengers increasingly entering its traditional spheres of influence. As Africa has begun to look much more enticing, your realm finds itself now one of many seeking to carve out spheres of influence. How will you react to the growing scramble for colonies and raw materials? Further afield, your colonial officials have intervened in the Chinese Civil War, not against either side, but as a means of creating zones of stability so trade can function semi-normally. Do you condone their actions? Should Scandinavia increase involvement in China, perhaps helping to pick a winner?

-Perhaps no matter has concerned the Court in Stockholm so much in recent years as the issue of the royal succession. Queen Catherine II, you were born the only surviving child of your parents’ 13 pregnancies. Recent theories in genetics point to your parent’s close relationship (double first cousins) as the likely cause of their fertility issues. While you married outside of the family, wedding the Habsburg Emperor’s son Frederick of Habsburg-Lorraine in 1856 on the condition that he convert, the marriage has been utterly childless. There has not even been a hint of pregnancy over the past 15 years. While many have prayed for a Swedish Miracle of Versailles, this has not occurred and most suspect you to be sterile. The nearest heir would on paper be your cousin 26-year-old William of Hesse-Darmstadt (child of the late Princess Alexandra of Scandinavia) but your grandfather King Gustav IV (opposed to the marriage and hating the Darmstadt’s for their cooperation with Prussia) forced Alexandra to renounce the throne for herself and her children. Your next nearest heir after William would be King Henry X of Britain, but this union is impossible for numerous obvious reasons. Some propose restoring the inheritance rights of the Hesse-Darmstadts at the risk of offending Britain. Others believe a younger brother or child of Henry would be a suitable claimant. Perhaps you should allow the people to choose any suitable foreigner or capable domestic leader? How will you handle the looming issue of succession as you begin to age?

Russian Republic

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

-President Aleksey Suvorin, you come to power at a crucial point in Russian history. You represent a series of firsts for the young Russian Republic. You are the first non-noble leader history of Russia in centuries, the first person of a peasant background to assume leadership, and the first civilian to head the republic. Your predecessors were old military men, creating an established centrist authoritarian consensus. Now, with their deaths, the divided nation looks to you to provide a direction forward. Never before has there been so much discourse in Russia, almost every political belief imaginable seemingly represented by various factions. Extremists fight in the streets, brawls even erupting on the floor of the Duma as the left and the right demand power. The exile Grand Duke Ivan, grandson of the last Emperor, waits in Berlin with his Prussian cousins for his star to rise again. The Army, so embarrassed by defeat in the Great Eastern War and used to handling government, is watching your moves very carefully and must be minded. How will you approach domestic politics in your early years of power?

-Russia is somewhat isolated diplomatically, perhaps somewhat by design. Staying out of the Habsburg-French rivalry to the west has given your nation the time it needed to catch its breath, reform, and modernize. Your old alliance with Prussia seems unlikely to be restored unless you come down in favor of the monarchists. Diplomacy with Poland, Scandinavia, and the Ottomans, those thieves of Russian lands, would likewise be unpopular. While Japan has been a reliable partner in containing Korea and China, with the Chinese Civil War some are worried they are becoming too powerful. But still, some believe it would be best for Russia to find friends. Will you forge any new alliances? How will Russia navigate the complicated diplomatic waters of the global order?

-Thanks to your predecessor, Russia has entered the fray in the Chinese Civil War, at least nominally. The Manchurian Protectorate in the north has been occupied alongside Inner Mongolia. This comes alongside the establishment of your existing protectorate in Xinjiang and the annexation of Mongolia decades ago. As fighting rages to the south, some in Moscow believe that you should pick a side, making the eventual winner reliant on Russian goodwill. Others see bogging yourself down in China as an unnecessary distraction and a mistake on the part of President Menschikov, demands going as far as the evacuation of existing Russian gains. How will Russia address the Chinese crisis?

Ottoman Empire

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

-Sultan Murad V, the Ottoman state has been one of the premier powers in Europe for centuries. Since your ancestor Mehmed the Conqueror crushed the Byzantines and Suleiman the Magnificent besieged Vienna, Europe has been forced to contend with the designs of Constantinople. In the decades since the Great Eastern War, your government was focused on internal reform and sought to temper the ever-growing chorus of nationalism and religious extremism. Now, your realm has begun to look outwards once more. To the north, Russia has begun to become frightening once more and the Habsburgs can no longer be trusted, especially after they allowed the Persians to take Mesopotamia at your expense. Speaking of, there are always those who look at that province with longing, demanding you return it to the Ottoman fold. The foreign ministry has generally tended to lean towards France to counter the Habsburg threat, but no firm commitments have been made.  How will you navigate the diplomatic situation in Europe and the Near East?

-Ottoman policy in recent decades has been aimed at placating nationalists among the various Slavic groups in the Balkans. The establishment of the People’s Advisory Council in 1848 did help slow the demands for autonomy, but the passage of time has only served to make some nationalists bolder. There has been a spate of assassination attempts, some successful, but Slavic radical groups against your local officials. In Moldavia, Wallachia, and Ottoman Ruthenia, the locals have never truly accepted rule from Constantinople, and there are calls to restore the autonomous principalities of the past. Yet, it is feared this would precipitate a slide towards anarchy in the region. Meanwhile, in Turkey proper the growing urban classes have begun to seek a voice in government, even whispers of elections floating in the air. How will you handle these calls for devolution and participatory government? Should the Sultan’s authority remain absolute, or is it perhaps time to allow for some power-sharing?

-North Africa has long been nominally controlled by your predecessors. Now, as the whole continent comes under the gaze of the colonial powers, challenges are rising in that region. Naples has seized Tunis and either they or the French could soon threaten Algiers or Morocco. Further to the south, the Scandinavians, British, Prussians, and Brazilians have demonstrated great energy in establishing outposts. There are many Ottoman subjects who believe it would be best if you joined the growing colonial struggle, protecting innocent Muslims from being subjugated by Christian powers.  This could take many forms, ranging from colonization yourself to arming the various Muslim powers against their would-be oppressors. Some look towards Ethiopia longingly, seeing a potential target for expansion to demonstrate the continued vitality of Ottoman arms. What will Ottoman policy towards the growing competition in Africa look like?

[Spamage]

Divine Republic of Brazil

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

-Archbishop-President Manuel Joaquim da Silveira, your realm is at a crossroads. It seems that Brazil has three paths ahead of it, each leading to a very different future. The longer Catholic-Republicanism has been in power, the more variations to ideology have emerged. With the death of de Andrade, the second generation of leadership charted a far more moderate path, limiting the excesses of the first leader’s rule. In Brazil, there are numerous camps. Some want a return to the initial system, ignoring those who criticize the cruel methods and lackluster economic growth of that time period. Others believe that moderation and liberalization, a la Colombia, is the correct choice, though this opening could shatter the very system it is trying to save. Champions of the existing order believe that it has yielded tremendous growth and advancement, ignoring the fact that Church attendance is on the decline and immigration has failed to increase. How will you navigate the domestic situation in Brazil?

-Brazil’s old bloc of allies has weakened a bit, especially due to ideological differences between Colombia and Patagonia. While the Portuguese Crown remains an ironic, albeit loyal partner, few other powers have been willing to cooperate. Some believe that the idea of compromise with so many corrupt and satanic regimes should not even be entertained, arguing intervention in the Great Eastern War was a rare matter of necessity. This clique would have you strike out and spread republicanism once more, eyeing Peru greedily. The doves argue that such militarism is counter-productive and that Brazil needs reliable partners if it is to succeed in economic growth or colonial affairs? They point to the potential lucrative gains from the Panama Canal as evidence of the benefits of engagement with the wider world. The truth is probably somewhere between the two extremes, but that is for you to determine. What shape will Brazilian foreign policy take under your watch?

-The last decade in Brazilian Africa has been dominated by bush wars against Prussia and local inhabitants in the Kalahari and other territories north of the Cape Colony. While this has meant there is little love lost between yourself and Berlin, it has also provided your men with ample experience. As the Imperialists have begun to eye Africa with greed, some would have you beat them at the pass and expand into Africa yourself, saving both the souls and minds of the indigenous people from the evils of constitutional monarchism. With colonies in the Congo, Natal, and Namibia, you certainly have the ports to make something happen. What will you do?

Kingdom of Naples

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

-King Charles VIII, there is tremendous optimism in the air. After decades, if not a century, of incremental progress, never before has Italian unification felt so close. When Grand Duchess Maria Sophia von Habsburg-Lothringen, your sister-in-law, consented to Neapolitan occupation at the urging of your younger brother in 1864, your soldiers were greeted with great fanfare in Florence. With the Spanish Revolution, Corsica and Sardinia seem ripe for the taking if you’re willing to risk war, potentially further bolstering your claims to represent the Italian people. Only Lombardy and Padania, those bastions of Austria and France, respectively, remain in the way of total success. What diplomatic moves will you take to ensure your growing influence receives the recognition it deserves?

-Naples, alongside Austria remains one of the few bastions of the old, enlightened absolutist order in Europe. Some wonder if the days of that order within your kingdom are numbered. With the establishment of a semi-democratic system in Padania, many wonder why similar electoral systems and representative bodies could not be established within the vast Neapolitan holdings. While the broader public has not yet made such demands, many distracted by the appeals to nationalism promulgated by your ministers, there is a growing movement within the universities calling for a liberalization of society, a constitution, and the right to vote. Will you open up society in the Kingdom of Naples? Or would this release forces far too damaging to the monarchy?

-Naples has governed the colony of Tunis for several decades now. With control of Tunisia, Malta, and Sicily, you have gained significant leverage over Europe proper, the ability to shut down trade in the Mediterranean should you so wish. Now the hawks at Court call on you to expand your colonial ventures, eyeing Algiers. Long a hotbed of piracy, that state has failed to keep up with the growing pace of change. Securing it would undoubtedly further cement Neapolitan glory, though there is the potential it could anger the Ottomans, who maintain long-term interests in the region. Still, given the growing competition for African land, Naples must seek to grow its holdings if it wants to have a true seat at the table.

Tokugawa Shogunate

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

-Shogun Tokugawa Yoshinobu, Japan has truly proven its greatness over the past few decades. It has taken a mere half century to go from an isolated, feudal system to a modern power at the center of a vast empire. This glorious patrimony must be defended at all costs and that may require forging alliances with various powers. Russia and Japan have cooperated for decades now, but recent intervention by that republic in Manchuria and Inner Mongolia has caused some to question the arrangement. France, despite its role in helping Japan’s early stages of opening, is likewise viewed with distrust, especially given their history of expansionism, most recently seen with the invasion of Mysore. Under no circumstances are the Koreans to be trusted. That leaves potential partnerships with the British, Scandinavians, and Habsburgs, but these powers too have their own extensive baggage. Some of those with longterm thinking believe that Louisiana, whose closest base is across the Pacific in San Francisco, would be a potential partner to cultivate. What will Japanese diplomacy look like in the coming years.

-Besides Korea, Japan has been one of the realms most involved in the Chinese Civil War thus far. Unlike the Koreans, you have been less vocal with your aims. Japan’s intervention in the First Chinese Civil War yielded gains in the Dalian Peninsula, among other areas. Will you pursue expansion? Certainly, there is also merit to aligning yourself with the Republicans, though it runs the risk of backfiring should their ideology seep into your own realm. The Xing too could become a new ally, especially if you are able to wean them from the influence of the Koreans. Even just providing weapons could prove crucial in turning the tide. What is to be done about the Chinese Civil War?

-Internally, Japan remains under the iron grip of the Shogunate, yet there are various opposition forces waiting in the wings. Opening has brought in new ideas about government into the realm. Western liberalism and constitutional monarchism have gained substantial followings among many of the economic elites who have profited from increased trade and industrialization. These groups call for limited reform, including the opening of some degree of suffrage, improved freedom of speech, and limits to the power of the shogun. These groups tend to turn to the emperor in their designs. Despite attempts to assert their role in the 1840s, the Emperors of Japan remain consigned to a ceremonial, semi-religious position well-outside of decision-making. Will you seek to compromise with the growing reformist movement? Or should the Shinsengumi be employed to weed out those who would undermine national unity at such a crucial point. How will you deal with the internal politics of the shogunate?

United Kingdom of Louisiana

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

-King Henry-Philippe de Bourbon-Orleans, you govern one of the emerging powers in the world. While the embargo in regards to slavery produced some hard years, recently the Kingdom has seen a slight, tepid resurgence. On the global stage, you stand somewhat alone. Quebec seems to envy your growing territory on the Great Plains, Mexico envies your population, and Britain envies your control over their former colonies. Against all these hateful neighbors, it would be good to have a friend. New England could perhaps be cultivated into an alliance, but leaders there seem to have lingering distaste over your internal racial disputes. While cooperation with Brazil seems a bridge too far, recent developments in Colombia perhaps mean that nation could likewise become a future partner. What will your foreign policy look like?

-Your seizure of Cuba was probably an act of war against the Spanish Royalists, but they have been unable to respond, consigned to exile in distant Peru. Now a growing chorus demands the formal annexation of the Spanish half of the island, never mind the chilling precedent it could set. Your uncle, King Luis, has privately stated he will follow your lead with the lands he seized from Spain in Central America. Despite repeated offers on your part, the Bourbons in Lima refuse to sell their rights to the island. Will you annex the remainder of Cuba, bringing an end to four centuries of Spanish presence in the Caribbean, or should the current situation, when you are ‘protecting’ the rights of your distant cousin Henry V be maintained?

-Racial tensions remain a salient issue in your realm. It has been only 10 years since your government issued the Emancipation Act of 1860 and little was done for the freedman after they transitioned from enslaved to employees. Abuse remains rampant, voting rights practically nonexistant, and predjudicial laws stand on the books, banning interracial marriage and urging discrimination. Frustrated with the status quo, Frederick Douglass, a prominent Black leader, established Liberia, a series of settlements around the Great Salt Lake inhabited primarily by Afro-Lousianans. Despite intense initial opposition and a series of low-level conflicts, your father King Philippe in New Orleans finally caved and admitted it to the Kingdom over the intense objection of many English-speaking members of the National Assembly. How will you seek to bridge the racial divide that is plaguing your realm?

Qajar Iran

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

-Naser al-Din Shah Qajar, Iran has achieved great things under the watch of your predecessors. Mesopotamia has been taken from the Ottomans and restored to its natural union with Iran. The Kurds and Armenians have thrown off the shackles of Ottoman control as well, becoming loyal subjects to your government. Now, dark clouds seem to be on the horizon once more. The Ottomans have demonstrated growing assertiveness in recent years and many believe that they may soon attack. This calls for partnership with some other power. Russia, while the obvious choice, seems to be focused instead on East Asian and European affairs. France could be a potential friend, but that would mean dislodging them from their cooperation with the Sultan. The Habsburgs too could be partners, but they are far more distant from your realm, save for token trading ports at Queshm. Many still see Oman as traitors, given their actions in the past. What partnerships will you seek to forge to ensure that you are not left vulnerable to Turkish aggression?

-While the Armenians and Kurds have been fairly loyal to your regime, granting of those regions’ autonomy has only served to increase demands elsewhere and cause some internal ethnic tension. In particular, the Azeri in the north and Balochs in the south have grown more strident in their demands for self-government under your protection. Meanwhile most Persians, of course, resent any demands for further devolution and many would actually revoke the status of Armenia and Kurdistan, given the chance. They see privileged minorities being granted greater rights with lesser financial and political responsibilities (the Armenian and Kurdish regions have their own units in the army and determine their own taxation levels). How will you tackle this issue of feuding nationalities at a time when unity is required?

-Dagestan, that breakaway region of Russia, has grown increasingly nervous about its standing in the world following greater Russian military assertiveness. Last year, the local officials formally requested to join your empire as a constituent realm, similar to those of Armenia and Kurdistan. While this could greatly improve your situation in the Caucuses, all the while increasing the prestige of your glorious personage, there are some who fear that the Russian Republic could take this the wrong way. Still some note that Russia has allowed the region independence for thirty years, basically ceding it, even if its loss has never been recognized. As fellow Muslims, perhaps it would only be natural for them to become subjects. Will you take the Dagestani government up on its request? Or is it too risky of a proposition?

Kingdom of Quebec

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

-King Henry II, your namesake King Henry I could never have imagined the realm his descendants would one day rule when he made that perilous voyage from Prussia to the New World in the 1790s. Eighty years on, Quebec is one of the foremost powers in North America and boasts a growing economy, politically engaged populace, and vast untapped resources. 1871 is the year of the next major election, where the composition of parliament will be determined. The race is close, and many expect that a slight sign from yourself either in favor of the right or left could help sway the outcome. On the right, the Conservative Union remains a broadly upper-class, Quebecois, pro-monarchist and expansionist movement. They lean towards protectionism, lowering the pace of immigration, want confrontation with Louisiana and Britain. The Whig Party is a broad coalition of business leaders, non-Catholics, and those in favor of free trade. They see partnership with Louisiana as essential, given the money to be made. In recent years the socialist Worker’s Party (heir to the defunct Labor Party) has achieved broad gains as well. Monarchs have gotten involved in Quebecois elections before, will you choose to do so also?

-Diplomatically, Quebec occupies a unique position. With vast holdings, your realm has the flexibility to be creative in your dealings with other nations. Your father Louis Henry was wily in seizing the Scandinavian outposts in the frigid north and expanding further westwards. Now, some look south, the cause of growing tensions with both Britain and Louisiana. While your government has tended to stay out of European conflicts, you do also possess close dynastic and economic ties with many nations there. Your daughter is the formidable Queen Regent Charlotte of France, your late mother was a Princess of Portugal, and your wife a daughter of the Duke of Hesse-Kassel. Quebecois ships frequent the ports of France, the Netherlands, and Prussia. New England could also prove to be a good ally to have. What do you make of the diplomatic situation?

-Despite initial promise, the industrial revolution in Quebec has been somewhat disappointing. Characterized by false starts and failed companies, mass production on a scale apace with New England, let alone on those of Europe, has thus far eluded the economy. While railways have been completed and cities look more modern than ever before, little of these goods have been produced in Quebec. Previous royal attempts to foster industry with broad grants in the 1850s and 1860s turned into public debacles and embarrassments, graft and corruption running rampant. Some urge you to try again, others believe this would only serve to distort the economy and create rampant speculation. How will you guarantee Quebec is not left behind in the increasingly crucial field of economic growth?

United Provinces of New Holland

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

-Stadtholder Pieter Mijer, the past decades were trying times for your young nation. Cast adrift with the collapse of the homeland, and beset by foreign enemies, New Holland only survived through stubborn determination and diplomatic craftiness. Now, 20 years later, your government has been globally recognized and thousands pour in annually from other regions of the globe. Still, if you are to survive, it is agreed in the States General of Willemstad that you ought to proceed carefully when it comes to diplomacy. France, Korea, Japan, and Britain could all be prospective partners, though many remember how eager they were to carve up your holdings in the 1840s.  How will you act, given your position?  Will you choose isolated neutrality, in the hopes of maintaining your independence, or is a proactive foreign policy the best way to succeed?

-There is no question that despite the republican trappings, your society is an unequal one. The population of New Holland (including Java) is roughly 9.5 million. 1.8 million are of Dutch or European descent (mostly in Australia), and allowed suffrage and property rights. The remaining 7.7 are Javans, unable to participate in the limited property-based elections, serve in the military, or have a voice in government. There are those that would open up the suffrage to include these groups, but the Dutch populace has been highly resistant to the idea, worried about being outvoted. Still, if you are to defend yourself, perhaps cooperation would be effective? Will you move to increase the rights of the indigenous population, or could this destabilize your nation at a time when unity is of paramount importance?

[Spamage]

Kingdom of Mexico

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

-King Luis of Mexico, it has been 36 years since you were invited by the Mexican people to become their sovereign and 34 since the Spanish formally recognized your people's independence. Your reign has seen the birth of a new nation, one no longer tied to Spain and all of its issues. For decades you have governed as a near-absolute monarch, a role that has suited you well, with only a token National Assembly in Mexico City. Yet, increasingly, some believe it is time for that to change. There are vocal demands for a constitution and limits to royal power from urban liberals, these developments generally opposed by your established ministers as well as your conservative-minded heir Prince Ferdinand. Will you issue a new constitution or would caving to the demands of these malcontents only have a snowball effect on the stability of the realm?

-One issue never addressed in the Mexican Revolution has been the issue of land ownership. As most of the elite was in favor of ending Spanish control, and your eventual government was inherently conservative as a monarchy, the decades after the Revolution have seen the situation largely unchanged in Mexico. The Church and the Mexican nobility, including the family of your daughter-in-law, continue to hold vast estates throughout the Mexican countryside. This is not even to mention the extensive royal holdings. Needless to say, this has made the realm much less attractive to potential immigrants, Louisiana and Quebec both well on the way to passing your largely slow-growth population. Reformists would have you initiate a program of land reform, either through confiscation or compensation, to ease the inequality, an idea supported by most rural laborers. Still, this risks alienating the nobility, many of whom serve your government as generals and bureaucrats. Will you pursue land reform or ignore those critics?

-With the Spanish Revolution erupting in far-off Madrid, your government engaged in the unilateral seizure of Central America, joined by your nephew, the King of Louisiana's, seizure of Cuba. Now, the question remains what is to be done with this valuable territory, so long coveted by your government? Many would have you annex it outright, over the objections of your exiled cousin, the King of Spain. Others believe that granting the region local autonomy, perhaps as vassal realms, would be more appropriate, given the indigenous background of the population. Pacifists would have the lands either granted full independence or returned to Spain, worried of the prospect of escalation. How will you handle these newly-seized lands?

Holy Republic of Colombia

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

-Archbishop-President Vicente Arbeláez Gómez, Colombia looks to you for leadership in an ever-changing world. After decades of hardline Catholic-Republicanism, Colombia has begun to liberalize and open up. While this has resulted in tremendous growth and popularity, it has also led to new demands and calls for various reforms. As a unitary republic, many in Venezuela and the outlying provinces believe that some sort of devolution should be implemented. An increasingly vocal liberal faction calls for a total end to the Catholic Republican state and the reaction of a secular republic. Extremist Catholic Republicans meanwhile are waiting in the wings, hoping to undo the recent advances and restore a more hardline version of the ideology, like the systems found in Brazil and Patagonia. How will you approach domestic politics in the coming year?

-Diplomatically your liberalization has had some surprising implications. Brazil has seemed moderately annoyed by your drift away from authoritarianism, but it has made dealing with you far more attractive to the governments of Mexico, Louisiana, and now the Spanish Monarchy in exile. Will you continue to build new ties with these monarchist powers, at the risk of alienating Brazil, or should Colombia seek to restore its strong ties with fellow ideologues? Perhaps a neutral course is in order, Colombia charting its own path in order to guarantee flexibility?

Confederation of New England

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

-Chairman Henry Wilson, you lead the Confederation of New England, a small but efficient republic of 2.8 million inhabitants. New England won its independence with the aid of Quebec in the late 1700s, but later aligned itself with Britain to take Nova Scotia from an increasingly concerning Hohenzollern-led Montreal to the north. Your state has survived because of its craftiness in diplomacy, positioned as it is between the British Colonies and Quebec. Some believe that Louisiana could be a reliable partner, but aligning yourself with them does leave you exposed, as you share no border. As a new generation take the reins of power, will you shift the foreign policy?

-As with other American realms, the ever-present issue in New England is immigration. Industrialization in Boston, Providence, and other cities has demanded cheap factory labor. Yet, the New England labor force, dominated by established WASP families and farming smallholders, has been insufficient, driving up labor prices and causing some difficulties with economic growth. Generally, the Confederation has had a restrictive policy in regards to immigration and naturalization, though some believe that ought to be changed. Those born to noncitizens in New England are not granted citizenship upon birth and the process for naturalization is convoluted and time-consuming, requiring 12 years of residency. The Congress, in Boston, is bitterly divided and looks to you for a final decision. As an independent in an increasingly polarized region, your voice would probably sway a majority. The conservative Federalist Party believes that migration should remain limited, while the pro-business, liberal Centralist Party wants to allow more people to enter, perhaps even establishing birthright citizenship for those already present. Should New England loosen up its border?

Kingdom of the Netherlands

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

-King William, there is no question that the Netherlands has had a rough go during the previous century. Several invasions by France and Prussia, internal revolutionary turmoil, and the seizure of the colonial empire have left you in a weakened but still determined. If the Dutch are to navigate this troubling environment it must be done carefully. Many believe that the first step towards recovery will be either taking back Groningen. Given to the Prussians during their invasion in the Great Eastern War, Scandinavia unilaterally seized it at the end of the war. Many believe it is time it was united with the rest of the Netherlands, though Stockholm has remained silent. Still, this would have to be done quite carefully. Perhaps finding a stronger partner to aid you: France, Prussia, or Austria could help in making your demands have more of an edge? What will Dutch diplomacy look like moving forward?

-Following the reorganization of the Netherlands in the 1840s, a foreign constitution was imposed. The military was removed from royal control and the Crown was sidelined into a largely diplomatic rule, most of domestic policy in the hands of the States General. With the election of 1868 however, a slew of conservative and monarchist parties seized a majority in the elections, bolstered my nationalist appeals to take back Groningen, and have proposed establishing a new constitution to remove the shame of a foreign-imposed one. Will you take them up on the offer and promulgate a new Dutch constitution? Or should the Netherlands keep the existing political order, for fear of irritating powerful neighbors?

Durrani Empire

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

-Emir Abdul Samad Khan, you lead the Durrani Empire, a realm that has seen many highs and lows over the past century. Once the terror of the Mughals and an active player in Iranian civil conflicts, for decades your power has been limited. The terrain of your realm has provided insulation from foreign invasion and could serve as a springboard for diplomatic intervention elsewhere, especially if other powers provide an opening. To the west, Iran sits potentially vulnerable should matters come to a head with the Ottomans and Russians. From a nationalist angle, intrigue against the Russians in Turkestan to the north could restore a Durrani presence to the region. Perhaps most importantly, to the east sits the vast holdings of the French Raj. Depending on your aims, the region could provide a massive pool of manpower in a quest to drive out the colonizers or be a staunch protector defending against those that would turn you into a protectorate. What is your foreign policy aims?

-As industrialism advances across the globe, some reformists believe that the Durrani Empire is being left behind. Your military relies on traditional Pashtun and Punjabi tribal loyalties, any sort of collective bureaucracy is scant to nonexistent, and trade is scarce. There is no shortage of western advisors, missionaries, and adventurers who have offered their services, but it remains to be seen whether they ought to be trusted. Furthermore, many stakeholders in the existing system question why change is necessary. To what degree will you encourage westernization? How will you balance the concerns of the conservatives and what areas will be your primary focus?

Armies and Locations
NOTE: "Max x% conscription" indicates the total percentage of men that are legally allowed to be mobilized under current law and determines the total size of divisions possible. It is based off of my population statistics. For example, "max 14% possible" means that when all of your divisions are raised, 14% of men in your state are enlisted in the army. This can be changed by law, but increases are often unpopular. Also note that higher rates of divisions raised can be taxing on the economy, especially over longer periods, as armies are expensive.

Kingdom of France
15 division Army of the North
15 division Army of the South
10 division Army of India
5 division Army of Ceylon
5 division Army of Sumatra
(50/395 divisions possible raised, max 14% conscription)

Habsburg Monarchy (Excluding HRE)
30 division Army of the Southern Frontier
10 division Army of Austria
15 division Army of Lombardy
10 division Army of Silesia
5 division Army of Madagascar
5 division Chinese Expeditionary Force
(75/300 divisions possible raised, max 14% conscription)

Kingdom of Scandinavia
10 division Army of Finland
10 division Army of Denmark
5  division Chinese Expeditionary Force
(25/110 divisions possible raised, max 14% conscription)

British Union
10 division Army of Tennessee
10 division Army of New York
5 division Army of Virginia
5 division Army of Ireland
5 division Home Guard
(35/145 divisions possible raised, max 4% conscription)

Russian Republic
20 division Army of St. Petersburg
20 division Army of Moscow
10 division Army of Mongolia
10 division Army of Kiev
7 division Army of Turkestan
4 division Army of Manchuria
4 division Army of Inner Mongolia
(75/325 divisions possible raised, max 10% conscription)

Ottoman Empire
15 division Army of Bosnia
12 division Army of Romania
10 division Army of Egypt
10 division Army of Crimea
5 division Army of Constantinople
(53/210 divisions possible raised, max 12% conscription)

Divine Republic of Brazil
5 division Army of Sao Paolo
5 division Army of Amazon
3 division Army of the Congo
2 division Army of Southern Africa
3 division Army of Bahia
(18/75 divisions possible raised, max 22% conscription)

Kingdom of Naples
10 division Army of Florence
10 division Army of Sicily
5 division Army of Rome
5 division Army of Tunis
(30/105 divisions possible raised, max 14% conscription)

Kingdom of Prussia
20 division Army of Hanover
20 division Army of the East
5 division Army of Berlin
5 division Army of South Africa
(50/130 divisions possible raised, max 14% conscription)

Tokugawa Shogunate
10 division Chinese Expeditionary Force
10 division Army of Niigata
10 division Executive Guard
7 division Army of Kyoto
5 division Army of the Philippines
3 division Army of New Guinea
(45/185 divisions possible raised, max 10% conscription)

United Kingdom of Louisiana
4 division Army of Texas
2 division Army of Charleston
2 division Army of California
2 division Army of Cuba
2 division Army of Des Moines
(12/55 divisions possible raised, max 14% conscription)

Joseon Korea
15 division Army of Beijing
15 division Army of Busan
10 division Army of Pyongyang
15 division Army of Taiyuan
10 division Army of Heze
10 division Army of Borneo
5 division Army of Malaya
(80/140 divisions possible raised, max 10% conscription)

Kingdom of Poland
10 division Army of Warsaw
10 division Army of Minsk
(20/60 divisions possible raised, max 16% conscription)

Qajar Iran
10 division Army of Baghdad
5 division Army of Baku
5 division Army of Baluchistan
5 division Army of Basra
(25/92 divisions possible raised, max 12% conscription)

Kingdom of Quebec
3 division Army of Vaudreuil
3 division Army of Montreal
4 division Army of New Brunswick
(10/45 divisions possible raised, max 14% conscription)

Kingdom of Mexico
4 division Royal Guard
5 division Army of the Yucatan
5 division Army of Guatemala
(14/58 divisions possible raised, max 15% conscription)

United Provinces of New Holland
3 division Army of Java
2 division Army of New Holland
(5/20 divisions possible raised, max 5% conscription)

Holy Republic of Colombia
3 division Army of Panama
3 division Army of Ecuador
3 division Army of Venezuela
(9/35 divisions possible raised, max 15% conscription)

Confederation of New England
4 division Army of Boston
(4/20 divisions possible raised, max 14% conscription)

Kingdom of Patagonia
3 division Army of Cordoba
3 division Army of Paraguay
(6/22 divisions possible raised, max 15% conscription)

Kingdom of Portugal
3 division Army of Lisbon
3 division Army of Porto
(6/25 divisions possible raised, max 14% conscription)

Kingdom of the Netherlands
5 division Army of Amsterdam
(5/24 divisions possible raised, max 14% conscription)

Spanish Republic
15 division Army of Catalonia
3 division Army of Sardinia
2 division Army of Corsica
5 division Army of Madrid
(25/67 divisions possible raised, max 8% conscription)

Kingdom of Spain (Peru)
10 division Army of Peru
10 division Army of Upper Peru
(20/30 divisions possible raised, max 20% conscription)

Durrani Empire
2 division Royal Guard
4 division Army of Karachi
2 division Army of Herat
(8/30 divisions possible raised, max 11% conscription)

[GoTfan]

A Royal Decree for the Kingdom of Naples

As we enter this new age, Naples finds itself as one of the last bastions oof absolutist rule in Europe.

With this decree, I end that rule.

Our brightest minds are hereby called to the city of Naples to begin immediate discussions on the development of a constitution. It is no longer feasible, in this day and age, for one King to rule over the fiercely independent Italian people by his lonesome.

[DKrol]

A Statement from the Court in New Orleans

The Call for a Global Summit on Football

It has reached my court that young men from across my realms, and many places on the globe, have begun to play the sport “football”. I have observed this game with my own eyes in the fields and parks of New Orleans and find it pleasant and of good character. My envoys and ambassadors, however, inform me that each town and each nation play the rules according to their own local traditions and customs. I find this upsetting - the arts, of which sport must be considered, have always served as a way for people of different backgrounds and cultures to unite in a common understanding.

For these reasons, I, the King of this United Kingdom, do personally invite representatives of each sporting people to New Orleans at this year’s end to discuss football and agree upon a global standard for the game, ensuring that a boy with a ball in California can understand the actions of a boy with a ball in Berlin.

Furthermore, I, as a man of culture, do form and charter the Football Association of Louisiana. The Football Association shall ensure compliance with the standards developed at the New Orleans Conference on Football, shall organize local and kingdom-wide competitions and tournaments, and shall promote the use of sport as a way to engage the mind, develop the body, and build societal networks. I shall serve as the Patron of the Association and shall name a Chairman and Director in due time.

- King Henry-Philippe, King of the United Kingdom of Louisiana

[Spamage]

Royal Families of the World

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

Royal family trees are included below for the various interbred royal families of Europe and the Americas. The current ruler (highlight in green) and their immediate children are included, but the tree details the ancestry of their current furthest living heir. For example, Charles VIII's grandson Archduke Charles is the primary person in the Austrian tree, but the Emperor himself and his immediate family are detailed. If you want a laugh, look at the Scandinavian Family Tree

House of Bourbon (France)
House of Bourbon-Orleans (Louisiana)
House of Bourbon-Orleans (Mexico)
House of Bourbon (Naples)
House of Habsburg-Lothringen (Habsburg Monarchy)
House of Hanover (Britain)
House of Oldenburg (Scandinavia)
House of Hohenzollern (Prussia)
House of Hohenzollern (Quebec)
House of Wettin (Poland)
House of Romanov (Russia)
House of Orange (Netherlands)

[Dereich]

On the Situation in China

It is with deepest regret that Holy Roman Emperor views the situation in China. It has always been the policy of the Empire to maintain collegial and productive ties with that ancient and storied land. In considering the great abundance of Our own realms, made all the more prosperous due to close relations to the Chinese Emperor, it is incumbent upon us to alleviate the suffering of the peoples of China.

We are therefore pleased to announce a humanitarian initiative of peace and mercy to support the people of China. Medical personnel as well as supplies of grains from the endlessly productive fields of Our domains will be sent as aid those displaced by the conflict.

It is also of vital importance, so as to minimize the breadth and horror of this conflict, that interventions by outside powers into internal Chinese affairs be done in an orderly manner, based on a set of rules agreed to by those involved. We therefore call on the Queen of Scandinavia, the Emperor of Japan, the Joseon Emperor, and the President of the Russians as well as any other interested parties to meet with Us in person or by plenipotentiary in conference at a suitable place in the coming weeks to agree to common rules on intervention in China.

x Charles VIII von Habsburg-Lothringen

[Lumine]

Russo-Quebecois Treaty (1871),
A Treaty between the Russian Republic and the Kingdom of Quebec,

1.) The signatories hereby recognize the benefits of an historically positive relationship, which has prevented unnecessary conflict in the Pacific Region. Furthermore, the signatories recognize the immense potential associated to the continuation of such a relationship, and commit to the following:

2.) Increased access for Quebecois and Russian goods in their respective Pacific markets, including a tariff reduction of 10% and special trading facilities in Vancouver (Quebec) and New Archangel (Russia).

3.) A ten-year non-aggression pact, including recognition and non-intervention in present spheres of influence, and a commitment to mutual diplomatic support.

x Henry II, King of Quebec

[KaiserDave]

Whoopsies

[KaiserDave]

Russo-Quebecois Treaty (1871),
A Treaty between the Russian Republic and the Kingdom of Quebec,

1.) The signatories hereby recognize the benefits of an historically positive relationship, which has prevented unnecessary conflict in the Pacific Region. Furthermore, the signatories recognize the immense potential associated to the continuation of such a relationship, and commit to the following:

2.) Increased access for Quebecois and Russian goods in their respective Pacific markets, including a tariff reduction of 10% and special trading facilities in Vancouver (Quebec) and New Archangel (Russia).

3.) A ten-year non-aggression pact, including recognition and non-intervention in present spheres of influence, and a commitment to mutual diplomatic support.

x Henry II, King of Quebec

x, Alexsei Suvorin, President of the Russian Republic

[Lumine]

The Treaty of Lima (1871)
A Treaty between the Kingdom of Spain and the Kingdom of Quebec,

1.) The signatories hereby recognize the need for a productive relationship between both nations, and the lack of justification for any aggression towards each other. Therefore, both signatories agree to the following:

2.) A ten-year non-aggression pact, renewable by mutual consent in 1881.

3.) The immediate sale and transfer of the Puerto Rico and Hawaii territories to the Kingdom of Quebec.

4.) The deployment of military advisors and supplies from Quebec to the Kingdom of Spain.

x Henry II, King of Quebec

[Spamage]

The Treaty of Lima (1871)
A Treaty between the Kingdom of Spain and the Kingdom of Quebec,

1.) The signatories hereby recognize the need for a productive relationship between both nations, and the lack of justification for any aggression towards each other. Therefore, both signatories agree to the following:

2.) A ten-year non-aggression pact, renewable by mutual consent in 1881.

3.) The immediate sale and transfer of the Puerto Rico and Hawaii territories to the Kingdom of Quebec.

4.) The deployment of military advisors and supplies from Quebec to the Kingdom of Spain.

x Henry II, King of Quebec

x- Henry V, King of Spain

[PSOL]

On the establishment of the Iranian Textile Company, Charter for the Dashnakian Mining lease, and other commercial ventures

The Crown shall have a monopoly defined as a 75% share on the export of Iranian textiles, as well as setting up price controls.

The Dashnakian family will have full rights in having access to Northern Copper reserves, as well as over 25% of Iranian coal fields in South Iran.

The Jabir family, Emir of Mohammerah, will have a majority stake of the officially sanctioned Pearl corporation.

The Royal Telegraph and Printmaking Company shall be be granted a royal charter to operate, led by Aliqoli Mirza Qajar

All corporations owned by the Crown are hereby prohibited from owning less than 40% of the shares of the corporations. Foreign buyers, those legally able with diplomatic missions, can buy no more than 30% of shares. National investment corporations and Foreign banks fall under the previous rule.

On the Bureaucracy of the Sublime State

Mozzaffar Al-Din Shah Qajar, crown prince, shall be the Minister of War

Ali Qajar shall be the head of Dar Ul-Funun and Minister of Higher education, having direct control over the Alborz and Tehran high schools

Joseph Désiré Tholozan shall be the Minister of Health

Sayf O-Dowleh shall be the head of the Government corporations, the Astan Quds Razavi

Sohrab Khan Gorji shall be Chief Customs officer and Executive Director of Security among ports in the Homorzgan province.

Mirza Yusuf Ashtiani shall be Grand Vizier

Martiros Davidkhanian shall be Minister of Intelligence

Jamshid Jamshidan shall be the Head of the Iranian Treasury and Mint Ministry (ie the bank of Tehran)

On the expansion of Construction of Tehran

Yusuf Ashtiani shall head the efforts to ease the cramped nature of Tehran through the purchase and development of land outside its current environs

On the Expansion of Qanat and Yakhchals across the empire

To ensure the viability of Iranian agricultural produce, especially in newly conquered realms, the Qanat structures will be refurbished and introduced to areas without one. Yakhchals, Ice containers, shall be built in Armenistan, Kurdistan, and Azarbaycan.

[Lumine]

Kingdom of Quebec

Proclamations from His Majesty

Concerning the New Territories

His Majesty wholeheartedly welcomes the purchase of the Hawaii and Puerto Rico territories from the Kingdom of Spain, which shall be immediately and formally incorporated to the Kingdom of Quebec. Immediate discussions will be held with local representatives and/or relevant citizens regarding the most pressing issues and grievances facing these territories. Current trading and naval bases will be immediately expanded to substantially increase the flow of trade, and particularly the export of Quebecois goods. In what pertains to the Hawaii territories, measures shall be enacted to further encourage the production of sugar and its exportation under the umbrella of Quebecois commerce, ensuring a profit for the Kingdom and local producers alike.

Concerning Foreign Policy

His Majesty is pleased by the signing of recent agreements and treaties with the Kingdom of Spain and the Russian Republic, both of which will continue to enable a positive and collaborative relationship with both realms. We particularly look forward to the expansion of trade in the Pacific Coast. Further such agreements are being negotiated with interested powers, and we look forward to their satisfactory conclusion for the sake of stability and prosperity within the continent. Representatives from the Kingdom of Quebec will attend the New Orleans Conference on Football.

Concerning Industrialization

His Majesty shares the frustration of many regarding the much needed industrialization of the country, a national goal that is in the best interest of all, and which would be the faster road to lasting prosperity. There are sensible fears that the mistakes of the past are at risk of being repeated, but let it be known that neither the Kingdom of Quebec, its peoples, and its King will shy away from a historic challenge. Whilst we prepare new, international arrangements that will help speed up the process, we will undertake an ambitious and comprehensive agenda of economic development that will take into account all the advantages that Quebec has to offer, based around the following principles:

-Alongside the main Economic Ministry, Ministries of Trade, and Industry must be established to provide an efficient, streamlined and less-corruption prone bureaucracy, based around the principles of long-term civil service. Said ministries will be responsible for financial grants, partnerships with private enterprise, and the stimulation of industry, following more strict guidelines and targets to discourage corruption.

-The dependence on water power, which slows the industrial process, must end. We must replace it with dependence on energy sources that Quebec possesses in abundance, by starting the mass exploitation of coal mines as the means to fuel Quebecois industry.

-Companies shall be encouraged to utilize existing infrastructure, particularly the railways constructed in recent decades, to transport goods across the different cities and territories, in order to encourage and strengthen local industries.

-Outside the traditional exports of food and such other products, we shall begin large-scale exploitation of petroleum to fuel oil lamps, both as an internal product to illuminate Quebecois cities and outposts, and as a key resource to be exported.

-Existing ports and shipyards will be expanded through joint private and state investment, to massively expand the Quebecois merchant fleet and assist efforts to increase the flow of exports and trade. Newly acquired ports will be key stepping stones to expand trade towards Asia and Europe.

-Grants will be offered to investors from within Quebec and from European nations to research new production systems and technologies, so as to increase the efficiency of Quebecois industry.

-Infrastructure will continue to be developed both in terms of roads better connecting rural areas and towns, as well as railroads connecting cities and carrying the vast amount of resources which Quebec aims to mobilize. The unemployed will be given work in these public projects.

-Outside from the mining of natural resources, special care will be placed in the development of the metal industry.

-Despite the scope of this agenda, it must not come at the cost of offering slavery with a different name to the citizens of Quebec, the sort which is seen all too often in the Old World. Projects and societies in which state funding is granted must enact basic measures to see to the well-being of workers and the establishment of acceptable working conditions.

[DKrol]

A Statement from the Court in New Orleans

The Incorporation of the Louisiana Petroleum Corporation

Industrialization is the future. Although our great many farmers, growers, and small industries will always play a critical part in our United Kingdom, we must always be prepared for tomorrow. As we have seen in Europe and elsewhere, the future of the world economy is in machines.

As such, I do hereby establish and incorporate the Louisiana Petroleum Corporation (LPC) as a crown corporation of the United Kingdom. For centuries, the occupants of the southern and western reaches of our United Kingdom have known about oil and petroleum and it’s important qualities. I believe that, with the future of machinery and industry, now is the time to properly centralize the discovery, harvesting, and processing of crude oil and petroleum from the wild expanses of our United Kingdom. The LPC’s profits shall be reinvested into the Treasury, and each man employed by the LPC shall be paid a sufficient wage to live comfortably. 

As part of the LPC’s initial charge, a refinery and port will be developed in Texas, to connect our resources with the world market. This shall include a robust rail network to connect with California and New Orleans and sufficient housing stock for thousands of employees. It is my wish that this port in Texas - to be known as New Marseille - shall be a truly interracial city, where whites and blacks and men of all creeds may live and work side by side. If any such arrangement shall ever be possible, it must be possible under such circumstances with an untapped new frontier upon us. 

The LPC’s charter shall be subject to renewal by the National Assembly every 10th year.

- King Henry-Philippe, King of the United Kingdom of Louisiana

[DKrol]

A Statement from the Court in New Orleans

The Bourbon-Orleans-Bourbon Treaty of 1871

The United Kingdom of Louisiana and the Bourbon Family of Spain have agreed to the following terms:

The United Kingdom of Louisiana recognizes the Bourbon Royal Family’s right to govern Spain;

The United Kingdom of Louisiana and the Bourbon Royal Family agree to a mutual non-aggression pact and the United Kingdom of Louisiana promises to provide non-military supports to the Bourbon Royal Family in Peru from Catholic-Republicans aggression;

The United Kingdom of Louisiana promises to provide safety and shelter to the Bourbon Royal Family at their request in a time of danger; and

The United Kingdom of Louisiana shall transfer 20% of the proceeds for all sugar and rum exports from the Island of Cuba to the personal coffers of the Bourbon Royal Family for the next 50 years in exchange for full, perpetual, and unchallenged Louisianan rule over the Island of Cuba.

Signed with my hand and seal this day,
x Henry-Philippe de Bourbon-Orleans, King of the United Kingdom of Louisiana

[Spamage]

A Statement from the Court in New Orleans

The Bourbon-Orleans-Bourbon Treaty of 1871

The United Kingdom of Louisiana and the Bourbon Family of Spain have agreed to the following terms:

The United Kingdom of Louisiana recognizes the Bourbon Royal Family’s right to govern Spain;

The United Kingdom of Louisiana and the Bourbon Royal Family agree to a mutual non-aggression pact and the United Kingdom of Louisiana promises to provide non-military supports to the Bourbon Royal Family in Peru from Catholic-Republicans aggression;

The United Kingdom of Louisiana promises to provide safety and shelter to the Bourbon Royal Family at their request in a time of danger; and

The United Kingdom of Louisiana shall transfer 20% of the proceeds for all sugar and rum exports from the Island of Cuba to the personal coffers of the Bourbon Royal Family for the next 50 years in exchange for full, perpetual, and unchallenged Louisianan rule over the Island of Cuba.

Signed with my hand and seal this day,
x Henry-Philippe de Bourbon-Orleans, King of the United Kingdom of Louisiana

X-King Henry V of Spain

[KaiserDave]

Memorandum of Understanding and Friendship

The Russian Republic and the Sublime State of Iran commit to defend each other in the case one is attacked, and pledge to work together to preserve the peace the region, and to secure the rightful claims of each nation in a coordinated fashion. We furthermore affirm a fraternal bond between the Russian and Persian peoples to march forward to secure glory and victory for our nations in the future.

A.S. Suvorin, President of the Russian Republic
B.N. Chicherin, Prime Minister of the Russian Republic

[DKrol]

A Statement from the Court in New Orleans

The North American Treaty (1871),
A Treaty between the United Kingdom of Louisiana, the Kingdom of Mexico, and the Kingdom of Quebec

1.) The signatories, which share a common heritage, history and aspirations towards the future, reiterate their belief in mutual cooperation as the best means to secure stability and prosperity across the North American continent. Therefore, they commit to the following:

2.) Full recognition of their present borders and territories.

3.) A defensive alliance pact, binding the three powers to war against any foreign aggressor, or to intervene against powers seeking to undermine the stability of any of the signatories, upon the written request from the power under threat.

4.) A long-term commitment to building a large-scale railway across the North American continent, linking the signatories together.

4 (a): The North American Rail Commission is hereby established to oversee this project and the subsequent network. Each signatory shall appoint one member of the Commission to represent their Kingdom and their interests. The Commission shall develop and implement a plan to connect the three capital cities, and each major center of population or industry, by 1880. Each signatory shall contribute 1/3 the cost of the project, raised through whatever means each signatory shall determine proper.

5.) Joint participation in a series of economic enterprises aimed at strengthening each nation’s internal market. Such enterprises will involve the use and exploitation of raw resources within Mexico, their refining and processing within Louisiana, and the exportation of different food products from Quebec.

Signed with my hand and seal this day,
x Henry-Philippe de Bourbon-Orleans, King of the United Kingdom of Louisiana

[Lumine]

The North American Treaty (1871),
A Treaty between the United Kingdom of Louisiana, the Kingdom of Mexico, and the Kingdom of Quebec

1.) The signatories, which share a common heritage, history and aspirations towards the future, reiterate their belief in mutual cooperation as the best means to secure stability and prosperity across the North American continent. Therefore, they commit to the following:

2.) Full recognition of their present borders and territories.

3.) A defensive alliance pact, binding the three powers to war against any foreign aggressor, or to intervene against powers seeking to undermine the stability of any of the signatories, upon the written request from the power under threat.

4.) A long-term commitment to building a large-scale railway across the North American continent, linking the signatories together.

4 (a): The North American Rail Commission is hereby established to oversee this project and the subsequent network. Each signatory shall appoint one member of the Commission to represent their Kingdom and their interests. The Commission shall develop and implement a plan to connect the three capital cities, and each major center of population or industry, by 1880. Each signatory shall contribute 1/3 the cost of the project, raised through whatever means each signatory shall determine proper.

5.) Joint participation in a series of economic enterprises aimed at strengthening each nation’s internal market. Such enterprises will involve the use and exploitation of raw resources within Mexico, their refining and processing within Louisiana, and the exportation of different food products from Quebec.

Signed with my hand and seal this day,
x Henry-Philippe de Bourbon-Orleans, King of the United Kingdom of Louisiana

x Henry II, King of Quebec

[Spamage]

The North American Treaty (1871),
A Treaty between the United Kingdom of Louisiana, the Kingdom of Mexico, and the Kingdom of Quebec

1.) The signatories, which share a common heritage, history and aspirations towards the future, reiterate their belief in mutual cooperation as the best means to secure stability and prosperity across the North American continent. Therefore, they commit to the following:

2.) Full recognition of their present borders and territories.

3.) A defensive alliance pact, binding the three powers to war against any foreign aggressor, or to intervene against powers seeking to undermine the stability of any of the signatories, upon the written request from the power under threat.

4.) A long-term commitment to building a large-scale railway across the North American continent, linking the signatories together.

4 (a): The North American Rail Commission is hereby established to oversee this project and the subsequent network. Each signatory shall appoint one member of the Commission to represent their Kingdom and their interests. The Commission shall develop and implement a plan to connect the three capital cities, and each major center of population or industry, by 1880. Each signatory shall contribute 1/3 the cost of the project, raised through whatever means each signatory shall determine proper.

5.) Joint participation in a series of economic enterprises aimed at strengthening each nation’s internal market. Such enterprises will involve the use and exploitation of raw resources within Mexico, their refining and processing within Louisiana, and the exportation of different food products from Quebec.

Signed with my hand and seal this day,
x Henry-Philippe de Bourbon-Orleans, King of the United Kingdom of Louisiana

x Henry II, King of Quebec

X- Luis de Bourbon-Orleans, King of Mexico

[PSOL]

Memorandum of Understanding and Friendship

The Russian Republic and the Sublime State of Iran commit to defend each other in the case one is attacked, and pledge to work together to preserve the peace the region, and to secure the rightful claims of each nation in a coordinated fashion. We furthermore affirm a fraternal bond between the Russian and Persian peoples to march forward to secure glory and victory for our nations in the future.

A.S. Suvorin, President of the Russian Republic
B.N. Chicherin, Prime Minister of the Russian Republic

X Nasser Al-Din Shah Qajar

[No War, but the War on Christmas]

Proclamation of the Shogun calling for a Grand Council of Daimyo


Edo Castle, - Messengers riding horseback have set out for all Daimyo today carrying official letters signed by the Tokugawa Shogun Yoshinobu and embossed with the seal of His Majesty, Emperor Meiji. While details have been scarce, the letters have called for a 'Grand Council' or '大評議会' to take place at Edo Castle within a fortnight. Sources close to the Shogun and within the Imperial Court have over the last few weeks noticed a large increase of communiqué between the Imperial Court and Edo Castle, the residence of the Shogun, with Shogun Yoshinobu having returned from an audience with His Majesty, the Son of Heaven, Emperor Meiji last week.

'...with chaos swirling abroad it is imperative that the honorable and powerful Daimyo of our precious lands come together in the spirit of those who proceeded us to ensure the continued protection and governance of our sacred lands and people. In this spirit and on the advice of our heavenly sovereign to both protect our people from foreign influences and solidify the governance which maintains the stability and peace of our islands, the presence of all daimyo within the court of the Bakufu is so ordered within the period of one fortnight...'
Excerpt of letter sent to Daimyo

Observers note that such a proclamation, much less a gathering of all Daimyo, is exceedingly rare and has scarcely been seen since the period of the 'Council of Elders' in 1598. Nevertheless, many expect Shogun Yoshinobu to put forth his ideas for a reformation of government that will both ensure continued peace between the various clans, court nobility and the continued dominance of the Tokugawa Shogunate which has presided over the rise of Japan into a first-rate Empire within a matter of decades.

[YPestis25]

Lvov Agreement

The Kingdom of Poland, Kingdom of Scandinavia, and the Ottoman Empire, hereafter the signatories, agree to the following terms:

I. The signatories agree to a defensive alliance and commit to upholding the territorial integrity of each of the signatories in the face of outside aggression.
II. The signatories guarantee the inviolability of the Polish borders as they stand now and in the face of any effort, diplomatic or otherwise, to alter these borders.
III. The signatories agree to begin the construction of a Riga-Constantinople railway which shall pass through Polish territory and contribute to the economic development of Eastern Europe.

xCatherine II, Queen of Scandinavia

[PSOL]

Next Firman

Mirza Yahya Khan Moshir od-Dowleh Qazvini Shall be Minister of Foreign Affairs.