The March of Rememberance: A TL-191 Nation Game - Years 1885-86 (turn 1)
Rules - Credit to The Lone Taco
Don't be a dick
After major war results are posted, you wait 24 hours before appealing to me. This allows you to calm down and build up an argument should it be necessary.
We will be using the 3 claims system.
If your nation isn't mentioned or a particular facet of your nation isn't mentioned, then it's up to you.
Feel free to use OTL and fictional politicians and leadership as you please, just make sure it makes sense. I don't really mind either way and I'll be using both.
Dominion of Canada -
The United States of America - @Mortis Nuntius
The Confederate States of America - @bigseb31213
The Empire of Mexico -
South America:
Republic of Colombia -
Republic of Peru -
Empire of Brazil -
Republic of Chile -
Argentine Confederation -
Europe:
United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland - @SuperMissile
Third French Republic - @Azecreth
German Empire - @Theravis
Russian Empire - @Watercress
Austro-Hungarian Empire -
Kingdom of Italy -
The Ottoman Empire -
Kingdom of Spain - @Space Oddity
Kingdom of Portugal - @Alex Costa
United Kingdom of the Netherlands -
Kingdom of Belgium - @Duke of St. Paul
Hellenic Kingdom -
Kingdom of Sweden-Norway -
Kingdom of Denmark @KingOfPenguins
Kingdom of Bulgaria
Kingdom of Serbia -
Other Continents:
Sublime State of Persia -
Japan - @HumanityDark
Qing Empire - @ChineseDrone
Kingdom of Siam -
Kingdom of Hawaii and Republic of Liberia - @Texan
Khedivate of Egypt -
Choson Dynasty (Empire of Korea) -
Ethiopian Empire -
Transvaal Republic - @bigseb31213
ooc: Turns will be two years, except when major wars happen. Other than that enjoy
The beginning of Italy's colonial empire occurred in the most humble manner imaginable. In 1869, the port of Assab in what would one day be Italian Eritrea was purchased from the Sultan of Raheita by the Rubattino Shipping Company to serve as a coaling station after the Suez Canal opened. The Italian government of the time took note of this and hopes Italians would soon settle in the area so Italy could use the port as a springboard into Ethiopia and the Sudan. But in 1875, a crisis occurred. The Emperor of Ethiopia, Yohannes IV, was slain with much of his army at the battle of Gundat and a power vacuum emerged in Ethiopia. The Emperor had a son, Prince Araya Selassie, but he was only eight years-old and Yohannes's domestic rivals, including the powerful King of Shewa, all began vying for the crown. Moreover, the Egyptians had seized Emperor Yohannes's homeland of Tigray, leaving the heir with a tiny power base compared to his rivals as men loyal to his father spirited him away ahead of the Egyptian army into hiding in the kingdom of Wollo, not far from the port of Assab.
Emperor Yohannes IV, his death would mark the beginning Italy's Colonial Empire.
This was not at the time of any concern to Italy. However, Assab was. While it might not a suitable springboard into Massawa or Ethiopia with a resurgent Egypt on the horizon, it was still a useful coaling station that needed protection. Thus, a diplomat was dispatched to Egypt to offer to pay the Khedive a sum to recognize Italy's rights to Assab and to inquire about the Khedive's intentions to the Ethiopians. The Khedive was surprised by Italy's interest, but saw an opportunity for hard currency, which was desperately needed to manage Egypt's debts. The Khedive explained that he would be more than happy to guarantee Assab, sell his claims to some territories on the Horn of Africa, and even (shocking the diplomat) permit the Italians to protect what was left of Ethiopia. All he asked for in exchange was a promise to respect Egypt's borders, to assist Egypt in signing a peace with Ethiopia, and a large sum of gold.
Khedive Ismail Pasha, a great man whose debts threatened to exceed his ambitions
The offer was relayed back to Rome where it immediately came under intense debate amongst the highest figures of the government who agonized over both the cost and becoming the tribute tribute collector for the Khedive. In the end, however, it was decided that this was the only chance Italy would get to build an empire in East Africa. The offer was accepted and an armed expedition of 20,000 was formed and prepared to set out for Ethiopia, arriving in the summer of 1876.
Upon arrival, the expedition set about locating a King who would be willing to give tribute to Egypt and submit to Italian rule. It was at this time that a dispossessed noble, still loyal to Prince Araya Selassie, contacted the expedition and informed it that the true Emperor of Ethiopia was still alive in hiding and he would produce if the Italians would help place him on Ethiopia's throne. The expedition's leaders were reluctant to pursue this course, as backing Prince Araya would place them in a very untenable positions if he couldn't curry favor with the natives. However, in the end, the general decided it couldn't hurt to meet the would-be Emperor and made the appropriate promises and soon the heir was produced.
Soon, it became clear that there was there was one point in favor of the pro-Araya forces, they were desperate, and more than willing to take whatever the Italians would offer. The Italians forced the loyalists to sign a treaty with Italy, guaranteeing them complete control of what was left Ethiopia's coast, paying tribute to Egypt, and accepting an Italian protectorate. When this was done the Italians struck, managing to surprise and defeat the King of Wollo, and announcing plans to march on Gondar.
During this time, King Menelik at been at war with the other Ethiopian kings and while he was holding his own he doubted he could defeat both them and the Italians, especially as former Yohannes-loyalists were rallying to Prince Prince Araya in Wollo. He therefore decided to make a deal with them. He would submit to Prince Araya but in exchange he would lead the boy's regency and his newborn daughter would marry the Emperor when she came of age. If the Italians refused he would take his chances on attacking them while they were engaged in the west. Ultimately the Italians agreed and the combined Italian-Shewan forces defeated the remaining kings and arranged for Araya to take the throne as King Menelik grappled with Italian advisors over the flow of Italian arms and capital in the new protectorate, doing his best to try to use it to supplement his forces and those of his allies while the Italians sought to grow Italians business and settlement in Ethiopia, both doing it all in the Emperor's name of course.
King Menelik of Shewa, currently the most powerful man in Ethiopia
Nine years later, the boy-Emperor is nearing the end of his childhood. Taught extensively by European tutors, he is very amenable to Italian interests and westernization and has the full support of the Italian forces in East Africa who have been asserting the claims left to Italy by the Khedive in nearby Somalia. However, Menelik is certain to do everything in his power to encourage the King to reassert Ethiopia's independence when the time is right. Or, even worse, perhaps rekindle his old ambitions of seizing the Imperial throne for himself. Whether or not this will happen only time will tell.
Name: Sublime State of Iran (1885-1886 Gregorian Calendar) Capital: Tehran Government: Monarchy Primary Leader: Naser al-Din Shah Qajar
Naser al-Din Shah(b. 1831) m. Shokuh-ol-Saltaneh
Mozzaffar ad-Din Shah(b. 1853)
Secondary Leader: Prime Minister Mirza Yousof Khan Ashtiani Population: 6,125,900 Religion: Shi'a Islam
Domestic
Internal Events:
After several attempts on his life by both religious and nationalist extremists the Shah has retired somewhat to re-examine his policies and see if their cause is based on opposition to the government
Several British owned companies had protests held against them. No lives were lost however.
The Shah's rule while firmer than it was in the beginning still isn't a complete hold over Iran. Tribal & local religious leaders continue to have large amounts of influence.
Anti-Russian sentiment continues to be felt by the current generation, even though the last was the one hit hardest by the Treaties of Gulistan, Turkmenchay & Akhal.
Economic Status:
Though struggling some moderate economic westernisation made by the Shah has helped keep the Iranian economy influential on the world stage.
Military
The Iranian military continues to be somewhat divided as well as poorly trained and equipped as a result of treaties between the Qajar dynasty and both the British and Russians.
Army:
38,000 Irregular Cavalry
22,000 Cavalry
73,000 Infantry
12,000 Tribal Infantry
11,000 Horse Artillery
Navy:
Coastal defence and patrol vessels along the southern coast only as treaty prohibits an Iranian navy from using the Caspian sea.
As the 19th Century dragged on from its midpoint, Habsburg Emperor Franz Joseph I found himself in an increasingly untennable place. His Empire, a strong, proud, redoubt of traditional Monarchic strength, found itself outmatched internationally. While some of his reforms--most notably the restructuring of the Personal Union, but also increased autonomy for the Poles and Croats--had significantly decreased provincial unrest and led to the forming of a new national identity internally, his diplomatic ties had been strained and severed. He had engaged in wars with the other great powers to the North and West; to his country's South and East, the Balkans had proven to be a region that caused all powers with an interest there--themselves, the Russians, and the Ottomans--to find themselves at odds. And there was one figure that dominated above all else: The wily Otto von Bismark, the man who had engineered Prussia's meteoric rise to become the dominant power, uniting all other German-speaking lands in the mighty Federation to his north.
The Emperor, however, was not one to be defeated so easily. He called his foreign minister, and had a discussion over the dire situation and possible consequences thereof. However (and after much bourbon followed by much shouting), the Emperor and the Foreign Minister came to a solution.
Immediately, dozens of highly-ranked Noblemen and other leading men of character were summoned to Vienna to 'undertake a mission for the Empire.' This included men such as the Crown Prince Rudolf and several Counts. When gathered, the Emperor and his Minister briefed them upon the new undertaking: they were to go into the courts and parliments of Europe and beyond, to represent the Empire diplomatically, and find out how they could improve relations with the other nations of the world. They were to learn what they could of any cultural, military, or scientific advances, and bring these new discoveries back to their homeland, where the economic might of Austro-Czech Manufacturing would allow for a new Rennaisance within the Habsburg lands. This was all to further the standing of Austria in the eyes of the world, using their own stature of Noble Birthright to represent what the proud Dual Monarchy best represented.
With their orders, the newly deputized Diplomats were given their locations. The Crown Prince was sent to Berlin to speak with the Iron Bismark, for were he to have to inherit, it would be Bismark with whom he would have to most contend; the young, starry-eyed liberal had much to learn about the realities of the world. He easily agreed, for he had been having correspondence with the German heir, who had similar ideas to he. The Belgian diplomatic mission recieved, among their number, the Prince von Saxe-Coburg-Gotha-Koháry, (with his younger brother being sent to Bulgaria), a friend of Rudolf's, and the two would correspond regularly and visit occasionally. Their brother, in turn, was contacted to represent Austrian interests in Brazil, where he was also an Admiral.
The brother of the Emperor, Archduke Karl Ludwig, was sent off to Portugal, the land of his current wife. His second son was sent to Italy, the land of his mother's birth, perhaps the most tense situation given the border conflicts and Habsburg control of some ethnically Italian territory. His son, Franz Ferdinand, was sent to head up the diplomatic mission to France, where he happily obliged, being quite the staunch liberal, though quite angered by some who made snide comments about sending him farther away than his brother to be free of his grumpy personage.
The Russians were sent the skilled and seasoned Count Agenor Maria Gołuchowski, who recieved a promotion from his Paris office to head all diplomatic efforts with Russia. The foreign minister, having previously been the ambassador to St. Petersburg, had seen promise in the man.
The English were sent Nikolaus III, Prince Esterházy to lead up their mission. Both the English delegations had members of the important Rothschild banking family, whose members already had ties in those countries: Ferdinand was quite pleased to see some of his cousins.
Numerous other delegations were sent out, including a large and grandiose one to Romania headed by a relative to the foreign minister,Dénes Kálnoky. Some of the more conservative Magyar present scoffed at such a radical choice, the man having sometimes opposed the Emperor, but Franz Joseph quickly shut down opposition, having reached an understanding with the former radical (now in his older years) that they wished to improve relations with the newly-freed Romanian state.
Also of note was that a delegation was to be sent as far away as Japan and China, to assess the powers in the region far afield and report on any conflicts that happened in those distant lands. Characterized by the opponents of the emperor as an act of desperation, this was sent to increase Austria's presence internationally, and show that they could exert influence far beyond the regional extent of their territory.
Numerous other delegations were sent out, including a large and grandiose one to Romania headed by a relative to the foreign minister,Dénes Kálnoky. Some of the more conservative Magyar present scoffed at such a radical choice, the man having sometimes opposed the Emperor, but Franz Joseph quickly shut down opposition, having reached an understanding with the former radical (now in his older years) that they wished to improve relations with the newly-freed Romanian state.
The King of Romania Carol I von Hohenzollern-Sigmarigen and the Prime-Minister of Romania Ion Bratianu receive the Austro-Hungarian delegation with wary signs as it mostly consists of Hungarians. They exchange the tradional formal greetings and invite Mr Kálnoky to take residence up in Bucharesti.
"My country is no longer in Africa; we are now part of Europe. It is therefore natural for us to abandon our former ways and to adopt a new system adapted to our social conditions".
The first Khedive of Egypt, Isma'il Al'Ray (the Magnificent), was molded of the same gumption as his grandfather, Mehmet Ali Pasha the Great, and his legacy would be a light that shined even greater. Industrial and economic development, as well as large amounts of urbanization, were fueled by a small series of shrewd diplomatic arrangements made by Isma'il that secured the political and economic independence of Egypt from prying European eyes. While many of his reforms, such as the customs system reorganization, the creation of a post office, commercial progress stimulation, and many cultural expenses, what was key to this was the economic decisions made that fueled such projects. The first of these dates back to the drafting arrangements of the Suez Canal project, upon which an increased amount of shares were attained at the original ratification of the deal due to a change in negotiation, upon which the European investors' hands were forces, lest the Canal's construction be averted any further. In addition to the increased holding of shares in the canal, Isma'il's grand reforms and projects required hard funds, that would normally have been procured from loans, however, by a divine twist of fate, the death of Ethiopian Emperor Yohannes IV on the battlefield at Gundat resulted in the conquest of the country. Following a sufficient peace process and a few border changes in favor of the now consolidated Egyptian Sudan (including a conquered Darfur), an arrangement was made between the Khedivate and Eithopia which resulted in a favorable tributary status for the latter towards the former, allowing Isma'il to attain a large sum of bouillon to fuel his reforms for the next few years, no longer necessitating the need for loans while the commercial and local economy of Egypt expanded. Egypt now stands on the stage of European nations (albeit off to the side) with a strength to rival that of even budding Italy, having well surpassed the Sick Man to the North as the turn of the century looms ever closer.
Ismail launched vast schemes of internal reform on the scale of his grandfather, remodeling the customs system and the post office, stimulating commercial progress, creating a sugar industry, building palaces, entertaining lavishly, and maintaining an opera and a theatre. He greatly expanded Cairo, building an entire new quarter of the city on its western edge modeled on Paris. Alexandria was also improved. He launched a vast railroad building project that saw Egypt and Sudan rise from having virtually none to the most railways per habitable kilometer of any nation in the world. Education reform more than tenfold increased the education budget. Traditional primary and secondary schools were expanded and specialized technical and vocational schools were created. Students were once again sent to Europe to study on educational missions, encouraging the formation of a Western-trained elite. A national library was founded in 1871. One of his most significant achievements was to establish an assembly of delegates in November 1866. Though this was supposed to be a purely advisory body, its members eventually came to have an important influence on governmental affairs. Village headmen dominated the assembly and came to exert increasing political and economic influence over the countryside and the central government. This was shown in 1876, when the assembly persuaded Ismail to reinstate the law (enacted by him in 1871 to raise money and later repealed) that allowed land ownership and tax privileges to persons paying six years' land tax in advance. This assembly would be the foundation of such a later parliamentary system that would come about during the reign of his successor and grandson, Abbas II.
The Tariq Al-Hadid, also known to its Italian engineers as La strada del ferro
Egypt marched on over the course of Isma'il's reign. A most expeditious project was completed, the railway to the heart of the Nile. While Egypt was no stranger to rails, as a connection from Alexandria to Cairo had existed from as early as 1854, Ismail saw himself as a builder and had dreams of linking Egypt from end to end. 910 miles (1,460 km) of new railroads, stretching 231 miles (372 km) southwards from Cairo to Assiut, and including the first line in the Sudan, to Khartoum were laid with the assistance of Italian engineers. The post system that was formed earlier flourished with such a rail system to aid its progress, and as the Iron Road was laid down, the people of Egypt were connected on deeper levels. Trade boomed, and the tribute from Ethiopia flowed, along with resources from the south. The Sudan was growing richer and richer, and as a whole, Egypt grew strong because of it.
Under the leadership of Minister Hussein Fahri Pasha, Minister of the Interior, the Aswan Dam begins contruction.
Arabi Pasha "El Wahid", Prime Minister of Egypt
This was especially so under the watchful gaze of the Prime Minister of Egypt, Arabi Pasha. Many changes to the government of Egypt took place over the ever moderizing reign of Isma'il. Pushing further and further with reforms, supported by a strong Egyptian Nationalist Party headed by none other than General. Arabi owed much to his khedive, as the modern education and military service of Arabi, from a fellah, or peasant background, would not have been possible without the modernising reforms of Khedive Ismail, who had done much to eliminate the barriers between the bulk of the Egyptian populace and the ruling elite, who were drawn largely from the military castes that had ruled Egypt for centuries. Ismail abolished the exclusive access to the Egyptian and Sudanese military ranks by Egyptians of Balkan, Circassian, and Turkish origin. Ismail conscripted soldiers and recruited students from throughout Egypt and Sudan regardless of class and ethnic backgrounds in order to form a "modern" and "national" Egyptian military and bureaucratic elite class. Without these reforms, 'Urabi's rise through the ranks of the military would likely have been far more restricted, and when he finally rose to the position of Prime Minister, with the blessing of his Khedive, a blossoming of political reform began. Egyptians and Sudanese men were given equal positions alongside foreigners and Europeans, and a synthesis began that mimiced the cosmopolitan nature of the city of Alexandria within the government of Egypt.
Cabinet of Egypt:
Arabi Pasha, informally referred to as "El Wahid", currently serves as Prime Minister of Egypt, and head of the Egyptian Nationalist Party.
Mahmoud Samy Elbaroudy, more commonly known to the people of Egypt as رب السيف و القلم ("Lord of sword and pen"), currently serves as Minister of War and is a member of the Egyptian Nationalist Party.
Nubar Pasha, revered for his honor of being the first Prime Minister of Egypt, he serves at the behest of his Khedive, whom he unofficially serves as assistant and First Secretary, and officially serves as Minister of Foreign Affairs with no party affiliation.
Boutros Ghali Pasha serves as Minister of Finance. Due to his experience serving as Egyptian representative on the Commission of Public Debt in Istanbul, his experience in this field has proven to be very resourceful. He is also the first Coptic to serve in the Cabinet, and is a member of the Egyptian Nationalist Party
Youssef Wahba, was most recently appointed Minister of Justice by his highness, Khedive Isma'il I, following his translation of the Code Napoleon into Arabic, which serves as the foundation of the Egyptian Legal System. He is a member of the Egyptian Nationalist Party
Werner Pasha, Bey of Tigray and Chief Cartographer of the Khedive, currently serves officially as a Minister without Portfolio with no party affiliation.
Mostafa Fahmi Pasha, serving as Minister of the Interior and is a member of the Egyptian Nationalist Party
Hussein Fahri Pasha, serving as Minister of Public Works, and more famously known as the organizer of the construction of the Aswan Dam. He is a member of the Egyptian Nationalist Party
Ferik Stone Pasha, Chief of Staff of the Egyptian Army and aide-de-camp of Khedive Isma'il Pasha.
Werner Pasha, Bey of Tigray
Werner Munzinger was a man in the right place at the right time. Due to the presence of Stone Pasha on the field, the Egyptian Army was able to route and defeat Emperor Yohannes IV at Gundat, a battle which otherwise would have meant the end for Werner Pasha and his family. The brave administrator of Massawa took it upon himself to attack the Bogos, and pushed inland from Tadjoura where he met the Sultan of Aussa in battle. The arrival of Stone Pasha's forces saved his men and won a victory, before continuing on to the penultimate battle at Gundat. While his story did not end there, his adventures in war had most assuredly come to an end, probably for the benefit of himself and his family. Werner Pasha would be granted the honorary title of Pasha, and would be made the Bey of Tigray for his efforts. This would allow him the funding and opportunity to continue to expeditions into the Horn of Africa. Currently, Werner Pasha is preparing for an expedition into the south, further than any Egyptian expedition has gone to date.
Ferik Stone Pasha, Chief of Staff of the Egyptian Army
Charles Pomeroy Stone is most credited for defeating the Ethiopian Emperor Yohannes IV on the field of battle at Gundat, but historians would look back upon him and call him the father of Egypt without a second's hesitation. This victory was not to be an understatement, as the chain reaction of events that would reverb from his victory would forever alter the fate of Egypt, and plunge it head first into the modern world. The victory at Gundat was merely the beginning for Stone Pasha, as the victorious Egyptian Army marched into Mekele in glorious procession. Yohannes IV's son was placed on the throne, and a treaty quickly signed establishing Ethiopia as a tributary of Egypt. The situation was not all roses and daisies, as the American Mercenaries would say since, in order to establish permanence of the tribute, an occupying force would need to be maintained. Enter the Kingdom of Italy, and their grace saving offer. Isma'il was quick to enter an agreement with a European power, especially one he thought he was on equal footing with, and consigned the fate of Ethiopia to a divestment between the two: The Tribute would flow to Cairo as long as Mekele bent the knee to Rome. As it was settled, the relationship between Italy and Egypt started off something similar to strange bedfellows and blossomed into a budding symbiotic situation.
Stone Pasha's story does not stop there. On his way back to Cairo, he was awarded many gifts and rewards, but the greatest of all was his elevation to General of the Egyptian Army, and would work side by side with Generals Urabi and Elbaroudy to reform the Egyptian Army into a modern fighting force. Using the American Civil War mercenaries who elected to stay in Egypt following a victorious war that left them with filled pockets and tracts of land along the Red Sea, a new system was formed out of the ashes of the Old Ways of Mehmet Ali Pasha. Almost similar to the American model, especially after adopting their Winchester 1866 Model as their initial weapon of choice before creating their own variant, henceforth known as the Pomeroy Rifle.
Excerpt taken from The Pasha's Reforms:
The Pasha's goal was to create military order through indoctrination by two new major key practices: isolation and surveillance. In previous times, the wives and family were allowed to follow the army wherever they camped. This was no longer the case. The Pasha sought to create a whole new life for the soldier distinct from that of civilian life. In order to be completely indoctrinated and adapted to the military, they needed to be stripped of their daily lives, habits, and practices. Inside these barracks, soldiers were also subjected to new practices. The rules and regulations were not made to inflict punishment on the recruits but rather to impose a sense of respect for the law; the threat of punishment was enough to keep them in line and from deserting. The roll-call was taken twice a day and those found missing would be declared deserters and would have to face the punishment for their actions. Troops were kept busy to prevent the men from being left idle in the camps. The trivial tasks that filled the soldiers live was an attempt to keep the men constantly engaged in useful tasks and not thinking about leaving. There were also many other reasons why the Pasha enforced this strict isolation. Previously, soldiers would ransack towns and cause mayhem wherever they went. Military disobedience was so frequent that the Bedouins were employed to keep the soldiers in check. Unfortunately this backfired when the Bedouins also indulged in the same destructive behavior. Thus, with the new isolation practices, there was more peace in civilian life.
Isolation also allowed for more intense surveillance. The idea was to promote order through initial obedience rather than through punishment. Though this idea seems humane in nature, the change in mindset went from trust to mistrust and the consequences of disobedience were often fatal. Complete subservience was the Pasha's ultimate goal. An example of this extreme surveillance was the Tezkere. The Tezkere was a certificate with a military official's stamp of approval that allowed the soldier to leave the camp premises. The certificate specified the soldier's reason for and specific details of his absence. The soldier would be invoked to show his certificate when he traveled to prove the legitimacy of his excursion. Even outside the camp surveillance, the soldier is still closely watched.
The Pasha himself also served as a form of surveillance. The law and its strict implementation thereof gave the impression of the Pasha's constant presence. The Pasha highly regarded law and fabricated in his society a strong link between crime and punishment. If a soldier committed crime, its discovery was assumed to be definite along with the punishment thereof. For example, a deserter would receive 15 days imprisonment and 200 lashes for his crime. The harsh punishment, coupled with the fact that roll was called three times daily, dispelled any thought of desertion on the part of the soldier. The previous conception of punishment changed from vengeance to certainty. By far the biggest military reform in this period was crafting the military mindset into one of absolute obedience to prevent any want of dissent. As the soldiers left their old lives for their new military life, they learned their new place in society through their own unique law code and practice.
The transition from corporal punishment as the official policy for punishment to imprisonment is important to the modernization of Egypt's army. The reasoning was that the law can always be applied and a soldier can always be punished for his crimes and that is a better deterrent for crimes than public physical punishments are. However, corporal punishment was not entirely removed. Oftentimes, corporal punishment, such as whipping, will be used along with imprisonment. Prison sentences were divided into three types: light house arrest, heavy house arrest, and imprisonment in the camp jail. Light house arrest had the soldier in isolation for up to two months. Heavy house arrest is limited to one month and has a guard watching over the prisoner and the last option is imprisonment in the camp jail for up to fifteen days.
Policies was also enacted to modernize the army in the way they are structured outside the battlefield. Soldiers were given identification numbers to use on paperwork. A wider variety of uniforms were used to differentiate between ranks. Even buildings has regulations placed on them. Tents were to be placed a set distance between each other and every building had an assigned location within the camp. All of these policies were designed to instill discipline and a sense of collective regularity in every soldier.
Passing laws with a strict punishment regime was not sufficient for the soldiers to internalize the different army regulations that they were asked to obey. For this to succeed these soldiers had to be interned and isolated from outside influences. They then had to be taught to follow rules and regulations that came with army life. This process helped to transform the fellah into disciplined soldiers.
Despite there being an active question of interpretation as to who played the larger role in securing Araya's coronation, one point they all agree on is that Ethiopia, Egypt, and Italy all signed a treaty in the city of Mekele when all was said and done. This treaty would define the relationships of all three states for years to come on and it would be a serious issue facing the young Emperor.
Treaty of Mekele
1. The Empire of Ethiopia accepts the Protection of the Kingdom of Italy, acknowledging its need to pay obligations to the Khedive of Egypt.
2. The Empire of Ethiopia acknowledges that Tigray is rightfully part of Egypt and Assab is rightfully part of Italy.
3. Italy, Egypt, and Ethiopia, jointly agree in principal to freedom of trade, and movement as well as honoring the rights of each nation's subjects in their territories.
4. Italy and Egypt will both agree to design a railroad system running from Alexandria, to the current capital of Ethiopia in Mekele then to Berbera and Assab.
5. Both Italy and Egypt guarantee the borders of the Ethiopian Empire, and promise to protect it from any threat to its well-being.
6. Each state shall agree to establish embassies in Cairo, Rome, and Mekele.
Greetings Khedive. We, the government of France, would like to offer you some congratulations on your success in the past years in bringing your country into the modern era that we now find ourselves in. Ours is a historic friendship, and we wish for that to continue long into the future
Given this, there are many companies in France which are interested in increasing their investments in Egypt, given the current economic situation. We trust that there will not be an issue in accessing markets from the Egyptian government?
Greetings Khedive. We, the government of France, would like to offer you some congratulations on your success in the past years in bringing your country into the modern era that we now find ourselves in. Ours is a historic friendship, and we wish for that to continue long into the future
Given this, there are many companies in France which are interested in increasing their investments in Egypt, given the current economic situation. We trust that there will not be an issue in accessing markets from the Egyptian government?
On behalf of the Khedive, we honor the friendship of the government of France. While we initially would see no issue with allowing what has already been the status quo of business acumen between our two governments, we would perhaps wish to enter into more private discussions with the government of France. While the Khedive has no intentions of preventing neither free trade nor the operation of French businesses on Egyptian soil, the Cabinet of Egypt would like to have greater knowledge, and perhaps its own form of investment, in the operations of French business interests in Egypt and Africa as a whole. We would remind you that Africa is a lucrative market and that the Tariq Al-Hadid allows for boundless enterprise deep into the continent.
大日本帝國 - 1885
Name: Empire of Japan Capital: Tokyo Government: Monarchy Primary Leader: Emperor Maji Secondary Leader: N/A Population: 38,313,000
Religion: Shinto-Buddhism
Domestic:
Internal Events:
Several new factories are opened as the shipyards are once more expanded within Tokyo Harbour.
The railway continues to be developed so to increase the infrastructure within the Empire.
The Emperor considers political reforms to bring his government to follow the more efficient models of the west, though which one requires deep introspection so not to lose the nation's connection to its traditions and of course the Emperor's overall control.
Economic Status: Growing
Industrialisation of the country continues with foreign investors and the recalling of students from abroad aiding the transition to a powerful modern nation. Of course with recent events having occurred between the great powers, which one to align Japan with has yet to be decided...
Military
With the abolition of the han system and its replacement with conscription of the commoner classes, the age of the Samurai class has been replaced with the more numerous and infinitely more loyal Imperial Japanese Military, creating a force more loyal to the Emperor rather than provincial nobility.
Alliances, Agreements, and Trade:
Trade Treaty with France, Britain, USA, Qing, CSA
Exchange of Students with Austria-Hungary Japan–Korea Treaty of 1876 - Wikipedia with Korea Diplomacy:
From: The Court of His Imperial Majesty, The Emperor Meji
To: The German Empire @Theravis
We would wish to request the entrance of Japanese students to learn from your nations growing industry so that we might benefit one another, from one Emperor to another.
From: Empire of Japan
To: Kingdom of Hawaii @Texan
Private
We would like to negotiate the usage of your island as a key location for exploration into the Pacific. There are bound to be more islands as yet undiscovered and being a neutral nation in a world of antagonistic powers we would believe you the better partner.
From: Empire of Japan
To: CSA @CommandoHowizter
Congratulations on your recent victory against your neighbours to the north. We would like to inquire upon the possibility of a trade treaty considering you now have access to the Pacific, in addition to the possibility of observers learning from your military. Considering they prevailed against a larger force on multiple occasions, it would be the height of folly not to learn from the best.
From: Empire of Japan
To: USA @Mortis Nuntius
We would like to renegotiate our current trade treaty. Rest assured that we do not intend to renege on any of our agreements, rather we wish to progress our industrialisation at a greater pace, in addition to the purchase of more modern firearms such as the Maxim Guns your General Custer used so effectively.
To: Great Britain @Arthur Frayn
From Empire of Japan
Private
His Imperial Majesty has grown concerned with the interest the Tsar has begun to show his most eastern provinces. Being the foremost of our friends we deemed it best to ask for your advice.
Name: Kingdom of Siam Capital: Krung Thep Maha Nakhon Government: Absololute Monarchy Primary Leader: King Rama V
Phra Bat Somdet Phra Poramenthra Maha Mongkut Phra Chom Klao Chao Yu Hua [Rama IV] - Born: 1804 Died: 1880
Phra Bat Somdet Phra Poraminthra Maha Chulalongkorn Phra Chunla Chom Klao Chao Yu Hua [Rama V] - Born: 1853
Secondary Leader: Prince Bhanurangsi Savangwongse, The Prince Banubandhu Vongsevoradej, Chancellor of Sayam Population: c.7,300,000 Religion: Thereva Buddhism
As you are no doubt aware, the Sino-French War has been ongoing for some time now. With recent French victories in the Kep campaign, as well as certain actions in Korea that have been done with the tacit approval of the Japanese government by all appearances, it becomes clearer than ever that we have a mutual enemy.
As such, we would like to propose the offer of a military alliance between our two powers. This would safeguard both of us against the Qing Empire, and if you accept the French would be willing to support you in re-negotiating some of the trade treaties you currently have which are more unfavorable to you.
On behalf of the Khedive, we honor the friendship of the government of France. While we initially would see no issue with allowing what has already been the status quo of business acumen between our two governments, we would perhaps wish to enter into more private discussions with the government of France. While the Khedive has no intentions of preventing neither free trade nor the operation of French businesses on Egyptian soil, the Cabinet of Egypt would like to have greater knowledge, and perhaps its own form of investment, in the operations of French business interests in Egypt and Africa as a whole. We would remind you that Africa is a lucrative market and that the Tariq Al-Hadid allows for boundless enterprise deep into the continent.
The French government is more than willing to entertain whatever private discussions that the Khedive might wish to partake in. We can understand the desire to have some stake in the operations of business entities within your country, and can offer our assistance in that regard, as well as potential assistance in investing abroad. Mutual cooperation is to the benefit of everyone, though preferably your allies more than your enemies.
As you are no doubt aware, the Sino-French War has been ongoing for some time now. With recent French victories in the Kep campaign, as well as certain actions in Korea that have been done with the tacit approval of the Japanese government by all appearances, it becomes clearer than ever that we have a mutual enemy.
As such, we would like to propose the offer of a military alliance between our two powers. This would safeguard both of us against the Qing Empire, and if you accept the French would be willing to support you in re-negotiating some of the trade treaties you currently have which are more unfavorable to you.
Our proposal in its basics is fairly simple. There would be the formation of a military alliance between Japan and France, though we would not require you to join in the ongoing Sino-French War if you do not wish to do so. In turn France would provide assistance towards your modernization efforts, and provide its diplomatic support in your efforts to re-negotiate the trade treaties forced upon you during the Bakumatsu era.
Is this acceptable to the Japanese government, or are you seeking further concessions for an alliance?
大日本帝國 - 1885
Name: Empire of Japan Capital: Tokyo Government: Monarchy Primary Leader: Emperor Maji Secondary Leader: N/A Population: 38,313,000
Religion: Shinto-Buddhism
Domestic:
Internal Events:
WIP
Economic Status:
Industrialisation of the country continues with foreign investors and the recalling of students from abroad aiding the transition to a powerful modern nation. Of course with recent events having occurred between the great powers, which one to align Japan with has yet to be decided...
Military
Army:
242,000 Men
11 Divisions (Inc. Imperial Guard)
Navy:
3 cruisers: the 4,700 ton Matsushima and Itsukushima, built in France, and the Hashidate, built at Yokosuka.
3 coastal warships of 4,278 tons.
2 small cruisers: the Chiyoda, a small cruiser of 2,439 tons built in Britain, and the Yaeyama, 1800 tons, built at Yokosuka.
1 destroyer: the 726 ton Chishima, built in France.
16 torpedo boats of 54 tons each, built in France by the Companie du Creusot in 1888, and assembled in Japan.
Alliances, Agreements, and Trade:
Trade Treaty with France, Britain, USA, China
Exchange of Students with Austria-Hungary Japan–Korea Treaty of 1876 - Wikipedia with Korea Diplomacy:
From: The Court of His Imperial Majesty, The Emperor Meji
To: The German Empire @Theravis
We would wish to request the entrance of Japanese students to learn from your nations growing industry so that we might benefit one another, from one Emperor to another.
From: Empire of Japan
To: Kingdom of Hawaii @Texan
Private
We would like to negotiate the usage of your island as a key location for exploration into the Pacific. There are bound to be more islands as yet undiscovered and being a neutral nation in a world of antagonistic powers we would believe you the better partner.
From: Empire of Japan
To: CSA @CommandoHowizter
Congratulations on your recent victory against your neighbours to the north. We would like to inquire upon the possibility of a trade treaty considering you now have access to the Pacific, in addition to the possibility of observers learning from your military. Considering they prevailed against a larger force on multiple occasions, it would be the height of folly not to learn from the best.
From: Empire of Japan
To: USA @Mortis Nuntius
We would like to renegotiate our current trade treaty. Rest assured that we do not intend to renege on any of our agreements, rather we wish to progress our industrialisation at a greater pace, in addition to the purchase of more modern firearms such as the Maxim Guns your General Custer used so effectively.
To: Great Britain @Arthur Frayn
From Empire of Japan
Private
His Imperial Majesty has grown concerned with the interest the Tsar has begun to show his most eastern provinces. Being the foremost of our friends we deemed it best to ask for your advice.
大日本帝國 - 1885
Name: Empire of Japan Capital: Tokyo Government: Monarchy Primary Leader: Emperor Maji Secondary Leader: N/A Population: 38,313,000
Religion: Shinto-Buddhism
Domestic:
Internal Events:
WIP
Economic Status:
Industrialisation of the country continues with foreign investors and the recalling of students from abroad aiding the transition to a powerful modern nation. Of course with recent events having occurred between the great powers, which one to align Japan with has yet to be decided...
Military
Army:
242,000 Men
11 Divisions (Inc. Imperial Guard)
Navy:
3 cruisers: the 4,700 ton Matsushima and Itsukushima, built in France, and the Hashidate, built at Yokosuka.
3 coastal warships of 4,278 tons.
2 small cruisers: the Chiyoda, a small cruiser of 2,439 tons built in Britain, and the Yaeyama, 1800 tons, built at Yokosuka.
1 destroyer: the 726 ton Chishima, built in France.
16 torpedo boats of 54 tons each, built in France by the Companie du Creusot in 1888, and assembled in Japan.
Alliances, Agreements, and Trade:
Trade Treaty with France, Britain, USA, China
Exchange of Students with Austria-Hungary Japan–Korea Treaty of 1876 - Wikipedia with Korea Diplomacy:
From: The Court of His Imperial Majesty, The Emperor Meji
To: The German Empire @Theravis
We would wish to request the entrance of Japanese students to learn from your nations growing industry so that we might benefit one another, from one Emperor to another.
From: Empire of Japan
To: Kingdom of Hawaii @Texan
Private
We would like to negotiate the usage of your island as a key location for exploration into the Pacific. There are bound to be more islands as yet undiscovered and being a neutral nation in a world of antagonistic powers we would believe you the better partner.
From: Empire of Japan
To: CSA @CommandoHowizter
Congratulations on your recent victory against your neighbours to the north. We would like to inquire upon the possibility of a trade treaty considering you now have access to the Pacific, in addition to the possibility of observers learning from your military. Considering they prevailed against a larger force on multiple occasions, it would be the height of folly not to learn from the best.
From: Empire of Japan
To: USA @Mortis Nuntius
We would like to renegotiate our current trade treaty. Rest assured that we do not intend to renege on any of our agreements, rather we wish to progress our industrialisation at a greater pace, in addition to the purchase of more modern firearms such as the Maxim Guns your General Custer used so effectively.
To: Great Britain @Arthur Frayn
From Empire of Japan
Private
His Imperial Majesty has grown concerned with the interest the Tsar has begun to show his most eastern provinces. Being the foremost of our friends we deemed it best to ask for your advice.
Of course, we will not mind at all that the men of the Orient come to learn from our own superior forces. As long as they follow the laws in place and conduct themselves with honour all should be well.
The arrival of Winfield Scott Hancock into the White House with a firm majority in Congress supporting his administration heralded a new era in American politics. The so called "German" faction in the administration wasted no time in putting their long held desires for a stronger and more unified United States along European lines into practice. The bill placed before congress in 1885 was unlike any other in American history. It announced a peacetime draft which initially would compel America's youth to the colours for two years in the army and four years into the newly founded "active reserve." Furthermore a "Coal board" was formed to collect statistics on vital strategic resources consumed wastefully by the civilian population.
Whilst in practice it would take several years for these reforms to take place coinciding as they did with a drastic reassessment of American military doctrine and equipment in theory at least the largest standing army in American history with an active force of some 500,000 men and a reserve intended to number roughly twice that was to be created. Putting the US Army on par with its European counterparts such as France or Germany in size at least.
Two humiliating and shocking defeats in a generation had finally succeeded in forcing the United States to face the reality that it was surrounded by powerful enemies and that its future as a nation depended on force of arms.
Diplomacy:
From: The Court of His Imperial Majesty, The Emperor Meji
To: The German Empire @Theravis
We would wish to request the entrance of Japanese students to learn from your nations growing industry so that we might benefit one another, from one Emperor to another.
From: Kaiser Wilhelm I
Of course. We would be most uncivilized not to teach you everything you require to keep your subjects happy, healthy, and secure.
Private Addendum
We would hope that with our price being simple goodwill, Nippon would avoid entanglements with any of our Empire's direct competitors. We look forward to cooperation in future.
Our proposal in its basics is fairly simple. There would be the formation of a military alliance between Japan and France, though we would not require you to join in the ongoing Sino-French War if you do not wish to do so. In turn France would provide assistance towards your modernization efforts, and provide its diplomatic support in your efforts to re-negotiate the trade treaties forced upon you during the Bakumatsu era.
Is this acceptable to the Japanese government, or are you seeking further concessions for an alliance?
As you are no doubt aware, the Sino-French War has been ongoing for some time now. With recent French victories in the Kep campaign, as well as certain actions in Korea that have been done with the tacit approval of the Japanese government by all appearances, it becomes clearer than ever that we have a mutual enemy.
As such, we would like to propose the offer of a military alliance between our two powers. This would safeguard both of us against the Qing Empire, and if you accept the French would be willing to support you in re-negotiating some of the trade treaties you currently have which are more unfavorable to you.
What do you say?
To: Egypt
From: France
The French government is more than willing to entertain whatever private discussions that the Khedive might wish to partake in. We can understand the desire to have some stake in the operations of business entities within your country, and can offer our assistance in that regard, as well as potential assistance in investing abroad. Mutual cooperation is to the benefit of everyone, though preferably your allies more than your enemies.
We will organize a personal meeting in sunny Alexandria at your earliest convenience. (Lets move this to PM bruh)
To: United States of America @Mortis Nuntius
From: Nubar Pasha, Minister of Foreign Affairs
Our friends across the Atlantic, Egypt humbly extends its hand in a warm greeting. We seek to reaffirm our ties and desire for a diplomatic mission between our two countries. Perhaps the construction of respective Embassies in our capitals?
French efforts to obtain an alliance with Japan had stretched back for several years even before the Sino-French War began, born out of a desire to obtain Japanese assistance in fighting off the Qing Empire. They knew how China felt about Japan, and thought that an alliance with Japan would be able to shore up their precarious military position in Tonkin. Initial efforts did not see much success due to Japanese reticence about Chinese military strength, leaving France to continue on alone.
However talk of an alliance renewed with the Kapsin Incident in Korea, igniting the possibility that Japan and China might come into renewed conflict. In the aftermath of that France approached Japan again for an alliance, and this time found more fertile ground. As a result, Japanese and French diplomats would meet in early 1885 to hammer out a treaty, bringing those aspirations to life in a mutual arrangement for both parties.
Treaty of Saigon
Recognition that France and Japan have special interests in Korea and China, and that while they are not motivated by aggressive tendencies, they nonetheless have the right to act as necessary to safeguard those interests from foreign enemies and disturbances that may arise in China or Korea
The Empire of Japan and the French Third Republic hereby agree to the formation of a defensive military alliance
If one party becomes in a war through the fulfillment of the first clause, the other party shall declare neutrality unless such an eventuality arises where more than one power has become involved in the conflict on the opposing side
Both powers agree to not enter separate arrangements with other powers to the detriment of this alliance should they be engaged in a conflict together
France promises to provide material and financial assistance to the Japanese government to aid their military modernization, as requested by the Japanese government, for the duration that this alliance is in effect.
France promises to provide diplomatic support in Japanese endeavors to re-negotiate those economic treaties concerning the foreign trade presence in Japan in light of this new relationship
This agreement does not require involvement by either party in conflicts that may currently be ongoing, and these terms do not apply to pre-existing conflicts. However involvement can be undertaken at the behest of the signatories, if they so wish.
The signatories promise to communicate frankly and fully with each other when any of the interests affected by this treaty are in jeopardy.
Treaty to remain in force for five years and then at one years' notice, unless notice was given at the end of the fourth year.
@Theravis
Private: On multiple occasions in the past the German government has sought closer relations with our state given our mutual enemies. In the past we have declined out of a distaste for entangling alliances. Now it has been made clear to us that such a policy is inexcusable. Thus we ask if the two Eagles may soar together.
Name: Kingdom of Hawai'i Capital: Honolulu Government: Constitutional Monarchy Primary Leader: Kalakaua Heir: Lili'uokalani Population: 88,000 Religion: Church of Hawaii, others include native Hawaiian, Catholic, and Buddhism
Domestic
Internal Events:
- The Kingdom of Hawaii continues to prosper from trade with several of the major powers of the north Pacific. It also tries to balance out these powers as it tries to maintain its independence.
- As a result of laws passed, immigrants to the country have been limited. Those contracted labors who work on farms and plantations are usually sent to their countries when their contract is finished. However, there is still a significant minority of immigrants in the country. The largest group are Chinese, about 10,000 of them, almost all of them from Guangdong province. The next largest group is just over 1,000 residents who originated from Portuguese Macau. The rest, while larger than the group from Macau, come from a variety of European and North American nations. A sizable minority of them are considered to be religious missionaries. New immigrants, including contract laborers who want to stay, are usually directed to settle outside of O'ahu.
- The advisors of the King have been pushing to strengthen the military of Hawaii. Not just for a stronger army, but for an actual navy. After over a decade, the royal guards are reestablished, armed with British weapons, and uniformed in a mixture of British and Hawaiian dress.
- The King, along with leading members of the government, intend on seeking out new trade agreements with other nations in the Pacific. This goes with not only increasing ties with the islands of the south Pacific, but also to improve ties with the leading east Asian nations.
Economic Status:Great
Military
Army:
2,000 men total
100 palace guards
500 royal guards
8,000 militia (demobilized)
Navy: None officially
A royal yacht
Several patrol ships maintained by local nobility
Alliances, Agreements, and Trade:
- Trade agreement with Great Britain
- Trade with Spain, Portugal, France, the United States and China
