Blackened Skies

From the Ruhr
To the World
CC France, GFA


The world is full of vultures who hold nothing but malice towards the workers of all lands. The capitalist classes hold a special hatred of those working peoples who have succeeded in carving out of the ashes of empire a new, just, and brotherly social order - Socialism, whether French or German. We, those brave nations who believe in the greater union of mankind under conditions of peace, freedom and justice, therefore agree to a pact of common defence against capitalist aggression.

The Union of German Council Republics and the French Social Democratic Republic therefore agree to the following military treaty.

Fraternal Alliance for Peace and Social Progress​
The undersigned parties to this treaty agree:

1. To hold their aggressors in-common. Hereafter, attacks on any undersigned party will be treated as an attack on all the undersigned parties.

2. To maintain continuous communication and cooperation on issues of collective importance to the workers of the world, including especially, but not exclusively, the national security of Socialist nations.

3. To hold regular meetings among the generals of each undersigned party to improve military coordination, build-up and preparedness.

4. To, during defensive wars, coordinate military actions under a common, multi-national command.

5. That new nations may become undersigned parties with the unanimous agreement of all current undersigned parties.
Signed, Chairman-General Johann Reyher
 
Citing United States of America's consistent failure to control its errant ally, Portugal, and acknowledging that the Monarchy of Portugal and its insane ruler now serves as an existential threat to the Republic of Spain, President Alejandro De Marco announces the Republic's intention to join the the Fraternal Alliance with all the obligations implied.




Fraternal Alliance for Peace and Social Progress

The undersigned parties to this treaty agree:

1. To hold their aggressors in-common. Hereafter, attacks on any undersigned party will be treated as an attack on all the undersigned parties.

2. To maintain continuous communication and cooperation on issues of collective importance to the workers of the world, including especially, but not exclusively, the national security of Socialist nations.

3. To hold regular meetings among the generals of each undersigned party to improve military coordination, build-up and preparedness.

4. To, during defensive wars, coordinate military actions under a common, multi-national command.

5. That new nations may become undersigned parties with the unanimous agreement of all current undersigned parties.

-Signed, President Alejandro De Marco.
 
Citing United States of America's consistent failure to control its errant ally, Portugal, and acknowledging that the Monarchy of Portugal and its insane ruler now serves as an existential threat to the Republic of Spain, President Alejandro De Marco announces the Republic's intention to join the the Fraternal Alliance with all the obligations implied.
Please sign it, just as a matter of formality.
 
The Union of German Council Republics, the French Social Democratic Republic and the Spanish Republic therefore agree to the following military treaty.

Fraternal Alliance for Peace and Social Progress​
The undersigned parties to this treaty agree:

1. To hold their aggressors in-common. Hereafter, attacks on any undersigned party will be treated as an attack on all the undersigned parties.

2. To maintain continuous communication and cooperation on issues of collective importance to the workers of the world, including especially, but not exclusively, the national security of Socialist nations.

3. To hold regular meetings among the generals of each undersigned party to improve military coordination, build-up and preparedness.

4. To, during defensive wars, coordinate military actions under a common, multi-national command.

5. That new nations may become undersigned parties with the unanimous agreement of all current undersigned parties.

Signed, Chairman Roy Chevalot, The French Social Democratic Republic
 
France announces it is reducing mobilisation to 50%.
 
Seeing that Thailand has not even publicly acknowledged the recent turn of events, the Great Zhao is forced to declare a state of war between his state and theirs until they bow their heads in respect.
 
The Han Republic advises its neighbour not to embark in imperial adventurism, lest it overstretch and precipitate its own inevitable fall, as is the fate of all dynasties.
 
The Great Zhao notes that decline is inevitable for all states, and that dynasties have been known to last far longer than republics.
 
29 October

It is the same every year like the seasons., thought Omer. The banners and flags arrived at the cafe two weeks ago, the posters pasted on nearly every store front and public place. All the various groups from the youth to women to veterans like him would begin to practice marching together in the park. The veterans had no problem excepting keeping a steady pace with their brothers with various injuries. The local police and DGB would increase patrols in all the neighborhoods looking for dissidents and reminding them to stay home. There was always a few younger troublemakers with too much liquor and too little brains would try to cause a commotion. If they were fortunate they would receive a beating and some time in jail. If they were unfortunate then they would spend time in a labour camp in the east.

One week before Republic Day the cafe would be cleaned from top to bottom. The junk dealers would be busy collecting castoffs from the local homes and businesses and the smell of soap and dust would fill the air. Costumes and decorations would come out of storage for a wash and press or some mending if needed. The cafe would be closed so his family could attend the parades. Omer always helped those veterans like himself if they needed a steady arm to lean on or strength to carry a portrait. His wife and daughters would plan a meal to be taken to the parade along with water and snacks.

The day would have parades with the youth and civic organizations marching first. Then the Corporations would have their members follow. Then it would be the military, bayonets gleaming and marching in lockstep. First the Army with the various ethnic infantry regiments, then the Navy and Coast Guard and finally the DGB while the Air Force flew overhead. Each year the men look younger and younger while he and his brothers felt older. While he was proud of his service he did not want the same injuries to visit them and their families. Many veterans did not want that.
 


1936



EUROPE

German Union wins massive victory north of Venice, pushes to Firenze; Italian defense in ragged disarray as Roman politicians contemplate surrender

With the withdrawal of France and the disarray in the CRR’s officer corps, many believed that Italy was on the cusp of pushing into Austria. Italy renewed its offensive in the northeast, and had some initial successes, winning a battle at Portogruaro. However, Armin Arlert, a bookish CRR general newly promoted from the Collective’s officer scheme, showed initiative that was previously unseen in the CRR’s forces. Surprising the Italian forces at Montebelluna, General Arlert coordinated with the GFA to execute an encirclement at Oderzo. Over 200,000 Italian soldiers were killed or captured, forcing the Italians to reestablish a new defensive line in Central Italy. German forces would go on to capture Lombardy and push to Firenze, capturing the city on December 8th. Meanwhile in the skies, the Germans have made up for quality with quantity. The Italians are losing pilots, and the new ones are going into the skies outnumbered. The mood in Rome has become somber, and many politicians are grudgingly calling for peace, with few seeing any realistic opportunity for victory.

EASTERN EUROPE IN FLAMES!


Russia’s western territories are continuing its slide into anarchy, something the Tsar simply cannot abide. With well over two million men, the Tsar sent his men to bring the region to heel. The major focus has been in Poland, where the Tsar faces the stiffest resistance. Forests are being bombed to flush rebels out of them, and collateral damage caused by both sides is the norm, though it seems the Russians are trying to limit that by evacuating its subjects in the regions it controls. Polish forces are fighting with a combination of tactics, from hit and run attacks to defending strongholds in villages and towns. They are well-armed and are causing significant casualties, but the Russians have reestablished control of around half the country, though there are still many “no go” zones for the Russian military. Meanwhile the Hungarian region has become more unruly, with riots taking place near every day. And in Romania, the Iron Guard has consolidated the last hold outs into its organization, and has used a rather unique approach to bombing to make its presence felt by the Russians. Despite the hopes of the Russians, the war will continue for at least another year.

TRONDHEIM ACCORD ADOPTS THE BRITISH POUND
Copenhagen, Denmark

In a move to further consolidate Northern Europe, the United Kingdom has established an economic union with its fellow allies, and even prompted them to accept the British Pound as their national currency. While it was not the most popular move, Denmark, Norway, the Netherlands, and Belgium have all moved over to the Pound, to the benefit of British industry and prestige.

WHITE RUSSIA: TSAR EMBRACES FASCISTS!

St. Petersburg, Russia

In what would be described as a shocking twist if the nation was not routinely involved in shock moves, the Russian Tsar has endorsed the nascent “White Russia” party, one of the few “acceptable” fascist parties. With only a few thousand members and a name barely known to even the most avid followers of Russian politics, Georgy Chicherin has become one of the most prominent men in the country. His nationalist, racial, and religious rhetoric is not particularly out of place in the Tsar’s court, but many Russian nobles are concerned of how a man previously unknown to the Russian political establishment now holds the ear of the Tsar. As the Tsar moves Russia further down the path against the old order, some conservative nobles have been grumbling about blatant intimidation and blackmail carried out by the Russian security services. Many are now reaffirming their commitment and loyalty to the Tsar, fearful that the wrong statement could cost them and their family everything.

THE IBERIAN STAND OFF?
Madrid, Spain

With the humiliating seizure of Spanish soldiers on the Portuguese border, the Republic has seen a flurry of patriotism and jingoism, to the chagrin of liberals and doves. The border with Portugal was closed, and Spaniards are clamoring to join the military to defend the nation. However, as Spain prepared for potential war, the Portuguese have seemed to back off for now. Two of the Spanish prisoners were released upon the outbreak of the Angolan rebellion, and by the year’s end, the remainder were also set free. Most are predicting peace will win the day for now, especially considering the international situation looking grim for Portugal.

AN HEIR TO THE THRONE IS SECURED!
St. Petersburg, Russia

Despite the ill news often coming from Russia these days, the people do still have something to celebrate. The Tsarina has given birth to a young, healthy prince. Christened as Constantine by his father, the young tsarevich is heir to the Russian throne and, in many eyes, the German throne as well. For the young prince’s birth, the Tsar ordered a 210 gun salute in honor of the future Tsar Constantine II.

FRENCH ELECTIONS: STATUS QUO PRESERVED
Paris, France

Following the signing of the Treaty of Marseille and the Treaty of Oran, Chairman Roy Chevalot was able to take the wind from the sails of the Butterfly movement, although it ended his short term alliance with the Absolutists and the Brutists. In the end though, it did not matter, and the Supremacists cruised to victory with the backing of the major unions. Chevalot has been confirmed for another six year term, and the Supremacists captured 42% of available seats. Gabriel Agreste has not been sidelined though. With the end of the war depriving him of his major issue, Agreste campaigned against the corruption of the union bosses and demanded a true, accountable democracy, and ended up with the second most seats in the Assembly. Many workers were touched by Agreste’s call to action, and many long standing union bosses were unseated in favor of Agreste style idealists. With Agreste controlling the second largest bloc of seats, it should make for an interesting Assembly, and many are curious to see if Chevalot will enter a coalition with Agreste, with the Brutists, or if he will simply play one against the other to maintain the moderate agenda his party has guided France with since the Revolution.

ORTHODOX BATTALIONS CLEAN UP RUSSIAN CITIES!
Moscow, Russia

With the embrace of the White Russia movement by the Tsar, new “Orthodox Battalions” have become a common sight in Russian cities. These battalions are nominally not a part of the Russian government, yet have taken on the form of a political and religious police force. Foreigners of course have been a target, such as the Estonian servants, but with few foreigners living in Russia proper, these Orthodox Battalions have, upon orders from Georgy Chicherin, turned their energies on harassing bar patrons, telling “immodest” women in the streets to cover up, and to enforce church attendance on Sunday. This has been limited to working class neighborhoods of course, but the Orthodox Battalions are looked at warily by the nobility, fearful that the Tsar will dramatically expand their powers.
 

ZHUTEN WINS!
Shanghai, China

In an incredible electoral victory, Li Zhuten has been proclaimed President of China once more. While both Zhuten and Diao ran as moderate candidates, many saw the rise of the Zhao dynasty from a former general and feared that Diao could be tempted down the path of military authoritarianism. Instead, the Han people have doubled down on democracy and constitutionalism, eager to reside in a nation that respects the rights of all of its Han citizens. Zhuten is likely to make common cause with the left in the areas of social and economic reform, but will still have to look warily both to the north and south. For his part, Diao still remains Generalissimo of the Han forces, but there is mounting pressure for him to resign. Many are interested to see what the Generalissimo’s next move will be, but for now Diao has declared he will respect and honor the people’s choice.

THE RAPE OF THAILAND
Bangkok, Occupied Siam

The invasion of Zhao Empire forces into Thai territory came only hours after Thai authorities insisted they would not negotiate with the Zhao. Seeing no other option to end the hostilities, Zhao forces crossed the border into Siam, where they met mediocre resistance from the scattered and poorly-armed Thai soldiers. Zhao forces swept aside the Thai’s armies, but rather than force the king to capitulate, chose instead to place the entire country under direct martial law, whereupon many countless incidents of brigandry and indecency ensued. Several Thai towns have been burned and looted by Zhao authorities, and all those resisting are shot on the spot. Although the “activities” quieted down a few weeks after, the Zhao’s grip over the region is still iron tight, and the Siamese people chafe under the rule of capricious and violent military governors.

10,000 reported Thai casualties
453 Zhao casualties

“VIETNAMESE COMMUNIST PARTY” DENOUNCES ZHAO AGGRESSION, RALLIES VIETNAMESE TO ITS FLAG
Saigon, Occupied Vietnam

The formerly French territory of Vietnam was occupied last year by the Zhao Empire, which immediately announced its annexation of the region, claiming that the European French Imperialists had benefited off of the labor and land of the Vietnamese for too long. The Zhao had no sooner reorganized the bureaucratic structure of the region, however, than the French condemnation issued forth boldly: “This will not go unpunished.” Since then, the Southeast China sea has become a hotbed of submarine activity as all ships going to and from Vietnamese ports are fair game. Several convoys have been sunk, resulting in dozens of deaths, and towards the end of the year a large and apparently well-armed terrorist organization calling itself the “Vietnamese Communist Party” appeared in South Vietnam. They simultaneously denounced the aggression of the Zhao and the imperialism of France, and claim that they will fight to create a Vietnamese People's’ Republic in the spirit of the Collectivist Worldwide Movement.

AFRICA

NORTH AFRICAN WAR AT AN END
Ouran, France

The North African theater of the greater Trieste War has ended with a minor whimper. With the Italians seeking to minimize their fighting in Western Italy and the French facing an anti-war political backlash at home, the two powers were able to make a peace that restored status quo ante bellum. Unfortunately, that left Morocco, the one power eager to fight in this theater, without an ally and with few enough gains in the war to demand anything, In the end, Morocco too would grudgingly come to terms with the French, bringing peace to the region.

FRENCH OFFICIALS IN MOROCCO FACE CONSERVATIVE BACKLASH
Fez, Morocco

Following the failure of Morocco to seize anything of note in the North African War, many conservative Moroccans have declared the Western advisors to the Moroccan crown to be defrauding the Sultanate. These refugees, whom the nobles are saying cost Morocco the war and millions in stolen money, are from socialist France and Spain have been given lucrative work as generals and military reformers, positions that would have otherwise gone to Moroccan nobles. The advisors for their part have pointed out that these accusations are merely self-serving lies, and instead blame the defeat on the Moroccan lack of armor and lack of the best quality equipment. The advisors note that while the timing was ideal, the reforms have not been completed, and that the Sultan needs to spend more to modernize the military even further. For now, the Sultan has kept the advisors on, but there is a tension at the palace, with both the conservatives and the advisors waging a shadow war against one another.

ANGOLA REVOLT FIZZLES
Luanda, Portugal

With tensions rising in Europe, perhaps Portugal’s biggest fear would be an ill-timed revolt in its Angola colony. Perhaps somewhat fortunately, an unfortunate discovery of a weapons cache forced the rebels to begin its revolt earlier than anticipated. Angolan rebels, raising red banners of socialism and independence, besieged Luanda and captured most of the countryside until a major Portuguese force arrived in late September. The Portuguese, using tanks and aircraft, crushed the rebels, and executed most of its leadership. Only a few small rebel bands escaped to the countryside, and many Angolan patriots feel that their countrymen have been thoroughly cowed by the Portuguese.

SOUTH AFRICAN ELECTIONS: FASCISTS WIN SHOCKING VICTORY
Cape Town, South Africa

In a completely unanticipated result, the South African Fascist Party has won a resounding electoral victory. While initially trailing in the polls and many speaking of becoming a coalition partner with the Conservatives, the Angolan revolt and its brutal attacks on the Portuguese put a new fear into South Africans. The SAFP was able to appeal to both Anglo and Dutch whites, and has promised to modernize and expand the South African military to ensure that the Black population will never think to rise against the Whites.
 

Link to video.

THE AMERICAS

TIDEWATER CRUSHED!
Savannah, United States of America

In a rather anti-climactic turn of events, the National Guard of Tidewater was completely and utterly outclassed by the Federal Army. Federal forces broke through from the North and West, with Atlanta falling in two weeks and Charleston falling after only six hours of fighting. Hamil initially intended to make a last stand in Savannah, but then fled south at the sight of the Federal Army approaching. Hoping to make an escape into the Caribbean, Hamil was instead betrayed by one of his guards, hoping to receive amnesty for his actions. In total, the rebellion lasted all but a few months, and Hamil now sits in an insane asylum in Gotham, awaiting his trial.

SOCIALISTS, PROGRESSIVES BREAK RANKS
Pontiac, United States of America

The Progressive Party has long been the home for any person left of center with opposition to the Democrats. However, long standing tensions have boiled over into open conflict. The recent scandal of candidates taking money from German agents caused many of the more moderate Progressives to speak out against the more radical elements of the party, in fear that it would cost them in November. In turn, the Socialists began lashing out against the Progressives due to the lack of influence they felt they received on the party’s platform in comparison to the liberal wing. Tensions came to a head when a worker’s riot in the Pontiac Steel Yards erupted in early July. The Progressive governor Edward Nashton sympathized with the workers demanding better pay and conditions, conditions extricated by the hot July sun. However, Nashton found himself under pressure from party bosses to end the strike quickly, lest Wayne declare the state in rebellion. Nashton reluctantly sent in troops, however the soldiers, against the directions of the governor, opened fire on the strikers and killed twelve. Almost immediately, the Progressives found themselves under attack by their left wing, with a new “Worker’s Party” taking form in the middle of the election season. While there were disturbing rumors of potential Secret Service involvement that caused the shooting, it was clear that the Progressives could not keep its far left allies with its push to the center.

BRAZILIAN ELECTIONS GIVE MODERATE SOCIALISTS MAJOR VICTORY
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

The Brazilians have, one year after unification, held their first democratic elections in their nation’s history. Joyous scenes were common in the streets as the moderate socialist Conciliadores won the election. With over 2.5 million Brazilians dead, and with farms and factories in ruins, the Conciliadores message of moderation, rebuilding, and unity has appealed to Brazilians. While socialist, the Conciliadores have made it clear that there is room for other ideologies in Brazil, even as socialist parties capture well over half the vote. Still, with the Brazilian economy in contraction, the Conciliadores clearly have their work cut out for them.

1936 ELECTIONS: WAYNE VS KENT
Columbia, United States of America

Despite Wayne’s record high approval ratings and victory in Mexico, the spectres of Brazil and Tidewater, as well as conflict with the trusts and party bosses made his nomination, much less reelection, anything but a guarantee. With the incredibly popular Jonathan Kent of Jefferson emerging as the consensus moderate candidate for the Progressive Party, the Democrats realized that Wayne was the only Democrat that could deliver a victory in November.

From the outset, the Democrats ran a brutal campaign. Every other day, when the socialists were still aligned with the Progressives, a new “German spy” graced the front page of every national newspaper. While many, if not all, of these spies were fake, the reports amplified the fear that the riot in Pontiac set off. While the urban working class was mostly sympathetic, most people had little desire to return to military occupation. Instead of setting up another confrontation with the Federal government, Columbia voted for the Democrats and Wayne. Governor Dent’s Franklin machine, experienced at voter suppression and in service to Wayne for being nominated as VP, was more than willing to paint potential Progressive advocates as German collaborators, hardening popular opinion against them. Even after the socialists disassociated, Dent’s machine and police force was relentless in harassing any potential opposition, delivering the potential swing state to the Democrats.

While Kent started the campaign very popular, the events in Pontiac and the tying of his campaign to Germany made it difficult for Kent to swing a state to the Progressives. While initially portrayed as someone who locked down the left and would appeal to the center, Kent would end up losing both groups and towards the end, Wayne would achieve a resounding victory. Gotham, Texas, Louisiana, Great Plains, Columbia, Alleghany, Franklin, and Tidewater (via military district referendum) landed in the Democratic column, giving the party its biggest win in decades.

Unfortunately, with this victory, the Democratic Party bosses rediscovered its confidence, and though Wayne had tried to play nice with the trusts, the seeming collapse of the left made them much less open to reform. This renewed confidence would soon prove fatal to the union.

THE AMERICAN CIVIL WAR!
Columbia, United States of America

By mid September, it was becoming abundantly clear that Wayne was on his way to a romp in the coming election. The scandal with the socialists, combined with the overwhelming war chest held by Wayne, was proving too much for Kent. The United States was preparing for another four years of Wayne, and for many power players, that was simply unacceptable. And as Wayne began celebrating his victory, many of his enemies began appearing in the open, ready to bear arms against his government.

The first to declare of course was the American Restoration Movement. With Kent’s campaign faltering, the Progressive governors came to the conclusion that electoral victory could not be achieved so long as the Democrats could continue stacking the odds in their favor. Actions were taken to ensure disloyal elements of the various National Guard units, so that when Kent was defeated, a united front could be presented against the oppressors. With the disaster in Pontiac, Federal troops prevented the defection of Columbia, and Madison’s people had other plans for the state, but by mid-November the entire Western region had gone up in rebellion. Despite the distrust between the various factions in the movement, the one thing they can agree on is that the current regime must fall, and they will ally with anyone to ensure that it ends.

Perhaps the most surprising of the rebellions though was that of the People’s Liberation Army. With the socialist cause crushed a generation ago, few thought the ideology still had currency in America. Perhaps it was the influence of Germany and France, or maybe it was the dispute with the Progressives; whatever the case, the socialist movement is once more alive and well. The entire state of Madison defected to the People’s Liberation Army at the behest of the governor, with several National Guard units fleeing to nearby Columbia. Aside from Madison, Black units in Alleghany and Louisiana are said to be operating, willing to kill anyone and everyone who comes into their territory.

For the old school Democrats, put off both by Hamil’s insanity and Wayne’s reformist streak, the victory in the coming election signified not confidence in Wayne, but rather confidence in “American Institutions”. Top party bosses and trust leaders convened together secretly in Charlotte to agree that upon the victory in November, Wayne would be assassinated. Then, an “Enclave” of elite leaders loyal to the old United States could take power, ideally using Dent as a figurehead. There was to be the simultaneous assassination of Wayne and the declaration of the Enclave by the governor of Alleghany, who would use National Guard troops to seize Columbia. Unfortunately, as the gunman prepared to shoot down the President, a last minute pang of guilt stopped him, and he admitted the entire scheme to the Secret Service. By then it was too late of course to stop the plot. Alleghany declared its allegiance to the Enclave and had begun its march on Washington. However, several of the National Guard units defected from the governor when his plans became known, and the march was called off. As the Enclave marshalled its forces, it saw significant defections from its peoples in the Cumberland region. Oft ignored by the Alleghany government, its people had found hope for economic salvation in Wayne and had no interest in fighting for the Enclave, rallying to the Union instead. Others, particularly the Black population, have found a rallying cry to the People’s Liberation Army, but both of these issues have proved to be just a nuisance. The Enclave has marshalled almost its entire force to the Army of Northern Virginia under the command of General Ulysses Armstrong. With its troops now made up of committed loyalists, General Armstrong may very well take the capital a few weeks into the New Year, so long as he has no interest in defending the state.

Perhaps the most opportunist of the factions, the Republic of New England arrived with the advent of the other rebel groups. Uniquely, they only seek independence for their region, and have no interest in imposing anything on the Union as a whole. Still, they have shown signs of cooperation with other factions, and there is no telling what they will or will not do.

Last but not least of course, is the Federal Government. Lead by its most popular President since the founding of the nation, the United States is not prepared to die without a fight. With the vast resources of its empire, the full force of the US Navy, and a new relationship between the Federal government and its states, Wayne is more prepared than ever to take on his enemies.

No matter who wins though, one thing is for certain. The nation will never be the same again.

DRAMATIC VICTORY AGAINST BOLIVIAN EMPIRE: ARGENTINE-CHILEAN FORCES CAPTURE 40 BOLIVIAN DIVISIONS INTACT, RENEW OFFENSIVE ON SUCRE

Argentina

The tables turned in the Argentinean-Bolivian War even in the face of the unstoppable Bolivian onslaught, one that used new and deadly toxic gas to great effect in breaking the siege of Sucre. The Argentine-Chile coalition was forced into full retreat. Although the Argentines were quick to adapt with gas masks, they were little help against the new American tanks that were being lended to the Bolivians. However, a daring plan to lure the Bolivian offensive into a trap yielded enormous dividends as the Bolivian forces, known for their powerful but reckless offensives, engaged the decoy army before they realized the trap had already been sprung. Argentine-Chilean forces cut off several pockets of the now disorganized and confused Bolivian soldiers, and ultimately forced Bolivian army to capitulate after a bloody and unsuccessful charge on the Argentine firing position. With the bulk of the Bolivian army completely captured, the Argentine-Chilean coalition wasted no time celebrating as plans immediately went underway to re-enter the now undefended and growing ever more tempestuous Bolivian territory.

MASS DEFECTIONS TO THE MEXICAN ANARCHIST POLITIES
Oaxaca, México

Despite the Imperial recognition of the squalid conditions of the “rural village camps”, and the work to improve them, they still serve as a powerful recruitment tool for Ignacio Reyes and his Anarchist soldiers. Southern Mexico has been rife with Anarchist activity, with raids routinely hitting and liberating the camps. Imperial Generals are outright refusing to campaign in the south, and even the Communist Party of Mexico has seen defections to Ignacio. The camps have become a complete failure, overrun by the bandits, and now, Ignacio has nearly half a million men ready to take the fight to the imperials.

Imperial Mexico: 1,598 casualties
MAP: 702 casualties

JEANNE MARCO BECOMES PRESIDENT OF ARGENTINA!
Buenos Aires, Argentina

Faced with the prospect of losing its only ally in the Bolivian War, Argentina agreed to embrace a form of limited democracy in appeasement of Chile. All of those in the military would be given a voice, from Privates all the way to Generals. The cold, calculating Colonel Marco found supporters in those who were tired of the mismanagement of General Cruz, and those who feared General Stein as a raving lunatic. The new President Marco is known to be particularly ruthless, and has ramped up the “take no prisoners” policy in the Bolivian War. But in a time of national crisis, it seems the Argentine people are ready to embrace ruthlessness if it means their survival.

SO LONG CANADA!
Toronto, The United States of America

With tensions on the rise between US and Canadian politicians, the United States has taken the bold step of paying Canadians to emigrate. A surprising amount of Canadians accepted the offer, fearful of further reprisals, and have set off into the world. Australasia, South Africa, the United Kingdom, and India have been the top targets for Canadians, and they have been welcomed back into the Empire with open arms. With the advent of civil war though in the United States, this program has been put on halt.

BRAZILIANS CONSERVATIVES FLEE THE COUNTRY
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

With peace more or less established, travel has become safe enough for highly conservative Brazilians to leave the country en masse. These refugees come mostly from the former middle and upper class, including scientists, landowners, former Imperial soldiers, and clergymen. Portugal has become the top destination for these emigres, followed by Cuba, Gotham, and Louisiana. In all, nearly 200,000 people have left the country, and both sides may be better off for it, even with the calls for moderation by the Conciliadores.
 
Special Events

AUSTRALASIA

Over the past few years, Australasia has seen an enormous influx of immigrants escaping east from the wars in Europe and South America. While many of these immigrants seek refuge in Tokyo or Korea, both heavily encouraging of immigration, the vast majority of them have chosen to settle in Australia. Although Australasia customs has struggled to handle this turn of events, this year many prominent elected officials in Australasia were the ones to stand up and speak about the issue, declaring that Australasia will be glad to host all peoples of all nations. This declaration, and the ease with which it has been received, resulted in the later resignation of the military governor of Australasia, who observed that “My authority has been supplanted by the will of the Australasian people. It is now by their sovereign grace that they are a member of the British Commonwealth, not my own authority.” Although shocking, the news has been received with much jubilation across Australasia, now being called in more and more places around the war-torn world the “bastion of freedom.”

Australasia loses 45% inertia, gets 30 Reserve Divisions, receives 500,000 immigrants from the west. Legitimacy changes to “Elective.” Apparatus changes to “Bureaucratic.”

COLLECTIVIST REPUBLIC OF THE RUHR

Excellence in leadership. Who has it? Not the CRR General Staff - until recently. CRR programs spearheaded by Collectivist party members through the All-Union Ministry of Information have recently been targeting an unlikely culprit, an apparent “disease of incompetence” in the CRR General Staff. The investigation revealed a laundry list of charges including corruption, decadence, and good old-fashioned apathy. Declaring the situation a “travesty,” chief party members have made good on a promise to reform the military, breaking apart the harmful cliques and focusing on cultivating a new, meritocratic mode of advancement, borrowed from a model utilized by the GFA. Although many chief CRR generals opposed the move, some of them quite hotly, they could not contest the overwhelming public knowledge on the matter and the clear mandate of the people, large groups of whom have been striking “until the “dummkopf” generals are sacked.” Several promising new generals have received premiere roles following from these changes, which seem to have been vindicated by the massive German victory in the war against Italy this year.

CRR Leadership goes from “Poor” to “Average”. CRR loses 20% inertia.

GERMAN FEDERALIST ALLIANCE

The German Federalist Alliance has long been developing their unique type of “German futurism,” a philosophy that distinguishes the GFA from their neighbors to the west. Although the CRR/GFA friendship has never been stronger, their philosophical differences do much to define them as they are related to one another. Fearful that the Collectivist fad would sweep over Berlin, too, in recent years GFA politicians made a concerted effort to promote a more intellectual kind of socialism: the achievement of communism through advanced technology. Although the philosophy is not new, and has some resemblances to the fiction writings of Ada Lovelace who spoke of the “paradise of progress,” the GFA has co-opted it to great effect and coffee shops throughout east Germany are buzzing with young intellectuals discussing hotly amongst themselves how best to build utopia.

GFA loses 20% inertia. Democrats gain 10% popularity.

BRITISH EMPIRE

The British Empire has undergone a complete and radical change recently, and now answers to a three-headed dragon. There is no telling what the future holds for this strange empire, but the people know they have a choice: either go on their way, and continue as before, and answer to the men in the blacks & tans; or… or what?

British Empire loses 50% inertia.

RUSSIAN EMPIRE

“The Russian Empire is quite an impressive sight. From the foothills and slopes of Slovakia to the crisp tundras and taigas of Siberia to the heavy waters of the Pacific as they lick the rocks and clay of Vladivostok bay. Where, really, could a man stand in Eurasia and not feel in some sense the weight of Russia, a cardinal direction from anywhere. You could walk into Russia from another country in 200 places, say “Zdrast-ye” in Russian, and hear the reply in 200 different languages. Russia is vast, yes. Why do I focus on this fact? It is our strength.” Speeches like this have been becoming more and more popular in Russia, and are trumpeted by a proud and eager military giant.

Russian Empire loses 50% inertia. Russia gains 100 MP from volunteers.


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STATS

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Notes:

Bam! There we go!

This Special Event section is something we are experimenting with. Let us know if you like it or dislike it, or how we could improve on it.

If you wish to send any military forces through Gibraltar, the Suez, the Bosphorous straits, the Kiel canal, the Malacca straits, or the Panama Canal, you MUST have written permission in that player’s orders or you will be unable to send troops/ships through those passages.

NOTE: THERE ARE STAT ERRORS. Particularly, Tidewater should not be there, and the casualty numbers for both the Tsar’s campaign in Eastern Europe and for the Italian-German War are not updated. This is a mistake that will be fixed shortly.

Operation Hot Tamale's results will be posted tomorrow.
 
Holy damn. Nice job guys!
 
DRAMATIC VICTORY AGAINST BOLIVIAN EMPIRE: ARGENTINE-CHILEAN FORCES CAPTURE 40 BOLIVIAN DIVISIONS INTACT, RENEW OFFENSIVE ON SUCRE
Argentina

The tables turned in the Argentinean-Bolivian War even in the face of the unstoppable Bolivian onslaught, one that used new and deadly toxic gas to great effect in breaking the siege of Sucre. The Argentine-Chile coalition was forced into full retreat. Although the Argentines were quick to adapt with gas masks, they were little help against the new American tanks that were being lended to the Bolivians. However, a daring plan to lure the Bolivian offensive into a trap yielded enormous dividends as the Bolivian forces, known for their powerful but reckless offensives, engaged the decoy army before they realized the trap had already been sprung. Argentine-Chilean forces cut off several pockets of the now disorganized and confused Bolivian soldiers, and ultimately forced Bolivian army to capitulate after a bloody and unsuccessful charge on the Argentine firing position. With the bulk of the Bolivian army completely captured, the Argentine-Chilean coalition wasted no time celebrating as plans immediately went underway to re-enter the now undefended and growing ever more tempestuous Bolivian territory.


Link to video.
 
The Greater Bolivian Empire wish wishes to capitulate to the Argentina-Chile Alliance, requesting only that their soldiers are released and sent back home. The Emperor will step down from government and allow the the people to vote a new figure or party into power.

The Empire will ensure the independencies of former integrated nations and recognize their sovereignty. The war is over.
 
The Greater Bolivian Empire wish wishes to capitulate to the Argentina-Chile Alliance, requesting only that their soldiers are released and sent back home. The Emperor will step down from government and allow the the people to vote a new figure or party into power.

Furthermore, we'd like all (as of now, former) royalty to be expelled from Bolivia and other lands formerly owned by Bolivia. There will be no resurgence of the monarchist regime under any form whatsoever, and a democracy shall be established in Bolivia (and all newly-restored nation-states). Any attempt from Bolivia to restore its former territories or the monarchy will be met with an instantaneous reaction from Argentina.

The Empire will ensure the independencies of former integrated nations and recognize their sovereignty. The war is over.

By which, we hope you mean the liberation of all nation-states that you have occupied, i.e, Ecuador, Peru, Amazonas, Paraguay and any and all that were conquered by you in the past century.
 
Wow okay that's literally the opposite of what I wanted my troops to do.
 
Furthermore, we'd like all (as of now, former) royalty to be expelled from Bolivia and other lands formerly owned by Bolivia. There will be no resurgence of the monarchist regime under any form whatsoever, and a democracy shall be established in Bolivia (and all newly-restored nation-states). Any attempt from Bolivia to restore its former territories or the monarchy will be met with an instantaneous reaction from Argentina.

The Great Zhao offers refuge to any non-hostile displaced monarchs who have been ousted from their thrones.
 
So long as it isn't in any of the Americas.

EDIT: In addition to the last post, all royalist officers must be taken out of the army.
 
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