The Zenith of Power: Gameplay Thread

[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

[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

[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.

[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

[Lumine]

The Treaty of Tasmania (1871),
A Treaty between the Kingdom of Quebec and the United Provinces of New Holland,

1.) The signatories hereby confirm their desire for a peaceful, economically productive relationship, and hereby commit to the following:

2.) A ten-year non-aggression pact, to be renewable in 1881.

3.) A preferential trade relationship between both nations, with New Holland lowering tariffs on Quebecois goods.

4.) Quebecois investment and support for infrastructure and development projects across New Holland.

x Henry II, King of Quebec

[Lumine]

The Treaty of Halifax (1871),
A Treaty between the Kingdom of Quebec and the Confederation of New England

1.) The signatories hereby confirm their peaceful intent towards each other, and their desire for a long, prosperous and mutually beneficial relationship. Therefore, they agree to the following:

2.) The Nova Scotia territory shall be purchased by the Kingdom of Quebec, by a sum equivalent to what the Confederation of New England paid for the territory under the 1841 Richmond Settlement.

3.) The Kingdom of Quebec will guarantee the rights of current Anglophone inhabitants of Nova Scotia, including legal protections regarding language and cultural matters, as well as the granting of Quebecois citizenship and the rights that come with it.

4.) A defensive alliance pact, binding each signatory to war against any foreign aggressor upon written request by the power under threat.

5.) A commitment to work towards long-term economic cooperation and participation in joint economic and development ventures.

6.) New England businesses will retain the ability to participate in economic ventures in Nova Scotia, and Quebecois-New Englander trade within the province will not be subject to unilateral tariff increases on either side.

x Henry II, King of Quebec

[Lumine]

₁

Kingdom of Quebec

His Majesty Henry II addresses Parliament

(Excerpts)Monsieurs,

It is with great pride and satisfaction that we speak to you today, within the halls of this sacred building.

The history of the Kingdom of Quebec, though shorter than those of our European counterparts, has no shortage of triumphant moments, glorious victories, remarkable men, and above, a keen spirit and determination to succeed. (...) From the first French settlements, to Vaudreuil's struggles to secure our independence, to our ancestor Henry's acceptance of the throne, the war against Britain and Spain, and our expansion towards the west, our still young nation has always been an enterprising, courageous and decisive society. (...)

We have worked hard to find prosperity, and in this task, we have succeeded. Although there is much to be done and to be achieved in the coming years and decades, let no man say that this Kingdom is not a beacon of progress within our continent.(...) Through the work of diplomacy, not only have we reached an understanding with so many of our neighbors and potential partners, we have planted the seeds for the expansion of trade and the growth of our national industry. (...) Through diplomacy, we have acquired the Puerto Rico and Hawaii territories from the Spanish crown, providing our nation and its citizens with exciting new opportunities and economic possibilities. (...) Through diplomacy, we have righted one of the wrongs of the Richmond settlement, recovering the only part of our sacred ground ever lost in the past. Without firing a single bullet, we have secured the return of our brethren to Quebecois law and protection, and in this we have also started what we hope will be a productive relationship with our neighbor to the south. (...)

This parliament has reached the natural end of its tenure, and its members can rightfully feel a sense of pride in their accomplishments on behalf of the nation over the past few years. (...) It is now up to the people to pass their judgement, and this they will do freely and in the spirit of open debate and civic-minded virtue we have come to expect this distant, yet prosperous corner of the globe. (...) The Monarchy will work effectively and constructively with whomsoever receives the trust of the people, for there is much that can be done, on so many fronts. (...) To you, Monsieurs, we say Au Revoir, but perhaps not Adieu. The nation, in their wisdom, shall decide whom to retain in their service and whom to send home, if perhaps only for some time. Whatever the outcome, this Kingdom will continue this steady march towards progress,

Vive le Québec!

_____________________________
^{1.) Original Image: Wikimedia Commons}

[Lumine]

Kingdom of Quebec

Proclamations from His Majesty

Concerning the new Government and the British Union

His Majesty congratulates all parties and candidates who took part in the recent General Election, as well as the Conservative Union for their electoral victory. His Majesty looks forward to working with the Government and ensure the ongoing prosperity of the nation.

It is our belief that the recent actions of the British Union, drastically ramping up their military budget and flooding their North American colonies with weaponry, constitute not an act of defence, but entirely unwarranted and unjustified provocations against the Kingdom of Québec and other fellow North American nations. His Majesty does not desire war against the British Union, and will exhaust diplomatic options, but neither he nor the nation will stand idly by against bellicose behavior from our neighbor. As a result, His Majesty will grant assent to legislative proposals to increase military spending, and will work with the Government to study alterations to the draft that do not disturb domestic peace.

Concerning Geography and Territorial Exploration

Although the present times offer many issues and possibilities which demand our collective attention, it is out belief that the sciences must never fall behind. Particularly now that, even as much of the world has been discovered, there are still many places in which man is yet to enter and discover. As a result, His Majesty hereby decrees the creation of a Société géographique royale du Québec, to complement the efforts of the Montréal Académie des sciences. The Société géographique will incorporate distinguished public figures, explores, geographers, cartographers and such other experts, and it will be presided by a Board of Governors. Crown Prince Philip and future successors in that role will serve as Honorary Presidents of said board.

Our first instruction to the Société géographique will be to immediate organize a naval expedition, aided by land parties, that will attempt to find and sail across the so-called Northwest Passage in the Arctic Ocean, and travel from Québec City to Roquefort. Finding this passage, we hope, will provide us with a potentially useful alternate trade route, as well as to assert Quebecois sovereignty over said passage.

Concerning Colonization and Settlements

It is the belief of His Majesty that colonization and settlement of our western provinces, particularly east of Vaudreuil and west of Champlain (Ontario), is of paramount importance for the successful development of the nation, as well as to provide further means of expanding agricultural production. As a result, His Majesty encourages Parliament to consider debating and passing a Québec Lands Act, to grant plots of land - of a size sufficient to allow successful farming - to pioneers, settlers and immigrants, by formally registering them in return a small administration fee, and taking necessary precautions to see the land is developed and not subject to speculation. This process, if enacted, should fall under the protection of the Pacific Gendarmerie, to prevent unnecessary conflicts, maintain order between new communities, and ensure their safety.

[Lumine]

His Majesty Henry II salutes the bravery of his namesake, His Majesty King Henry V of Spain, in his spirited defence against foreign intervention within his lands. He is pleased that the King and his family have been able to escape unharmed, and he has ensured that the Spanish Royal Family is recieved in Montréal as his guests of honor.

Following negotiations, we are pleased to announce the signing of the Roquefort Settlement, addressing the matter of the Spanish Royalist Fleet and ensuring aslyum and protection for the Spanish Royal Family and any refugees fleeing from the lands under their former and present control.

It is hereby ordered that the transfered Spanish ships, and the crews and officers who decide to remain in Quebecois service, will form part of the Quebecois Pacific Fleet, based in Roquefort.

The Roquefort Settlement (1872)
An Accord between the Kingdom of Spain and the Kingdom of Quebec,

1.) The Spanish Fleet currently based in the port of Roquerfort will hereby be transfered to the ownership of the Kingdom of Quebec.

2.) His Majesty Henry V, his family, and his government will be granted permanent asylum in the Kingdom of Québec.

3.) The Spanish Royal Family will receive an annual stipend from the Kingdom of Quebec, and will be given ownership of a palace and its grounds in Montréal as their personal property.

4.) His Majesty Henry V will be allowed to set up a court and government in exile in Montréal.

5.) The Kingdom of Quebec will open its frontiers to royalist refugees from Spain and South America, expediting the citizenship process for those who want to become citizens, and granting lands for them to settle.

6.) Spanish sailors who so wish it will be allowed into the Quebecois fleet, with their current rank guaranteed.

7.) Spanish soldiers and/or volunteers who so wish it will be allowed into the Quebec military or the Quebec Foreign Legion, with their current rank guaranteed.

8.) Crown Prince Henry of Spain (b. 1860) will be formally betrothed to Princess Theresa Maria of Quebec (b. 1864), daugther of Crown Prince Philip.

x Henry II, King of Quebec

[Lumine]

His Majesty Henry II, aside from celebrating the recent betrothal of Crown Prince Henry and Princess Theresa Maria, announces his intention to find a suitable marriage for his second son Prince William von Hohenzollern (b. 1846, 25 years old).

[Lumine]

Russo-Quebecois Treaty (1872),
A Treaty between the Russian Republic and the Kingdom of Quebec,

1.) The territory of Alaska is hereby sold to the Kingdom of Quebec by a previously accorded sum (equivalent to US $15 million in OTL 1867).

2.) The Russian Republic will establish a Commercial Mission at the port of Roquefort, encouraging and ensuring the proper flow of Russian trade in the Pacific.

3.) The Kingdom of Quebec pledges to support a number of previously and privately agreed upon initiatives that are on the interests of the Russian Republic.

x Henry II, King of Quebec

[Lumine]

His Majesty Henry II is pleased to announce the betrothal of Prince William von Hohenzollern to Archduchess Maria Dorothea von Hapsburg (b. 1844), and expresses his hopes for a continued positive relationship between Quebec and the Hapsburg Monarchy.

Furthermore, His Majesty expresses his absolute horror at the cowardly attempt on the life of King Charles of Naples, his relief that the King has survived despite his wounds, and his keen hope that the true culpirt will be found. The Kingdom of Naples and its Royal Family can expect the very best wishes of Quebec as they chart a new course in their history.

[Lumine]

Kingdom of Quebec

Proclamations and Statements from His Majesty

Concerning the War

His Majesty congratulates the Allied troops of all four participating nations on their collective success fighting against British tyranny and aggression, having taken a decisive step towards the inevitable end of British colonialism within our continent. The successes of Belize, Memphis, New Cornwall, Queensbury and the Caribbean are a clear sign that the British threat can be contained and driven back, ending the mortal danger posed to Louisiana, New England, Mexico and Quebec alike.

His Majesty is also keenly aware of the economic strife caused by the inexcusable British blockade of North America, and the consequences that the public has experienced due to the callous orders from London. There will be extensive and far-reaching efforts undertaken to ease the economic effects and assist the people of Quebec. Though there will be temporary pain, we are confident of victory, and in victory we shall regain all that was lost and more.

Concerning North American Affairs

His Majesty congratulates the Kingdom of Mexico on the successful drafting and adoption of their  Constitutional Charter, a document which we hope will further guarantee their prosperity in the years to come. Likewise, we also congratulate the citizens of Louisiana on the recent General Election, as well as Prime Minister Mouton on his electoral victory. The domestic stability of Mexico, Louisiana, New England and Quebec is a testament to the strength of their respective peoples, monarchs and executives, and a sign of the collective prosperity of a continent that shall soar once this war is brought to a successful end.

Concerning the British Blockade

The Kingdom of Quebec condemns in the strongest possible terms the indiscriminate British blockade of North America, which, far from a simple war measure, is causing untold misery to thousands - if not millions - not only within a continent that has grown tired of British colonialism, but across the sea in Europe, where countless neutral nations suffer the severe consequences of unilateral British actions. We urge London to carefully reconsider and reverse this reckless decision, and end this inexcusable blockade before it is too late.

[Lumine]

Kingdom of Quebec

Proclamations and Statements from His Majesty

Concerning the Treaty of Warsaw

His Majesty congratulates the signatory parties to the Treaty of Warsaw over their swift achievement in ending the so-called Great Eastern War, and, in doing so, for removing or lessening the yoke of Ottoman rule over the many peoples and nations of the Balkans. His Majesty also extends sincere personal congratulations to Her Majesty, the Queen Mother of France; and His Excellency, the Russian President, respectively, for the skilled French diplomacy, and the remarkable and inspiring success of Russian military efforts.

The Kingdom of Quebec, though not a signatory to the treaty nor otherwise involved in the recently ended conflict at hand, recognizes the Treaty of Warsaw, as well as the independence of the Kingdom of Romania and the newly gained autonomy of the Kingdoms or Principalities of Bulgaria, Serbia and Greece. We salute these nations over their new birth of freedom, with the consent of the eventual new monarchs and their respective governments, it will be our pleasure to open embassies and consulates in their designated capitols, as well as to formally receive their own diplomatic envoys should they wish to send them, at such a time in which the inexcusable British blockade is finally lifted through any means necessary.

Alhough the ongoing blockade threatens not only the New World, but Europe itself, we remain defiant and confident in success in our own collective struggle alongside our allies, and look forward to the day in which Quebec may be able to trade and engage with the new nations of Europe.

[Lumine]

₁

The Sacred Union

His Majesty, Henry II,
issues a general call for the mobilization
of society, industry and capital in Québec

Citoyens du Québec!,

War is upon us, brought by the bold, relentless aggression of the British Union and their Empire, which the warmongers in London purport to expand across the seas and through our entire North American continent. This war, a war which we have started to wage with remarkable success in the field alongside our fierce New Englander, Louisianian and Mexican allies, is no simple conflict. It is struggle of nations, beliefs and ultimately, the ultimate test of whether this Kingdom of Quebec can uphold and maintain the legacy of Vaudreuil and King Henry, and preserve its hard won, hard earned, and hard fought liberty.

This struggle is not a simple one. We collectively face the might of an old grand Empire, which once extended itself across the globe and which even today appears to stand strong.

We face a criminal blockade of our shores and our continent by the British fleet, which has caused hardships in our homes, in our factories, and in the fields. But where some see an Empire that is mighty still, we see signs of weakness. We see a structure held together not by firm bonds of loyalty and liberty, but by the ghosts of the past. Let there be no mistake. A British victory on this war will take this continent and all of its peoples back into the past. A victory of the North American allies, in return, will take us into the prosperous future, safe forever from the threat of British imperial ambitions.

Citoyens! We must be stronger than we've ever been today. We must stand together, and in doing so we can and we shall prevail on this struggle. The Monarchy and the Government will be behind you, and the Army and Navy will continue to do their outmost. Now it is time for all of us to work together to face these hardships, secure our victory, and enjoy our newly won place in the sun, experience our manifest destiny to prosper. We ask every citizen, every immigrant, every person who feels strongly for this nation and its people to do their part, however humble, however small.

We ask for the Union Sacrée of the people of Québec.

Together, we stand. Together, we prevail.

Vive le Québec!

Kingdom of Quebec

Proclamations from His Majesty

The Cartier Plan - Implementing the Sacred Union

Following the issuing of the Union Sacrée proclamation, which shall be thoroughly distributed and published across the Kingdom to every town, city and community - as well as every army unit -, His Majesty King Henry will propose to the Government and to Parliament the implemention of an ambitious  strategy to marshal Québec's human and natural resources, face the consequences of the blockade, and assist the war effort while curbing unemployment. The Cartier Plan, which shall be compatible with the 1871 agenda of economic development, calls for the following:

-The establishment of the Québec War Board, a government body involving His Majesty the King, the Prime Minister, key government ministers, representatives of industry, commerce and workers, the Chief of the General Staff and the Quartermaster General. The War Board will work to allocate resources, coordinate industrial and economic efforts, and deliver propaganda.

-The firm rejection of price controls as a counterproductive measure.

-The establishment of temporary rationing regarding imported goods made scarce by the British blockade, to be lifted as soon the blockade comes to an end. Goods and resources which are ample in their availability across the Kingdom - including coal stocks and foodstuffs - will not be subject to rationing, for the benefit of the people. The Royal Family will also take part in rationing, and will drastically lower its expenses for the duration of the war.

-Industries hit hard by the blockade - and/or otherwise collapsed - will be temporarily re-purposed for the war industry until such a time in which they can resume normal operations. Through the combination of private and public capital, these industries will be shifted toward producing war goods and supplies, maintaining and, whenever possible, increasing their hired labor to combat unemployment.

-Unemployed citizens not enlisted in the army will be encouraged to join the National Guard or the Pacific Gendarmerie, receive basic military training, and take over garrison or patrol duties within Quebecois soil whenever necessary.

-Immigrants will be encouraged to enlist in the army, under the promise of citizenship and land upon the end of their service.

-Artists of all kinds will be encouraged to work with a new Propaganda Department subordinate to the War Board, producing posters, newspapers, songs, and any such other works to lift the spirits and raise morale within the army and population.

-Trade with the allied nations - New England, Mexico and Louisiana - will be encouraged and expanded whenever possible.

-Despite the current difficulties associated with large-scale Pacific trade, spare funds will be invested in expanding the capabilities of Roquefort and Honolulu as trading hubs in a long term effort to increase and promote shipping across the Pacific to friendly or neutral ports.

[Lumine]

The North American Treaty (1871), as Amended by the Boston Agreement (1873)
A Treaty between the United Kingdom of Louisiana, the Kingdom of Mexico, the Kingdom of Quebec, and the Confederation of New England

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 borders and sovereign territory.

3.) A defensive alliance pact, binding the four powers to war against any foreign aggressor, or to intervene against any 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 Nation and their interests. The Commission shall develop and implement a plan to connect the four capital capital cities, and each major center of population or industry, by 1880. Each signatory shall contribute 1/4 the cost of the project, raised through whatever means each signatory shall determine proper.

5.) The establishment of a single, tariff-free, North American marketplace for goods, raw and processed, traded, sold, and exchanged at an agreed upon rate in the native currency of each signatory.

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

Signed By
x King Luis de Bourbon

x Henry II, King of Quebec

[Lumine]

Kingdom of Québec

Proclamations from His Majesty

Concerning Territorial Administration

His Majesty, noting the disparity associated with current names of the Kingdom's provinces - official and unofficial - as well as the outdated nature of a few of them, will propose to Government and Parliament a Territorial Administration Act of 1874, enshrining the principles previously mandated for the administration of the Porto Rico, Hawaii and Lapérouse (previously Alaska) territories and/or provinces, as well as the new official names for the Kingdom's current territories and provinces. The proposal outlines the following names, chosen due to geographical, racial or historical meaning and criteria:

PROVINCES OF QUÉBEC:
Mainland Provinces:
-Terre Neuve
-Nouvelle-Écosse/Nova Scotia
-Acadie
-Cartier
-Grands Lacs
-Champlain
-Montcalm
-Vaudreuil
Outremer Québec:
-Hawaii
-Porto Rico/Puerto Rico

TERRITORIES OF QUÉBEC:
-Terre du Roi Henri I
-Territoires du Nord-Est
-Territoires du Nord-Ouest
-Territoires du Lapérouse

Concerning the War

His Majesty heartily and joyfully congratulates the brave generals and soldiers of the Royal Army of Québec for their stunning performances on the battlefield, proving once and for all that the soldiers of the Americas have nothing to envy to their counterparts in Europe. They have repeatedly shown courage, initiative and determination, and been rewarded for it by seizing territories as vast as Ireland and Great Britain combined. Their sacrifice has been matched by the general mobilization of society and the people of Québec itself, who have shown similar bravery in the face of the British blockade and have risen up to the occasion. Once the war has finished and the peace won, Québec shall look with pride at how it has conducted itself in the middle of this great struggle.

[Lumine]

The New Caledonia Arrangement (1874)
An Arrangement between the Kingdom of Quebec and the United Provinces of New Holland,

1.) The Kingdom of Quebec will immediately evacuate the occupied islands of New Caledonia, and transfer them to New Hollander control.

2.) The Kingdom of Quebec will recognize New Hollander sovereignty over New Caledonia, as an integral part of its nascent defensive perimeter.

3.) The United Provinces of New Holland, in return for the territorial transfer, will immediately pay a generous financial settlement to the Kingdom of Quebec.

x Henry II, King of Quebec

[Lumine]

₁

The Queensbury Address

His Majesty Henry II makes a surprise visit to the Queensbury battlefield,
expresses His thoughts on the ongoing war in North America

(Excerpts)Monsieurs,

It was nine decades ago, that Vaudreuil, King Henry, and the fathers of the nation brought forth, for the first time on this continent, a new Nation, conceived in Liberty, dedicated to that most noble proposition that the people of Québec could rule themselves, and no longer abide by foreign interference or domination in the affairs of this new country, the first truly American nation.

That victorious struggle, ended when our one time oppressors recognized the independence and sovereignty of Québec, soon gave cause to others. Through diplomacy and war, Québec and the other new nations of the North American continent – now our firm and unyielding allies – have slowly but surely rolled back the frontiers of the European empires, giving North America a new birth of freedom. That struggle reaches a climactic point today.

Today, we gather together in this grand battlefield, where the joint action and sacrifice of Québécois and New Englander men shocked an overconfident enemy, pushing them into the walls of Albany and delivering a decisive triumph for the North American alliance. We gather here today to honor them, in this ground they have already consecrated with their blood and toil.

We have been engaged in a great and decisive war, that will test whether the Allied nations and their founding principle of self-government by Americans can long endure and prevail.

We have fought across the Mississippi, in the Caribbean seas, in the remote islands of the Pacific, across the Appalachian Mountains and through the Pennsylvania fields, in the streets of Nashville and Albany, and so forth. At almost every turn we have driven the mighty British armies back, with bravery, ingenuity and unwavering belief in the cause. Despite a criminal blockade aimed at our collective starvation, and the savage bombardment of Boston and New Orleans, we have prevailed, and proved to the world that the fist of the Royal Navy cannot and will not break our spirit.

In the course of three years, we have seized extensions of territory far larger than the size of entire European nations. We have destroyed countless divisions, and wounded, killed or captured dozens of thousands of Britain’s best soldiers. Thus far, London has rejected all diplomatic overtures. But even today, with the prospect of the total annihilation of all British armies, and indeed, of British power itself in the North American continent, we remain willing to find an end to this conflict. It is time for Britain to realize that it cannot and will not crush or divide this North American alliance, and recognize the reality in the ground. If they fail to do so, we are confident the alliance and its peoples will fight until victory is finally secured.

The sacrifices made by the people across North America have been immense. But they have been rewarded with success on the battlefield, and the firm promise of greater prosperity once the peace has been won.

One thing, above all, is clear. The myth of British superiority has been crushed. In doing so, our armies and our peoples have demonstrated and cemented the notion that Government of Americans, by Americans, for Americans, will not perish by the sword.

Vive le Québec!

_____________________________
^{1.) Original Image: Wikimedia Commons}

[Lumine]

Kingdom of Quebec

Proclamations and Statements from His Majesty

Concerning the need for Recognizing Virtue

His Majesty, convinced of the need to reward civic virtue, bravery and/or acts or personal contributions that are to the benefit of Québec and its peoples, hereby creates a new condecoration for such purposes, hereby known as the "Ordre du Mérite". It shall be granted by royal proclamation at His Majesty's behest. For the year of 1875, we declare that the following individuals, should they accept, will be granted the Québécois Orde du Mérite:

INTERNATIONAL:
-His Majesty Henry-Philippe Bourbon, King of Louisiana
-His Majesty Luis de Bourbon-Orleans, King of Mexico
-His Excellency Henry Wilson, Chairman of the Confederation of New England
-His Excellencies Alexandre Mouton and George Graham Vest, former and incumbent Prime Ministers of Louisiana
-His Royal Highness Felipe de Bourbon-Orleans, Crown Prince of Mexico

NATIONAL:
-His Excelency Georges-Étienne Cartier, Prime Minister of Québec
-All current members of the Québec War Board
-Scientists responsible for recent war-related technological developments
-Leading naval and land commanders in all fronts

Concerning the symbols of the Nation

His Majesty, convinced of the need to standardize and enshrine into law the national symbols of the Kingdom of Québec, will propose to Parliament and the Government the enactment of a National Symbols Act of 1875, to further incite patriotism amongst the citizens of Québec by providing a common framework of symbols - musical, visual and literary - to be shared upon as representative of our national heritage. These symbols will be a key part of future propaganda campaigns designed to bolster the war effort. Among others, His Majesty proposes that the following symbols be adopted:

-NATIONAL MOTTO: "Je me Souviens"
-NATIONAL ANTHEM: “Le Chant des Québécois” (OTL Le Chant des Girondins, with changed lyrics)

Concerning the Economic Situation

As the war moves into a vital and decisive year, and we wait for London to see sense and engage in serious negotiations, it is altogether clear that further action must be taken to complement our Cartier Plan to bolster the Québécois economy. Thus, it is His Majesty's decision to present a plan to raise income and support the war effort to Government and to Parliament through two separate pieces of legislation. Although some of the decisions taken will be far-reaching and experimental in nature, His Majesty stresses that no new taxes will be levied on the people of Québec. Therefore, we propose:

CURRENCY ACT OF 1875:
-The Québec National bank and its provincial branches will be authorized to print temporary war currency in the form of paper money, or "Québec Notes". The Québec notes will receive legal tender status, will be convertible into war bonds, and will be used for domestic operations of all sorts. They will only be forbidden on use to pay custom duties and for repaying government interest on war bonds. The Treasury will create a special department to curb and prevent any attempts at counterfeiting of the new temporary currency, and will ensure new techniques are employed crafting the notes to prevent their sabotage. Québec notes will bear the image of relevant historical figures of Québec depending on their value.

WAR BONDS ACT OF 1875:
-The Government will be authorized to issue "Victory Bonds" to be sold both to investors and the general public as means to raise revenue, to be repaid within a determined timeframe after the war and with the interests being repaid from various resource and financial requisitions in occupied territory. There will be regulated "bond drives" to take place on specific dates, with the War Board making full use of propaganda, famous artists or personalities, and other means to encourage the public to buy Victory Bonds as a sign of patriotism and participation in the war effort.

[Lumine]

[Lumine]

The Russo-Quebecois Treaty of 1875
A Treaty between the Russian Republic and the Kingdom of Québec,

1.-) The Kingdom of Québec formally recognizes the Russian Republic as its primary strategic, economic and diplomatic partner within the European continent. Likewise, the Russian Republic recognizes the Kingdom of Québec as its primary strategic, economic and diplomatic partner within the American continent.

2.-) Both signatories recognize the immense potential associated with trading across the Pacific Ocean, and pledge to expand trading capabilities and access between each other. There will be a general, reciprocal tariff reduction of 15%.

3.-) Their respective arrangements and alliances taking priority, the signatories will provide support to each other in various enterprises as part of their strategic partnership, and will respond to future acts of aggression on either signatory.

4.-) The signatories hereby recognize their present borders, areas of influence and privately agreed upon claims and interests; and pledge not to interfere and/or assist in their pursuit.

x Henry II, King of Quebec

[Lumine]

A PROCLAMATION

Citoyens! Citoyens!

As His Majesty made clear on his Queensbury Address, and even after our recent and stunning victories in the field, the Kingdom of Québec and the mighty North American alliance remained willing to bring an end to the war and discuss peace with London.

It was our hope that the English Monarch would be, if not committed, at the very least open to end the suffering of his armies and citizens, and not unnecessarily prolong the struggle. Terms were once offered by the Allies and they were rejected. When asked for his own, the English King made it clear HE would NOT OFFER ANY TERMS, whatsoever, nor any gesture of any basic goodwill.

It is his apparent intent to continue the war regardless of the consequences for his country, subjects and citizens, and it is his apparent determination to humiliate the entire continent and its peoples, dismissing already lenient settlements as "ridiculous". It the apparent intent of this man to send thousands of men to die and civilians to starve for the sake of his pride and ambition, to force the American peoples to suffer, to force the Irish and other peoples to fight a war that isn't theirs, and to reject any notions of diplomacy in favor of the sword.

In other words, the English King, perhaps deluded as to the state of the war, appears to want the Americans to beg for peace and mercy.

His Majesty, King Henry II, remains committed to a peaceful, realistic and diplomatic solution if one can be found. But he will not allow his nation and his peoples, his Allies, and those who were recently or still are subjects of the English Crown to be starved and humiliated for the sake of one man's pride.

Were it not for that stubborn, reckless pride, this war would be over. Every day it continues, aside from the sufferings inflicted on this continent, the nations of Europe are also denied access to American goods and resources, the very same goods and resources that could alleviate the lives of millions and ease the strain of war and famine in the European continent.

Let Almighty God be our witness: until the English Monarch sees sense, Québec will fight to win the peace.

Vive le Québec!

PROPAGANDA

Distributed across Québec and British America (in English and French)

[Lumine]

The North American Treaty (1871), as Amended by the Montreal Accord (1875)
A Treaty between the United Kingdom of Louisiana, the Kingdom of Mexico, the Kingdom of Quebec, and the Confederation of New England

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 borders and sovereign territory.

3.) A defensive alliance pact, binding the four powers to war against any foreign aggressor, or to intervene against any 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 Nation and their interests. The Commission shall develop and implement a plan to connect the four capital capital cities, and each major center of population or industry, by 1880. Each signatory shall contribute 1/4 the cost of the project, raised through whatever means each signatory shall determine proper.

5.) The establishment of a single, tariff-free, North American marketplace for goods, raw and processed, traded, sold, and exchanged at an agreed upon rate in the native currency of each signatory.

6.) The establishment of the North American College of Science to promote a greater shared understanding of scientific advances between the signatories. To this effect, each signatory shall designate a Chief Scientific Envoy to each other signatory to serve as their liaison for all scientific or technological matters.

7.) A long-term commitment to the electrification of the North American Continent. To this effect, each signatory shall develop a plan for an inter-connected network of electric generation stations and power relays across the continent.

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

[Lumine]

Statement from Montréal

His Majesty, King Henry II, formally disavows any rumor or suggestion that any European nation whatsoever may have been given technical knowledge of weaponry from the Kingdom of Québec. His Majesty, while concerned about some of the political and military developments taking place in the old world, does not have any additional comments to offer on the European situation at this stage.