Capto Iugulum: Empires and Nations

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Global News Report​

RISE OF LIBERALISM. Over the past few centuries, the increasing strength of monarchs in power over their countrymen in Europe has been a matter of concern for the merchant classes and educated. As a reaction against this power, a movement known as liberalism has taken hold throughout the middle classes of Europe. These "liberals" are said to be inspired by the American Revolution and the early nineteenth century revolt which led to the establishment of a modern constitutional republic in the Netherlands. The continuing success and power of both nations has led to liberal movements gaining strength throughout Europe. Furthermore, the recent violence of the war in Italy and the continued discrediting of the Papacy have greatly diminished the influence of religion in European life. The liberals throughout Europe are a varied bunch and not all are identical in demands, methods, and ideologies. Regardless, in recent years, the liberals have begun organizing and developing actual political movements and growth. It seems only a matter of time before these tensions rise to a boil, inflaming the continent. In response to their increased organization, and occasionally militarism, the conservatives of Europe have grown increasingly more dedicated to preventing their success and preserving the traditions of monarchy and religion. (1-4 Stability for all Absolute Monarchies in Europe)

SLAVE TRADE NEARS BITTER CONCLUSION. The African slave trade, a practice which has been viewed with increasing disgust after several highly public trials in the 1820s, has abruptly faced its doom this year. The Empire of Brazil, the Republic of the Netherlands, the United Kingdom of Great Britain, and Portugal all illegalized the practice, and the economy of the Atlantic was thrown into confusion overnight. Slave traders have been forced to stop the effort, and the basis of colonies along Africa's coast and in the Caribbean have been called into question. Portugal, which highly relied on the slave trade for its Atlantic commerce, has faced near total economic failure in the Caribbean. Fortunately, the inhumane practice has at last been brought to a conclusion, and most economists believe the loss in the slave trade may well be replaced by industrial production. (+1 Stability for all slave colonies, -1 Stability for all African colonies, +1 Stability for all European nations ending slave trade, -1 Stability for all nations with slavery still intact.)

News from Europe​

RIOTS WRECK VIENNA. Vienna, Austria. The Austrian capital of Vienna was set aflame by rioting this year, as the full death list from the late Second Venetian War became common knowledge. The extensive casualties and levels of loss of life are unprecedented in Austrian history and many in Vienna in particular are at least familiar with someone who lost a relative in the war. The result of the build up of tensions from the high casualties was a series of brutal riots throughout the city over the course of the summer. The military was called in to restore order, and after pacifying the populace, managed to secure control for the monarchy once more. Fortunately, tensions have begun dying down anyways as the war comes to a close. (+1 Stability)

PETITION CIRCULATES IN BRANDENBURG. Berlin, Brandenburg. A number of students from the prestigious universities across Brandenburg have united in a petition to the king calling for him to give up powers to an elected government. Several of the university towns became fairly unruly in the process, but the students managed to, for once, avoid crossing the line to rioting and unrest. The petition did somehow make its way to Berlin, where it was promptly rejected by all those in power. The petition is widely viewed to be another example of student unrest and idiocy among most of the upper and middle classes.

NORMAN MERCHANTS ASSAULTED IN BRITTANY. Nantes, Brittany. The growing reaction against French language and culture in Brittany reach a new level of violence in Nantes as a group of Norman merchants, who had insisted in the past on doing business in French, were attacked by a mob. Their stores were looted and ravaged by the mob, and their goods scattered among the many Bretons involved. The Breton monarch has refused to compensate the merchants for their losses, siding instead with the subjects involved in the unrest. Some have called it solidarity against the French invaders. Since then the merchants have returned to Rouen, appealing to King Philip IV in an attempt to put pressure on Brittany to compensate them for their losses.

ARMY REFORM FACES RESISTANCE IN KIEV.Kiev, Kiev. Attempts to reform the nation's army have been met with increasing resistance from conservative elements of the military. The reform to a more Western style of fighting seems to be a break away from tradition, and many leaders in the army are actively resisting the change as much as possible. Due to this interference, the monarchy and upper echelons of the army have been doing their best to weed out troublemakers and preserve order in the ranks. Unfortunately, the problems have resulted in the loss of capable, though stubborn, military officials setting the project behind. (-10 EP into Upgrading)

LOSS OF WAR LEADS TO UNREST IN MILAN. Milan, Milan. The perceived loss of the Second Venetian War to Austria has led to a series of small riots and unrest across the nation of Milan. The war was preached as an "Italian" cause and the failure seems immense to those who fought and died for it. Some have blamed the monarch for the loss of the war, and the result has been these numerous protests and small riots. The army and watch have done their best to contain the unrest, but the damage has been clearly done. The unrest continues to seethe across the nation as the government attempts to curtail the growth of turmoil. (-1 Stability)

RIOTING IN NORMANDY. Rouen, Normandy. The Norman government was faced with heavy rioting this year after the return of merchants from Brittany. The failure of King Philip IV to take immediate reaction against the Bretons has stirred the populace into a fervor. Supposedly Breton traders were attacked by the unruly mobs as Normandy turns towards a war footing. Tensions seem constantly on the rise throughout the nation, as anti-Catholic sentiment also began growing, sparking unrest against the local Catholic clergy. This has been mostly due to the seemingly aggressive actions of the Pope's favored French ruler in Burgundy, attacking and waging war on Orleans.

FOOD RIOTS SET BACK REPAIRS IN NOVGOROD. Novgorod, Novgorod. Novgorod, which is still in ruins following the devastating 1833 earthquake, suffered from an outbreak of riots in the local marketplace. The said cause is to be the high prices of basic food and supplies required for a typical standard of living in the nation. The prices have never been lowered since the famine ended, and it is believed that the merchant and upper classes have artificially kept prices high and supply short in order to maximize their profits. These tensions led to the eruption of the rioting which unfortunately set back some repairs to various government buildings. The army had to be called in, restoring order in a violent manner, and several hundred civilians are believed to have been slain in the process.

POMERANIA RISES IN REBELLION. Stettin, Pomerania. The Prussian province of Pomerania rose up in open rebellion against King Wilhelm III this year, as the local aristocracy and middle classes finance the formation of an army to fight the king. Several Prussian military units were even bribes to defecting to the rebellion, while mercenaries from other states were hired to fight for the new nation's independence. The hastily assembled government and army quickly negotiated with the local Swedish garrisons, which they allowed to evacuate the region, turning over control of the forts and ports to the Pomeranian government. Thanks to the acquisition of several Swedish guns and supplies, the Pomeranians managed to quickly and efficiently field a considerable army against the Prussians. The Prussian king was slow in assembling his forces, having to leave a shielding army against Poland. At the town of Coslin the two armies met in battle, after negotiations failed. The Prussian army triumphed over the Pomeranians, barely after a hard fought battle. The Pomeranians were forced to retreat to their de facto capital, Stettin, which fell under siege after a Prussian attempt to capture the city outright failed. The second assault, late in the year proved successful, though the city burned in the process, and civilian and military casualties were both very high. Regardless the final assault ended the abortive Pomeranian nation, restoring Prussian control and rule to the region, but at a hefty cost.
Casualty List
Pomerania: 9 Infantry Brigades, 4 Cavalry Brigades, 4 Artillery Brigades
Prussia: 7 Infantry Brigades, 3 Cavalry Brigades, 4 Artillery Brigades, -31 Manpower, -5 EP

ATTEMPTED REVOLT BATHES LISBON IN BLOOD. Lisbon, Portugal. The recent economic and political woes of the Portuguese Empire have fallen predominantly upon the shoulders of Queen Maria II. Many claim she has mental deficiencies and other foul blights upon her, which hinders her ability to rule effectively. A plot, long brewing, was launched this year to oust her from her throne and put a new dynasty to the rule of Portugal. What was to be a fairly bloodless coup turned violent as Queen Maria was not where she was believed to be, having been warned earlier. The result was a brutal battle in Lisbon as loyalists fought against the usurpers. The result was pre-determined as fresh military units were moved into the city and the revolt was quashed. Unfortunately, the heavy urban fighting led to massive civilian destruction, worsening the travails of the average Portuguese man. (-3 Infantry Brigades, -1 Artillery Brigade, -8 Manpower, -3 EP)

PROTESTS TURN VIOLENT IN SARDINIA. Cagliari, Sardinia. The recent end of the Second Venetian War has had backlash even among nations which had not participated in it. Sardinia, which actually profited from the war, has since suffered protests from groups and individuals who believe that Sardinia should have intervened for the "Italian cause." These people feel that the monarch of Sardinia and the upper classes betrayed the common Italian for wealth and profit, failing to assist against the Pope and Austria. Several fairly non-violent protests turned into bloodbaths in Cagliari, as the military overreacted and began cutting down unarmed civilians. The fighting was vicious, but short, and order was restored, but lingering resentment against the throne remains. (-1 Stability)

RELIGIOUS VIOLENCE IN RIGA PINNED ON PRUSSIA. Riga, Sweden. Early this year, a group of supposedly Orthodox Christian agitators began claiming loudly that the Swedish governor was arresting and imprisoning members of the Orthodox faith. Though no proof existed to substantiate this, the agitators managed to rile up a good portion of the population, and riots soon broke out once more in Riga. The military was reluctantly called in to once more restore order, which it managed to do with surprisingly little bloodshed. The ensuing investigation, by both members of the Orthodox clergy and the Swedish government, revealed that Prussian spies were clearly responsible for the recent rumors and unrest. The result has been an increased heightening of tensions with Prussia. (+1 Stability)

KING OF AUSTRIA DIES. Vienna, Austria. King Francis of Austria died this year, after seeing his nation achieve victory over the Italians and Swiss in the late Second Venetian War. This ambitious monarch managed to nearly double the size and influence of Austria in Central and Eastern Europe, and was considered popular among many of his middle and upper class subjects. The king's son Ferdinand has assumed the throne, and to most he's simply a copy of his father, holding most of the same beliefs and attitudes. During his tenure as prince, he served in the army with limited distinction, solely in the battles against Milan and Venice. The new King Ferdinand has pledged to continue his father's policies, continuing to expand Austrian power. (+1 Stability)

DUTCH ELECTIONS. Amsterdam, Republic of the Netherlands. The Exercitiegenootschappen faced a considerable challenge to their regime this year, as the international and economic situation threatened to destabilize their control over the Netherlands. The Patriots and Orangists did manage to secure some seats in the nation's Congress, but failed to achieve control of the position of Statholder. The conservative Exercitiegenootschappen have managed to continue to win over the population with the recent illegalization of the slave trade as well as vague promises of turning the economic situation around. They still have put most emphasis on the centralization of power in Amsterdam, continuing the growth of imperial control and possessions. Overall, the European trend towards liberalism has been quashed in the nation, though the growth of the movement has been noticed by Dutch political leaders. (+1 Stability)

KING OF SWEDEN DIES. Stockholm, Sweden. King Gustavus Adolphus IV has passed away this year in Sweden, amid some of the darkest hours for the Scandinavian nation. With no male heir to the throne, power has passed on to his daughter, Christina. Now proclaimed Queen Christina II, the new queen of Sweden has be viewed with trepidation by much of Northern Europe. Fortunately to many of the old guard, the new queen took heed of her father's words and actions, and is a tried and true conservative. Though she is not as hard on liberalism and heresy as some would like, she still favors the centralization of power in the monarchy and upper classes. To the rest of the country, the rise of Queen Christina is a welcome breath of stability and continuity in a troubled time. (+1 Stability)

PARIS SUCCESSFULLY REIGNS IN PUBLIC CALM. Paris, Paris. It is indeed a troubled time for the French nation of Paris. With the smallpox plague still lingering in the city streets and war erupting along its borders, the government of Paris took bold action and did nothing. The monarch did his best to "share the pain" of the population, calling for an end to the extravagance of royal life. Furthermore, funds were dedicated to the creation of a new hospital, rivaling the teaching hospital of Portugal, particularly since the latter has been bathed in the blood of a revolt. Overall, with deaths from the smallpox subsiding, it seems that at least some variation of public calm has emerged in Paris, though many are questioning how long it could possibly last in such a troubled world. (+1 Stability)

SPAIN BEGINS REFORM OF ARMY. Madrid, Empire of Holy Spain. The military defeats and setbacks in New Spain and India have led many in Spain's powerful army to question the way things are currently done. Seeing the success of military reform in Brandenburg and the United Kingdom of Great Britain, a similar program has been introduced for the Spanish armed forces. Emperor Carlos VI has given a royal go ahead to army reformists, taking advantage of new technologies and styles of fighting developed over the past few years. Spanish veterans from the War of the Catholic League and the Second Venetian War have led the way, looking to make the Spanish army a considerable force both in Spain and across the world.

HUNGARY BEGINS REFORM OF ARMY. Budapest, Hungary. Faced with growing concern towards the possible aggression of the Austrians or Poles, and the probable failure of the Roman Empire, the monarch of Hungary has led a drive to modernize the army. Though Brandenburg's efforts came a little too late for Hungary to consider, most view the initiative to create their own style of fighting as a symbol of Hungary's position as a European power. The military corps and upper classes fervently support the effort, and very few speak against the modernization. Many believe that Hungary's efforts could put it on the map as a military power in Eastern Europe. (+1 Stability)

SECOND VENETIAN WAR ENDS. Venice, Austria. After years of fighting, the bloodiest European war of the nineteenth century has at last come to an end. After their reverses in the battlefield last year, the Kingdom of Two Sicilies and Tuscany led the way to peace, ending their conflict with the Papal States after the occupation of Naples. The Sicilians suffered the worst, with their nation being split in two by the Papal States, and the Tuscans losing part of their nation to direct papal rule from Rome. Switzerland, Milan, and Savoy soon followed with peace treaties with Austria and the Pope, recognizing officially Austria's rule over Venice and the surrounding region. To many the war has been seen as a failure of an Italian cause against the pope and foreign invaders such as Austria and Spain. While the war was lost, many Italians from Savoy, Tuscany, Milan, and Sicily were united in their cause, and a proto-national identity was forged from the spilling of blood on a common battlefield. To many Italians the papacy has been viewed as increasingly corrupt, as seen with their vicious division of the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies, and their tromping over the rest of Italy. While the war may have been lost, it may well have opened the gates to a new era on the Italian Peninsula.
Statistic Changes From End of War
Austria: -1 Stability, +2 Army Quality
Bavaria: +1 Army Quality
Kingdom of the Two Sicilies (carried over to successor states): +1 Army Quality, +1 Navy Quality
Milan: -1 Stability, +1 Army Quality
Papal States: -2 Stability, +1 Army Quality, +1 Navy Quality
Savoy: -1 Stability, +1 Army Quality
Switzerland: -1 Stability, +1 Army Quality
Tuscany: -1 Stability, +1 Army Quality

NEW ORDER IN SICILY Naples, Naples. As a result of the overwhelming defeat at the hands of Austria, the Papal States, and the Empire of Holy Spain, the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies has been brought to an end. Malta has been turned over to the direct rule of the Empire of Holy Spain, as compensation for their support in the liberation of Rome. Meanwhile Two Sicilies has been split in two by the victorious nations. Though King Ferdinand has been allowed to continue his rule in Naples, the island of Sicily has been broken away and placed under the rule of a relative to the Spanish monarch. The new King Carlos V is closely aligned to the Empire of Holy Spain, though the monarch rules over a fairly hostile population. Numerous officers who had served in the Spanish army in Italy have been hired to help organize the army as well as make the various local supporters to the crown as wealthy as possible.

WAR AMONG THE FRENCH STATES. Dijon, Burgundy. Mounting tensions between Orleans and Burgundy have at last erupted into war as relations heated up towards war over the past two years. Claiming the refusal of Orleans to dismantle their newly created fortifications along the mutual border, the Burgundians declared war and began preparations for invasion. Having at least some warning of the conflict, the army of Orleans mobilized, and the completed border forts even managed to prove successful, delaying the Burgundians considerably as they were captured in preparation for the advance up the Loire River. In response to Burgundy's attack, the nation of Poitou also joined in the conflict, rallying their own army to the defense of Orleans. The Burgundian invasion was unfortunately delayed by extraordinary levels of flooding and torrential rains along the Loire River, which set back logistics considerably. This allowed the army of Poitou to arrive to meet the Orleans army, thus making the numbers almost even for the first major battle of the war. The combined army, meeting the Burgundian advance on the north side of the Loire, blocked the advance at the village of Briare. With the northern flank the Parisian border, and the southern flank the river, the Burgundians had little choice but to engage in open battle. Despite the prepared positions and well organized defense, the Burgundians managed to distract the enemy's center while swinging around for a decisive flanking attack using barges on the Loire River. The combined army was triumphantly smashed and routed by the Burgundians. Though the Orleans cavalry managed to hold off the pursuit, the Burgundians secured their advance and positions along the Parisian border. As the Battle of Briare secured the Loire supply line, Orleans withdrew a flanking army from the border with Paris, replenishing their numbers in time for a battle north of the capital. Faced with what was now a larger force, the Burgundian general proved confident in his men's abilities, and initiated an attack to seize the capital. Despite the odds, the Burgundians managed to smash the combined army set against them, once more using the Loire River to outflank the enemy positions. Defeated once again, but still intact with an army nearly as big as the invaders, the combined army pulled back into Orleans itself, using prepared forts and positions to draw the Burgundians into a siege. Filled with confidence over his overwhelming victories, the Burgundian commander launched a full attack against the city's siegeworks, hoping to break them and achieve a final victory. This time, however, though the Burgundians initially made some headway, a bloody battle emerged in which the defenders of Orleans inflicted heavy casualties. Though the Burgundians attempted to use the river yet again for flanking, this time artillery was waiting for them, resulting in a brutal slaughter of the attackers. After the defeat, the Burgundians settled in for a siege, calling for reinforcements from home. A courier sent home was captured by an Orleans patrol and their general thought to attack before the reinforcements could arrive. Unfortunately, the Burgundians anticipated the move, and prepositioned artillery smashed the allied attack before it ever properly began, ending the campaigning year. Both sides have since settled in for a long-term siege of Orleans, as neither have been able to cut the supplies of the other.
Casualty List
Burgundy: 13 Infantry Brigades, 2 Cavalry Brigades, 3 Artillery Brigades
Orleans: 12 Infantry Brigades, 3 Cavalry Brigades, 3 Artillery Brigades (efforts in fortification construction lost from invasion)
Poitou: 3 Infantry Brigades, 1 Artillery Brigade

NETHERLANDS EMANCIPATES SLAVESAmsterdam, Republic of the Netherlands. As the slave trade dwindles to an end, the Republic of the Netherlands took it another step further as they outright illegalized slavery, freeing all slaves within their colonies. This has mostly had an effect in the Caribbean, where slavery has been practiced on the local plantations. The local overseers have since been monitored in their efforts, but the simple nature of the island plantations have made little difference with the new law, as the only work exists on the plantations for the freed slaves. Furthermore, wages remain pitifully low and rent on plantations high, keeping the negroes in a de facto state of slavery regardless of what the law says. Nonetheless, the move has been a highly publicized and popular one both at home and in the colonies, helping build support for the regime. (+1 Stability, +1 Stability in Dutch West Indies)

BRITAIN ADOPTS NEW MILITARY METHODS. London, United Kingdom of Great Britain. Much like the Swedes and Brandenburg, the British Empire has seen the need for reform in its methods of waging war. The British have taken the year to indoctrinate new training and reform among its soldiers, placing emphasis on firepower and melee training, after its experiences in Burma and Vietnam. Unfortunately the haste and speed of the process has had a detrimental effect on overall quality, leading to the departure of several old guard, but talented, officers uncomfortable with the army's new direction. Furthermore, with some of the army engaged across the world, the abrupt switch in training has had a negative effect on the battlefield as confusion reigns in doctrine. (-1 Army Quality)

SWEDEN REFORMS ARMY. Stockholm, Sweden. The Swedish have found once again the need to modernize their army, especially with growing tension in the regions around their home waters of the Baltic Sea. They have adopted a new doctrine of combat, emphasizing melee training and discipline, allowing them to stand more toe to toe against melee heavy Asian armies and native tribes. Most of their tactics have been adopted from their experiences in fighting in Burma as well as the ongoing wars in the frontiers of Vinland. The Swedish forces have adapted to the new doctrines fairly well, having a year of relative peace to put these methods into practice without rushing headfirst into battle untested.

SWEDEN PASSES REFORMS ALLOWING RELIGIOUS AUTONOMY FOR ORTHODOX. Stockholm, Sweden. The recent unrest in Riga has led to calls for the establishment of religious reform in the region, and in order to prevent future violence, the new Queen Christina II has agreed to hear the claims. The mistreatment of Orthodox Christians in the Baltic States has indeed been the foundation for much local tension. The Queen has thus passed a royal decree allowing the autonomy of the Orthodox Church in Sweden, and protecting it against discrimination in Riga and the surrounding region. This effort has been very well received by the locals, and with the recent interference from Prussia, has even helped to greatly stabilize Sweden and its European empire in these troubling times. (+2 Stability)

BRANDENBURG INTRODUCES NEW STYLE OF COMBAT TO EUROPE. Berlin, Brandenburg. As one of the traditional leaders in the development of doctrines of war in Europe, the nation of Brandenburg has led the way in the search for a new standard style of combat on the continent. After two years of efforts, the Brandenburgers have introduced the new European Standard 1835 doctrine of combat and organization. These new techniques and doctrines have been closely watched by most European nations. While not as specialized as the new Swedish or British designs, they are immensely superior to past tactics, and many nations have begun adopting these techniques to their own armies.

FLANDERS DISCONTINUES FORT CONSTRUCTION. Brussels, Flanders. The outbreak of war between Burgundy and Orleans has led to an unusual decision by the king of Flanders. At his direct order, construction upon the border forts with Burgundy has been halted, though completed forts along the border have been allowed to remain intact. King Carlos has stated that the end of the program is to increase ties and improve diplomatic relations with the kingdom of Burgundy. However, many believe that the Burgundian invasion of Orleans has frightened the Flemish ruler that such an invasion could happen to his nation.

KIEV FACES RESISTANCE AGAINST WESTERNIZATION. Kiev, Kiev. As one of the several European nations to begin copying the new Brandenburger doctrines, Kiev has suffered some resistance to the effort from their old guard. Most of these voices fear the influences of Hungary or Poland in their politics, and believe that the old ways have worked well for a long time. The worst resistance comes from the cavalry, which has adopted unique traditions and styles of their own as one of the most powerful branches of the military. They have formed the base of the growing resistance against the crown's attempts at modernization. (-1 Stability)

PAPAL STATES COMPLETE CORSICAN FORTS. Bastia, Papal States. The end of the Second Venetian War has opened funding once again for the completion of coastal fortifications on the island of Corsica by the Pope. The war nearly exposed the weakness of the island when a Sicilian invasion would have succeeded if not for the timely intervention of Spain. Therefore, with the war at an end, the Pope has vowed that the island would no longer be undefended. These new forts possess the latest technology in coastal defense, including large guns and advanced engineering and methods of construction. Furthermore, the Pope has claimed that this is the first step in rebuilding a papal fleet to further protect Corsica and the Papal States' more secular interests in Italy.

POITOU COMPLETES ROYAL ART GALLERY. Poitiers, Poitou. Despite the outbreak of war with Burgundy for the support of Orleans, the King of Poitou has refused to let this affect the day to day life and planning in Poitou. So regardless of the needs of the war effort, the construction and collection of the Royal Art Gallery was completed and expanded this year. The complex features numerous examples of contemporary and past art from across France, including even some of the works made by recent masters in Burgundy. Notables from across Western Europe attended the gala opening, making it a featured event against the backdrop of a ever nearing war to the east.

ROMAN EMPIRE BEGINS WESTERNIZING ARMY. Constantinople, Roman Empire. The growing tensions within the Roman Empire and the increasing strength of the Caliphate and other neighbors has led the Imperator to hire Brandenburger advisers to assist in the westernization of the empire's legions. The old ways are being discarded in favor of these new techniques, hoping to adopt them in time to face an Islamic invasion or local rebellion. Fortunately, the effort has met no resistance in the ranks, as the majority of officers recognize the urgent need to reform. Only the great size and diversity of the Roman ranks has proven to be a barrier against the effort. The hope remains that the westernization will not come too late for the beleaguered empire.

SARDINIA COMPLETES PORT EXPANSION. Cagliari, Sardinia. Though the Second Venetian War has ended, the time of prosperity for Sardinia continues. As rebuilding begins on the peninsula, Sardinia remains a stopping and coaling point for Spain and the Papal States. Acting as a primary trading post, and using the wealth they gained from the war, Sardinia has completed their efforts to expand their local port facilities. This has included fueling stations for steamships as well as an overall larger harbor being formed and new docks constructed. The effort has fueled the growth of jobs and many Italians looking for work have arrived on the island where they have been met with employment and an increasingly modern nation.

News from the Americas​

SLAVE REVOLT IN BRITISH WEST INDIES. Donoe, United Kingdom of Great Britain. On the heels of the perceived victory of the slave revolution in Jamaica, a similar attempt was launched on the island of Tortola. Here, however, the local militia managed to crush the uprising, slaughtering the rebellious slaves and restoring chains to the survivors. The revolt failed to gain the numbers and weapons it needed to be a success, unlike the one in Jamaica. As a result the price of slaves has dramatically grown overnight, as locals attempt to replace the lost labor on their plantations. Fortunately, the revolt had exposed the worst rabble rousers among the slaves and the tensions have overall significantly calmed. (+1 Stability In British West Indies)

PARAGUAYAN PRESIDENT CEDES TO CALLS FOR ELECTIONS. Asuncion, Paraguay. This year a series of protests and petitions emerged in the South American nation of Paraguay calling for the end of President de Francia's absolute rule. To the surprise of many, the president has agreed to cede to the demands, agreeing to hold elections in 1836. The president seems confident in his ability to withstand public opinion and to preserve his control over the nation, which he has kept since the nation first won its independence. Several opposition leaders have arose to challenge the president for control of the nation, primarily from the religious among the populace who challenge the right of the president to break away from the Catholic Church. (+1 Stability)

NEW GRANADANS CALL FOR RESTORATION OF DEMOCRACY Bogota, Republic of New Granada. Several leaders and protests have emerged against the military rule of General Argos in the Republic of New Granada. They have called for new elections and the formation of a democratically elected government. Most of these naysayers have been arrested by the military, and thrown into prison for alleged treason. The result has been the continued rising of tensions as many accuse the general of being more power-hungry than his predecessor. Dissent against the military government has been ruled to be treason and military rule continues over the republic. (-1 Stability)

BRITISH MAKE DEAL WITH JAMAICA. Kingston, Jamaica. To the surprise of many local and European powers, the United Kingdom of Great Britain has cut a deal with the rebel slaves who seized Jamaica. Rather than face storming the considerable coastal fortresses that they themselves built, the British have negotiated with the rebel leader Smith to prevent further bloodshed, while maintaining their own business interests. As most landowners were actually killed during the uprising, and many of those who would have lobbied for the military return of the island dead, the British had surprising freedom and support in the effort. In exchange for allowing the island it's independence, Jamaica has signed an agreement giving an economic trade monopoly to the British. The British continue to be the sole beneficiaries of Jamaican trade, without the costs of actually managing the island. With the deal concluded both nations can now look towards paving a way to a brighter tomorrow. (+1 Stability for both nations)

FIRST BRAZILIAN ELECTIONS HELD. Rio de Janeiro, Empire of Brazil. The Empire of Brazil gained its first completely democratically elected government this year, holding elections for the legislative branch of its nation. To no surprise of anyone observing, the elections were clearly in favor of the Party of Order, to which the Emperor gave his personal support. The Party of Order, the conservative party which has formed around most of those responsible for crafting the new constitution, has handily dominated almost every element of the Brazilian government. Though the opposition Liberal and Restorationist Parties managed to gain some seats in the nation's Congress, they lack any considerable majority and the Party of Order clearly controls the nation. (+1 Stability)

FIRST PANAMA ELECTIONS HELD. Panama City, Panama. The small nation of Panama has held its first elections since achieving independence from the Republic of New Granada and a new constitution this year. Though former president, and "Father of his Nation," Juan Calvo called for a coalition moderate government, the effort widely failed as other leaders crafted a far more partisan political atmosphere. The Conservative Party has rallied around the idea of a centralized government with strong ties to the United States of America, while the Liberals have preached a more regional path with relations to the European powers. Overall, the arguments of the Conservatives prevailed by a narrow margin, leading to their electoral victory. A new government has been formed, as a new regime is established, though the bitterness and tensions created by the new electoral process cannot be ignored. (-1 Stability)

REBELLION OF NEW SPAIN. Tegucigalpa, Empire of Holy Spain. The Spanish continued their efforts to regain control of the rebellious colony of New Spain this year, meeting with unfortunate problems. Though major forces were deployed from Spain itself, the fighting began on an unwelcome note. Informed upon by bribed Mayan scouts, the Spanish were led into an ambush west of Tegucigalpa. The USNS army managed to surprise and attack the Spanish with astonishing ferocity and success. The Spanish army was mauled and routed, hardly inflicting any damage at all upon the rebels. Having gained an advantage in numbers, the rebels renewed an offensive, striking west at the largest city on the western coast, San Salvador. Unfortunately, the Spanish managed to rally effectively and inflict a defensive victory against the rebels, securing a strategic stalemate in the north. With the northern armies at a stalemate, the Spanish launched a new bid to deliver a knock-out blow to the rebels. Landing at the mouth of the San Juan River, the Spanish sent a smaller army west to seize Managua. The effort was halted by artillery battalions stationed on the river and approaches to the city. Possessing superior firepower to the Spanish, the rebels managed to prevent any flanking maneuvers, though they were unable to drive the Spanish into the sea. One last attempt was made by Spanish forces to take Tegucigalpa back before the end of the year, striking east with their northern army, a stalemate was achieved in open battle by the rebels, blocking the Spanish advance.
Casualty List
Empire of Holy Spain: -5 Infantry Brigades, -2 Cavalry Brigades, -1 Artillery Brigade
United States of New Spain: -5 Infantry Brigades, -1 Artillery Brigade

ARGENTINA CONTINUES INTEGRATION. Buenos Aires, Argentina. The Argentine government have made great strides towards further integration this year, as one particularly stubborn landowner threw his support behind Buenos Aires. Though in the past he resisted the centralized rule, he has since seen the possible prosperity and wealth that Buenos Aires could bring to the rest of the country, and him in particular. Though he remains opposed to Juan de Rosas politically, he has thrown his substantial financial and political support behind establishing a single Argentine nation. This has had a significant effect on the ongoing process, helping speed the drive to political and social integration of Argentina. (+20 EP to Integration project)

BRAZIL BEGINS MODERNIZING PORT FACILITIES. Rio de Janeiro, Empire of Brazil. Interested in the development of modern technology, the port authority of Rio de Janeiro, encouraged by the monarchy, has begun an effort to make the port the most modern in the world. This has included the reconstruction of dock and warehouse facilities to provide for the new steamships. Furthermore, an English firm has been commissioned to provide a steam engine for the limited hauling of heavy goods around the port, in an effort which has seen numerous problems to date. The technology, new and fragile, has not adapted well to the climate and the costs for the work have continued to mount as the effort moves forward. (+20 EP to cost of port modernization)

NEW GRANADA-VENEZUELA WAR ENDS. Maracaibo, Venezuela. After several years of brutal conflict which began with a New Granadan invasion of western Venezuela, the two nations have at last come to terms. Venezuela agreed to end calls for territorial compensation for the war, and have instead accepted a long-term payment plan of reparations by the New Granadan government. The Republic of New Granada has also agreed to recognize the independence of the new state of Ecuador and has signed a ten-year nonaggression pact with both Venezuela and Ecuador. Due to Brazilian interference with the peace process, this has also lead to the signing of a ten-year defensive pact, in which all three nations have agreed to come to each other's aid in the event of an outside invasion of any of the nations. Regardless the bloody war has at last come to a relieving end. (+1 Stability for New Granada and Venezuela, +1 Army Quality for New Granada and Venezuela, +1 Navy Quality for Venezuela)

VENEZUELA COMMISSIONS MAPPING SURVEY. Caracas, Venezuela. The central Venezuelan government in Caracas has created a survey to investigate and map the southern interior of the nation for resources. They have met with some local resistance as the various landlords resist the effort, as several groups of cartographers and engineers have gone missing in the process. Though the central government can't prove underhandedness on behalf of the landlords, the efforts have been incomplete at best and completely wrong at worst. To many the effort has gone to show the resentment many of the landlords have shown towards a central government and a rising tension between the main groups within the nation. (-1 Stability)

OJIBWE WAR CONTINUES IN VINLAND. New Stockholm, Sweden. The Ojibwe War in western Vinland has continued throughout this year as the Ojibwe tribes continue hit and run attacks against Swedish forts and settlements. The Swedes have switched tactics this year, arming local militias and using superior numbers to draw the natives to them. These tactics have proven fairly effective, causing the natives to waste their efforts in the attacks, but the assaults continue nonetheless. The fighting has continued to be brutal in almost every respect, in a no prisoners style of warfare. Though the natives are suffering losses, they continue to be well supplied and dug in, allowing them to pick and choose what battles to fight.

COUP BRINGS END TO ECUADOR CONSTITUTIONAL HOPES. Quito, Ecuador. The year began poorly for Ecuador as the constitutional convention to establish a new government began. The famous and beloved Simon Bolivar passed away this year from unknown causes, but are believe to be related to a disease caught on campaign against New Granada. In the power vacuum, an ambitious leader managed to appeal to the masses through emotions and gain the support of the military. Claiming the bureaucrats responsible for the constitution were out of touch with the masses, the general managed to arrest the leaders and proclaim the new Kingdom of Ecuador. This immediately lost a good deal of support from the masses, but the newly crowned King Simon maintains the support of the military, pledging to right the wrongs of the treaty with New Granada. (-2 Stability)

AMERICAN PUSH WEST MEETS NEW RESISTANCE. Chicago, United States of America. The United States of America's citizens have continued their push to the west, settling new lands and upsetting the locals considerably. The American government has continued to give support to settlers, including an increasing amount headed to what many call "Jacksonia" on the western coast of North America. Forts have been built along routes to the west for the travelers, along the Jacksonian Trail, and the migration has been growing at an astonishing rate. All across the eastern coast, word of the wealth and riches awaiting in the west as a new chance at life as attracted these settlers ever more. Unfortunately, the natives are less than enthusiastic about American hopes and dreams and have engaged in open war. The American forts have come under constant attack along the Missouri River by the native tribes, mostly disorganized. However, the attacks have gained increasing ferocity, and one fort was even destroyed in the process.

NEW URUGUAYAN PRESIDENT END INTEGRATION PROJECT. Montevideo, Uruguay. With the electoral success of the Blancos in last year's elections, the new Uruguayan president has outright canceled the Colorado's pet project of integrating the interior. Though vast sums of national treasure had been expended on the process, the political sabotage is immense, as the Blancos reject the very premise of the project. The Colorados have been outraged at this move, resetting everything the past president had done. The result has been several protests and even small scale rioting in Montevideo. The military has been called in to crack down on the unrest, but tensions continue to simmer throughout the country. (-1 Stability)

News from Africa and the Middle East​

RIOTING IN ARMENIA. Yerevan, Roman Empire. The Roman Empire has faced another grave threat to its power in the Caucuses, as a group of radical clergymen lead the populace in revolt against the patriarch of Constantinople. The result has been the outbreak of several considerable riots against local garrisons, as the Armenian clergy launches an underground war against the empire. The local legions have been called in to restore order, and have been faced with constant hardship and sabotage from their efforts. The Armenian "hill men" have done their best to stymie the Roman efforts, looting beaten Roman forces for fresh supplies and weapons. (-2 Infantry Brigades)

OMAN WELCOMES ABYSSINIAN EMBASSY. Muscat, Oman. In a move surprising some experts in African and Middle Eastern diplomacy, the nation of Oman has welcomed an ambassador from Abyssinia. Though in the past the nations have remained more or less indifferent toward each other, the new ties seem directed at increasing local trade and improving relations. More cynical observers suggest that the Abyssinians seek potential allies against Mamluk expansionism, hoping to contain attempts to add their nation to the Caliphate. The Omanis seem to be fairly in line with this idea, fearing that the Mamlukes make attempt to take advantage of their faltering economy.

ABYSSINIA CONTINUES WAR ON BANDITS. Addis Ababa, Abyssinia. The seemingly endless war against bandit lords took a small turn sideways this year, as a rather large bandit force managed to actually defeat one of the royal cavalry brigades sent to contain them. The Abyssinians were trounced on the battlefield and utterly destroyed, giving their weapons to the bandits in the wake of their defeat. The result has been an escalation of bandit activity once more all throughout the Abyssinian south, and many fear that the recent successes may have all been for naught. Regardless, the Abyssinian crown has offered amnesty to any bandits willing to give up the spoils of their raiding and return to a peaceful life. Few have taken advantage of the offer, as the tide seems to swing towards their favor once more. (-1 Cavalry Brigade)

WAHABI REVOLT SUBSIDES UNDER MASSIVE FORCE. Basra, Mamluk Caliphate. The Wahabi rebellion, a constant thorn in the side of the Mamlukes, has faced a far greater challenge than previously. Seeing the growing support for the Wahabis in the Arabian Peninsula, the Mamlukes decided to take the direct approach and simply flooded the region with its army. Though the Wahabis have managed to win some victories against the Mamlukes, they have seen that their prior targets become unviable for attack. Simple numbers have forestalled the growth of the movement, which faces an increasingly restricted are of operation. The Mamlukes rarely take the offensive into the deserts, instead waiting for the Wahabis to attack, thus slowly exposing the rebels to unbearable attrition. (-2 Infantry Brigades)

SWEDEN SENDS EXPEDITION UP CONGO RIVER. Oslo, Sweden. A triumphant expedition returned from Africa this year as a Swedish exploration team along with native guides headed up the Congo River. The expedition encountered various tribes with varying degrees of hostility and apathy, and traded to make their way ever further. They have thus created one of the most accurate maps of the African interior to date, as they scout out one of the least explored regions of the dark continent. The expedition was lauded as heroes upon their return at Oslo, where they were met by the Queen herself, and rewarded for their brave journey.

News from the Far East​

RESENTMENT AGAINST BRITISH SPARKS RIOTING IN SWEDISH INDIA. Vizag, Sweden. The recent monopolization of the opium market in China by British merchants has led to a massive devaluation of profits for locals in Swedish India. Similarly, almost all products have fallen in price and therefore revenues. The result was a slow but steady increase in resentment against British merchants in India, who have been buying up the Swedish surplus at intolerably low prices, stealing the markets for their own. Things reached a boiling point when some incident sparked a fight between Indian and British merchants in the harbor of Vizag. A mob was riled up against the British traders, and several ships were burned in harbor and their wealth taken and scattered among the masses. The result has been a worsening state of tension in India as the British merchants demand compensation for their losses at the hands of the unruly Swedish subjects.

BLOODY REBELLION ERUPTS IN SOUTHERN CHINA. Ghuangzhou, China. As perhaps of a sign of things to come, a peasant rebellion emerged in southern China this year, against locally risen taxes and corrupt officials. Tens of thousands of unruly peasants rose up against the Chinese governor, and managed to overtake several army garrisons. Eventually, after the mob continued its rampage and grew less and less orderly, the Chinese army responded, taking the fight to the rebels. The fight was brutal but quick, as the Chinese overwhelmed the revolt through sheer firepower. The rebels dispersed, but many still live at large throughout the country side, looting and raiding villages and military bases when they have a chance. (-3 Infantry Brigades, -29 Manpower)

USURPER LEADS BLOODY REBELLION IN KOREA. Seoul, Korea. A distant relative of the king of Korea has been backed in an effort to oust the monarch and restore tradition to the nation with a full uprising. Backed by reactionary elements of the army, the hopeful usurper managed to win several battles and even besiege Seoul itself. Several attempts were made to capture the city and the old king, but eventually an army of loyalists was assembled south of the capital. They successfully managed to engage and rout the rebel army, though the war would be far from over. It would take several more months and vicious fighting to eventually defeat the rebellion, leaving much of the countryside in ruins as well as several towns and smaller cities. (-11 Infantry Brigades, -20 Manpower)

PRINCES CONTINUE TO EXPRESS DISCONTENT IN MARATHA CONFEDERACY. Pune, Maratha Confederacy. The recent defection of Jaipur has caused other princes of the Confederacy to grow thoughtful towards cooperation with the local European imperial powers. Though the recent outbreak of war has ended most opportunities for these would-be traitors to the Confederacy, they have openly protested the use of their armies for the war against Spain and Sweden. They have thus withdrawn their forces from the war effort, hindering the fighting, and at worst sabotaging it. At the moment no dramatic repercussions have taken place, as the princes build their own strength and influence at the expense of the larger Confederacy. (-1 Stability, -6 Infantry Brigades, -1 Cavalry Brigade)

UNEASE GROWS IN SIAM TOWARDS EUROPEAN INTENTIONS Bangkok, Siam. The British invasion of Vietnam has given pause to some opposed to dealing with Europeans in Siam. Though Rama III remains stalwartly against any deals or treaties, some have begun to consider that openly engaging the European colonial powers may be Siam's best hope for national survival. They have begun plotting against the king, attempting to find new ways to westernize the armies of the nation while still maintaining their traditions and beliefs. Unfortunately, the king has grown aware of these efforts and has made example of several officers caught engaging European officials with ideas of reform or westernization. (-1 Stability)

SPAIN SENDS EXPEDITION TO JAPAN. Tokyo, Japan. Japan, an island long isolated from European influences, faced a grave threat this year as a Spanish naval armada, along with some of Spain's newest steam warships from the Philippines, arrived to negotiate a new treaty. Rather than approaching one of the limited European trading ports in the southern islands, the Spanish proceeded to the largest city of Tokyo to directly create a new deal. Though some hotheads advocated opposing the Spanish militarily, the Japanese shogun saw little point in an obviously one-sided possible battle. Rather, the Japanese have been forced to open all ports to Spanish traders, signing a rather unbalanced treaty with the Empire of Holy Spain. Needless to say, many traditionalists view this as rather repugnant, and the foundations of the Japanese Empire have begun to tremble. (-1 Stability)

BRITAIN CONTINUES AGGRESSIVE OPIUM TRADE POLICIES. Hong Kong, United Kingdom of Great Britain. The British authority in Hong Kong has continued to use the navy to aggressively hunt down and shut down Swedish smugglers of opium. They have continued to enforce that all European trade with China must go through Hong Kong and have made the best efforts to punish anyone infringing upon this. They have also raised tariffs within Hong Kong itself, flaying any foreign merchants doing business in the city, though this has been recently relaxed against the Spanish and Dutch. The British have also very noticeably stopped turning over Spanish and Dutch smugglers to the Chinese government, though Swedish merchants and smugglers continue to be caught and turned over to the Chinamen at every opportunity.

BURMESE CIVIL WAR ENDS AS BRITISH PULL OUT. Amarapura, Burma. The war against a Burmese usurper has come to an end as King Bagiydaw reestablishes his authority in southern Burma. A potentially bloody confrontation with the British was forestalled as after Burmese demands, they withdrew peacefully from the southern part of the country. Negotiations began between the British and Burmese over the status of future relations, but no treaty or official agreement has yet been made. British merchants are still welcomed by grateful Burmese authorities, but they receive the same official treatment as any other foreign merchant. It seems as though the Burmese hope for a status quo of prosperity to be restored with the end of the civil war. (+1 Stability, +1 Army Quality for Burma)

BRITISH INVADE VIETNAM Saigon, Vietnam. After last year's coup which led to the pro-British Vietnamese monarch being overthrown, the British have launched an invasion to restore their authority to the Indochinese nation. After spending much of the year shipping reinforcements in from Britain, the Royal Navy launched the first attack, meeting the Vietnamese navy, which won a major naval victory over China less than three decades ago, in battle. The British, though vastly outnumbered, still managed to gain the winds in their favor, and using superior equipment inflicted a heavy toll upon the Vietnamese fleet. Eventually sheer numbers did allow the Vietnamese to bring the British into a close-range battle, but the British easily managed the situation to their favor. Though some losses did occur, the British have smashed the Vietnamese navy and any chance to prevent an invasion. The British first target was Hue, and the Vietnamese were well aware of it. The main Vietnamese army was assembled, hoping to smash the British through sheer numbers on the beaches. They were able to locate the British landing point and attacked. Superior firepower and support from offshore artillery led to wave after wave of the Vietnamese army being smashed and routed by the British. After this decisive victory, the remnants of the Vietnamese army were quickly mopped up around Hue. With this success there was little else in the nation left to defend it and the usurping Minh Mang was seized by the British and a new king was brought to the throne. With this, the British have effectively set themselves as the de facto rulers of Vietnam, and the king is clearly a puppet to their rule, in a rising new era of the empire.
Casualty List
United Kingdom of Great Britain: 3 Infantry Brigades, 1 Artillery Brigade, 5 Third Rate Warships, 3 Second Rate Warships, 2 First Rate Warships
Vietnam: 16 Infantry Brigades, 3 Artillery Brigades, 52 Fifth Rate Warships

BRITISH EXPAND CONTROL IN CHINA. Hong Kong, United Kingdom of Great Britain. As a rebellion erupted in China, the British have moved to exploit their economic position in the nation for greater gain. The British sent a considerable amount of troops to Hainan and Formosa, securing the islands from any threat of rebellion. Surprising they have actually be fairly well received by the local merchants, most of whom have only had a nodding association with Peking in the past. The lack of any Chinese military forces or even local governors has made the effort even easier, with the British establishing full control over the islands. Though they claim to be assisting the Chinese Emperor, the fact is that the British clearly have assumed the governance and profitability of these two islands.

BURMA COMPLETES CAPITAL FORTIFICATIONS. Amarapura, Burma. The end of the civil war in Burma has not led to a decadence in the military and monarch of the restored nation. Fears of war with Britain or a resurgent Siam have led to King Bagiydaw calling for the continued construction of forts around Amarapura. This program, which had been begun before the civil war began, was renewed as the fighting came to a close. This year the new forts have been finished, even possessing some modern European cannons to supplement the defenses. The hope is that the city could withstand all but the largest attacks, even if they possess the formidable firepower the British displayed in their campaign in the south.

MARATHA REORGANIZE ARMY IN PREPARATION FOR WAR. Pune, Maratha Confederacy. As war appeared on the horizon between the Maratha Confederacy and the Empire of Holy Spain, the Marathas put what efforts they could into developing a new doctrine of warfare. After several years of development, the effort has met with success, exploiting European weakness in close quarters combat and local mobility. Though they lack the firepower of European brigades, the Maratha are confident that in a carefully planned battle they could overwhelm even the strongest of imperial forces. The effort did meet some resistance from the princes, who viewed it rightfully as an attempt to centralize their armies with Pune, and this has caused further disruption between the princes and the central government of the Confederacy. (-1 Stability)

MARATHA CONFEDERACY LAUNCHES WAR ON SPAIN. Jaipur, Empire of Holy Spain. In response to the defection of the prince of Jaipur last year to the Empire of Holy Spain, the Maratha Confederacy has declared war. Assembling their massive army took a considerable amount of time, allowing for Spain to bring in reinforcement, but they did eventually march upon the treasonous prince's capital. Calling for the Spanish to protect him ultimately led to a confrontation, as the Spanish found themselves outnumbered nearly four to one. The Marathas rushed into the attack, and were devastated by the firepower of the Spanish. After two days of constant attack, the Spanish were running low on ammunition and supplies, and eventually the Marathas made it into close quarters. On the third day the Spanish center was finally smashed, and the Spanish were forced to retreat from the city, which was burned to the ground by the vengeful Marathas. Though they had inflicted a heavy toll upon the Marathas, the Spanish lost over half of their army in the prolonged battle, now outnumbered nearly seven to one by the Indians. Facing no alternative, the Spanish fled into their old fortress at Ahmedabad, which has long been the bastion of European power in the region. Despite the odds, the Spanish fought a valiant defense, and thanks to their artillery and masterful use of reserves, managed to not only repulse, but utterly rout the Indian attack. Most of the Indian leaders were killed in a lucky artillery strike, which led to further confusion, as they fled away to the north and those in charge struggled to rally the shattered army.
Casualty List
Empire of Holy Spain: 6 Infantry Brigades, 4 Cavalry Brigades, 1 Artillery Brigade
Maratha Confederacy: 20 Infantry Brigades, 4 Cavalry Brigades, 3 Artillery Brigades

Financial Section​

ECONOMIC REPORT. Madrid, Empire of Holy Spain. Overall it appears that the global economy has massively shrunk this year, mostly considering the end of the long-time slave trade and the resulting economic chaos. A loss of fifty-four economic points to the world as a whole.


Population Movements



Random Stat Changes and Fluctuations

Army Quality Increases Due to Spread of Rifled Muskets (+3 Army Quality):


Navy Quality Increases Due to Spread of Paddle-Steamer Warships (+3 Navy Quality):


Random Manpower Boost for Prussia: +4 Manpower

Diplomatic Pouch

To: Burgundy
From: Poitou

Due to your act of aggression against our friends in Orleans, we hereby declare war upon you.

To: Burgundy
From: Dauphine

While we'd prefer to maintain our neutrality in the ongoing war, we are forced to state that we will consider military intervention if the territorial boundaries of Orleans are not guaranteed to be left intact should you emerge victorious.

To: Empire of Holy Spain
From: Maratha Confederacy

Due to your actions undermining our sovereignty, we hereby declare war upon you. The war will be brought to an end upon your immediate vacation of all your current possessions in our region. Our successes this year should be enough to prove our supremacy.

OOC

@warman17: The imperial administration is specifically for the area of Venice proper, and was not for the Croatian area.

@das I'm unsure if you want the infrastructure thing to be a policy or project. For now I'm assuming it's a one-off spending at the moment.

@Polish Ghetto: as per your request, no money was spent in your covert actions due to a lack of another player's support or acknowledgement.

Eltain, NinjaDude, germanicus12, thomas.berubeg, Cannae, The_Tyrant, and MjM have left/been kicked out of the NES due to inactivity or lack of time. Their nations are now available.

A free basket of EQ Points to anyone who sets up a list of updates to be used in the first post from what we've done so far.

Question for the masses: what do you think of the new format of the update? Keep, discard, or apathy?

@Agent 89: while you do have the advantage in quality and organization, I'd like to point out that it may not be as much of an advantage as you think it is. An advantage of 1 point in Firepower is negated by the enemy being on the defensive (though you could also look at it as their being on the defensive is negated by your Firepower), while Army Quality is mostly irrelevant in my calculations for combat except in very rare circumstances. I am typing this before I actually do your war, but felt that whether you win or lose, it should be pointed out.

In case it wasn't clear or you're too lazy to ever look at the front page besides you stats, you CAN adopt the new European Standard 1835 if you are a European or American nation. It's our new generic army style.

Congratulations to Justo for his impending marriage.

World Map

Cool! You're back! And you gave us an update! (Of course, it sucks when it turns out that my brilliant strategies didn't work against the rebels in Nicaragua and the Maratha invaded me...)

To: Maratha Confederacy
From: Empire of Holy Spain
Should you not leave our lands, the fury of the Empire of Holy Spain will fall upon you.

To: Swedish Empire, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland
From: Empire of Holy Spain
Unless we work together to fight off the Maratha Confederacy, it won't be long until they decide to attack your colonies in India. You can't allow them to gain the upper hand in Spanish India, or they will gain enough confidence to attack you!

To: United States of New Spain
From: Empire of Holy Spain
The sooner you return to the fold, the sooner the war will end. And the sooner you put down your arms, the greater the leniency the Emperor will give you.

To: Empire of Holy Spain
From: United States of New Spain

We will not cede any ground, we continue to demand our independence.

To: Empire of Holy Spain
From: Maratha Confederacy

We demand the annexation of the Jaipur princedom back into our nation, we will not accept anything less for peace.

I like the new update style...and sent PM.

To: Prussia
From: Brandenburg

Your recent actions against Sweden will not be tolerated. We feel you must be brought down a notch. Therefore, we demanding you turn over Pomerania to us.

To: Brandenburg
From: Prussia

We will not turn over Pomerania to you.

To: Brandenburg
From: Poland

We feel we must warn you, any military action against Pomerania will result in our intervention against your expansionist aggression.

To: Poland
From: Brandenburg

You're Polish. We're German. We have no reason to intervene in your affairs, so why do you ours?

You know, I was walking back from class today, and way off in the distance I saw this thing flying. It didn't look like a bird, at least at the time I was pretty sure it didn't. In fact, I thought, but didn't want to believe, that it looked...sort of like a pig. I got to my room and loaded up Civ Fanatics and saw that this NES had been updated and now I know what I saw was real.

bestshot9 said:

You know, I was walking back from class today, and way off in the distance I saw this thing flying. It didn't look like a bird, at least at the time I was pretty sure it didn't. In fact, I thought, but didn't want to believe, that it looked...sort of like a pig. I got to my room and loaded up Civ Fanatics and saw that this NES had been updated and now I know what I saw was real.

Click to expand...

lolwut?

Great Update EQ.

To: Brandenburg
From: The Republic of the Netherlands

We too are concerned about your recent aggression towards Prussia and we ask you to refrain from pursuing military action against Prussia.

To All French States, especially Dauphiné
From Paris

If any further state declares war on Burgundy in support of Orleans, Paris, much as it wishes to remain peaceful, will feel obliged to declare war on any such state and also on Orleans itself, in support of its ally Burgundy.

To: Paris
From: Dauphine

All we seek is to remain neutral, but without the loss of sovereignty for Orleans. If Burgundy agrees not to annex the nation, we would be content to sit out the war.

GamezRule said:

lolwut?

Click to expand...

Don't question it. Just roll with it.

I was only giving EQ a hard time anyways .

To Brittany
From Normandy

First things first. This passive-aggressive hate between us is bad for business. A Frenchman will quake in fear as much as the next of being mistaken to be from the wrong nation. Of course, I can easily end all trade with you and cut the flow of goods from Prussia and the Baltics;such semi-luxurious items such as Amber or Swedish Ore. But I am feeling slightly conciliatory despite my people's clamor for war; Hand over the merchants, and we can hold a trial in the lands of an intermediary (non-french or french, I have no qualms) and accept the outcome. Blood need not be shed for justice, if justice is attainable without that sacrifice.

If instead you wish to needlessly escalate this conflict, I cannot claim instantaneous victory. What I can claim is that we will weaken each other. I can promise that we will reduce our trade. I can promise that we will lay prostrate under the feet of our neighbors; I under the despicable Liberal Monarchs of Paris or London, and you under any of your French 'friends.'
I can promise the decline of our hold on French Trade. I can promise the destruction of our credibility and credit rating.
I can promise the revolt, and possible down fall, of our monarchies to our devious liberal elements.

This path need not, and should not be walked. Let's find justice together as equals, brooding as we be, and leave this conflict to the future.

- Philip IV, King of Normandy


To Paris
From Normandy

I applaud your return to your senses and your support of the Balance of Power. By support as in letting your ally of 'equal ideologies' slowly influence, dominate, control and subjugate your affairs. Luck be with you in that endeavor.

-Philip Iv, King of Normandy


To Prussia
CC: Brandenburg, Poland
From Normandy

Any warfare over the 'Baltic Issue' of Prussian anatagonism will only further destroy infrastructure and reduce trade. I suggest Prussia and Sweden manage it directly, or with an disinterested intermediary, and for Brandenburg and Poland to both stay out of it and calm. Trade will be beneficial for all of us. If the routes are destroyed, the social disorder may cause the merchants to support the deplorable liberals.

-Philip IV, King of Normandy

From: Swedish Empire
To: International Community, Whomever It May Concern
In accordance with the treaties signed between the United Kingdom of Great Britain and China, we recognize the following:

1. British right to administer treaty-ports within China
2. Agreement by Swedish merchants to enter Chinese markets and China itself through the British port authority at Hong Kong
3. Egalitarian, necessary nature of the British intervention within Vietnam

From: Swedish Empire
To: Prussia
CC: Poland, Brandenburg
Her Majesty is not amused.

To: Normandy
From: Brittany

We will not turn over our citizens to your justice or otherwise compensate the theives who pose as Norman merchants. They were unjust in their actions in our nation and received proper punishment. We're fairly sure that we will not suffer too much from a pitiful embargo, and are prepared to oppose you should YOU attempt to escalate the concern from its current level.