Background for A Brave New World

EQandcivfanatic

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Civilized Nations

Argentina; Argentina was one of the first South American nations to break away from European empires. Since independence in 1816, Argentina has seen much war. The independence wars of Paraguay and Uruguay lost Argentina some of its original lands. The 1828-1829 war against Brazil humbled Argentina and threatened to destabilize the nation. Argentina looks to rebuild, however, and the future could see Argentina resurgent.

Austrian Empire: During the Napoleonic War, the reformed Austrian Empire acted as soldiers for British bankrolls. Very little was gained from the conflict and the only result was greater centralization of the empire. Since the end of the wars, the Austrian Empire faces threats from a surging Russia and the decaying Ottoman Empire. To the north, the Prussians have begun making noises toward German unification. Within the Austrian Empire itself, the Hungarians have begun vying for power as other ethnics groups being making the first moves toward nationalism.

Baden: Baden was heavily fought over during the Napoleonic Wars. Forced to territorial concessions by France and used as a pawn early in the conflict, only the generosity of the tsar of Russia would assure Baden’s independence following the wars. Since the end of the conflict, Baden has centralized its government and built itself into a modern state, absorbing several of its smaller neighbors.

Bavaria: Since the end of the Napoleonic Wars, Bavaria has been the predominant Catholic German state. The Bavarians have acted frequently against their chief rivals of Prussia, who they view as a threat to German interests. As the other strong German power, Bavaria could be the unifying basis for a German Republic.

Belgium: In 1829, the kingdom of Belgium declared independence from the Netherlands. By 1830, most European powers have recognized the new Belgian government, but the Dutch have refused to acknowledge its existence. The Belgians have begun conscripting in preparation for a war to maintain their newfound freedom.

Brazil: Since achieving its independence, Brazil has been beset by troubles. Internal unrest led to the proclamation of empire, which has currently been the most stable government to date. A nearly disastrous war against Argentina was a marginal victory which secured Uruguay’s independence. Since the war, the rising question of slavery and relations with the former Colombian states have remained at the forefront of the Brazilian leadership.

British Empire: Despite the great defeats of the American War of Independence, the British Empire has rebounded from its setbacks to a position of even stronger power. Trade with most of the states following the war increased to even beyond the pre-war amounts. Furthermore, greater control was emplaced upon India in order to better fight the global conflicts against France which would emerge prior to 1830. With Napoleon defeated and the largest navy and strongest economy in the world, the British Empire has its choice on paths it wishes to take in the still young nineteenth century.

Canada: Canada was one of the strongest advocates of maintaining the United States and the fledgling Constitution which failed in Congress 1789. However, as the southern states seceded through 1803 to 1804, Canadian leaders quickly saw the writing on the wall. Despite this, legislation for an independent Canada would not succeed in the Canadian Congress until the dissolution of the Continental Congress in 1807. Canada would have its first national crisis in 1810 when French dissidents in Quebec declared their independence from the government at Ottawa. Supported with guns and advisors from Napoleon’s France, the Quebecois won their independence after a brutal two-year struggle. Another war would be fought in 1823 between Canada and Vermont after Vermontan raiders struck several farms throughout Canada, and it would end inconclusively. Since the loss of the Vermont War, Canada has suffered a crisis of identity and charismatic leaders have called for a change of government from a federalist republic

Carolina: South Carolina colony was the first to secede from the United States in 1803. North Carolina was reluctant to follow until a display of force brought them in line. However, the wealthy landowners feared a republic and the loss of power to emerging classes of merchants and city folk. The aristocrats met in Charleston and formed the first Carolinan House of Lords, electing a king, coronating him King Richard. The new King Richard II is an unhealthy man, and Carolina is fearful of Virginian expansionism and potential threats.

Chile: Chile’s fight for independence was the most minor of all the wars in South America. Only after losing the rest of their empire did Spain at last grant Chile its complete freedom. Chile has so far avoided the wars and internal unrest of other South American nations, but with so much turmoil on the continent, this may be only a temporary respite.

Connecticut: Following the conclusion of the War of Independence, America’s greatest tactical general, Benedict Arnold, was offered the position of King of Connecticut, his home state. King Benedict I was crowned in 1790, presenting a philosophical and constitutional problem for the United States of America. President Jefferson hoped for the end of the Connecticut monarchy after King Benedict’s death in 1802, but his son, King Richard, has proven to be a stable absolute ruler. The Vermont-New Hampshire War of 1827 proved to King Richard that the old militias were insufficient to a modern industrial state. Paying for exclusive advisors from France, the king has reformed the old militia into a modern fighting force, and many believe that he wishes to one day force a new regime on the disunited nations of North America.

Delaware: Delaware was the least enthusiastic colony in the revolt against Britain. Over 75% of Delawarians were Loyalists and after Gates’ victory for control of the state, Delaware viewed the rebels as illegitimate occupiers. In 1803, Delaware was the second state to secede after South Carolina. Since the collapse, Delaware has remained incredibly close to the British Empire, relying on imports for almost every product and item imaginable. The few nationalists of Delaware have begun to fear in recent years a British attempt to seize full control of the small nation.

Denmark: Denmark nearly went bankrupt as a result of the Napoleonic Wars. Allying with the French lost the Danes their navy and position as a significant player in Europe. Swedish threats also lost Denmark control of Norway, and only the threat of war prevented Iceland and Greenland being lost as well to the Swedes. By 1830, Denmark has finally regained a semi-stable footing and the rise of the industrial age could lead to a new era of Danish imperialism.

Ecuador: After an abortive attempt at a unified northern South American empire, the Republic of Grand Colombia collapsed. Ecuador was one of three nations created by the collapse. Ecuador now looks to extend its claims to the west and east to built itself into a real nation.

Federal Republic of Central America: The Federal Republic of Central America began as an attempt to create a successful version of the United States of America in 1823. It has been touted by Central Americans as the model for future democracy in the Americas. However, regional and ethnic differences have threatened the stability of the nation and a collapse may not be far in the future.

Franklin: The Franklin Crisis was one of the preceding incidents to the collapse of 1803-1804. The residents of the western counties of North Carolina refused to recognize the elected government there in 1796. Despite pleas of the President, the governor of North Carolina ordered the state militia to restore order. After five years of bloody guerilla conflict, Franklin won its independence as a state, though it was never officially admitted into the United States of America. A small mountain nation, in recent years it has acted as a buffer nation between the emerging strength of Tennessee and the eastern monarchy of Carolina.

French Empire: The end of the Napoleonic Wars left France in a state of flux and King Louis Phillipe has been left in charge of a nation which feels that it no longer needs a king. Despite troubles at home France still retains the second most powerful military in western Europe, vast colonial holdings in North America, and a position as a global power. France now faces a multitude of threats, not only from unification in Europe, but war in the Americas.

Georgia: After the start of the collapse of the United States in 1804, Georgia’s governor was quick to assert his control over the state. In the years between 1805 and 1830, Georgia has gone through a variety of governors and relatively few elections. Only recently, the expulsion of the Creek into Spanish Florida has enabled further exploitation of western Georgia and the former Mississippi Territory. Georgia is easily one of the quickest growing economies in North America, particularly with the acceleration of the slave trade from Africa and even increased immigration from Europe.

Greece: A long and brutal struggle for freedom has won Greece its independence from the Ottoman Empire. Now the Greeks hope to rebuild itself as a modern, Christian European nation. The Ottomans still possess significant amounts of Greek national territory, any many call for a future war to reunify the nation.

Haiti: Haiti goes into history as the only successful slave rebellion to date. A brutal nearly decade long struggle against France led to a victory and the establishment of a republic. Since then republicanism in Haiti has been a façade at best. Presidents have established absolute power and complete control over the government. Haiti’s government now looks to perhaps assist slaves elsewhere in the Americas, especially as the slave trade begins to pick up steam.

Kentucky: Thomas Jefferson was the last President of the United States to serve in office. One of the leading republican spokesmen from the South, Jefferson’s absence from Virginia was one of the causes of the establishment of the Lee dynasty in that nation. After submitting his resignation, Jefferson returned to Virginia to become one of the prime leaders of the rebels in the Kentucky War of Independence. Now Kentucky is one of the most stable and stalwart republics in North America.

Maryland: The collapse of the United States in 1804 resulted in the formation of a republic in the former colony of Maryland. The fledgling nation however was plagued by former Loyalist sentiment as well as persistent political turmoil. King Henry of Virginia, following disputed elections in 1809, launched a full scale invasion of Maryland. After a series of quick battles, Virginia emerged victorious. King Henry established a throne of Maryland and placed his notorious cousin Thomas Sim Lee as king. Since then, Maryland has continued its history of instability, especially as continuing Loyalist pressure comes from Delaware.

Massachusetts: Massachusetts has been one of the more secure republics since the collapse of the United States. Though heavily anti-immigrant, the nation has steadily grown in peace and prosperity since the collapse. The shipyards of Massachusetts have gained worldwide notoriety and during the Napoleonic Wars, the ships were sought out by both sides for service. Since the end of the war, Massachusettian traders have gone around the world and participated in markets across the globe. The northern nation of Nova Scotia has matched Massachusetts in its achievements and this has led to tensions between the two naval powers. These tensions came to a head in the Bermuda War of 1820 as the powers fought battles over borders the unclaimed regions of Maine and Bermuda. Massachusetts came out clearly ahead in the conflict, claiming control over both regions.

Mexican Empire: The Wars of Independence left Mexico as the most powerful of the former Spanish possessions in America. One of the victorious generals of the war proclaimed himself Emperor of the new nation and has extended government control over the entirety of Mexico. However, the Mexican Empire is divided with ethnic tensions, especially rising crises from California, Texas, and the Yucatan.

Netherlands: During the Napoleonic Wars, the Netherlands were occupied and became officially a part of the French Empire. However, Allied victory in the war saw the creation of an independent Dutch monarchy. Further power would be gained for the fledgling monarchy with then nationalization of the Dutch East India Company in 1816. Recently, however, the Catholic Belgians have revolted from Dutch rule, and many have called for military mobilization to crush the rebels despite international recognition.

New Hampshire: As one of the poorest nations of the former United States, New Hampshire has remained backward and undeveloped since the collapse of the USA. Relying upon support from Massachusetts for overseas goods and other economic support, the small New England nation has nearly fallen victim to its neighbor, Vermont. In 1827, the Vermont militia was ordered to invade and occupy New Hampshire. In a series of skirmishes, the New Hampshire Republic managed to whittle down the Vermontan armies, and forced them to leave the region. However, the damage was done and much of New Hampshire’s rural outskirts were left in ruins. Now New Hampshire attempts to rebuild and pay the mounting debts from war and economic recession.

New Jersey: New Jersey was devastated by the fighting of the American War of Independence. Reliant on the United States to maintain its economy, the nation has struggled severely since the collapse. With few large cities of note, New Jersey is easily the poorest nation in North America.

New York: New York is the largest and most developed republic in the former United States. With New York City being the capital of the former United States, New York was a stronghold of federalist sentiment. However, a growing amount of immigrants from the other nations, South America, and Europe have caused a population surge and the ensuing political turmoil have caused a surplus of political parties and factions. With the threat of expansionist Vermont and Connecticut to the east, New York is easily the largest industrial power in North America.

Nova Scotia: Nova Scotia was one of the original colonies to revolt from the British Empire. Nova Scotian ships would form the backbone of the revolt's navy. This maritime tradition continued throughout the brief history of the United States and the years following the collapse. However, a rivalry with neighboring Massachusetts led to military conflict over Bermuda and Maine in 1820. Now both nations compete for influence in trading abroad and within New England.

Ohio: Ohio was one of the few regions which did not revolt from Britain during the War of Independence. However, local tribes did ally with the British against the American rebels. Armies from New York and Canada moved and crushed the native tribes after a brutal campaign. During the brief time of the United States, people rushed to Ohio to take land claims and population boomed. Most of the west remains empty except for scattered settlers, towns, and even some remaining native tribes, giving Ohio a possible great future of expansion and wealth.

Ottoman Empire: The Ottoman Empire managed to retain neutrality throughout the Napoleonic Wars and began a slow process of modernization. Despite the progress of the new monarchs, nationalist tensions caused considerable problems for the regime. The recent Greek War of Independence gave a black eye to the Ottomans and threats from Egypt bear the possibility of war in Palestine.

Papal States: The Pope regained his kingdom on earth following Napoleon’s defeat in 1814. Since the end of the war, the Papal States have been one of the most reactionary in Europe. Papal discrimination continues against Jews living in Italy and a brief war in 1827 led to the incorporation of the abortive state of Tuscany into the Papal States.

Paraguay: Paraguay’s move for independence from Spain emerged from a move of independence against Argentine dominance. A series of brief wars led to the establishment of Paraguay as an independent state. Surrounded by probable enemies, Paraguay is an uneasy nation.

Pennsylvania: Pennsylvania is a pacifist nation which provided lackluster support during the War of Independence and continues to refuse to sponsor a military to this day. Though overshadowed by neighboring New York in industry, Pennsylvania is one of the quickest growing populations through immigration. However, the new monarchy in Maryland and a increasingly powerful Ohio threaten the peaceful nation’s tranquility and Pennsylvania may soon have to learn to fight again.

Peru-Bolivian Union: Immediately after achieving its independence in 1826, the nation of Bolivia fell into absolute anarchy. In order to respond to the collapse of government, Peru deployed its military forces into the nation, restoring order. The popular idea of a confederation between the two nations was cemented as theory became reality in 1828.

Portugal: The end of the Napoleonic Wars and the vicious campaigns which were fought throughout the decade of conflict in Portugal left the nation bereft of the prestige it once possessed. Colonial revolts have seen the end of Portuguese rule in South America and the end of most of its influence in Asia. Portugal now struggles with a faltering economy and has begun to attempt to regain its former status as a major power.

Prussia: Though Prussian military arms were treated as a joke throughout the Napoleonic Wars, Prussia’s reforms since the conflict have made the army into a considerable force in Europe. The Prussian monarch looks to extend his influence in Europe, though the British stand in his way of attempting westward ambitions. Calls for German unification and development have hounded the Prussian ruler and perhaps Prussia will be the nation to create a unified German Empire.

Quebec: After nearly three decades of rule from the English-speaking part of Canada, under and without supervision of the United States, the French part of Canada declared itself free of Ottawa in 1810. After the decisive battle of Montreal which achieved Quebec European recognition, victory was a matter of time. Ottawa was forced to concede Quebec’s independence in 1812. Since the end of the war, Quebec has rebuilt its ties with France, and trade between the two nations has dramatically increased. However, many believe that it may only be a matter of time before Ottawa attempts to restore its rule.

Republic of New Granada: Following the wars of independence against Spain, Colombia was one of the nations to emerge in South America. For several years the nation managed to hold itself intact until inner turmoil and civil war resulted in the establishment of the nations of Venezuela and Ecuador. A new constitution was created and the Republic of New Granada was declared in late 1829.

Rhode Island: Rhode Island was the most resistant colony to a centralized government after the American War for Independence. To the other colonies, Rhode Island was barely part of the United States and no one was surprised when the small nation left the USA in 1803. Now Rhode Island exists solely on economic trade from France and Massachusetts and both powers vie for influence in the tiny American nation.

Russian Empire: Russia’s proud performance in the Napoleonic Wars established the Russian identity and established Russia as a significant great power for the first time in its history. At this time the tsar enjoys greater national support than he ever has previously and those who do dissent are arrested by the greatly efficient secret police. Since the end of the Napoleonic Wars, Russia has been focused on expanding its influence eastward, particularly through Asia and its sole colony of Alaska.

Sardinia-Piedmont: Sardinia-Piedmont was one of the nations constructed by the Congress of Vienna following the end of the Napoleonic Wars. Initially created as a buffer between France and Austria, Sardinia has become a power in its own right. Easily one of the more powerful of the Italian states, Sardinia-Piedmont hopes to one day fufill its goal of a unified Italy.

Serbia: Serbia gained official independence from the Ottoman Empire following two bloody revolts in the early nineteenth century. Though they still remain politically subordinate to the empire, Serbia has persued an independent foreign policy. They have not only begun building ties with Russia, but with the fledgling new nation of Greece as well. Time will tell if the Serbs can one day break away from imperial influences.

Spain: Spain was the bloodiest battleground during the Napoleonic Wars. A vicious guerilla war and clashes between Britain and France have left the countryside devastated and the treasury of the monarchy empty. Only perseverance and determination could possibly restore this dying empire to its former glory.

Sweden-Norway: During the Napoleonic Wars, Sweden assisted Napoleon in the wars against Britain and Russia. Avoiding postwar backlash after switching sides, Sweden invaded and annexed Norway after the Norwegians refused to honor a treaty between Denmark and Sweden. The Kingdom of Sweden-Norway is one of the newest powers in Europe, and the King hopes to perhaps even revive and relive the great days of Swedish imperial power.

Switzerland: After the Napoleonic Wars a series of crises left the status of Switzerland uncertain. However, valiant Swiss defenses against forays against their nation have discouraged attempts to seize control of the country. A treaty in 1828 assured the recognition of permanent Swiss neutrality by all European powers. Switzerland is prepared to maintain its isolation from war and destruction.

Tennessee: Like other former United States territories, Tennessee has seen a succession of governors with absolute power since the collapse. The most recent governor, Andrew Jackson, has been an ardent nationalist who has seen a major surge in his country’s population. Governor Jackson has modernized his military and developed its infrastructure. With enemies and potential conquests on all sides, many believe that Jackson is well on his way to be the next American monarch.

Two Sicilies: Two Sicilies is closely tied to the nation of Spain. As the monarchs are closely related, the two nations have retained close ties in the years since the end of the Napoleonic Wars. Though the kingdom has no current ambitions to unify the Italian peninsula, that could change with time.

Uruguay: The bloody Argentine-Brazil War left no one victorious except for the vultures. British intervention forced the independence of Uruguay upon both powers. Now Uruguay is uneasy between its two larger neighbors and must tread a fine line if its independence is to be maintained.

Venezuela: After the collapse of the Republic of Grand Colombia, Venezuela emerged as one of the new republics established. Though possibly the weakest nation in South America, Venezuela has been slowly improving its land and developing its industry. The road ahead is a long one, but the government hopes to maintain its stability and independence.

Vermont: The republic of Vermont established its independence in 1805. Since then, the government has become incredibly decentralized and fallen into the total control of the wealthy. Lacking many resources of their own, the influential elite of Vermont have sponsored raids into Canada, New York, and New Hampshire. This of course has led to wars against both Canada and New Hampshire. Despite the lack of significant success in both wars, Vermont continues its aggressions even as population declines and its neighbors grow more powerful.

Virginia: Preceding the collapse of the United States two significant factions emerged in Virginia, the republican faction of Thomas Jefferson and the absolutist faction of Henry Sim Lee III. However, Jefferson’s election as President of the United States in 1800 backfired. Jefferson’s absence in New York City allowed Lee to gain the support he needed to proclaim himself king of Virginia in 1803, sparking the second crisis to collapse the United States. The Kentuckian War of Independence in 1807 led to a Jeffersonian victory and gave King Henry a bloody nose militarily. However, this sparked a rapid military reform based on European styles. When elections were disputed in Maryland in 1809, King Henry moved quickly to establish his cousin as monarch and his new military crushed the defending militia. After Henry’s death in 1821, his son Robert was given the throne. King Robert, beloved by his people, may lead Virginia to greater glory than ever before.
 
Uncivilized Nations

Abyssinia: Abyssinia has continued in the same way for hundreds of years. The monarchs continue to keep the status quo of the nation’s power base. However, the rise of industry in Europe could threaten the small African nation with imperial conquest and colonization.

Afghanistan: Afghanistan is a warlike nation with a strong history of repulsing invaders. Since 1825, they have fought two minor conflicts against the British Empire and even managed to repulse the British regulars. Afghanistan stands determined to continue to defeat any invader.

Burma: Burma is one of the independent nations of Indochina. One of the main rivals of the power of Siam, Burma even managed to repulse a minor British foray into its nation in 1825 during the Indian Consolidation. Burma and Siam stand at odds and could well enter into war in the near future.

China: Until recently, China has been one of the greatest powers in the world. However a series of rebellions and unrest have caused significant problems for the Chinese Emperor. Furthermore, opium smuggling has become a major problem as British smugglers sneak in opium for illegal sale to the Chinese people. Opium has eroded the Chinese bureaucracy and threatens to damage the integrity of the Chinese imperial court. Many of the highest officials have called for war on Britain in order to protect the sovereignty of China.

Egypt: Egypt has recently gained near complete independence from the Ottoman Empire. In recent years Egypt was granted management of Crete under pressure from France and the British Empire, and now they work to force the Ottomans to give up Palestine and Syria as well. As Egypt begins the slow road to modernization, they must first defeat their former Ottoman masters.

Korea: As a subsidiary kingdom of China, Korea has been a region for dispute between Japan and China for centuries. With the current regime firmly tied to Peking, Korea still looks for chances to unite and gain freedom.

Japan: Following their initial contact with the Netherlands, Japan has maintained an interest in the powerful European nations. Christians have been allowed onto the Japanese islands and traders have been allowed free travel through Japan. However, a lack of exploitable resources and continuing instability among the samurai have made the islands very unappealing to merchants from the West.

Morocco: As one of the corsair states, Morocco’s income still depends on tribute paid by Europe and the vast wealth gained from marauding merchant trade in the eastern Atlantic Ocean. The sultan of Morocco however was forced to grant Britain immunity after a show of military force in 1825 by the British. The continuing piracy continues to irritate European and American heads of state, but for the Moroccans the money just keeps rolling in.

Nejd: The tribes and kings of Nejd have traditionally been the heart of Islam. Some of the most devout Muslims live within Nejd and call for a new era of Islam. However, a lack of resources, money, and modern weapons seem to make the idea of a Dar-al-Islam not much more than a distant dream.

Oman: Oman is at the height of its economic strength and prosperity. The overseas possessions of Zanzibar provide considerable trade from Africa and the wealth of the nation grows. However, a lack of heirs for the ruler provides considerable consternation for the leadership and Oman’s power seems to be slipping over the horizon.

Persia: The Persian Empire is enjoying a period of stability since 1727. Uninvolved in the chaos of the Napoleonic Wars or other European conflicts, they have enjoyed a complete lack of European influence in their nation. This may be a temporary situation as European nations begin to look outward, and Persia may soon find itself called to modernize.

Siam: Siam is at the height of its power. Though Vietnam repulsed an excursion in 1827, Siam has retained its economic dominance in Indochina. Despite its influence, Siam is beset on all sides. To the north the Chinese Empire retains its massive military might, to the south the British Empire exerts control over Johore and Singapore, to the east the vengeful Vietnamese watch sullenly across the river, and to the west Burma, fresh from a victory against Britain, threatens their superiority.

Sokoto: Sokoto was established nearly by accident and now possesses significant power. Established through the will of local Imams and other religious leaders, Sokoto sits astride some of the most prominent trade routes in western Africa. Trade with the Europeans has been severely limited, but many are optimistic towards the future.

Tibet: Tibet is Tibet. They don’t do much.

Tunisia: After the French punitive expedition to Algiers to punish them for piracy, the Bey of Tunis was quick to end his own pirate incursions. In order to curry favor with France, Tunisia has become the first African republic. However, the government is dominated by the wealthy former pirates and with no new sources of income, the Tunisian regime may soon be short lived.

Vietnam: For centuries Vietnam has been a subsidiary kingdom of China. Content to maintain their fields of rice and old ways of life, the Vietnamese have no real pretensions to power or freedom. It would take a crisis of some magnitude to shift the Vietnamese from their current path.

Yemen: Yemen is a nation which has barely survived over the years. Oman’s prosperity threatens the independence of Yemen. Perhaps over time, Yemen can forge its own way through history.
 
All backgrounds read - confirming reservation for Russia.
 
Do you think you could post a map EQ?
 
vermont you say? hmm. interesting.
 
Not a particularly good NESER. Expressing strong interest in the papal states or one of the American nations.


EDIT: Reserving PAPAL STATES
 
I think I'll confirm China. Should be a challenge.
 
 
I'd like to restate that this NES is not complete and that map is only finalized in North America, Europe, Africa, Australia, and parts of Asia.
 
So only bits of Asia and South America are unfinished? :p

I assume the ruleset will be TWTUD-esque?
 
@Yui, bestshot9 already claimed the Papal States.
 
Silver (or Lucky) needs to claim Japan... (please? I'll have your babiez!)
 
Once more, Dibs on Mass
 
I would like Nova Scotia unless somebody already took it.
 
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