Capto Iugulum: Empires and Nations

Global News Report​

NATIONS CONTINUE ARMY MODERNIZATION. Constantinople, Roman Empire. The race to ever keep up with emerging trends in army doctrines and tactics is an expensive one, but this year three more nations have finished efforts in updating their techniques and abilities. These three nations are Milan, the Republic of the Netherlands, and the Roman Empire. In Milan the efforts to update the army's techniques have gone a long way to stabilizing support in the army for the government, they've found the new doctrine to have been very effective in unifying new recruits under the banner of the new government. The Republic of the Netherlands has also had success with the adoption of the current standard style of European conflict, though some question the validity in imperial conflicts of the doctrine. Lastly the Roman Empire has at last finished bringing its forces to par with most modern European nations, and considering the trying times ahead and the burgeoning civil war, not a moment too soon. The reform has bought considerable support in the army and aristocracy, hoping that the new weapons and doctrine will be enough to preserve the empire. (+1 Stability for Milan and the Roman Empire)

END OF SLAVERY IN SPAIN. Madrid, Empire of Holy Spain. After three years of compensation and gradual emancipation the institution of slavery has been brought to an end in the Empire of Holy Spain and all of its colonies. Most former slaves continue to work on the plantations where they lived in chains. The fairly low wages and rent have kept them in place, laboring on spice, sugar, and cotton plantations throughout the Caribbean. The Spanish governors have overseen the process and most landowners have cooperated fully, though there is a faction of locals who are less than thrilled about new competitors for wages in the islands. While this has built up support for the Spanish crown at home, the colonies themselves have been once more shaken up by the end of slavery. (+1 Stability at home; -1 Stability in all slave-holding colonies)

News from Europe​

NEW BRIDGE PIONEERED IN NETHERLANDS. Maassluis, Republic of the Netherlands. A new style of bridge has been recently designed and constructed over the Het Schuer in the Republic of the Netherlands. The Dutch architect who designed it officially called it a tied-arch bridge, but due to its unique shape, most others call it a "bowstring bridge." Built out of iron and wood, the new bridge has been built to help improve traffic across the mainland. The bridge has been designed for the purpose of tolls and travel throughout the area, reducing time of travel for merchants considerably. Some thought has also been levied for the use of this bridge design for new steam engines and train usage, as it is capable of holding more weight than previous bridge designs.

SPANISH DEPLOY NEW PROJECTILE. Valencia, Empire of Holy Spain. An inventor in Valencia, working with current musket balls has managed to develop a far more efficient projectile for modern rifles. While still loaded and fired in a similar manner to old ammunition used in rifle and smoothbore weapons, the new bullet allows for dramatically increased range out of most modern rifles. The new Mennie Ball, as it is called by the English-speaking world, rather affectionately, is considered to be the latest great development for the ongoing race of arms worldwide. The Spanish army has adopted the new ammunition for their army, and most observers believe that other armies will soon follow suit as the technology becomes more globally known. (+1 Army Quality)

BRITISH INVENTOR FINDS NEW RUBBER TREATING METHOD. London, United Kingdom of Great Britain. A British scientist applied for a patent of a new way of treating rubber to create a useful product this year. Though rubber isn't truly in high demand for many products, it has still been used in a variety of smaller devices and inventions to date. Regardless, the British inventor has entered into mass production of new rubber for use in other devices. The new technique has proven incredibly superior to all previous methods of rubber treatment used for production.

DEATH OF THE KING OF DENMARK. Copenhagen, Denmark. King Frederick VI of Denmark passed away this year, quietly in his sleep, leaving the kingdom bereft of his guidance. To most though, his passing has not been too lamented by many people. The dead king has been frequently blamed for the misfortunes which have befallen Denmark over the past few decades and its decline from a major economic and imperial status. The loss of the West Indies and growing instability at home has been frequently pinned upon the dubious stature of the late king. Much hope has been put upon the king's oldest son, the newly crowned King Christian VIII. Christian VIII has emerged as a far more moderate ruler, popular to both liberal reformers and the old guard. He has pledged to bring about a new era of prosperity and growth for the Danish Empire, and many believe that he could pull it off. (+1 Stability)

DUTCH ELECTIONS. Amsterdam, Republic of the Netherlands. The Republic of the Netherlands held renewed elections this year for the position of Stadtholder and the nation's Congress. The reigning Exercitiegenootschappen have proven to be extremely competent in their rule over the nation. They've dominated all positions within the Congress and once more secured the office of Stadtholder once again. Their policies have continued to make the Netherlands flush with wealth and power, securing an ever-growing base of support for their continued mandate. All evidence suggests that the Republic of the Netherlands will continue to grow and expand over the course of the ongoing regime's rule. (+1 Stability)

SWISS ELECTIONS. Zurich, Switzerland. The nation of Switzerland acted in its first constitutionally mandated elections this year, as the factions consolidated and developed into more substantial organizations. The Cantons have continued to remain intact, and have formed into makeshift political parties for the masses. The government no longer moves with the reigning cantons, and the Zurich and Bern cantons have lost a good deal of their influence in the process of the constitutional convention and its political fallout. The result has been the much aligned Lucerne Coalition of cantons, which has proven its ability to develop a moderate group of politicians as a faction. The Canton Alliance has shown itself to be a strong new political force, though are fairly vague in their future goals and ambitions. (+1 Stability)

BROTHERS OF ITALY STIR UP TROUBLE IN AUSTRIA. Venice, Austria. The Brothers of Italy, who have been fairly low key in their presence in Austria, have begun circulating new broadsheets and stirring up trouble. The Austrian government continues to be accused of vague atrocities and oppression of the Italian people, as the Venetian population continues to be stirred up. The Brothers of Italy have clearly begun to organize and develop their resources in Austria, and so far the local watch seems unwilling or unable to hunt them down. The local Austrian governor has expressed ongoing concern about the situation, as unrest begins to boil beneath the city's surface. (-1 Stability)

RIOTING IN BRITTANY. Nantes, Brittany. The Breton people have continued to undergo turmoil this year as Nantes was wrecked in the process of rebellion and unrest. A group of radical liberals erected barricades and defenses in the city streets and ultimately the army was called in to suppress the uprising. The uprising was contained to only a small portion of the city, and was soon surrounded and besieged. The ringleaders of the uprising were arrested or killed in the process of the revolt, and those arrested have been summarily judged for execution by the monarchy. The result has been a serious taming of liberal tendencies in Brittany. This rising was the first event in a series of liberal revolts and disorder taking place throughout France this year. (+1 Stability)

FLANDERS FACES RIOTS AMID DUTCH PRESSURE. Brussels, Flanders. The nation of Flanders has been facing ever greater political pressure internally and externally to institute liberal reform. A missive from the Republic of the Netherlands called for King Charles to cede some power to the masses, similar to their own regime. The king refused these demands and the situation quickly worsened in Brussels and across the country. A major revolt soon erupted in the capital as people marched upon the Royal Palace, demanding the abdication of the king and reformation of the government. Soldiers fired upon the crowd, resulting in the deaths of dozens, leading to further rioting and unrest throughout the rest of the city. The army soon restored order, but unrest continues to seethe underneath the ongoing military law. (-1 Stability)

ASSASSINATION ATTEMPT UPON KING OF PARIS-BURGUNDY. Dijon, Kingdoms of Paris-Burgundy. The King of Paris-Burgundy avoided death this year during a meeting with the royal bureaucracy in Dijon over impending reforms and development. Members of the military apparently were involved in an attempt on the king's life as elements of the local guard turned upon the royal bodyguards and attempted to storm the meeting room. Fortunately for the king, the attack was foiled thanks to a failure of the would-be assassins to take into account a nearby regiment which was about to change out the standing guard. The assassins were badly outnumbered and outgunned, and all were slain in the effort, without even coming into sight of the king.

CIVIL WAR IN LANGUEDOC. Toulouse, Languedoc. The French nation of Languedoc suffered through a fairly brief civil war this year, as anti-Spanish elements rose up against the government. Initially they attacked Toulouse itself, but the majority of the army remained loyal to King Louis II and the result was the crushing of the first revolt. Most of these rebels were considerably liberal agitators and they even managed to sway some of the enlisted soldiers onto their side. The result was a bloody struggle over the full control of Languedoc. The rebel army, as it was, fled into the countryside, where they rallied their forces for open revolt and revolution. The monarchist army successfully brought about an engagement against the rebels outside of the capital, where the rebel forces were bloodily crushed. A number of the liberal leaders were captured, but the worst continue to raise trouble throughout the nation or have since fled to the new republic in Orleans, but for now, the brief civil war is over. (-2 Infantry Brigades, -4 Manpower)

GALLO FACES BACKLASH IN MILAN. Milan, Milan. The triumvirate of Milan came under growing criticism this year, as the primary leader, General Gallo has been denounced by liberal newsletters as a person not much different than the monarch they had previously ousted. The result was a major protest against the triumvirate, calling for them to step down in favor of liberally based elections and more power to the Senate. The protest turned violent when elements of the military swept in and fired upon the crowd. The result was a growing amount of riots and fighting throughout Milan as the protestors assembled sympathizers and unrest against the government. The Milanese Senate has decried the ongoing unrest and the general continues to face the bulk of criticism from the crows. (-1 Stability)

COUNCIL OF BOURGEOIS BEGINS SPEAKING OUT IN NORMANDY. Rouen, Normandy. The Norman monarchy came under criticism from an unexpected source this year, as the Council of Bourgeois, a group considered to be a puppet of the king, began speaking out. The Council has begun clamoring for even more authority and power, beyond that which has been granted to them in this year's reforms and additions to their power. They have expressed extensive liberal views over the course of the year challenging the monarchy and calling for the establishment of a fully parliamentary government like that in their close ally in Britain. The king has so far refused demands, and according to reports has failed in any negotiations in the Council. (-1 Stability)

REVOLUTION IN ORLEANS. Orleans, Orleans. As the rest of France seethes in revolt and rebellion, undermining the stability of Western Europe, most regimes have still managed to withstand the pressure of unrest. The sole exception to this is the Kingdom of Orleans, which erupted in an extremely bloody revolution, as the population rose up against the monarchy. The revolt was allegedly sparked by the arrest of several young liberals, and the execution of one of them by soldiers. Whatever the cause, the city's notorious prison was stormed by the populace, and the prisoners soon joined the rebellion. Despite having the support of the army, the king soon lost his nerve and fled the city, and with it, the order of the city garrison collapsed and most of the soldiers joined the rebellion. Most leading aristocrats and generals have fled shortly after the king, leaving Orleans a nation without a government. Thousands were killed or fled in the aftermath, as people used the lack of law and order to settle scores, loot, and pillage to their hearts' content. Eventually some influential businessmen managed to pay off enough soldiers to restore some version of law to the streets of the nation. A ruling coalition has formed as the makeshift government does its best to establish some sort of lasting regime. A temporary republic has been declared as attempts are being made to make the new status of the nation permanent. (+4 Stability, -5 Manpower)

MUTINY CRUSHED IN POLAND. Krakow, Poland. The Polish army, in a wave of unrest sparked by a combination of low pay, the recent reforms, and a disconnected officer corps, suffered from a mutiny of the lower ranks this year. As the army formed up for parade march and war games outsides of Krakow, a group of soldiers attempted to desert with arms. They were caught by a cavalry patrol, which they then fired upon. The result was the eruption of brutal warfare throughout the camp, which was incredibly disorganized and violent. The result was the imprisonment and execution of numerous liberal agitators and a severe decimation of the ranks of the Polish army. Fortunately those who remain are truly more loyal to the regime, and some stability has been restored to the nation. (-1 Army Quality, +1 Stability, -4 Infantry Brigades)

REVOLT CRUSHED IN PROVENCE. Marseilles, Provence. Inspired by the successes of revolutionaries in Languedoc and Orleans, the liberals of Provence spearheaded a rebellion of their own. Banking on support from leaders in the military, the rebels managed to seize several major buildings in Marseilles, but by bad luck failed to capture the king, who had departed the day before on a diplomatic visit to Spain. King Jacques II managed to assembled the support of the navy and the army to besiege the liberals in Marseilles and after several months of fighting, order would be restored in the majority of the city. Most of the liberal leaders managed to escape the onslaught of the monarchist forces, and have since fled to political refuge in Orleans, as the king's army scours the countryside for any who supported his enemies. (+1 Stability, -1 Infantry Brigade)

NORWEGIAN BOOK RAISES CONTROVERSY. Oslo, Sweden. This year a controversial book was published by a Norwegian scholar Oluf Rygh which inspired much thought and mystique about the possibilities of a Norwegian nation. The book, considered by most serious historians as a fiction, laments the passing of the great Norwegian kingdom and empire of old. Furthermore, it casts the kingdoms of Sweden and Denmark as the villains who brought low the might of Norway, as traitors to their own Viking heritage. Most of the literate Norwegian people have read this book, and others have had select bits read to them, and a copy can be found up and down Norway. While no serious movement has been inspired by this book, it has made quite a few people thoughtful about the prospects of an independent nation. (-1 Stability)

DUTCH DEPLOY NEW WARSHIP. Amsterdam, Republic of the Netherlands. The Dutch Republican Navy has launched a new warship this year, showing its naval strength to easily be one of the finest in Europe, if not the world. The new Virjheid-class Warship has shown itself to at least be competitive with the best British and Spanish warships, if not completely equal. The Dutch have taken great pride in their new warships, and the imperial power that they represent. Many hope that this could put the Netherlands in its proper place as one of the Great Powers of Europe.

NORTHERN LEAGUE EXPANDS, HANOVER CRISIS RESOLVED. Hanover, Hanover. The crisis which nearly erupted from the rebellion of Hanover from the nation of Brandenburg has at last been resolved after heated negotiations with the Northern League. The Northern League had more or less officially recognized the independence of Hanover from the king of Brandenburg months after the new nation was established. Spearheaded by Denmark and the Netherlands, the nation of Hanover was brought into the Northern League and the world awaited with bated breath on whether or not a larger war would erupt. Instead, the kingdom of Brandenburg avoided a war and instead joined the Northern League alongside Hanover. The threat of war resolved, Europe breathed easier, though some wondered at Britain's inactivity in the matter. (+1 Stability for Hanover and Brandenburg)

SPAIN COMPLETES EXTENSIVE AGRICULTURAL REFORM. Madrid, Empire of Holy Spain. The Spanish Empire has shown its strength at home this year as a nearly-decade long project of reform and modernization has led to support of the monarchy for dramatic improvement in agricultural production. In the more rural regions of Spain, outdated methods of farming and agriculture have been replaced, along with the introduction of some minor steam engine support for hauling of goods. The burgeoning surplus of luxury and staple farm goods have led to a boom in commerce as these products are sold at lower prices around the world. Furthermore, aristocrats and landowners who took part in the reform in the homeland have expanded these reforms over the years to the colonies in the Americas and to a far lesser degree, India. Not all about this reform has been positive news however, as many peasants and landowners have become resentful towards the empire's involvement in their affairs which have been unchanged for decades. This is particularly obvious in the Americas where lingering resentment has been inflamed once more by the various independence movements. (-1 Stability in Spain and all American colonies)

DEATH OF KING OF SICILY ENDS WAR. Palermo, Sicily. The deposed King Carlos V of Sicily died this year as he apparently fell off his flagship during the Spanish blockade. It was a fairly rough night at sea early in the year, and the king was apparently thrown overboard while walking on deck. Several sailors saw him go overboard, and attempts to recover the king were futile and his body was lost at sea. After a ship was sent home, brief negotiations were concluded and the Spanish fleet was withdrawn from the blockade, as little cause continued to exist for war between Spain and Sicily. The Sicilians and Italians have called this withdrawal a triumph of their cause for a unified Italy and it appears to many that Spain is simply cutting its losses after a severe defeat upon the battlefield. Plans have been made to convene a constitutional convention for the Sicilian nation, to establish a lasting government now that the king is truly deposed. The emperor of Spain has mourned his brother's death and a major state funeral was held in Madrid to lament Carlos V's passing.

REFORM ENACTED IN PARIS-BURGUNDY. Dijon, Kingdoms of Paris-Burgundy. The united Kingdoms of Paris-Burgundy have undergone a process of reform this year as the formerly separate bureaucracies of both kingdoms have been united under a central one in Dijon. The king continues to reside in Paris, however, and most of the noble court has remained there as well, whether they hail from Paris or Burgundy. This centralization of power still possesses some quasi-autonomous bureaus in large cities of the kingdom, and have been fairly seamlessly integrated considering the scope of the project. Liberals have denounced this effort, calling it a shameless power play by the monarchy to further the aims of the central government over the individual. The result has been the issuing of several protests and anti-monarchial broadsheets against the king, who was thought to be an emerging liberal himself. Some of the backlash has been forestalled as the monarchy begins phasing back the rabid enthusiasm to be viewed as a French kingdom that had previously been pushed by the old kings of Burgundy. This has rebuilt some bridges with the German population, but most Germans are still distrustful of the government at best. Furthermore, several notorious French nationalist artists have departed from the patronage of the gallery at Dijon, choosing instead to work at similar galleries in Orleans and Poitou. (-1 Stability)

FRENCH COLONIAL CONFERENCE CONVENED. Paris, Kingdoms of Paris-Burgundy. Merchants, sailors, and would-be explorers from across France have gathered together in Paris this year under the sponsorship of King Louis. The call has been made to channel unified French energies into the establishment of a colonial empire to rival those of other European nations. The king has stated that it is shameful that the other realms of Europe have managed such great empires, while the French lag so far behind. The conference was a resounding success as would be colonial leaders and explorers descended upon Paris from all over France. The reactions of other monarchs and governments in France have differed, and the support remains lackluster from most nations outside of Paris-Burgundy. The only two other kings to fully back the effort have been the kings of Provence and Languedoc, lauding King Louis for his initiative. Needless to say, most French governments have had far greater concerns over the course of the year, with the wave of unrest which has struck across the region.

NORMAN KING GIVES MORE POWER TO THE COUNCIL. Rouen, Normandy. The king of Normandy, after finding himself besieged by protests and sabotage from the Council of Bourgeois has enacted some limited reform, giving the Council full control over merchant shipping and ports. The Port Authority Bureau, as it is called gives the Council the ability to close ports and shift tariffs on various goods and services with other nations. While the monarchy has attempted to buy the support of these councilmen with writs of ennoblement, some of them have outright refused such an effort, remaining stalwart political opponents of the king. Most have used their new responsibilities to increase their own wealth, and they have continued to build and gain new support for even further political reform.

NEAPOLITAN CIVIL WAR ENDS. Naples, Naples. The struggle between the monarchists and liberals in Naples continued to rage this year, as the liberals started off the campaigning year by launching an offensive towards the capital. Despite being outnumbered, the liberals hoped to gain popular support and secure power in such an ambitious ploy. They engaged the king's army at Matera, where they won a bare victory, though the monarchists were more badly hurt than they were. The monarchists managed to once more assemble their army at the city of Potenza, where they stood in the way of any further liberal advances with more guns and soldiers. Not surprisingly, the monarchist army halted the liberal advance, smashing them as they attempted to advance. The liberals withdrew, and the monarchists gave pursuit, driving back to Taranto. The liberal army was almost encircled in the city and they were forced to attack to prevent a siege and certain defeat. They managed to prevent a full encirclement and preserved their positions to a degree. The Neapolitan fleet was deployed which destroyed the two liberal ships guarding the harbor and once more threatened to destabilize the liberal defenses. The liberals retreated to their final stronghold of Brindisi, where they were finally trapped by the monarchists. Thanks to a spy within the city, the monarchists managed to sabotage the defenses and win a devastating victory with relatively few casualties. The city was taken and the civil war in Naples was brought to a decisive end. (+3 Stability, +1 Army Quality)
Casualty Lists
Naples (Liberal): 6 Infantry Brigades, 1 Cavalry Brigade, 1 Artillery Brigade, 2 Third Rate Warships
Naples (Monarchist): 5 Infantry Brigades, 1 Cavalry Brigade, 1 Artillery Brigade, 1 Third Rate Warship

COLLAPSE OF ORDER IN THE ROMAN EMPIRE. Constantinople, Roman Empire. After years of teetering on the edge of collapse, the Roman Empire has at last been brought low into what could be called near anarchy. While much of these rebellions in waiting have been boiling underneath the surface of the empire for years, they have brought the empire into flames with a radical attempt at reform proposed by the Imperator. The reform would end the rule of the aristocracy and elite by creating a new, almost liberal, parliamentary system for the empire. This has outraged the old guard, many of whom have influential positions in the army and leadership. The result was the immediate outbreak of civil war as the old guard attempted to oust the Imperator and seize control of Constantinople. Hopes for a quick victory were dashed when loyal elements of the army repulsed the attacks, and the walls of Constantinople were closed, as the local navy declared its support for the Imperator. The aristocracy and leadership pulled back to their strongholds of support in Asia Minor and Greece, preparing themselves for a long war and a renewed effort to reestablish the old order upon the rest. They have gained the support of the rest of the fleet outside of the Black Sea, and have managed to gain control of most of the Greek islands. The outbreak of civil war among the Romans has not gone unnoticed by the disparate nationalist and religious factions throughout the empire. The first of these was of course the Bulgarians, who have risen up with substantial arms and munitions of their own, and secured several major towns and cities throughout the region. Unfortunately for these rebels, the Romans were prepared, having already tasked a substantial army to clear out the rebels before the war was launched. With the other rebel factions remaining quiet or otherwise unable to be attacked, the imperial campaign went ahead as planned and the Bulgar rebellion was brutally suppressed, though they inflicted heavy casualties. The worst rebellions took place in the Caucuses, as the Roman authority in the region began to crumble as the armies withdrew to deal with the civil war in the west. The first rebellion were the unruly Georgians, who have been bitter ever since the Romans sold them out to Kiev. A new Georgian kingdom has been proclaimed as a fresh army has emerged amid the ruins of the empire. The Georgian army has carved out the greatest extent of land of all the emerging kingdoms in the Caucuses, uniting a considerable force under their banner. In the east, the Shi'a Muslims rose up against the Georgians in order to protect their beliefs and lands. Inspired partially by the great successes of the Persian empire to the south, a Shah was proclaimed by the support of Islamic religious council, establishing the nation of Azerbaijan. Even after all these disasters of politics, the Roman Empire would be faced with one more. As the navies departed and all that remained was a solitary legion in Cyprus, the governor of the island, thanks to his control and support from the army, declared an independent kingdom of Cyprus. The island has secured its freedom for now, mostly due to the lack of ability of either Roman Imperator to enforce their rule.
Casualty Lists
Roman Empire (Constantine Faction): 7 Infantry Brigades, 2 Cavalry Brigades, 4 Artillery Brigades, 14 Manpower
Roman Empire (Demetrios Faction): 3 Infantry Brigades, 2 Cavalry Brigades, 3 Artillery Brigades

AUSTRIA ADJUSTS PORT PLANS. Trieste, Austria. Faced with the costly expenses which would be required to modernize the port of Venice to standards set by Rio de Janeiro and Plymouth, the Austrian government has decided to turn its focus to a different city. The hope remains that the program is still practical, just perhaps in a more stable foundation. The structures of Venice proved unsuitable for the use of a steam engine in the city ports and the efforts to change that would be disruptive and expensive, and so the focus of the Austrian navy has been turned to Trieste. Finances and labor have been brought into Trieste as the Austrian navy uses it as the new port of call and the harbor is the focus of the major expansion and modernization.

SWITZERLAND ESTABLISHES ARMY ACADEMY. Zurich, Switzerland. The lessons of the Second Venetian War have stuck hard into the minds of the Swiss army. Having nearly faced defeat and humiliation at the hands of the Austrians, the Swiss army has determined that major efforts must be made to keep Switzerland able to repel any foes. These sentiments have led to the establishment of a new Swiss Army Academy in Zurich, hoping to educate and train would-be officers and cadets in the structure and conduct of a modern army. Classes began this year, as the Swiss look towards the future and the protection of their borders against invasion.

HUNGARY BEGINS PORT MODERNIZATION. Dubrovnik, Hungary. In order to keep its status as a modern European power, the nation of Hungary has begun a program to develop the port of Dubrovnik in a similar manner to Rio de Janeiro and Plymouth. Under advisement from British engineers and contactors, a steam engine has been installed in the port and the facilities have been extended to provide for modern steamships. The navy has offered what support they can for this program, viewing it as a necessity for their own refueling and supply purposes in the future. Regardless, this has been seen by the world as another step towards Hungary's status as a major trading and naval power in the Mediterranean Sea.

BATTLE OF THE ALBORAN SEA. Valencia, Empire of Holy Spain. The attention of Europe was focused on a region of the Mediterranean known as the Alboran Sea this year as it seems a new major war may well be on the horizon. The Hungarian navy was sent into the Alboran Sea as a message to Spain that they no longer dominate the Sea alone. The Spanish navy, viewing this as a direct threat was deployed to shadow and order the Hungarians out of the region. After a tense standoff, the result was a brutal naval battle, as both sides had been brought to a halt during the negotiations on the high seas. For whatever reason, an unknown vessel from one of the sides opened fire and the battle was engaged. The Spanish, dramatically outnumbering and outgunning the Hungarians, dominated their enemies on the battlefield, and the Hungarians were wiped out except for a single steamship which managed to escape the onslaught. The utter destruction of the Hungarian fleet has shown that Spain has considerable weight to its naval quality, but cries for war have erupted in the courts of Hungary as it seems the region edges closer towards the brink. (+1 Stability for Spain, -1 Stability for Hungary)
Casualty List
Empire of Holy Spain: 4 Second Rate Warships, 2 Neptuno-class Warships
Hungary: 4 Second Rate Warships, 3 First Rate Warships, 4 Norwich-class Warships

STETTIN PORT DEVELOPMENT COMPLETE. Stettin, Sweden. The final construction efforts were made this year by construction workers hired by the Swedish government to complete port modernization in the harbor of Stettin. The Swedish entrance into Central Europe was briefly out of their control when it was occupied by the Prussians now long ago. Now with this key trading port returned, the Swedes have looked towards updating it like the other modern ports created across the world. New steamship refueling stations have been completed, and a rudimentary steam engine has been installed for the movement of heavy cargo.

DAUPHINE DEVELOPS NATIONAL AGRICULTURE. Grenoble, Dauphine. Inspired by the success of a similar program in the Empire of Holy Spain, King Humbert V of Dauphine has commissioned a similar program in his own nation. The hope is that the rather confused and backward state of Dauphine's farms can be remedied by this program, providing a much needed agricultural revolution to help provide food for the people and commerce. Several noted Spanish advisors who worked on the project in Iberia have been hired by King Humbert, hoping to use their experience in revamping the nation's economic progress. The project is estimated at a rather costly amount, but the king continues to push forward regardless of the price.

HANOVER SCRAPS FORT PROGRAM. Kassel, Hanover. A series of forts which had begun construction under the kingdom of Brandenburg along the border with Burgundy have been scrapped this year. The new king of Hanover viewed the fortifications as an unneeded expense, particularly with the growing success of the Northern League. The view is that the Kingdoms of Paris-Burgundy are not the threat they were with the Northern League providing an economic incentive to avoid a major war between the two states. Furthermore, with the high cost in manpower and national treasure, the view is that the army's efforts are more needed to guard against a war of reclamation initiated by the government in Berlin.

COSSACK REBELLION GROWS. Ravingrad, Don Cossack Union. The Don Cossack rebellion in Moscowy continues to take shape into a proper nation this year as the Cossacks rally in what they call Ravingrad, named after a famous Cossack warrior with no relation to the current Hetman. The Cossacks have met to discuss a united war effort against the oppressors of both Kiev and Moscow, and a new, if haphazard nation has been born. The inaction of both Russian nations has seemed to give the Cossacks leeway in their efforts, and fighting has subsided between Moscowy and the Cossacks. The Cossacks have determined to attempt to raise up the support of those who had rebelled in Kiev not long ago, and have such invaded the kingdom of Kiev. Despite the confusion caused by the invasion, Kiev's army, a modern and European one, managed to rally and utterly defeat the Cossacks, sending them routed back into Moscowy. Beyond that single battle, the rest of the war has consisted of persistent raids and skirmishes along the boundaries of what could be a new Cossack state.
Casualty Lists
Don Cossack Union: 13 Infantry Brigades, 7 Cavalry Brigades, 2 Artillery Brigades
Kiev: 6 Infantry Brigades, 3 Cavalry Brigades, 2 Artillery Brigades
Moscowy: 4 Infantry Brigades, 6 Cavalry Brigades

LANGUEDOC COMPLETES ROAD PAVING. Toulouse, Languedoc. The outbreak of civil war surprisingly did little to halt efforts to complete construction of a series of paved roads and updated transportation in the French nation of Languedoc. The fighting did interrupt some construction efforts, but overall the armies both sides left them alone, as both groups wanted them intact for postwar use. This was a mission which was fairly successful, both for the liberals and monarchists, and the latter part of the year was used for the completion of the effort entirely. Thankfully this will greatly ease the passage of Spanish trade through the nation and hopefully will spur the nation into recovery after the brief but brutal civil war.

PAPAL STATES BEGIN WORK ON NEW ROADS. Rome, Papal States. The Papal States have attempted to once more focus on worldly affairs besides war and conflict, and have announced plans to build a new system of roads across the area. The Pope has announced that it is a form of charity to use the Church's own funds to build these roads, in order to ease the passage of pilgrims and travelers to the Holy See. The Catholic Church has called for donations of all those of the faith in order to build these new paved roads and structures to help the Catholic cause. Cynical observers suggest that rather than pilgrims, the new roads could be used to move armies in a potential war with Milan or Naples.

CITY ROADS PAVED IN POLAND. Warsaw, Poland. Efforts to update the roads within the major cities of Poland were completed this year, as the last roads were paved in the city of Warsaw. New paved roads and efforts such as those have made Warsaw and the rest of Poland much more inhabitable and modern by current European standards. The new roads have done much for drainage and sanitation, greatly improving the quality of life for most Polish people. These roads do not go in between the cities and have thus have done very little for actual commerce or trade, but they have created new jobs for the people of Poland in maintaining the new paths.

SERBIA BEGINS BUILDING BORDER FORTS. Belgrade, Serbia. The outbreak of civil war and massive war and unrest in the Roman Empire has become a matter of considerable concern in the nation of Serbia. Many fear that the conflagration which has erupted could well arrive in Serbia, perhaps from attempts to regain the lost kingdom to the empire. In order to preserve the independence of the young kingdom, a series of modern fortifications have been surveyed along the Roman border. The forts are all designed to be of modern European styles and to act as a barrier against any possible Roman invasion. Furthermore, they are to begin as a series of watch posts to keep a lookout for any troublesome bandits or raids which may take place as a result of the growing anarchy in the empire.

NEW REFORMS ENACTED IN BRANDENBURG. Berlin, Brandenburg. The loss of Hanover was a bit of a political shock to the elite of Brandenburg, and the King seems to have felt that some new reforms are needed to preserve the standing of the nation. To this end, a religious freedom act has been passed, allowing the free worship of any religion in Brandenburg. This has been seen as a tremendous boon to the local Jewish population, who have given their full support to the measure. Further legislation was passed formalizing the right of the plutocracy to petition the king to hear cases and settle disputes, as well as to make known their complaints. Lastly, and more controversially, a new secret police bureau, modeled upon those of Hungary and Paris-Burgundy has been established, allowing for the rooting out of sedition and the preservation of the status quo. All put together, these efforts have done much for stabilizing Brandenburg in the wake of the loss of Hanover. (+1 Stability)

News from the Americas​

AMERICAN INVENTOR INTRODUCES NEW DEVICE. New York City, United States of America. An American residing in New York City created a marvelous new invention, which has taken the Western world by storm this year. The stereotype allows the visualization of two dimensional pictures in three dimensions using a new device. A patent was issued for the new device, which has been found to be a delightful toy for the wealthy and middle class. Production has begun of fairly considerable amounts of various devices and related pictures, for distribution in the United States and Europe. The factory has provided numerous new jobs in New York, helping to provide employment for hundreds of workers.

PANAMA ELECTIONS. Panama City, Panama. The nation of Panama conducted their second elections since independence from the Republic of New Granada this year, and the Conservative Party has gained considerable support from the population. The Conservatives won much support thanks to their efforts in preserving Panama's independence from foreign nations. Close ties have been built with the United States and other European powers over the past few years, securing Panama economic security and stability. Thanks to their successes over the years, the Conservative Party has been given further mandate to rule Panama and continue to protect its economy and security.

SANTO DOMINGO RIOTING. Santo Domingo, Empire of Holy Spain. The island of Hispaniola has suffered through another unfortunate revolt as the main city in the Spanish colony rose up in revolt against the Spanish crown. The local revolt has been said to have been inspired by groups wanting more local autonomy and independence from the Spanish throne. The Hispaniolans erected barricades and besieged the city armory, where a detachment of the local regiment resided. The Spanish army cracked down hard upon the revolt, though they caused some damage in the process. The efforts to restore order have proven successful, but the brutality of the suppression have further stoked the flames of unrest in Hispaniola. (-1 Stability)

VIOLENCE IN THE URUGUAYAN COUNTRYSIDE. Montevideo, Uruguay. The political tension between the Blancos and Colorados in Uruguay has at last erupted into true violence as an underhanded conflict erupts throughout the nation. Brutal murders and assassinations have taken place as various leaders of each faction are attacked by supporters of their opponents. The army has been moved to various towns and villages where these murders take place, investigating the unrest, though many accuse them of being biased towards one cause or the other. The army seems almost as split as the rest of the country, though most of the officer corps continue to support the Blancos. Most of the violence seems to be posturing for the next set of elections, eliminating the most outspoken leaders of both sides. (-1 Stability)

US CONGRESS OPPOSES ARMY GROWTH. Washington D.C., United States of America. The American Congress has denounced the rapid growth of the nation's army, claiming such efforts to be a threat to the security of the republic. Most of the Congress have stated that such developments to establish a large standing army do nothing but threaten the integrity of a republic and that the United States has no need of such a large force. The Congress has demanded that the President disband the recently recruited forces and to demobilize such efforts, claiming that expansion to the west is hardly requiring such large armies. This has exacerbated debates at home, as some claim that army expansion is required, particularly with the tense situation in Europe, but most have stated that the United States shouldn't really be negotiating and bothering with European powers and affairs anyways. (-1 Stability)

NEW SPAIN BUYS SHIPS FROM THE MOTHERLAND. Managua, New Spain. The government of New Spain has taken a step towards rebuilding friendly relations with the old empire this year with the purchase of two warships. The Spanish government sold two of their old steam-paddle powered warships to the New Spanish, though these vessels are much more capable than most warships controlled by American nations, besides Brazil. The government of New Spain heralds this as a great step forward in the construction of a navy to rival those of other powers in the Caribbean. The president says the next step will be to acquire ships to create a two-ocean navy to protect both coastlines of the fledgling republic.

ARGENTINE INTEGRATION HITS SETBACK. Buenos Aires, Argentina. Efforts for the consolidation of government in Argentina hit a major setback this year as Rosas supporters came under literal attack this year by the settlers of the interior. They have determined to resist violently against the centralization efforts once more and have struck against government buildings and military posts throughout the countryside. The army has been sent in and the result has been a series of brutal battle as the Argentines attempt to restore order. This has set the efforts of integration back possibly by years as the army continues to fight an unrelenting war against those who oppose the efforts of consolidation. (-25 EP into the Integration program, -1 Stability, -1 Infantry Brigade)

JAMAICA OPENS NEW PORT FACILITIES. Kingston, Jamaica. Efforts to build a new and modern port in Jamaica have at last come to fruition this year as the engineers announced the completion of the port extension project. The new facilities have been greatly expanded, and the damage caused by the rebellion for independence has also been repaired. The amount of docks has been increased, and can now provide fuel for steam-powered merchant vessels from the British Empire. The hope is that this will greatly increase the volume of trade with the British, as the Jamaicans hope to increase their exports and improve their economy overall.

PARAGUAY RIVER PORT OPENS FOR BUSINESS. Asuncion, Paraguay. Isolated from much of the world thanks to the geography of South America and the position of other nations, the people of Paraguay have had only limited commerce. The hopes of the nation are pinned upon the construction of modern river facilities in Asuncion, allowing smaller steamboats and vessels to travel upriver for purposes of trade with the nation. This has done much to build new ties with Argentina and Uruguay, and trade has dramatically increased with both other nations. The increased economy between the powers has done much to improve Paraguay's standard of living as they look towards building up the possibilities of their nation.

News from Africa and the Middle East​

ARMY DESERTERS TURN TO BANDITRY IN PERSIA. Tehran, Persia. The Persian government has been faced with a growing new problem throughout their country. Last year's mutiny, while devastating, has at least had the effect of discouraging any further outright revolts against the chain of command. Instead, desertions have begun increasing at a dramatic rate, less than enthusiastic about serving in the army and instead returning home. Some deserters though have instead taken their weapons with them and begun raiding in the countryside, attacking villages and merchants, hoping to gain wealth in that manner instead. Most no longer function as cohesive military units, but are beginning to be a blight upon Persia. Frequent attempts have been made to mop up these bandits, but they have proven somewhat elusive, and though some have been captured or killed, the bandits continue to represent a growing problem. (-2 Infantry Brigades)

MAMLUKES DEPLOY NEW STEAM WARSHIP. Alexandria, Mamluk Caliphate. The Mamluk Caliphate has continued its efforts to maintain some parity with the nations of Europe in terms of military power this year. To this end, they have introduced the new Crescent-class Warship, powered by steam propellers, and replacing the less than year-old Alexandria-class warship. While the vessel compares favorably with old sailing vessels and most steam warships powered by paddle wheels, a comparison with Spanish and British naval craft leave much to be desired. Regardless, the efforts in this field show that the Mamlukes are still a power to be at least moderately reckoned with by the rest of the world.

SWEDEN BUILDS TIES IN ABYSSINIA. Addis Ababa, Abyssinia. The Abyssinian government opened its doors for the first time for a European power with the establishment of an embassy for the kingdom of Sweden this year. The honor was bestowed upon the Swedes thanks to the recently established port at Tadjoura, which has opened new possibilities for trade and commerce for Abyssinia. Though no real political authority or influence has been granted upon the Swedish ambassador, they have still been given some leeway in the conducting of economic affairs. Many believe that the Abyssinian king is interested in European arms and munitions, and perhaps other advancements to be applied to his own country.

BRITAIN BEGINS DEVELOPING CAPE TOWN. Cape Town, United Kingdom of Great Britain. The British governor in Cape Town has been complaining for years about the inability of the facilities to properly provide for steam ships. The British government has answered his prayers this year as construction began on a modern port for the harbor at Cape Town. The efforts have been scaled to a similar degree as the prior efforts completed in Plymouth, and the hope is to dramatically increase the capability of the Cape Town port. This has been viewed essential by many naval and economic experts, as it could very well dramatically improve the level of commerce and trade with China and India for British ships.

MADAGASCAR MAKES GREAT STRIDES TOWARDS CENTRALIZATION. Antananarivo, Madagascar. The island nation of Madagascar made even greater movements towards the establishment of a centralized government this year. Queen Ranavalona's greatest opponent in the effort among the tribes passed away this year from natural causes, and his successor has pledged himself to the establishment of a central government. He has vowed to assist the queen in her efforts, and has given his tribe up to provide more support in the endeavor. This has caused several smaller tribes to also fall in line, making this the greatest step forward in the effort since it began. (+25 EP into the Integration project, +1 Stability)

CENTRALIZATION SABOTAGED IN YEMEN. Sana'a, Yemen. King Mohammed Rashid of Yemen met with considerable setbacks this year in his ongoing attempt to establish a more central and authoritative government. Numerous members of the upper classes of society and the clergy have continued to resist what is seen as an assault upon their authority, and they have continued to fight it. This has chiefly come in the form of ignorance of orders given by representatives of the king, and strategic losing of monarchial missives. The king continues to grow more and more exasperated at the stubbornness of the culprits, but continues to be unable to act without any direct evidence of treason. (-5 EP into integration project, -1 Stability)

News from the Far East​

FAMINE CONTINUES IN KOREA. Seoul, Korea. Though food production did briefly return to just barely normal levels last year, the famine which began in 1837 has resurged in strength this year in Korea. The eruption of rebellion and civil war in China has made the situation even worse, along with the ongoing disputes among European powers. Starvation has been rising dramatically in the land, as Sweden acts the only power importing new food, typically produced in Novgorod and Finland. Regardless the situation in Korea continues to worsen as the monarchy struggles to maintain control among the worsening environment. (-1 Stability, -28 Manpower)

MORE UNREST FORESTALLED IN SIAM. Bangkok, Siam. The nation of Siam continued its efforts to centralize power and reduce the threat of revolt this year. A ring of smugglers was discovered after extensive interrogations of the officers implicated in last year's plot by the Swedes. A group of merchants were found to have been securing the Swedish guns from other ports, as well as munitions from other European nations. The merchants were determined to still be continuing this illicit trade, even after the events of last year. Fortunately these arms have been seized by the government and the efforts to destabilize the monarchy have been ground into the dust. (+1 Stability)

WAR IN CHINA CONTINUES. Peking, Imperial China. The vicious rebellions in China have become more and more brutal, as in order to prevent support for the opposition, the various factions have taken to raiding and razing villages in enemy territory. Tens of thousands are believed to have been slain with this new tactic, and the anarchic nature of some of the rebellions make it so that very nearly no one is safe from the war. Militarily, the main army of Imperial China has been focused upon crushing the Nian Realm and its bandit backers. These organized bandits have come under attack on two fronts as the Ascendant Kingdom of China has offered them occasionally better terms as well as striking at them militarily. The Nian army, despite being widely considered to be a ragtag bunch of bandits, managed to win a surprisingly great victory over the imperial army, devastating them in an open and well-fought battle. The imperials were smashed and the Nian gangs have managed to loot and pillage their way to control the mouth of the Yellow River once more. The imperial army is reeling, weakening what defenses remain. To their west, the Nians faced a larger army fielded by the Ascendant Kingdom. This army even consisted of various bandit gangs and warlords who have since defected from the Nian Realm. Once again the Nians demonstrating surprising tactical genius under the command of Shi an Ning, who personally led the attack which surprised and devastated the Ascendant army. The Ascendants proved themselves elsewhere however, as they won smaller victories against the imperials to the south and east, though the boundaries hardly shifted. Most of the fighting has been raiding and irregular warfare between each side. These matters have been made further complicated by continuing Mongol raids from the north, which continue to manage to elude any significant efforts to corral or pursue them. More irregular fighting has taken place along the border of Yunnan. With most of the imperial army busying containing the Nians and Ascendants, the Muslims in Yunnan have determined to bring some order to the surrounding regions. The local Imperial garrisons have been brushed aside as the Muslims establish their own new order in western China. The only other theater seeing major battles and fighting has been between the governor of Guangzhou and the so-called Fuzhou Empire. Spurred by the British, the Guangzhou governor seems intent on annihilating the Fuzhou Emperor's army and his continued proclivities towards other European nations besides Britain. Thanks to superior numbers on the field and competent leadership, the army of Fuzhou managed to defeat the Guangzhou army in the largest battle to date. The Battle of Meizhou badly mauled the forces of Guangzhou, forcing them to retreat in front of Fuzhou's onslaught. With some freedom gained elsewhere thanks to the defeat of Guangzhou's army, the Fuzhou Emperor has managed to establish growing authority over southeastern China, securing significant area from imperial control. The Imperial Chinese government has retaliated against the usurping emperor at long last, sending the imperial navy and soldiers to attack the coastal cities of Fuzhou, the resulting naval battle was a stalemate, as both fleet withdrew with substantial casualties. (6 Infantry Brigades defect from Nian Realm to Ascendant Kingdom of China)
Casualty Lists
Ascendant Kingdom of China: 15 Infantry Brigades, 4 Cavalry Brigades, 2 Artillery Brigades, 14 Manpower
Fuzhou: 9 Infantry Brigades, 2 Cavalry Brigades, 3 Artillery Brigades, 14 Fifth Rate Warships, 37 Manpower
Guangzhou: 11 Infantry Brigades, 4 Cavalry Brigades, 3 Artillery Brigades, 12 Manpower
Imperial China: 16 Infantry Brigades, 6 Cavalry Brigades, 2 Artillery Brigades, 12 Fifth Rate Warships, 66 Manpower
Nian Realm: 13 Infantry Brigades, 1 Cavalry Brigade, 1 Artillery Brigades, 4 Manpower
Yunnan: 3 Infantry Brigades
Zunghar Khanate: 6 Cavalry Brigades

DENMARK REESTABLISHES AN EMPIRE. Fredericksborg, Denmark. In order to restore faith in the monarchy and the fate of the Danish Empire, the Danes have spearheaded the establishment of the new settlement of Fredericksborg on the island of New Guinea. The Danish settlement has been met with lukewarm protest from the Republic of the Netherlands, which first claimed and began settling the island, though they had no direct claim to the Danish area settled. Though the colony has proven expensive to maintain and create, the Danish aristocracy have been pleased with the development, hoping that it could well symbolize the creation of a greater empire than had existed before. Failed attempts to restore an empire in the Caribbean have led to many pinning their imperial hopes upon this struggling new settlement. Most critics claim that the effort may well be in vain if no coaling stations are secured between Denmark and the new colony. (+1 Stability)

SWEDEN BEGINS BUILDING CHINESE PORT FACILITIES. Xiamen, Sweden. The Swedish government, having noticed the successes of port modernization efforts both in Stettin and around the world, determined to use similar methods in the new treaty port acquired in China. While the British had worked upon their own port at Hong Kong, here the efforts were not as primitive at the beginning. Instead, with a harbor already in place, the Swedes were able to recruit mostly local labor, though they of course used their own superior European engineers. The efforts have been set up perhaps even for the installation of a steam engine, though many believe the great distance could make such an effort prohibitively expensive in the course of the project.

BRITISH ROADS UNDER CONSTRUCTION IN INDIA. Calcutta, United Kingdom of Great Britain. The end of the Maratha War has at last brought some stability to all of India, and the British colonial government looks to take advantage of the peace. A massive effort is now underway to connect all the major cities and towns of India with a modern network of paved roads and canals. The cost is estimated to be very high, but both the merchants of Britain and the army view this as essential for British India's security and wealth. Obviously, the new construction will provide plenty of work for Indian laborers, while at the same time, providing new and secure routes for commerce across what can be a very rugged land. The army is ecstatic at the potential of completing the program, as it could allow for the rapid movement of soldiers across the land, able to respond to invasion upon any of its borders. The only critics of the program are home, claiming that the cost of the program could well bankrupt the empire.

BURMESE DISPLAY NEW ORDER OF COMBAT. Amarapura, Burma. The civil war and the resulting Chinese and British invasions left a significant amount of unease present in the minds of the leaders of Burma. It became clear that steps must be taken in order to safeguard the nation from future invasion from ambitious empires. The style of warfare conducted by the British was studied by the Burmese and the new government took into account the styles of weapons being brought in by European merchants and arms traders. Many surplus Swedish goods which had been bound for Siam have been bought incredibly cheaply from scared Siamese merchants in order to bolster their own army. The new doctrine of combat takes into account the improved firepower of European weapons, while at the same time, holds many of the traditional styles of melee combat dear. Overall, the Burmese army leadership is proud of the new reforms and most feel that they can stand up fairly well against nearly any European colonial army.

KHAZAKS RAID MOSCOWY. Saratov, Moscowy. The Khazaks have renewed their raiding attitudes and have invaded Moscowy once again, striking at towns and villages in the hopes of acquiring new prizes and treasures. Despite the distraction of the Don Cossack Rebellion, the Moscovites managed to assemble an army to once more pursue and attack the Khazak raiders. Though the Khazaks did manage some minor successes in their early raids against Moscovite towns, the Moscovites have managed to engage, trap, and destroy the Khazak's main army once again. With their noses bloodied and the army once more devastated, the Khazaks have retreated back into their own territory with little to show but many corpses.
Casualty List
Khazak Khanate: 6 Cavalry Brigades
Moscowy: 1 Infantry Brigade, 3 Cavalry Brigades, 3 Manpower

SIAM BEGINS BUILDING NEW COASTAL FORTS. Bangkok, Siam. The recent instability and threats caused by Sweden's meddling in Siam have led to the Siamese determining to take preventative measures against future imperial assault or influence. To this end, a series of coastal fortifications are being erected around Bangkok and other ports throughout Siam. Cannon are being purchased from abroad to garrison these forts in order to repel any would be attack from the sea. The hopes are that these new forts will intimidate any European nation anxious to add to their empire, and at worst, smash their ships within the harbors of Siam.

Financial Section​

DANES BEGIN NEW SUBSIDY PLAN. Copenhagen, Denmark. The Danish government has begun subsidizing the local fishing and shipbuilding industry, in the hopes of giving new life to the currently depressed economy of their nation. The loss of the West Indies has certainly crippled the economy, but the new program focuses on providing new steamships and efforts to support a revitalized imperial state. The program also has local ramifications as fishing boats and the fishing industry are sponsored by the legislation, hoping to provide a strong economic base at home as well as abroad. Many fear though that fishing in Denmark could be at the maximum sustainable capacity as it is, and that further expansion could destabilize the economy further.

NEW TRADE ON THE DANUBE. Budapest, Hungary. The Hungarian and Brandenburger governments concluded a new trading pact this year, which sets extensive new tariffs upon Brandenburg's traders on the Danube. The effort was begun to open more doors for Brandenburg instead of pure reliance upon the Northern League for their overseas trade. However, the entry of Brandenburg into the Northern League has led to most of these negotiations with Hungary begin fairly futile. Most Brandenburger merchants have found the new policies to hardly be worth the cost, and the result has been growing trade with the Northern League over the alternative southern routes with Hungary.

TARIFFS ON ARGENTINE CROPS LOWERED IN BRITAIN. London, United Kingdom of Great Britain. The British government lowered tariffs upon Argentine staple crops, particularly wheat and corn, hoping to provide cheaper and more plentiful food for the British people. This unilateral move has done much to build new relations between the British and Argentines, as trade picks up overnight between the two states. The Argentine government responded with similar lowered tariffs of their own towards the British as a symbolic gesture of gratitude, and seem to be interested in building even further ties with the British.

ECONOMIC CHANGE REPORT. Madrid, Empire of Holy Spain.


Random Stat Changes and Fluctuations

Naval Steam Screws Spread to the Far East (+1 Naval Quality):


Population Boom in Ecuador: +6 Manpower

Empire of Brazil Naval Improvement: +1 Naval Quality

Diplomatic Pouch

To: Denmark
From: Portugal

You gave up your colonies in the Caribbean, and we will not be giving up ours to you. Likewise, we have no interest in selling our warships.

To: United Kingdom of Great Britain
From: Fuzhou Empire

We are still more than willing to accept your merchants and control of current trade ports if you renounce your support for the illegitimate emperor in Peking and the upstart governor in Guangzhou. Regardless of whether or not you accept our proposal, we will not harm your merchants, territory, or ships offered by the government in Peking for the duration, unless provoked militarily.

To: Persia
From: Azerbaijan

We plead for your support in our struggle to withstand the Christian atrocities perpetrated by Georgia and to preserve Shi'a Islam in the Caucuses from domination by others.

OOC

@spryllino: On close examination it sounds a bit like you want Dijon to be the new capital. Is this the case, or am I overthinking it? Also in regards to the African colonization society, that's a bit overreaching with the ruleset, and I'm going to have to think of how to consolidate that with the rules. The rules do not allow for any sort of private colonization without government control at this point. If you're going to want to colonization, you're going to have to tell me where you're going to do so precisely, and it will have to be under your control, not any sort of united international society. Lastly, it occurred to me that your King Louis XIII wouldn't be considered "XIII" at this point with a new kingdom unified under him. Therefore I have eliminated the Roman numeral in favor of simply making him Louis I of Paris-Burgundy.

World Map

OOC: Great update. Glad to have this back online.

OOC: Yeah, seconding the above.

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

Thank you for selling us warships in the previous year. However, we now have another offer for you. Your colony in the Yucatan is a swampy, rebellious backwater of little worth. The United States of New Spain, however, has a fondness for swampy, rebellious backwaters, and we are thus willing to take it off your hands.
How does 95 EP, paid over the next 5 years, in return for the immediate cessation of the Yucatan sound?

As before, because I'm feeling productive, here's the new power chart and ratings:

The Great Eight

1. Empire of Holy Spain (22,820)
2. United Kingdom of Great Britain (17,430)
3. Sweden (9,265)
4. Republic of the Netherlands (7,362)
5. Mamluk Caliphate (6,516)
6. Kingdoms of Paris-Burgundy (4,940)
7. United States of America (3,841)
8. Hungary (3,791)

Regional Powers (All Other Powers Above a Rating of 2,000)

9. Austria (3,684)
10. Denmark (3,333)
11. Roman Empire (Constantine Faction) (3,081)
12. Poland (2,910)
13. Portugal (2,824)
14. Roman Empire (Demetrios Faction) (2,477)
15. Persia (2,452)
16. Milan (2,446)
17. Brandenburg (2,034)

Independent Powers (All Nations between 1,500 - 2,000)

18. Burma (1,958)
19. Siam (1,887)
20. Papal States (1,876)
21. Hanover (1,848)
22. Don Cossack Union (1,808)
23. Savoy (1,740)
24. Empire of Brazil (1,666)
25. Switzerland (1,630)
26. Naples (1,579)
27. Kiev (1,524)

Standard Nations and Minor Powers

28. Moscowy (1,435)
29. Imperial China (1,434)
30. Novgorod (1,355)
31. Fuzhou Empire (1,248)
32. Flanders (1,190)
33. Languedoc (1,186)
34. Bavaria (1,169)
35. Korea (1,051)
36. Nian Realm (1,010)
37. Guangzhou (970)
38. Sardinia (968)
39. Tunis (951)
40. New Spain (942)
41. Normandy (850)
42. Brittany (840)
43. Provence (834)
44. Ascendant's Kingdom of Holy China (828)
44. Japan (828)
46. Dauphine (800)
47. Oman (772)
48. Uruguay (769)
49. Chile (712)
50. Venezuela (710)
51. Georgia (682)
52. Serbia (650)
52. Yunnan (650)
54. Poitou (641)
55. Aztec Empire (600)
56. Ecuador (588)
57. Argentina (579)
58. Orleans (568)
59. Republic of New Granada (561)
60. Tuscany (550)
61. Tibet (490)
62. Paraguay (468)
63. Panama (462)
64. Jamaica (416)
65. Yemen (364)
66. Sicily (360)
67. Azerbaijan (272)
68. Madagascar (254)
69. Abyssinia (252)
70. Zunghar Khanate (244)
71. Khazak Khanate (152)
72. Cyprus (148)
73. Zulu Kingdom (60)
74. Benin (46)

Grandkhan said:

OOC: Yeah, seconding the above.

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

Thank you for selling us warships in the previous year. However, we now have another offer for you. Your colony in the Yucatan is a swampy, rebellious backwater of little worth. The United States of New Spain, however, has a fondness for swampy, rebellious backwaters, and we are thus willing to take it off your hands.
How does 95 EP, paid over the next 5 years, in return for the immediate cessation of the Yucatan sound?

Click to expand...

A: Estados Unidos de Nueva España
De: Imperio de la Sagrada España

We are glad that you liked the warships we sold you.

As per your offer to buy the Yucatan, it has been a fundamental part of the Empire of Holy Spain for the last three centuries, and we are not willing to part from it, especially when it holds our shortest communication road between the homeland and our colony in Peru. We hope that this does not disturb you.

To: Kingdom of Hungary
From: Empire of Holy Spain

We demand immediate compensation for your unwarranted and aggressive entrance in Spanish waters, and your attack on Spanish ships.

Is Portugal still open? I could probably take that.

OOC:
I built up intermediate developments over many years, slowly but surely.

Guess I'll have to add the nitroglycerin into the mix.

Great Update EQ, sorry to find out about what they really feel (been trying to find out since I started) is rather contrary to my goals. Well, I guess this is what makes your NESes fun; they seem to last indeterminably into the future, constantly throwing changing situations at you, and often comes to a FULL STOP, HAMMER TIME due to some awesome new game comming out.

@Terrence: Emphasis is on awesome. Ironically, there was also hammer time involved when I smashed people's faces in.

@SouthernKing: Yes, Portugal is open.

@EQ: No, I am trying to balance the power of the two capitals deliberately so that both have approximately equal importance. Paris and Dijon are both capitals; I don't mind much what the stats say. As for the regnal number, I am Louis no-idea-what of Burgundy and Louis XIII of Paris. There should be no concept of "Louis I of Paris-Burgundy" because Paris and Burgundy remain formally separate kingdoms. "King Louis" is fine for the stats for the moment though.

@EQ: what is the state of explosives right now? How much until nitroglycerin appears?

Is Kiev still open? It seems like I might need to return and restore order

To: Denmark
From: The Republic of the Netherlands
We do not approve of your recent creation of a New Guinean Colony, New Guinea has been fully claimed by our nation and this has been recognized by Spain, The United Kingdom and Sweden......

Portugal is mine then.

Edit:

To: Denmark
From: Portugal

We would like to reaffirm that we still have no intent in selling our navy, and we are definitely not giving up our colonies either.

@NinjaDude: I'd love for you to take back Kiev, as I have not heard from Nailix since before even the deadline of the update. Unless I get some sort of counter-claim from Nailix within the next 24 hours, consider it yours.

ZeletDude said:

To: Denmark
From: The Republic of the Netherlands
We do not approve of your recent creation of a New Guinean Colony, New Guinea has been fully claimed by our nation and this has been recognized by Spain, The United Kingdom and Sweden......

Click to expand...

Yet it has not been recognized by Denmark. Should you choose to attempt to bully our small nation, then go on and continue to name those who recognize your claims. yet you do not control these lands. This may sound hostile, yet that is not our intent. It is merely my intent as the newly christened ruler of this nation to respect my father's decision to create a colony there. I wish to make it clear that we will not give up this colony, and in the future, near or far I do not know, we will wish to expand it.

However, we realize you already have a presence in the area. We are open to diplomatic means to settle this, perhaps allotting Denmark part of the eastern half of New Guinea in such a deal in return for something else. But we ask that you respect my ambition to return Denmark to the greatness of a colonial empire so as to undo the mistakes of my father, and only should we be very lucky should it ever compare to the one the Dutch have assembled, and so we hope this does not put a wedge in our relations.

SouthernKing said:

Portugal is mine then.

Edit:

To: Denmark
From: Portugal

We would like to reaffirm that we still have no intent in selling our navy, and we are definitely not giving up our colonies either.

Click to expand...

Of course we will respect your decision. However, we will be open to consideration in the future should you ever think of selling them. We wish you well, and hope your colonies thrive in your possession.

From: Swedish Empire
To: Denmark
CC: Netherlands
As members of the Northern League, we consider it essential you reach a peaceful solution that is serviceable to both parties.

To Denmark and the Netherlands
From Paris and Burgundy
CC Sweden

We agree with Sweden. Nothing is more important than that all the nations of the League should go out of their way to help each other, and never to get in each other's way. Indeed, it would be best if League members generally made a habit of talking to each other before undertaking any new endeavour that could possibly either be against the interests of anyone in the League, or be likely to irritate anyone outside the League.

We urge you both, in this spirit, to bend over backwards, not so much to make an agreement that is in your own interests, but to make an agreement than is in the interests of your friend and neighbour. Make it clear to everyone that no-one in this League cares more about himself than about his allies.

spryllino said:

To Denmark and the Netherlands
From Paris and Burgundy
CC Sweden

We agree with Sweden. Nothing is more important than that all the nations of the League should go out of their way to help each other, and never to get in each other's way. Indeed, it would be best if League members generally made a habit of talking to each other before undertaking any new endeavour that could possibly either be against the interests of anyone in the League, or be likely to irritate anyone outside the League.

We urge you both, in this spirit, to bend over backwards, not so much to make an agreement that is in your own interests, but to make an agreement than is in the interests of your friend and neighbour. Make it clear to everyone that no-one in this League cares more about himself than about his allies.

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To: Denmark, Sweden, Paris-Burgundy
From: The Republic of the Netherlands
We thought we had made our claims over New Guinea clear, and as we previously stated 3 of the largest European Empires (The United Kingdom, Sweden, and Spain) had agreed to recognize the entirety of New Guinea to be under Dutch rule.
We kindly ask that Denmark removes their colony from New Guinea, we will even reimburse them for their troubles, the exact sum can be decided at a later date. While we agree that our nations should remain close as we are allies after all, this blatant disrespect for Dutch Colonial Interests cannot be ignored. If Denmark refuses this offer of financial reimbursement we are quite prepared to explore all possible methods of protecting and enforcing our colonial interests, whether it be militarily or diplomatically.