Capto Iugulum

Global News Report​

BRAZILIANS SEND FLEET TO NAPLES. Naples, Naples. In a move designed to antagonize the Spanish and support the new unification of Sicily and Naples, the Brazilians have dispatched a task force with two battleships to the Italian Peninsula. The Brazilian fleet set sail across the Atlantic Ocean, and upon arriving in the Mediterranean Sea, were immediately shadowed by the Spanish Home Fleet. The Spanish navy has viewed this as virtually an act of war itself, and were appalled at having to let the Brazilian fleet through the Strait of Gibraltar. The Spanish government has severely lost face at this debacle, particularly as Brazilian sailors antagonized watching Spaniards with obscene gestures and actions. Spanish papers have decried these actions, calling the Brazilians barely civilized brutes and lamenting that the Spanish government has fallen so far to allow them passage. Below Photograph a Brazilian Battleship off the coast of Naples

News from Europe​

INFLUENZA SURGES IN FRANCE. Paris, Franco-Burgundian Confederation. After subsiding for nearly a year throughout Europe, the Brazilian Flu has returned with a vengeance to the western part of the continent. The strain of influenza has brought a heavy toll to the nations of the Triple Alliance, and once more raised its ugly head in Britain and Spain. Western Europe has suffered the most heavily this year, as the death climbs ever higher in the ongoing epidemic. The International Health Organization in Brussels has offered some advice on the matter, and has been doing their best to reduce the situation in Flanders. So far, it seems that the Flemish have actually suffered the least of all the nations in Western Europe, as the death toll has been negligible at worst, and contagion spread dramatically smaller than any other nation in the region. The Health Organization has attributed this to the cleanliness and order of the Flemish streets, which surpass the rest of the world in the quality of their sanitation and efficiency. Below are the death rates for this year's outbreaks:


RAILROADS BOMBED IN WESTERN AUSTRIA. Vaduz, Austria. A series of coordinated attacks were launched throughout what used to be Switzerland this year, as the Austrian military and railroad businesses came under direct attack. The attacks came in the form of a collection of devastating explosions, causing enormous casualties to a troop train transporting soldiers throughout the region. A follow-up attack further devastated the soldiers, though they managed to inflict some casualties among their attackers. Other military posts throughout the region were bombed or attacked by this organized movement, and they have had varying amounts of success. A number of key railroad bridges through the Alps were also demolish by explosions, dramatically hindering trade through the region to the Franco-Burgundian Confederation. The Swiss National Movement has claimed responsibility for the attacks, and vowed to continue their campaign until they achieve independence for their nation from both Austria and the Franco-Burgundian Confederation. The rallying call was heard throughout all the territories of what used to be Switzerland, and a number of sympathetic attacks were barely contained in both nations occupying the area. (-1 Infantry Brigade, -1 Stability for Austria and Franco-Burgundian Confederation)

REVITALIZED STRIKES IN CORSICA. Ajaccio, Corsica. Despite the cessation of worker rights in 1901, the monarchy of Corsica has done very little to assist the unions in further social reform. Corsican companies have continued to use whatever methods they have had at their disposal to break up unions and blacklist workers associated with them. Despite constant lobbying forming unions remains illegal in Corsica, and they have had enormous difficult building up a response against the corporate abuse. At last this year, new strikes have been held in order to force reform and new demands upon the government. They have called for the right to be allowed to form unions and hold strikes against corrupt corporate strategies. They have particularly denounced the practice of blacklisting employees for union involvement. The situation was worsened as the army was called in, breaking up the strikes with armed force. Several dozen casualties were reported, and the majority of union organizers have gone into hiding as the army assumes the duty of protecting Corsican business and industry.

GENOAN SHUTDOWN OF PRESS SPARKS RIOT. Genoa, Genoa. In a highly controversial move, the Genoese government, succumbing to intense external pressure, shut down the Italian National Press. The paper, which has been publishing for two years under the laws existing in the state, has proven to be a rallying point for Italian nationalism. The main publisher was arrested and his press facility was confiscated and has been since used to publish propaganda for the government, calling for a suppression of nationalism and toleration of other groups. This has proven highly unpopular with the masses, and the arrest sparked a major riot in Genoa, damaging a good part of the new university campus, as people fought against the government's point of view. The effort has been loudly denounced by all speakers for Italian nationalism, saying that Genoa has clearly taken a step back in its development as a nation.

HUNGARIAN MILITARY DEPLOYED INTO ROMANIA. Bucharest, Hungary. With nationalist dissent among Romanians rising, it seems that Hungary has been once more at risk of an outbreak of revolt or rebellion. In order to combat this rising dissent, the Hungarian army has deployed a significant amount of troops to the region. They have managed to locate and destroy a number of previously hidden arsenals stashed away either by the nationals or proletarists, a major accomplishment. This success has been lauded by the higher ups and has taken much of the teeth out of the threats made by nationalists throughout the region. Most of the munitions have been confiscated or outright destroyed by the Hungarian government. The effort has been overall seen as a success, and the large number of Hungarian soldiers on the streets has done much to restore order, especially as they assist in rebuilding the Romanian coastline from the disaster that was the Constantinople Event. (+1 Stability)

REPUBLICAN REVOLT CRUSHED IN MILAN. Milano, Milan. The small Italian nation of Milan faced a major uprising this year as a organized republican movement mobilized a revolt against the rule of King Giovanni II. The revolt started well with the deployment of weapons and the seizure of a number of government armories and fortifications throughout the nation. The makeshift army then began to march upon the Royal Palace, only to be torn apart by machine guns and fortified positions. Unfortunately for the republicans, the army clearly sided with the monarchy, and they did not gain the massive defections they hoped for from the armed forces. The army then immediately began mop up actions throughout Milan and the surrounding countryside, resulting in a series of small scale battles, as several small towns had preemptively declared for the rebellion. The effort has proven wildly successful, bringing out most of the dissent into the open and then shooting it. This has left only a very few dissatisfied people left alive in Milan with fairly light casualties. (-2 Infantry Brigades, -7 Manpower, +2 Stability)

OCCITANIAN BOYCOTT AGAINST SPAIN GROWS. Toulouse, Occitania. The previously lower level unrest and dissatisfaction with the alliance with Spain continued to a lesser degree this year, as Occitania's monarchy opened new ties with Britain. Despite the shift in allegiance, bitterness remains against Spanish business and companies. Therefore the boycott of Spanish goods that began last year reached a nationwide scale this year, causing serious disruption to Spain's business and industry in their northern neighbor. A number of Occitanian train stations have even begun refusing to service Spanish trains, though by no means have all of them participated in a highly self-destructive policy, as the southern branch of the Orient Express continues to pass through. The boycott has also been expanded to goods from the Franco-Burgundian Confederation to a lesser degree, mostly in the northern provinces of Occitania.

KING OF POMERANIA ABDICATES TO A NEW REPUBLIC. Stettin, Pomerania. With the major strikes shutting down Pomeranian shipping last year, and the military likely to refuse orders to break it up, King Harold of Pomerania graciously abdicated from his throne. The nation's Reichstag was given absolute authority, and a convention was immediately convened to establish new elections and a new constitution. The new elections were held, and most people viewed the contest as a competition predominantly between the Swedish old guard and the nationalistic German Brotherhood. To the surprise of many though, the republic has come under the sway from a far left organization. The United Laborer's Party, a predominantly social proletarist political group has won the support of the majority of the Pomeranian population. An anti-nationalist, but pro-social reform party, they have managed to win support from both the German and Swedish populations. As the world's first elected social proletarist government, this has been seen as a tremendous victory for the working class worldwide.

BULGARIA RISES AGAINST ROMAN GOVERNMENT. Sofia, Bulgaria. With the government in Athens struggling to rebuild hundreds of years of political infrastructure destroyed in the Constantinople Event, the political situation in the Roman Empire has substantially deteriorated. The Bulgarians have been the first to act, using prepared arsenals and support from now disillusioned legions within the area. The local general has thrown in his support for the Bulgar cause, as have a number of the local forces. Those unwilling to support the uprising have been expelled or slaughtered, if they chose to fight. Negotiations immediately fell apart as the military government of General Panagiotis Danglis refused any such correspondence with the uprising. The first fight took place as the Bulgars attempted to secure the ruins of Constantinople from the Romans, but military aid forces managed to just barely hold the area against assault. Observers expect a bloody war to soon erupt as the Bulgars fight for their freedom from the apparently collapsing Roman Empire.
Casualty List
Bulgaria: 7 Conscript Brigades
Roman Empire: 3 Infantry Brigades

REFUGEES SPARK VIOLENCE IN SERBIA. Pristina, Serbia. The Constantinople Event and the uprising in Bulgaria has led to a large number of displaced Roman citizens across the whole of the Balkans. The Serbian government has quickly shut its borders to these refugees, but a number of them have been armed. The Serbian army has thus been engaged in what amounts to a low level war across the whole of their border with armed refugees. The Roman refugees have shot up a number of border stations and cross over into Serbia, where they frequently steal or raid for food or more ammunition. The Serbians have done their best to contain it, and have continued to state that any further border crossings would be fired upon first, and questions asked later. They have appealed to the Roman government in Athens to undertake whatever they need to do to seal the border from this chaos. (-1 Infantry Brigade for Serbia, -3 Manpower for Roman Empire)

IRISH GOVERNMENT EMERGES AS KEY ISSUE[/b]. Dublin, United Kingdom of Great Britain. As the British islands are torn in the new elections, the Irish population has begun to make their voices known once more in Parliament. They have begun to call for greater allowance of self-rule and autonomy within the larger empire, particularly distancing themselves from the English reactionary attitudes currently present in Parliament. The Irish have begun calling for an official designation of a superior status than a colony within the empire, giving themselves the right to rule over themselves. This has taken religious tones as well, as the Catholic Irish continue to remain at odds with the Protestant Irish, who have lobbied against any sort of reform as proposed by the Catholic nationalists calling for self rule. The situation has continued to get more and more tense between the two sides, as the hope for greater autonomy continues to grow among the Irish people. (-1 Stability)

ELECTIONS IN BRITTANY. Nantes, Brittany. To the surprise of Western Europe, a major upset has taken place this year in elections in the small nation of Brittany. The Blaid Ryddfrydol, a liberal political party in Brittany at last offered a real challenge to the reactionary Gweithwyr Sosialaidd Cenedlaethol Llydaweg Blaid. The political system has been weighted towards in the reactionaries over the past few elections, but it seems that the Breton people have at last spoken out to change. The liberals have appealed to ideas of social reform and change, while remaining isolated and neutral from the ongoing politics of Europe. They have vowed to maintain strong economic and trading ties with the rest of the world, preserving their status as one of the neutral nations of the Channel. The liberal victory has been followed by celebrating as a new dawn emerges for Brittany's political system.

EMPEROR OF RUSSIA DIES. Moscow, Russia. To the sadness of the nation, Emperor Ivan passed away this year, leaving the position of Emperor of the Russias to his son, who is now Emperor Nicholas. The new emperor has been known for his skill and prowess, as well as his unrelenting brutality, on the battlefield. The new emperor has frequently shown himself to be even more hard line than his father, firmly against reform or new rights or change of any kind. The peasants have been gravely disappointed by this development, hoping for a more moderate monarch, and the middle class has been alienated by his reactionary proclivities. The new emperor has vowed that under his reign, the Russian Empire will continue to expand and grow throughout the world, and that all the Russians remain united and steadfast against any threat. The army is so far the organization most pleased by this turn of events, glad to see one of their own in power. (-1 Stability)

BRITISH ELECTIONS HELD. London, United Kingdom of Great Britain. To the shock of many, a major shift has taken place in British politics, as a reactionary movement swept through Parliament, capturing the hearts and minds of the people and government. Both aristocrats and the common man have found something to love about the new Empire Party, though they are better known as the Union Jack, or simply Jack, Party. The Union Jacks have emerged from the utter collapse of the Liberal Party, as many of their members have turned away dissatisfied from the failure of the movement. The remaining social liberals have coalesced into the Labour Party, while the Union Jacks have managed to secure a substantial amount of support from the political Conservatives. They have gained most of their support from the English, harkening back to the glory days of the old monarchies and government which ruled half of France and a good portion of North America. They have pledged to restore the glories of the old empire, and this has captured the imagination of much of the British public. The Union Jacks, managed to convert a large number of standing politicians, and have secured an overwhelming majority of the government, not even requiring a coalition to manage the nation. (+1 Stability)

FRENCH TROOPS WITHDRAW FROM DENMARK. Bremen, Denmark. The Danish government managed to prevent a major internal crisis this year as the French troops withdrew from the southern provinces of Denmark. Viewed as a major victory for the German people, what could have turned into disaster was forestalled as the Danish government offered monetary compensation. Many took the money rather than creating trouble, having been offered far more than the damages caused by the French armies. This has also done much to reduce tensions in the region, as the Brandenburgers viewed the deployment as a prelude to invasion. The withdrawal has been lauded by those seeking peace, as a progressive move to reducing the threat of war throughout Europe.

UNIONS LEGALIZED IN DENMARK. Copenhagen, Denmark. To the surprise of many and to the dismay of Danish companies, the legislature of Denmark has opted for the legalization of workers' unions for any industry. This has given the right to unionize to any industrial business, allowing the Danish work to fight for better business practice and treatment. The process started as a referendum for the people to vote on, and the masses of Denmark overwhelmingly voted to allow this change, as the Social Democratic Party leadership endorsed it. The victory of the liberal party in the 1902 elections are clearly key to this political victory, showing that the Danish nation has clearly taken a swing to the left. They have vowed to continue labor reform, though they have begun to face stiffening political resistance from the conservative element of the government.

ROMAN EMPIRE CONTROLS FLOW OF AID AS REBUILDING BEGINS. Athens, Roman Empire. The Constantinople Event has clearly shocked the world, as reports of the true scale of the tragedy flow in to newspapers across the world. The finalized death toll is believed to be above three million people of all ages in four different nations. This has resulted in an outpouring of international monetary and relief aid, paying for food and other supplies to be sent to the Constantinople area to provide for the displaced masses. The Roman Empire has forbidden these supplies from arriving in any port besides Athens, using the navy to deny them entry elsewhere. They have also disallowed any scientific teams from outside the Roman Empire to visit Constantinople and to view the site of the disaster. The Roman government has also refused access to the region by any warships, turning around three Flemish destroyers and various other vessels sent by other nations. A number of indignant foreign papers have expressed disapproval at this action, claiming that it significantly hinders the ability to provide aid to the devastated people of the empire. Regardless of these actions, the Roman Empire has provided efforts of its own to provide for the displaced citizenry, similar to other afflicted nations. Russia has flooded Sevastopol with money and made substantial progress in rebuilding the port facilities. Similarly, affected towns in Georgia and Hungary have done their best to rebuild their own damaged infrastructures.

HUNGARY BEGINS NEW TRANSPORT PROJECT. Budapest, Hungary. The closure of the Bosporus Strait from the Constantinople Event and the current Roman ban, has led to a search for another route to trade goods from the Black Sea to the rest of the world. The effort has begun, sponsored by the Hungarian monarchy, to construct a new system of flawless transportation through Hungary from the Black Sea coast to the Adriatic Sea. This includes a number of new bridges, ferries, and railroads connecting the Croatian coastal provinces to Romania. The effort is believed to be scheduled to take two to three years, as new trains are constructed, also helping to spur the Hungarian economy. The hope is to provide a feasible and a cost effective alternative caused by the disruption of the old trade routes through the waters of the Roman Empire.

THE OCCITANIAN UPSET. Toulouse, Occitania. In a move surprising most political analysts throughout Europe, King Louis III of Occitania, increasingly frustrated by Spanish internal and foreign policy decisions over the past thirty years, has broken the old alliance between the two nations. The recent agreements made with the Triple Alliance, particularly the Franco-Burgundian Confederation have proven to be the final straw that broke the back of the old agreement which has existed since the Second Orleans War. Stating that the interests of Occitania and Spain clearly no long coincide, it was announced that ongoing negotiations have at last led to an alliance between Occitania and the United Kingdom of Great Britain. The British have welcomed the Occitanian people to a new alliance, providing nearly immediate technological aid and support for their new friend's military forces. The Occitanians' shift of allegiance has concerned the Spanish, particularly as tensions and threats of war continue to emerge.

BRITAIN DEPLOYS ARMY TO POLAND. Konigsberg, Poland. The Krakow Pact was further brought together this year as the British government began the transit of a massive amount of troops to bolster the defenses of Poland. As tensions of war continued to grow, they nearly reached a breaking point as the Scandinavian navy confronted the British transport fleet. The British pressed forward regardless of Scandinavian calls for them to pull back, and the Scandinavians ultimately backed down, allowing the transit of over one hundred thousand British soldiers. This expeditionary force has been stated to be deployed to help the Poles build up their defensive positions and fortresses along the Russian border, and have operated as an independent force to do so. The Polish people have welcomed their British allies, as they assist the British engineers in creating strong defensive positions and lines for use in the event of war with the League of the Three Emperors.

FALLOUT OF THE BERLIN TELEGRAM. Stockholm, Scandinavia. The notorious Berlin Telegraph which was released last year by the Brandenburger government, had significant political fallout throughout the course of the year. The flagrant callous disregard for human life demonstrated in the telegram was viewed as an affront to any civilized diplomacy among nations and Scandinavia was condemned by the members of the Krakow Pact, especially Britain, Brazil, and Brandenburg. The response was an embargo of Scandinavian goods until the person or persons responsible for such diplomacy were punished. The Scandinavian Foreign Minister has been sacked, along with a number of his subordinates, leading to a total purge and shakeup of the Scandinavian Foreign Office. The embargo was ended only a month after it began, as trade relations normalized, but not without significant disruption to Scandinavian exports to Britain and South America.

BRANDENBURG POLITICAL REFORM CONTINUES. Berlin, Brandenburg. The government of Brandenburg has continued their efforts to reform, following guidance from London. King Charles Frederick II has stepped further aside, granting full power to the elected legislature. The Reichstag has been given full governing authority, as the king maintains only limited authority. This has not been a popular move among the aristocracy and upper classes, who view it as a bit of a betrayal. Furthermore, the dissolution of the secret police force is believed by some to compromise the security of the state, threatening influence and attacks by groups such as proletarists or anarchists. Fortunately the sting was lessened as the old guard still managed to sweep the elections, resulting in the establishment of the Shield Party as the leading political group. The new Chancellor is clearly a conservative, hopeful of preserving old social norms and politics, while not being as radical as members of the liberal German Brotherhood opposition.

SARDINIAN COMPROMISE ENDS STRIKES. Cagliari, Sardinia. The Sardinian government has made a number of major concessions to the strikers who paralyzed the nation's economy through the end of 1903 to the current year. An assurance of a maximum number of working hours along with new safety regulations has brought about an end to the strikes for the moment. The strikes were also lessened with a promise of government reform to be planned and implemented by 1908. The monarchy has pledged a parliamentary legislature to be established, similar to the British systems of government. While the strikes have stopped for the time being, the monarchy has warned that any further strikes will be declared illegal and broken up by force if need be. For now, the unions have taken their victory, and the worker has a slightly more tolerable status among Sardinian business. (+1 Stability)

MILITARY SEIZES POWER IN TUSCANY. Florence, Tuscany. The situation in Tuscany has quickly deteriorated over the past few years, and with the seemingly incompetent rule of King Ferdinand leading to disaster, the military has grown tired of his leadership. A letter found among the assets of the king was soon disseminated to the military, alleging that the secret police would soon arrest and execute a large number of army officers. Though the status of the letter's authenticity was in doubt, preparations were begun for a coup. When Sardinian troops began landing at Leghorn, the situation was clearly at its breaking point. The Tuscan army immediately arrested King Ferdinand and declared an emergency military government to resist the invasion. They immediately pledged to fight the Sardinians to the last and that upon victory, a new government would be formed to managed the beleaguered Tuscan nation. (+3 Stability)

SARDINIA INVADES TUSCANY. Florence, Tuscany. The descent of Tuscany into unrest and rebellion over the past few years has been an issue of concern for the Sardinian government. While they have allegedly acted in support of the monarchy, they have found that the navy and army have decided that they are not friendly forces. The new Tuscan military government has declared the invasion to be illegitimate in its origins and an act of pure aggression. They have managed to rally the Tuscan people against this common cause for the time being, and build up some support among the populace. The initial invasion went as planned, though the Sardinians suffered significant casualties taking several coastal fortifications in all the coastal cities. The Tuscan military regrouped further inland, while Sardinian reinforcements were brought in. As the Sardinian troops began to dig in, the Tuscans rallied and launch a general offensive against all the invaders' positions. The Sardinians barely held, though they did lose control of Pisa, consolidating their defensive position along the northern coast. After receiving heavy casualties in the initial invasion and the Tuscan counteroffensive, the Sardinians and Tuscans have been locked in a stalemate, as the Tuscan army continues to increase its forces for a renewed attack.
Casualty Lists
Sardinia: 10 Infantry Brigades, 2 Artillery Brigades (+1 Army Quality)
Tuscany: 9 Infantry Brigades, 1 Cavalry Brigade, 3 Artillery Brigades, 2 Early Destroyers (+1 Army Quality, -1 Navy Quality, +1 Stability)

SICILY UNITES WITH NAPLES. Palermo, Naples. Negotiations between Sicily and Naples have led to unity between the two nations, as King Ferdinand II becomes the de jure ruler of both regions. The Sicilians voted in their republican convention to join the Kingdom of Naples, a status of historical relevance. The decision was also made after the extensive financing and aid received from the Neapolitans during the war for independence from Spain. There had to be several conditions before the effort could be pushed entirely through, however. The Spanish were offered assurances that old economic rights would be maintained under Naples' rule, offering them a more secure position than they previously thought. Furthermore, the republican government will be maintained until a point in the near future when the Neapolitan government would adopt a constitution and form a legislature for the larger management of the country. Unfortunately, the economic implications of the agreement were not immediately considered by the king of Naples. With the annexation of Sicily, Spain now possesses a back economic door into an even larger market, able to undercharge even local businesses.

GENERAL PROCLAIMED NEW IMPERATOR. Athens, Roman Empire. As the Roman Empire struggles with the uncertainty caused by the Constantinople Event, the emergency government in Athens is doing its best to preserve some continuity. General Panagiotis Danglis has been proclaimed Imperator Panagiotis I, establishing a new ruling dynasty for the ancient empire. The government has been structured to resume some integrity with the slain line of imperators, hoping to legitimize its rule over the rest of the Roman Empire. The move has especially been relevant with the revolt in Bulgaria, as the new Imperator pledges to preserve the strength and unity of the empire. Unfortunately, a number of other generals have been reluctant to recognize the new imperator's claim, and dissidents have been rising in number, especially among rivals in the officer corps. Other generals continue to operate almost autonomously in the eastern part of the empire, and could break away at any point. (-1 Stability)

BOSPORUS REOPENED, BOSPORUS CLOSED. Lybissa, Roman Empire. With substantial military and economic support from Russia, the Bosporus Strait was cleared of debris and reopened by the Roman government early in this year. No sooner than the strait was reopened, the Roman government in Athens declared the strait closed to any foreign shipping not part of the League of the Three Emperors. This has been stated to be taking place for security reasons, to prevent further support to dissident factions. Economic interests in Georgia and Hungary have protested the move, as have other nations' shipping industries. The move has essentially continued to close off independent trade with Russia or the states in the Caucuses, alienating a number of merchants trading with the Roman Empire. Hungarian officials have called for the straits to be reopened, calling the move to be economic and political extortion.

News from the Americas​

CUBANS BEGIN NONVIOLENT EFFORTS AGAINST SPAIN. Havana, Spain. Under the spirited leadership of a revitalized nationalist movement, a grassroots nonviolent campaign has begun against Spanish rule in Cuba. This has come in the form of a growing boycott of Spanish manufactured goods, using only goods produced in Cuba or purchased from other nations. This has proven expensive, but funds have been given by the nationalist movement to help those who can't afford more pricey Brazilian or British goods. They have vowed not to support the Spanish industrial system and to break the value of the empire to the Cuban people. The movement has proven incredibly popular as it remains fairly low risk in terms of health and well being. Most of the supporters have been in the larger cities of Cuba, as they resist Spanish rule, refusing to use Spanish goods or services and shunning those who refuse to participate, isolating them from friends and coercing more and more support from the population. The Spanish viceroyalty has so far been baffled at how to respond to the situation, unwilling to start gunning down civilians simply refusing to purchase one product or another, further weakening Spanish control. (-1 Stability)

REPUBLICAN PROPONENTS CONTINUE EFFORTS IN CHILE. Santiago, Chile. The Chilean military government under Pedro Mendez continues to remain besieged by calls for new elections and democracy in the South American nation. They have organized a series of protests, which continue to be persistently ignored by the police and government, hoping that ultimately the dissent will just go away. The protestors have so far been unable to mobilize the population to their cause, as many remain exhausted from the unrest and confusion of recent years. The army also remains firmly behind Mendez's government, refusing to give any aid or succor to those attempting to bring a return to democracy. Politicians from neighboring states such as Argentina and Peru have called for the protestors to be heeded, but these diplomatic moves have been token at best.

ECUADORIANS PROTEST COLOMBIAN WAR INVOLVEMENT. Quito, Ecuador. After the government of Felix Martinez was revealed to have been supporting the conservative president in Colombia last year, he has faced a major backlash. Quite a few major movers and shakers in the Ecuadorian political system have protested this move, as a violation of Ecuador's position in South America. They have claimed that such interference could invite down the wrath of the larger powers of the continent and beyond should it continue. Others have expressed concerned that such involvement could easily lead to Ecuador's army being drawn into the war itself, an undesirable situation. Under such political pressure President Martinez has confirmed that all aid to either Colombian faction has been forbidden, and has expressed his hopes that the war will end soon, without further loss of life.

NEW YORK CITY RIOTS. New York City, United States of America. The largest city in the American northeast broke out into severe riots this year after a disturbing news pronouncement provoked a violent response. It was revealed that the 1902 murders which put the city into a state of fear were conducted by an active member of the Army. The culprit was swept under the rug by the government as were the related assassinations of a pair of investigating private detectives. As most of the victims were northerners it was viewed as a great betrayal of the public trust in the city, as they called upon the government to compensate for the lost lives. The result was several angry mobs roaming the streets, until the army was called in to restore order, which they did with extreme brutality. Tales of rape and looting by the soldiers have been extensively reported, and thousands are believed dead from gunfire and the related disruption. The predominantly Southern regiments gained a brutal reputation and throughout the north, the dead are viewed as martyrs fighting against a corrupt government. (-2 Manpower, -1 Stability)

DEATH OF EMPRESS OF BRAZIL. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. To the great sadness of the Brazilian people, the Empress Isabel passed away this year, apparently dying in her sleep. The Empress Isabel ruled Brazil from her father's death in 1881 and oversaw a number of changes to her beloved country. This included the war against the United States of America and the defense of Colombia and New Spain against their aggression. She further encouraged the development of a new Brazilian navy, to help the nation remain a significant power both in South America and across the world. She continued to build strong ties with Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay, preserving the peace in the region. Without any heirs of her own, her eldest surviving brother has assumed the throne, being proclaimed Emperor John II. The new emperor served with some distinction in the navy, commanding a heavy cruiser until he retired from service five years ago. He has reluctantly accepted the throne, and is known as a political conservative, occasionally clashing with the liberal legislature over issues such as military spending.

JAMAICAN ELECTIONS. Kingston, Jamaica. The Jamaican government faced a major challenge this year as the political system took a bit of a heaving under a heavily disputed campaign. The reigning liberal Democratic Party took a significant beating as the conservative Preservation Party claimed that they failed to take advantage of economic opportunities, plunging the island into the global recession. The Preservation Party has also fought against the perception that they are puppets of the United States of America, showing their distinct identity from the northern juggernaut. They have claimed that the liberals have hardly done the best they could for the Jamaican people. The conservatives gained substantial support from business, which looks forward to rebuilding economic ties with the Empire of Spain through use of the new Panama Canal. The election was bitterly fought, and while the elected president is a conservative, the legislature remains dominated by the Democratic Party. (-1 Stability)

ELECTIONS IN NEW SPAIN. Managua, New Spain. New Spain's elections proved to see a growing rise of radical parties, especially the social proletarists, who have called for immediate social reform. This has had a resounding ring among the people of New Spain, who mostly live in a state of squalor, particularly with the new Panama Canal crushing old business. Despite increased radicalization of the political parties, the Partido Conservador Centralista has barely managed to hold its ground against the other political groups. They have managed to hold on by virtue of decrying the other political parties, and claiming that they are holding against a tide of extremist proletarism. This has resonated but it has begun to carve a great divide into the New Spanish political system, and tensions have clearly begun to mount throughout the nation. (-1 Stability)

PERUVIAN ELECTIONS. Lima, Peru. The rising tensions across the world were the main topics of debate in Peru this year as politicians began to take sides in the seeming imminent confrontation between Britain and Spain. Quite a few liberal politicians have begun lobbying for Peru to take a stronger position alongside Argentina and Brazil, rather than the fairly ambiguous treaties and agreements currently in place. The conservatives have instead been arguing for stronger ties with the Spanish, as the homeland, claiming that Brazil is a disruptive influence for South America and the world as a whole. The polarized sides have also led to the reviving of the moderate Party of Order which calls for a more neutral position to the debate. They have claimed that taking sides in any conflict could ultimately only result in disaster for Peru. This platform has shown to be a successful one, as the Peruvian people seem less than enthusiastic to get involved in a war.

ELECTIONS IN THE UNITED STATES. Washington D.C., United States of America. The United States of America held its mandatory elections this year for the people who saw service in the nation's military. President Curtis Wareing has preserved his position as the head of government, and has continued to run the nation's only active political group, the Republican Party. The President's main platform has been the recognition of his achievements in building the Panama Canal and achieving an economic boom even while the rest of the world lingers in a recession. This has been attributed to his successes with the Lotus Pact, and the position of control over the Panama Canal's trade. The only issue of concern has been his plans to end slavery in the United States, but with no viable other candidates, there remains no organized opposition to the continuation of his term of office.

VINLAND PASSES LABOR REFORM. New Stockholm, Vinland. The new Statsminister of Vinland, Grim Magnusson, has followed up his party's sweeping entry into political dominance with groundbreaking labor reform. New bills have been pushed through the legislature passing laws on worker rights and improving workplace safety regulations. The new stasminister has also pledged that Vinland will adapt from a nation based solely upon the exploitation of resources for foreign business to one with industry of its own. The effort has been followed up with limited subsidies and the pledge that new immigration will equal greater job and industrial growth for all the people of Vinland.

BRAZIL COMPLETES EXPERIMENTAL TOWER. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. After starting the project last year, the Brazilian government has announced the completion of the experimental radio tower in the mountains outside of Rio de Janeiro. The new tower is scheduled to be used for experiments involving wireless broadcasts with the new technologies of radio. This has included finding ranges, as well as practicing with the broadcast of music and other speeches, allowing researchers to determine the effectiveness of the new technology. Already, some people have reported being able to hear broadcasts from the new station on private radio sets, the few that exist and owned by the wealthy of the city. The technology is clearly in its infancy, as Brazilian researches test new ideas and theories.

BRAZIL BEGINS UNDERGROUND CONSTRUCTION. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Following cities such as London or Charleston, the Brazilians have begun construction on a series of underground trains for mass transportation. The Rio Underground is scheduled to be completed in the next two years, but involves substantial disruption of the daily life in Rio de Janeiro. The city government has appealed to the population to remain patient with inevitable delays caused, pledging that the new system will dramatically improve quality of life. The government of Brazil has sponsored this effort, aiding the city management in construction, hoping to further demonstrate Rio's status as a city of the twentieth century.

COLOMBIAN CIVIL WAR. Bogota, Colombia. At long last the Colombian civil war has been brought to a bloody end, as the conservative forces of President Francisco Martos finally overwhelmed the armies of Abelardo Cabeza de Vaca. The fighting proved to be extremely heavy, as entrenched positions resulted in heavy casualties between both sides. Furthermore, Spanish aid arrived for the liberal cause, giving them vital supplies and munitions to help in the struggle against the conservative government. This further prolonged the conflict, until eventually the liberal lines were broke and their army began a retreat after a struggle of attrition. The final siege of Buenaventura ultimately resulted in the fall of the liberal government, as conservative guns entered range of the city. As the first shells began falling, the liberals surrendered, bringing about the security of the new conservative regime.
Casualty List
Colombia (Conservative): 10 Conscript Brigades, 12 Infantry Brigades, 1 Cavalry Brigade, 2 Artillery Brigades (+1 Army Quality, +1 Stability)
Colombia (Liberal): 10 Conscript Brigades, 10 Infantry Brigades, 3 Artillery Brigades

News from Africa and the Middle East​

GEORGIA EXPELS RUSSIAN SETTLERS. Tiflis, Georgia. After several years of growing disputes and anger between Georgian and Russian residents of northern Georgia, things have at last come to a conclusion with a radical move by the Georgian government. Under the orders of King George XIV of Georgia, all those who proclaim themselves to be of Russian dissent and origin have been expelled from the kingdom. This has included nearly one hundred thousand would be settlers, who have been forced to return to the Russian Empire. The Georgian military has also gone to work eliminating those resisting the move, and have mobilized to the border to prevent further infiltration by Russian settlers. Georgia has forbade further settlement of their territories by Russia, and has warned against attempts to regain lands for the poachers of Georgian territory. (+1 Stability, -10 Manpower for Georgia; +15 Manpower for Russia)

GUARDIANS OF EGYPT ESTABLISHED. Cairo, Spain. The success of the Sons of Arabia in stirring the Spanish pot in the Holy Land and the recent uprising has led to a new political development in Spanish Egypt. The new organization known as the Guardians of Egypt has been established, an organization dedicated to liberating Egypt from colonial rule and establishing a new government. Unlike the Sons of Arabia, they have not been announced violently, and have instead proclaimed their intention to achieve independence through other means, unless forced to do otherwise. They are furthermore fairly hostile towards the Sons of Arabia, and have offered their full support for the Spanish war effort against the Arabian Empire. The hopes have been high that the Guardians can create a more progressive move to peacefully end Spanish rule, though they remain mostly ignored by the Egyptian population.

REBELLION SPARKS WAR IN THE HOLY LAND. Arish, Spain. After several decades of what is viewed as misrule and favoritism, the Arabs of the Holy Land have at last been provoked into outright rebellion. Angry at Spanish trampling upon Islamic holy sites, as well as their obvious favoritism for the Christian and Jewish minorities, the Arabs rose up in full rebellion, securing a number of towns and even Jerusalem from the colonial government. The Spanish garrison was immediately deployed and managed some initial successes, retaking a number of strategic points. Unfortunately, the Arabian Empire intervened in the conflict, launching a surprise attack upon the Suez Canal and the defenses along the border of the Holy Land. The small Spanish squadron at the Suez Canal was easily defeated by the amassed Arabian ships, which then managed to move in range and scuttle several of their warships in the canal lane itself, while firing upon and damaging the locks. With their troops dispersed by the uprising, the Spanish were woefully unprepared in the Holy Land, and their armies were overwhelmed and routed. Some reinforcements were brought in from Egypt, slowing the offensive, and despite being badly outnumbered and outgunned, actually managed to halt the advance at a battle near Arish. The Arabians were forced to pull back and consolidate their lines as the advance ended, and more troops flocked to the Arabian cause. Below Photograph of Spanish troops marching to aid the defense of the Holy Land
Casualty List
Arabian Empire: 2 Conscript Brigades, 6 Infantry Brigades, 3 Cavalry Brigades, 2 Artillery Brigades, 6 Early Destroyers, 1 Early Heavy Cruiser (+1 Army Quality, +1 Navy Quality, +1 Stability)
Spain: 12 Infantry Brigades, 4 Cavalry Brigades, 4 Artillery Brigades, 4 Early Destroyers (+1 Stability)


FEAR RIOTS IN BASRA. Basra, Arabian Empire. The outbreak of war with Spain has been mostly viewed jubilantly among the people of the Arabian Empire, but in Basra a different opinion reigns. The constantly looming threat of Persian invasion has caused many to take pause in the outbreak of war, as most remain certain that the Persians are likely to pour across the border at any moment. The result was a paranoid society, and when a rumor began that Persians were marching across the border, a spree of looting and rioting began as a panicked population began stealing food and supplies from the market. People began fighting each other, trying to gain an edge and arm themselves for what was believed to be an incoming Persian tide. They were since suppressed and order was restored by the Arabian army, but at the cost of extensive damage to the city and its surroundings in the effort. Fortunately, the effort was fairly bloodless, with only a few hundred injured in the process, and the Arabian government has done much restore confidence in the regime about the security of the region against a Persian invasion. (+1 Stability)

KURDISH POPULATION GROWING IN PERSIA. Tabriz, Persia. Persian authorities have noticed something disturbing in the northwestern provinces, and have faced considerable disruption. As the Kurdish nation grows to the west, the number of Kurds in Persian territory has been noted to be on the rise. The rise has been attributed to a growing number of Kurdish settlers and immigrants to the region, paying taxes to the Persian government but culturally remaining tied to the homeland. The Persians believe the Kurds to be directly encouraging this population migration, in the hopes of pushing territorial claims upon Persia. The result has been worsening relations between the two states, as negotiations between the two quickly broke down as the Kurdish king refused any real compromise on the issue of territory and population.

CLERIC ARRESTED IN ALGIERS, UNREST GROWS. Algiers, Spain. The Spanish have upset the previously fairly quiet balance in their North African colonies this year as they arrested the troublesome cleric who riled the population of Algeria throughout last year. The cleric was arrested and exiled to Bermuda, hoping to calm the population down without his hateful influence. Instead, the population was outraged, as was the entire Islamic clergy of the Spanish African empire. Numerous formal protests have flooded the Viceroyalty's government as more and more Islamic leaders began preaching against Spanish rule, horrified by this abuse of their religion. They were made even angrier when the Spanish authorities attempted to place sympathetic puppet clerics over the upset region. Overall, it seems that dramatic tensions have mounted through the whole region, as Spanish authority is badly upset. (-1 Stability)

News from the Far East​

MAJOR RIOTS IN PEKING. Peking, Franco-Burgundian Confederation. Devastation was reported from the French colonial city of Peking, as for unknown reasons, massive riots took place, causing extensive damage. No one is sure of the sequence of events leading to the chaotic outbreak of violence, as the population rose up in a state of what could be considered revolt, if there were some sort of organization involved. Random barricades were thrown up, and white residents and military personnel were the favorite targets of the rioters. A local brigade in the city was surprised and overrun by the riots, and a military response soon took place. The French army was forced to be deployed en masse in the hopes of crushing what appeared to be an uprising. Random points were used as strongholds by the rioters and rebels, and the French systematically restored order, though in some cases, only with heavy casualties. Major damage was done to the heart of French China, as the colonial authority was reestablished and substantial bitterness towards the handling of the riots remains against the government. (-1 Stability, -3 Infantry Brigades, -20 Manpower)

SOCIETY FOR A FREE CHINA CREATED. Yangzhou, Scandinavia. The Scandinavian colonial authority noted this year, a new national movement created by Chinese intellectuals in Scandinavian China. The new Society for a Free China has been led by Chinese individuals educated by the Scandinavian university system. They have viewed the Europeans as a positive step for Chinese development, and have argued that the way forward rests in the radical new ideas of social proletarism to provide for the plentiful numbers of people of China. They have also looked at the ideology as a possible way to unite the disparate Chinese ruled by a number of different cultures and governments. They have claimed that the ancient idea of a Divine Mandate is outdated and irrelevant in the modern world, calling for the use of diplomacy and democratic methods to form a free Chinese nation.

BLOODY MUTINY ATTEMPTED IN CHINA. Lanzhou, China. The Chinese government under General Shi Au Gau came under attack this year as a rival general attempted a bid for power on his own. The opposing general has hoped to secure control of the independent Chinese government for himself, viewing the reigning government's ties to Russia as hypocritical for the leadership. The result was a significant amount of bloodshed across the nation, as the usurper's forces attempted to secure control of the army and government. Ultimately, the majority of the army supported the reign of Shi Au Gau, preserving the standing government and policies. The heaviest fighting took place around Lanzhou, as the loyalists hoped to prevent the usurper's armies from taking the capital and the center of Chinese freedom. The fighting was bloody, but the rebel leader was killed in the battle by an artillery barrage, and the result was the immediate surrender of the remaining forces. Surprisingly, the rebellious soldiers were granted amnesty by the government with no real reprisals against them. Observers have lauded the general for his mercy in victory, and he has used this to further consolidate his position as ruler of China. (-33 Infantry Brigades, -4 Cavalry Brigades, -5 Artillery Brigades, +1 Stability)

PROLETARIST MOVEMENT FOUNDED IN JAPAN. Kyoto, Japan. While Japan has been tied into European technological and economic progress since the middle of the nineteenth century, they have not always adopted the majority of Western social and political ideals. The slowest to arrive has been the ideologies of the various branches of proletarism. This officially changed this year as the Japanese Proletarist Society has been established in Kyoto, led by a number of intellectuals educated at Western universities. The Japanese proletarists call for the abolition of the monarchy and the establishment of a people's government for Japan, and Asia as a whole. They have retained some of the imperial ideals, stating that Japan should lead the Asian world in a unified proletarist state. Mostly though, these ideas are incredibly alien to Japanese culture and life, so the proletarists remain limited only to the intellectual groups and universities across the Japanese islands.

Financial Section​

HUNGARY INSTITUTES FINANCIAL REFORMS. Budapest, Hungary. As the nation continues to stabilize from the past few years of unrest, the government keeps a wary eye on the future. To this end a series of reforms have been established to help encourage a spur in consumer and business spending, developing the Hungarian economy. The first of these has been a significant increase in pay for all government employees, both in the bureaucracy and in the army. The beneficiaries have been encouraged to use this new money to by Hungarian goods and increase their standard living at home. The government has also dramatically lowered interest rates, hoping to spur private business and development, a risky move altering from past economic policies. Finally, with these changes, came new tariffs for the importation of foreign goods, hoping to spur purchase of Hungarian goods among the population. So far it seems that the reforms are having a success, but economists are not sure whether the recent economic growth can be attributed to these reforms or the new transportation construction program.

GENOA PROVIDES SOCIAL SUPPORT. Genoa, Genoa. In what appears to be nothing more than a one-time stipend, the Genoese have provided funds for those struggling with poverty or unemployment. They have offered substantial amounts of money, particularly to struggling artists and artisans who have not yet found a market for their product. This has helped spur the arts and development of literature and music throughout the nation, providing a sort of patronage. The proletarists at the new university have applauded the king's gesture, but have called for such social aid to be provided persistently, rather than just at the whim of the monarchy. They have called for the development of a system of government welfare for the people of the nation, providing more money for those seeking employment. Genoese companies have lobbied against such a move, claiming that this stipend is more than enough for any further funds to be provided.

BRITAIN OFFERS COLONIAL SUBSIDIES. London, United Kingdom of Great Britain. The new British Empire Party has begun sponsoring the development of new industries in the colonial territories of the empire. This has predominantly taken place in Australia and South Africa, which both possess a predominantly white population. The emphasis has been upon sustainable consumer resources, such as textiles and dyes, rather than munitions or other military supplies. The hope has been to create sustainable economies in the colonial possessions in order to make them a more integrated part of a larger empire. The effort has been fairly successful to begin with in sponsoring colonial industrial development, but some people are concerned that the net result of this program will be to increase jobs abroad, while reducing jobs at home.

UNITED STATES BEGINS REPAYING PANAMA DEBT. Charleston, United States of America. The government of the United States has been making good upon the loans given by foreign governments in order to build the Panama Canal. Having received significant contributions from the Spanish and Persians to assist in the construction of the canal, the foundation of the economy continues to be maintained with the repayment of these debts. The repayment has further bolstered American currency and prosperity, causing a further financial boom from the economic capital of Charleston. President Wareing has pledged that the American people will make good upon all their debts, political or economic.

SCANDINAVIA BOLSTERS SUBSIDY PROGRAM. Stockholm, Scandinavia. The Industry Party government of Scandinavia has greatly expanded upon its program of offering subsidies to encourage the growth of big business and industrial development. While aid continues to be offered simply to local growing industry in Scandinavia, the program has also been expanded to include the hotels and Olympic related businesses in Oslo. Another beneficiary of the subsidy expansion has been exporters to the Roman Empire, particularly industries related to consumer aid and munitions. The government of Scandinavia has stated that not only will these subsidies help the Scandinavian people, but they will also help to put the devastated Roman Empire back on their feet, improving commerce with the allies within the League of the Three Emperors.

BRAZIL OFFERS INDUSTRY TAX CUTS. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Under encouragement from British economic advisers, the Brazilian government has begun a new series of tax cuts designed to encourage industrial growth. The effort has been less than enthusiastically greeted by the Party of Order, which views it as an unfair advantage and an open door for the exploitation of the Brazilian worker. Regardless, due to the influence of the majority of the party, it seems that the efforts will continue to push forward. The Brazilians have pledged to push forward, hoping to encourage the creation of new heavy industry and development, an awkward reform based on the nation's traditional agricultural standing.

FINANCIAL FLUCTUATION REPORT. Madrid, Spain. Total Economic Change: +6; Economic Status: Stagnation.

Advertisements From Around the World​

The Sports Page​

THE 1904 OSLO OLYMPICS. Oslo, Scandinavia. The Olympics were held this year among gala ceremonies as the pre-games events were sponsored in a lavish display from funding by the Scandinavian government. The Olympic Committee was pleased to add two new equestrian related events this year, including racing, which has proven fairly popular with those who have come to observe. The events were clearly dominated by the Franco-Burgundian Confederation, which came away with the most medals of all types. They were tied with the United States of America, which had dominated the equestrian events, for the most gold medals, and the athletes of both nations have been celebrated by their governments upon their returns home. A number of new cities were put forward as options for the 1908 Olympics, though they were chosen from a limited pool, as the Committee ruled out a number of nations in current turbulent political status. Rouen, Seville, Cardiff, and Warsaw were all considered as potential options for the next great event. After compiling votes from the members of the Olympic Committee, the Polish economic center of Warsaw has been selected to hose the 1908 Olympic Games. Below Photograph is off the constructed luxury stands for the horse race track.




AMERICANS REVERSE VARUKORGBOLL TREND. Fort Sioux, United States of America. After three years of being badly beaten by Vinlander teams, the American varukorgboll team from Fort Sioux in Dakota has turned to triumph in the united sporting league. The Americans fought hard, and at last achieved victory, renewing faltering American popular interest in the sport. The varukorgboll games have been given another lease on life in the United States, while the Vinlanders prepare for new games starting next year. The sport continues to spread like wildfire through both nations, proving to be a strong alternative to the Spanish world's sport of balompie.

The Cultural Center​

A Call for Imperial Socialism
Written by Swedish author and liberal politician, Henrik Rikkstaldt, A Call for Imperial Socialism is a written reaction to the Industry Party's upset victory in the 1902 elections. This book was distributed in excerpts as a pamphlet, as well as read as a book, and was regarded by Rikkstaldt and his readers as a vision for the future of liberalism in Scandinavia. Rikkstaldt claims that "imperial socialism" has long been the practice of Scandinavia, and is and will continue to be the only successful way for a nation to manage a colonial empire, as well as a modern, industrial economy. Imperial socialism as Rikkstaldt defines it consists of an acknowledged cooperation, and essential symbiosis, between public government and private business for the betterment of the state and its citizens, and all the state's possessions. Rikkstaldt's book proved to be wildly popular with the liberal electorate, and sparked a fad for liberals to refer to themselves as "Imperial Socialists".

Nuestria Patria
A book of fiction written by Argentine author Joaquín Lugones, Nuestria Patria describes the downfall of the fictional tropical republic of Paraíso Perdida. The conflicting desires between urban industry and rural agriculture eventually leads to civil war, and the ruin of the once-united nation and country. Through a large cast of well-rounded characters and exciting plots, the future of the nation is not resolved, each attempt at unity betrayed by a partisan extremist's selfish ambition. The novel concludes with an invasion by an infernal army from the north, which murders or subjugates all in the country, deserving or undeserving alike. It has gained popularity among the nations of South America, known for its satirical approach to the ongoing Colombian Civil War.

Sundered Flags
A Peruvian novel about the time of the Imperial Civil War between the reformists and old guard of Spain from 1869 to 1874 and written by former veteran, Javier Quechá. The novel has proven fairly successful in Peru and has made its way to success throughout South America and to a lesser degree, the Spanish Empire. The book provides a grass roots look at the war and the tumultuous period which eventually led to the independence of Peru from the imperial Spanish. The book has become required reading for many revolutionaries against the Spanish government, also as a pleasurable novel all of its own. The historical topic has made it oddly accepted by both supporters and detractors of Spanish imperialism.

The Town Crier Magazine
A new Polish luxury magazine for those of idle minds and hands, the Town Crier Magazine offers stories and satirical reports about events of the day. The new published magazine drew extensive controversy and condemnation when they published a satirical story about the Constantinople Event. They created a false government document "proving" that the Event was caused by a drunk Russian operating a device that was supposed to bring a piece of the moon down upon Siberia in 1908. The Russians, drunk as always, instead brought it down early upon Constantinople. The magazine was temporarily shut down by the government due to its objectionable topic, and has been banned in most nations outside of Poland.

Random Stat Changes and Fluctuations and Minor Technological Advances

Population boom in Georgia as Russian settler territory seized: +8 Manpower.

Danish military academies graduate superb class of officers: +1 Army Quality, +1 Navy Quality

French military thinkers lead the world in new army doctrines, while adopting strong new doctrines from the best navies in the world: +1 Army Quality, +1 Navy Quality

Portugal designs new Dragoa-class Destroyer.

Poland completes research into Destroyer Improvement Level One.

United States of America shares construction rights of Joao-class Heavy Cruiser and Virginia-class Battleship with Venezuela, Japan, and the Arabian Empire.

Japan shares technology of Small Arms Improvement Level One with United States of America and Venezuela.

Japan, United States of America, Arabian Empire, and Venezuela complete collaborative research into Battleship Improvement Level One.

United Kingdom of Great Britain shares Destroyer Improvement Levels One and Two, Battleship Improvement Level One, and Cruiser Improvement Level One with Poland, Hungary, Serbia, and Georgia.

United Kingdom of Great Britain shares construction rights for Trovão-class Destroyer and Olympus-class Battleship with Poland, Hungary, Georgia, and Serbia.

Poland shares construction rights for Zygmunt-class Destroyer and Chościsko-class Light Cruiser with Hungary, Georgia, Serbia, the United Kingdom of Great Britain, Brazil, Argentina, and Occitania.

United Kingdom of Great Britain shares construction rights of the Trovão-class Destroyer, Ziemowit-class Heavy Cruiser, Summit-class Battleship, and the Olympus-class Battleship with Occitania.

United Kingdom of Great Britain shares the technologies of Small Arms Improvement Level One, Artillery Improvement Level One, Destroyer Improvement Levels One and Two, Cruiser Improvement Level One, Battleship Improvement Level One, and Gas Warfare Level One with Occitania.

Franco-Burgundian Confederation Army adopts new Triple Alliance Army 1904 doctrine.

Scandinavia completes research into Submarine Improvement Level One, shares with Russia and the Roman Empire.

Scandinavia shares construction rights for the Nordenfelt-class Submarine with Austria.

Jamaica completes research into Destroyer Improvement Level One.

Diplomatic Pouch

To: Portugal
From: Mayan Republic

We are willing to pay for the construction rights for the Joao-class Heavy Cruiser at the price previously stated, 40 EP. We hope that you will make this agreement so that both of our nations can profit from the deal.

To: Portugal
From: New Spain

We are willing to pay for the construction rights for the Joao-class Heavy Cruiser at the price previously stated, 40 EP. We hope that you will make this agreement so that both of our nations can profit from the deal. We are also willing to offer you an additional 50 EP if you agree not to sell construction rights to the Mayan Republic.

To: Spain
From: Peru

We wish to purchase construction rights for your various new smaller warships, especially the Numancia-class Destroyer. We are hoping to enter negotiations for the price.

To: Sardinia
From: Tuscany

Your armies have been beaten, we demand you withdraw and compensate our citizenry with 30 EP for your damages caused by your unlawful attack.

To: Spain
From: Colombia

We denounce the move you made to reinforce our lawfully elected government's enemies. We hereby declare an embargo upon all Spanish goods, and will be expelling your ambassador until we deem fit to allow a new one.

To: Interested Parties
From: Jamaica

We are interested in selling our new advancements in destroyer technology for a mere 50 EP. We will accept any takers on this opportunity.

OOC

@Mickzter97: Unless you have some specific way to increase stability, there's really nothing to spend on there. The related EP has been banked. Same goes for colony expenses. I need to know what your people are supposed to be doing with the money before I can do anything about it. If you have questions about this, please send me a PM, and I'll do my best to offer some guidance on things that you can do.

I'd like to state publically once again, do not knock the fighting aptitude of Conscript Brigades. They are only marginally less effective than Infantry Brigades on the offensive and equal on the defensive, in terms of your Doctrine (Not always true if compared to other Doctrines). Keep this in mind for all your war needs.

In general, if there's anyone out there having trouble figuring out what to do with your EP and time, send me a PM, and I'll be more than happy to provide advice based on your nation's status.

Now, there have been some questions about zeppelins. Here's my short response: NEIN ZEPPELINS! FORBOTTEN! For a longer response, I have thought hard on the issue, and have come to a conclusion. A good sign of alternative history in any media is that the history has zeppelins. Therefore, I have determined that an even better sign of a REALLY alternative history is one without zeppelins. Plus I hate them. With a fiery passion. So for all intents and purposes, the zeppelin as we know it was not invented in this timeline.

Per Circuit's request, American Alaska has been named Scottson.

Per Zelet Dude's request, Kenya has been renamed Hollandia, Dutch Kongo has been renamed Kabinde, and Dutch West Africa has been renamed Goudkust.

@luckymoose: Good catch, technically those islands should have gone to Britain in the Boring Times. This has been corrected.

@Terrish: unfortunately, comics are not yet practical as an art form in the term of standard comic books. I understand your desire to create such a character, but for the time being, it's just not technically feasible, based on my research into the medium.

@Quisani: I'm sorry, but I don't really think your cultural contribution really fits the era's literature and development. Going to block it for now, but I'd recommend saving it for the future.

@Lord_Iggy: Love your new statsminister's name. Feels like he should be wielding a battleaxe and pillaging things.

World Map

... I forgot to include in my orders a line to assist the spanish in a war against arabia, like I did the previous two order sets.. great. there went all my plans for persia.
I'll see if I can salvage it, but I'm likely out as them after next turn.

Great update once again sir!

To: Spain
From: Naples

We would like to reassure you we are still on track to pay what we agreed to pay you. Also we would like to clarify that your zero tariffs only pertains to the region formerly known as Sicily, it will not extend into the rest of Naples. With that, we hope our peace can continue for years to come.

To: The World
From: Imperator Panagiotis, of the Roman Empire

Do not fear, the Bosporous will be reopened to regular commercial traffic this year. We did not want to risk any incidents with the recent turmoil in Bulgaria.

To: The Russian Empire
From: Imperator Panagiotis, of the Roman Empire

I am saddened to hear your great Emperor has passed away, but we know that the new Emperor Nicholas will continue to be a good friend and ally of the Roman Empire as his father was. We wish him the best of health and hope that God watches over his reign.

From: Empire of Scandinavia
To: Roman Empire
CC: Bulgar Rebels
We remain fully committed to doing everything in our power to assist you. Should it be necessary, we are willing to commit whatever forces possible to assist in putting down the Bulgarian rebellion. Peace must, and shall be, restored to your great nation and its people. As always, the sentiment and feeling of this government and the Scandinavian people goes out to our Roman allies. Damn space rocks.

From: Empire of Scandinavia
To: Russian Empire
We are saddened by the passing of His Imperial Majesty, but we are invigorated in knowing that Emperor Nicholas will serve well and honorably for the Russian Empire.

To: the World
From: Flanders

As numerous crises threaten to engulf the world, Flanders will do its part to alleviate the pain by declaring itself open to refugees, provided that they can prove that they require refuge and are responsible citizens of their own country who are simply cursed with the misfortune of being caught in the middle of one of the world's many tragedies. Along with disaster and war refugees, Flanders will also accept political exiles as long as they do not threaten the stability of Flanders. This courtesy will only be extended for five years however, and after that time the refugee must either apply for citizenship or return to their home country, provided that the crisis has passed.

m.t.cicero said:

To: the World
From: Flanders

As numerous crises threaten to engulf the world, Flanders will do its part to alleviate the pain by declaring itself open to refugees, provided that they can prove that they require refuge and are responsible citizens of their own country who are simply cursed with the misfortune of being caught in the middle of one of the world's many tragedies. Along with disaster and war refugees, Flanders will also accept political exiles as long as they do not threaten the stability of Flanders. This courtesy will only be extended for five years however, and after that time the refugee must either apply for citizenship or return to their home country, provided that the crisis has passed.

Click to expand...

OOC: Always jumping before I can post stuff... This is about the 6th plan now that you've went and taken while I was posting...

OOC: Unfortunately Gem Hound, the obvious plans are apparent to both neutral Channel nations. I don't see why you can't make the same offer, because there are many reasons why someone would take refuge in Brittany over Flanders, and realistically the plans would be proposed almost simultaneously in the timeline. Also, how many refugees do you think you can cram into Flanders at one time?

OOC: Great update.

IC: To: Spain
From: The Arabian Empire

The people of the Holy Land have spoken and it is clear they wish to rule themselves. We are willing to accept peace at current borders to put an end to this bloodshed.

To: Persia
From: The Arabian Empire

We are willing to overlook Persia's continued betrayal of Islam. We would accept peace with your nation in exchange for 5 EP reparations to recover the costs of Persia's foolish actions. Failure to accept this will result in certain catastrophe for the Persian nation and her people.

To: Arabian Empire
From: Empire of Spain

Only a part of the population of the Holy Land has spoken, and they have done so due to your terrorist actions against the peace-loving people of the region. The Muslim people of the region do not know that they have just played into your hands and plans, which are to export your tyrannical monarchy into what was before a land of equality and freedom. You have made a great mistake, and we will not rest until the Holy Land and its people are freed from your brutality and tyranny.

To: Persia
From: Empire of Spain

We thank you for your support, and hope that we will be able to march together into the Arabian Empire until they are finally defeated.

To: United States of America, Empire of Japan
From: Empire of Spain

We wish to ask you that you cease all support of the Arabian Empire. Their terrorist actions and this final, traitorous attack upon us shows clearly that they lack any honour.

To: Occitania
From: Empire of Spain

It is sad that you have chosen this path. We have clearly shown you our friendliness and willingness to work with you, even though you remained caustic about our collaboration with the Franco-Burgundian Confederation, and yet you have thrown more than two centuries of friendship to the bin.

To: People of Spain
From: The Imperial Government of Spain

We wish to ask you not to engage in acts that go against the government while this war lasts. All of your support will be needed and very welcomed.

To: Good nations of the world
From: Empire of Spain

We would like to ask you to cease your trade with the Arabian Empire. They have shown they are unworthy of the honour of being rulers of their land, and clearly need to be shown the consequences of their actions.

theDright said:

OOC: Unfortunately Gem Hound, the obvious plans are apparent to both neutral Channel nations. I don't see why you can't make the same offer, because there are many reasons why someone would take refuge in Brittany over Flanders, and realistically the plans would be proposed almost simultaneously in the timeline. Also, how many refugees do you think you can cram into Flanders at one time?

Click to expand...

The hospital thing though I wasn't planning and it was an awesome plan. The channel tunnel idea though was something I was thinking of when I first joined... though, it would have went to Flanders anyways due to it being the shortest route. That's why I didn't mention anything.


IC:


To: The World
From: Brittany
Brittany, as Flanders is, is also accepting refugees. If they can prove that they are refugees from a country covered in war and oppression and are also not criminals, they will be entered into a refugee relocation program. People will be aided in starting a new life in Brittany with a steady flow of money for the first year. Refugees are allowed to leave whenever they feel like leaving, just like our citizens are. After 6 years of time however, the refugees will be given a choice. Either they would apply to become citizens which have good benefits including the right to vote for the leadership of Britanny, or to return to their home country.

I did NOT shut down the press!!! Fix it please.

@EQ: On the island, unfair. On Emperor John, uh, at least use a Portuguese spelling (João). On my industrial tax cuts, I've been doing it for years and I spent the BT industrializing, there should be no outcries about my nation being all agriculture.

TO: Spain
FROM: Brazil

Your involvement in the affairs of Colombia during their civil war, against the wishes of the Colombian people and the Anglo-Brazilian Alliance is outrageous. Brazil demands Spanish reparations to the rightful Colombian Republic.

TO: Colombia
FROM: Brazil

Now that your victory is won and peace reigns in your lands once more Brazil hopes for near immediate general elections for a free and democratic government. Our task force will remain to protect your fragile peace from further outsiders, despite the Spanish smuggling and underhanded techniques.

TO: Naples
FROM: Brazil

We congratulate your on your successful unification. Our fleet will depart from Naples this year and return to Rio de Janiero.

Gem Hound said:

The hospital thing though I wasn't planning and it was an awesome plan. The channel tunnel idea though was something I was thinking of when I first joined... though, it would have went to Flanders anyways due to it being the shortest route. That's why I didn't mention anything.


IC:


To: The World
From: Brittany
Brittany, as Flanders is, is also accepting refugees. If they can prove that they are refugees from a country covered in war and oppression and are also not criminals, they will be entered into a refugee relocation program. People will be aided in starting a new life in Brittany with a steady flow of money for the first year. Refugees are allowed to leave whenever they feel like leaving, just like our citizens are. After 6 years of time however, the refugees will be given a choice. Either they would apply to become citizens which have good benefits including the right to vote for the leadership of Britanny, or to return to their home country.

Click to expand...

@GemHound: I didn't realize I was taking all of these ideas, I suppose great minds think alike But I appreciate that you're taking refugees too, I feel like in the near future there'll be too many to fit in just Flanders.

TO: Argentina, Paraguay, Peru, Colombia, New Spain, United Kingdom of Great Britain
FROM: Empire of Brazil


Spanish acts of aggression against our ally and friend, Colombia, will not go without justice. Join us in embargoing the Spanish Empire until reparations accounting for 200 EP to the current Republic of Colombia are met by the Spanish government. If reparations are refused by the Spanish tyrants, Brazil will stand against the Spanish navy in the Atlantic and insure she can never harm a free republic again.

To: Empire of Brazil
CC: Spain, Argentina, Paraguay, Peru, Colombia, New Spain
From: The United Kingdom of Great Britain

Faithful allies as ever, we answer the call. Let it be known that we demand Spain pay reparations to Colombia.

OOC: Who owns this island? The color matches no one, so I'm going to invade them.

To: Brazil, United Kingdom, Colombia
From: Empire of Spain

We are willing to pay reparations to Colombia. However, according to our own calculations, with our aid, the liberals would have only been able to arm one of the following, at most:
- 3 Conscript Brigades.
- 2 Conscript Brigades + 1 Artillery Brigade
- 1 Conscript Brigade + 1 Cavalry Brigade
- 2 Artillery Brigades
- 1 Infantry Brigade
Considering the fact that the losses sustained by both sides surpass, by much, the number of troops the liberals could have trained with the money and supplies we sent to them, we believe that the demands, by part of the United Kingdom and Brazil, that the reparations should ascend to the quantity of [200 EP] are wild exaggerations and completely unreasonable demands. At most, we are willing to pay 15 EP, which is the same aid we gave the liberal faction in the Colombian Civil War plus a 50% for the troubles.