OOC: 140 gold for both islands is outbid by 250 gold for Guam and 67 for Palau, I'm afraid. And it is also outbid by Doom's offer of 158 gold for both islands.
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OOC: Stop bugging Fry for an update. This is an order using what meagre power I have as Co-GM. Failure to comply shall result in severe punishment, likely in the form of being spammed with Ponies through whatever means I have at my disposal.
The update will be up when it's up, and Fry has been writing it all day. Last I heard, only 4 sets of orders left to do.
The update will be up when it's up, and Fry has been writing it all day. Last I heard, only 4 sets of orders left to do.
OOC: Please conclude this deal before the update, for liquidity reasons.
Last edited:
William Ewart Gladstone, Prime Minister of His Majesties government acting on behalf of His Imperial Majesty The King-Emperor Edward, by the Grace of God, of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland, Defender of the Faith, Emperor of India
OOC: Our liquidity is being questioned? It must be those damn Soviet's again!
OOC: Especially since the update is nearly done, Fry just might throttle you.
OOC : Except that this sale is days in the making so Fry surely wrote the update taking it into account.
OOC : Reis, do you realize that these things are treaties and therefore take one order each?
OOC: Only in the same way war orders are. They still constitute 'orders'.
OOC: Only trade and war orders are seperate, treaties still count for your 4 regular orders.
And darn it, wasn't on to counter Doom's bid and cause a stupid war >.<
OOC: Nope, 4 normal orders, 4 war orders, and 2 trade orders (which some people call trade treaties for some reason).
Unless it was changed in IRC when I wasn't on and havn't heard of yet.
OOC: Well I treated our treaty as a "trade order". We are after all trading goods and services.
OOC : Trade agreements = Trade treaties
Whatever, you are signing a treaty of trade/friendship/wee anyway
Whatever, you are signing a treaty of trade/friendship/wee anyway
January - June 1864
Europe
Europe
In the British Isles, a war that was deemed to be lost by all counts has been quickly turning towards a Royalist victory. The 1st British Royal Rifles, stationed in Bristol, began a march towards the city of Bath, a sizable Industrial center for the Worker's Commonwealth. Fighting started on the outskirts of the city on February 17th, 1864, where a shock regiment of Welshmen charged the center of the Communist Line, which was being manned by recruits. As the center started to collapse, the hardened veterans of the Communist right and left flanks swooped down in upon the Welshmen, enveloping them. These brave Welshmen fought for another hour, waiting for rescue, while fighting, the strains of "Men of Harlech" could be heard coming from the patriotic Welshmen. Although the entire regiment was murdered by the Communists, the rest of the British Army forced them back, and captured Bath in the next two days. [-10,000 Regulars from the United Kingdom. -5,000 Conscripts from the Untied Kingdom. -8,000 Regulars from the Worker's Commonwealth. -2,000 Conscripts from the Worker's Commonwealth. -1 Industry from the Worker's Commonwealth. +1 Industry to the United Kingdom.]
The 2nd British Royal Infantry, stationed in Gloucester, realising that there is little opposition in front of them, split into two armies and charge East. One heading for Stafford-Upon-Avon, while the other one making a drive for the Rive Thames, and more specifically, the city of Oxford. Fighting was fierce, but the day was won when King Edward, touring the front lines, took personal command of the Edinburgh Cavalry Corps, and personally lead a charge against the Communist lines. This display of courage and valour in the face of certain death sends a shock wave of motivation throughout the United Kingdom. Even more so, by the end of the month, both of these cities once again are in Royalist hands. [+1 Stability to the United Kingdom. -4 Industry from the Worker's Commonwealth. +4 Industry to the United Kingdom. -14,000 Regulars from the United Kingdom. -25,000 Regulars from the Worker's Commonwealth]
The 3rd British Army, in Leicester, reels around and smashes the Communist defenders of Birmingham, bring yet another chunk of valuable Industry back to the United Kingdom. [-9,000 Regulars from the United Kingdom. -16,000 Regulars from the Worker's Commonwealth. -3 Industry from the Worker's Commonwealth, +3 Industry to the United Kingdom.]
The 4th Army, stationed in Derby, takes the shape of a fishhook, surging Eastwards, then towards the South. They liberate the lands as the Communists begin to pull back towards the South Eastern coast. [-27,000 Regulars from the United Kingdom. -15,000 Regulars from the Worker's Commonwealth.]
In Cornwall, a group of Royalists, noticing the lack of Communist defenders in the area, rise up, and request immediate aid from the British Government. King Edward immediately accepts as ammunition and supplies is funneled in from Wales to Cornwall. The local Army, called the Army of Liberation, is formed with 100,000 men. Their goal is to support the British offenses in anyway. After taking control of some of the area, and losing some strength, they offer their leadership to the British Army. [+90,000 Regulars to the United Kingdom.]
1. Map of the British Isles in June of 1864.
In Ireland, the rallying cry of "Ulster Resists!" is heard through the small areas controlled by the forces of Ulster. After a few battles, they hold their ground, with hopes of British aide coming soon. They can only hold on to their land for so long.
The United Kingdom announces, from the Royal Castle in Edinburgh, that a new treaty between the German Empire and the United Kingdom has been signed, bringing them closer together with trading. The first shipments from Germany are the famous Krupp Cannons, greatly improving the British Army. [+1 Army Level to the United Kingdom. +5 Trade Balance to the United Kingdom. +5 Trade Balance to the German Empire.]
In Belgium, the government announces that a new trade agreement has been reached with Guatemala. [+5 Trade Balance to Guatemala. +5 Trade Balance to Belgium.]
The Belgian Government announces that in Brussels, a new Military Academy is to be opened. It is slated to finish construction by the years end to start training the new army officers. Also, in Zeebrugge, a Naval Academy is being opened out of an old building. This new move greatly helps the Armed Forced of Belgium. [+1 Army Level in 2 turns. +1 Naval Level.]
In the Netherlands, the Government announces a massive new undertaking. The Dutch Army is to be re-fit and modernized. As old weapons are thrown out and broken up, newer rifles and more soldiers flock to the army. Spending get's out of control of this new endeavour, but it is overall beneficial. [+1 Army Level to the Netherlands. -300 Gold from the Netherlands.]
In France, a new Trade Agreement is signed between Colombia, even though the French also sent a delegation to Manchuria, where they refused to sign the trade agreement. [+5 Trade Balance to Colombia. +5 Trade Balance to France.]
In Paris, the French Stock Market opens. Confidence is restored even more in the country as shares begin trading and the market takes a swing upwards on its first day of trading. [+20 Base Income to France.]
Emperor Napoleon III, touring the country on the improving railways, visits many French cities to try and rally more people to the cause of the French Homeland. His uplifting words of reform and rebuilding enlighten and energize the French. Even as more people become content, the economy takes a slight turn upward. [+1 Stability to France. +10 Base Income to France.]
The French Government tries to cover up expenses for a large project, but a leak finally get out. The French Government is spending a massive amount of money on three new ironclads, much to the dismay of several onlookers, who thought a much larger project was going on. [-700 Gold from France. +3 Small Ships in 3 turns.]
A new Minster is announced in the French Government. The Minister of Rebuilding is heralded into office. His job is to try and improve the areas of France still left devastated by the War. He is given a large amount of relief money and a small tax increase is brought in to pay for his improvements. The Minister in Charge, Jean Claude, is an economic genius. He finds a way to create low cost, high quality railroads for the devastated areas. [+20 Base Income to France. +1 Infrastructure to France in 1 turn. -30 Gold from France.]
In the Russian Empire, a warm welcome is given to United States Capitalists, who quickly find a population ripe for factory work. Setting up three new factories in Moscow, the Americans are gleefully delighted that the Russians will work for slightly less than American workers. [+3 Industry to the Russian Empire. +50 Base Income to the United States.]
The Danish Government announces the construction of a new Military Academy in Copenhagen. Many petition the government for money money, but only a little it given to the new establishment, making it ineffective at what it was intended to do, raise new officers in the ideal of modern warfare. [+1 Army Level to Denmark in 4 turns. -30 Gold from Denmark.]
Inventors around the nation scramble to try and create a new repeating rifle, after the Danish King announced that a huge prize of 30,000 Danish Kronas will be awarded to any man who can produce a rifle worthy enough for the Danish Military.
A propaganda campaign races across Sweden, promoting Scandinavian Nationalism, and the belief that they should be united in one country, under one flag. This spreads to Denmark, where propaganda that is critical of the King of Denmark spreads, criticizing his reforms. [-1 Stability from Denmark. +1 Stability to Sweden.]
2. "Skandinavism" Propaganda spread throughout the Nordic Countries.
In the Russian Empire, a trade deal with Poland is signed, alongside a treaty with the Kingdom of Sweden, officially ceding control of Finland to the Swedes for a handsome sum of money. [+5 Trade Balance to Poland. +5 Trade Balance to the Russian Empire. -1,000 Gold from Sweden. +1,000 Gold to the Russian Empire.]
A huge military Parade is held in St. Petersburg, which strikes fear into the heard of would-be revolutionaries trying to topple the government. At the end of the parade, Tsar Alexander III announces that he will be abolishing Serfdom in the Russian Empire, greatly helping agricultural aspects within the empire. The Tsar is hailed as the "Tsar Liberator" as agricultural production booms in the summer of 1864. [+100 Base Income to the Russian Empire. +1 Stability to the Russian Empire.]
The Russian Government announces a new steel factory in Rostov, along with a final payment on the debt burden of the Empire, obtained from the Trans-Siberian Railway. [+1 Infrastructure in 2 turns. -900 Gold from the Russian Empire.]
In Sweden, the Government signed a trade agreement with Portugal and Russia. [+5 Trade Balance to Portugal. +5 Trade Balance to Russia. +10 Trade Balance to Sweden.]
The transition from Russian rule to Swedish rule is peaceful for the Finnish. Many are happy to once again be under control of Sweden, as many people burst out in jubilation of the new country. The Parliament of Sweden is reorganized with the re-annexation of Finland, and the school system is centralised. The new government also begins to collect taxes from Finland, boosting its bottom line. [+100 Base Income to Sweden.]
A Science Exposition is held in Madrid, Spain. Hundreds of scientists and citizens from various nations flock to Spain to witness this event. It is a smashing success as new technology and information flows into Spain, who is seen as one of the world's leaders in innovative and advanced technology. [+100 Gold to Spain.]
The Spanish Government passes a few laws, the first one aimed at illiteracy of the Spanish people. Hoping to get it reduced, they pass several laws and regulations for the school systems, as well as many bureaucratic reforms. This new school system is paid for by the savings from cutting the red tape and inefficiency of the Spanish Government.
In Poland, the aristocrats caught conspiring with the Russian Empire are rounded up and the Polish Government bluntly tells them that they are disloyal, and the only way they can prove their loyalty is by investing in the Polish Republic. They refuse, and a massive wave of wealthy aristocrats leave Poland. [-10 Base Income from Poland.]
In Warsaw, a series of changes undergoes the new country. A new Tax System is established, moving away from the old Russian System, and a new Military Academy is founded, with teachers from various countries teaching there. As students enter its threshold, they provide the new and innovate military thinkers for Poland. [+20 Base Income to Poland. +1 Army Level to Poland in 1 turn.]
A new Telegraph Company, called Telegraph Poland, is created in Warsaw on February 18th, 1864. Its intention is to create a national telegraph system to allow rapid communication throughout the country. It is slated to be finished in two years time. [+1 Infrastructure to Poland in 4 turns. -100 Gold from Poland.]
In Austria, specifically in the Austrian-held Galizia, a Polish province in the Austrian Empire, erupts in revolution has high-ranking Polish military offers, from the Republic of Poland openly lead an army to try and liberate these lands from the Austrians. A deep divide in Galizia soon erupts from this, as many Ruthenians in East support the Austrian Empire, and soon field their own, loyalist, army to try and combat the Polish. Elements of the Republic of Poland's light cavalry swarms into Austrian territory, where they are meet as liberators. However, the Ruthenians soon form a formidable defense against this invasion, fighting for the preservation of their Empire as well as their Kaiser. [+45,000 Conscripts to Poland. +50,000 Conscripts to the Austrian Empire.]
The Austrian Empire pressures many Germans and the newly conscripted forces to join the regular army. After some fierce negotiations, the Kaiser, after promising an increase in soldier's pay after the War, brings in a large amount of soldiers into the regular Army. [-150,000 Conscripts from Austria. +150,000 Regulars to Austria.]
Through underhanded dealing, political wheeling and dealing, and by far a handsome amount of money, the Austrian Empire secures several shipments of Armaments and Weapons from the United States of America. Among them are Gatling Guns, Repeating Rifles, and new types of Cannons. These weapons are taken, deconstructed, and new versions created and sent out to the army, fueled by Austria's growing industrial power. [-100 Gold from Austria. +1 Army Level to Austria.]
In Northern Italy, the deposed Italian King, Vittorio Emanuele, is reinstated as King of Italy by the Austrian Government. He is given control of all the areas Austria occupies of Italy, except Lombardia and Venezia, which were annexed back into the Austrian Empire. His new capital is in Milan, and a Bill of Rights, modeled after Austria's, is quickly passed and enforced by the Austrian Soldiers. The people of Northern Italy are grateful to have their King back in power, and some join the army to try and fight against the war that King Emanuele calls the "Reunification of Italy".
3. Puppet-King Vittorio Emanuele.
In Italy, the creation of a new, elastic defense line, with impressive earthworks and fortifications, holds the Austrian Army at bay, which does little than make several feints at some Italian Cities. The Italian citizens rush to help build these defenses, and some volunteer for the army. For the first time, the Italian Government seems to show a bit of reorganization and success in the war since the San Marino disaster. [+40,000 Conscripts to Italy.]
The Italian Government also announces the Declaration of the Rights of Man, which provided a basis for a new set of guiding principles in the Republic, as well as brought suffrage to all men and women over the age of eighteen. This radical move, the first country in the world to allow universal voting of women, is highly popular in the Republic. [+1 Stability to Italy.]
The fighting on the Austrian-German front is relatively quiet, with the Germans pushing the Austrians out of Saxony with a resounding push in late February. However, the Austrians form a formidable defensive line that prevents any further advance of Germans into Austrian territory. [-1,000 Regulars from Germany. -2,000 Regulars from Austria.]
The new defense doctrine of the Austrian Empire is displayed in Northern Bohemia, where the Germans retreat into the Sudeten Mountains, where they station their heavy artillery in a manner of protecting themselves from attack. The Austrians, knowing of these cannon, stick to their doctrine of defense, and wait for the Germans to attack. The war between the two begins to wind down until the 1st Shock Army was taken from Prague, and along with an Army of Conscripted forces, surge into Bavaria, to heavy resistance from the local population, still well armed from the days of the German Federation. The Austrian Shock Army advances deep into the territory, reaching Munich on May 25th, 1864. [-3,000 Regulars from Austria. -2,000 Conscripts from Austria. +10,000 Conscripts to Germany.]
An attempt by the German Empire to free General Von Moltke is thwarted by Austrian Spies, who's mission was to destroy industry, who catch wind of this plot and immediately warn the Austrian Government, who put him on complete lock down in Vienna. This piece of information, used by the Germans, is spread thought the Empire, specifically the parts most at risk, to try and drum up support. It is successful as many people volunteer for the Army. [+150,000 Conscripts to Germany.]
Throughout the rest of the German Empire, the government pushes for two things, a new railway system and more Soldiers. A large Army Recruitment Drive is spread to the provinces least likely to be effected by the Austrians. They are careful not to draft industry workers, and go for farm hands. This results in a small labor shortage in the German Empire, and railroad construction gets slow, as the economy begins to shrink, ever so slightly, in the interior. [+100,000 Regulars in 4 turns to Germany. +2 Infrastructure levels in 5 turns to Germany. -650 Gold from Germany.]
North America
In the Dominion of Canada, over the recent scare with the United States almost declaring war, an Army is raised, as well as a small navy, financed by the people of Canada. The British Government encourages this move, saying it is the only way forward for the Canadian Dominion. [+50,000 Regulars to the United Kingdom. +3 Large Ships in 2 turns. +3 Small Ships in 2 turns.]
In the British Colony of Hawaii, they try and rally some Hawaiians to join the Army. However, with a population of only about 546, they are unable to field any soldiers. British Colonists quickly turn the Island into 99% Anglo-Saxon, as they live alongside United States settlers.
In the United States, President Lincoln announces a new trade treaty with Portugal, strengthening the ties between them. [+5 Trade Balance to Portugal. +5 Trade Balance to the United States.]
The Copperheads in the United States Congress, after the Republicans try and pass a new, sweeping Constitutional Amendment to outlaw Slavery, and to ensure the the right to vote as well as the rights of American citizens to slaves, block this measure. A riot ensures in several of the districts and many Congressmen are recall, and elections to replace them pop up all over the nation. From once commanding an impressive majority, the Copperheads loose control of the United States Senate, and only have a 55% Majority in the United States House of Representatives. The 13th Amendment then passes this new Congress, outlawing Slavery, giving Freedmen the right to vote, as well as making them full United States Citizens.
Now that the War of Confederate Independence is over, many of the soldiers decide to call it a day and go home. President Lincoln tries to get some of the Conscripts to join the Regular Army, but is his not as successful as he wished to be. [-449,000 Conscripts from the United States. +40,000 Regulars to the United States.]
The Confederate Government announces a massive new project, designed to help the country re-build after the war. Thousands of dollars are released from the Confederate treasury in an effort to get the country moving again. Food and Cotton production start once again, as railroads are fixed up throughout the nation, they have a way of getting to market. Cotton exports finally leave port again, but a larger number start to go to new factories that are being repaired and expanded in the nation. This relief money was also loaned out to many Confederate citizens, willing to expand railways and build factories. A new industrial hub in Richmond, Virginia is established, and rail construction ramps up all across the nation. [-1,000 Gold from the Confederate States. +2 Infrastructure in 2 turns. +6 Industry in 2 turns.]
4. A section of Charleston, South Carolina after the War of Confederate Independence.
Mexico and the United States sign a Treaty in Philadelphia. The Treaty gives a host of benefits, including allowing Mexican Capitalists to hire American advisers, allowing Mexican students to study at US Universities and allowing freedom to trade industrial blueprints and expertise between the 2 nations. Several small companies set up in Mexico because of this. [+1 Industry to Mexico in 3 turns]
A small recruitment drive takes place in Mexico, only a few men volunteer, but the Mexican military is still glad to have the extra reserve of manpower. [+3,000 Regulars to Mexico]
In Mexico, a trade agreement is signed between the United Mexican States and the Republic of Chile. [+5 Trade Balance to Chile, +5 Trade Balance to Mexico.]
The Mexican Police Force and Mexican Armed Forces are restructured and re-vitalized. The burst of new leadership greatly helps out the nation's military as new weapons from the North are smuggled into the country and redesigned. [-30 Gold from Mexico. +1 Army Level to Mexico.]
The Guatemalan Government begins to trade with Belgium, soon exotic goods such as Bananas fill Belgian markets. [+5 Trade Balance to Guatemala, +5 Trade Balance to Belgium]
Meanwhile, the military is expanded and modernised and the coasts are fortified in an attempt to protect Central America from foreign intervention. There is a surge of volunteers for the army, particularly in the recently conquered territories. [+1 Army Level in 3 turns, +20,000 Regulars in 2 turns]
The Guatemalan Government also sets up a trade and customs Union, which is joined by all the Central American States. Attempts at a loose Federation fail, but Honduras joins Guatemala and their army joins with the already swelling Guatemalan. [+15,000 Regulars to Guatemala]
Guatemala also starts a huge program of industry and infrastructure construction. Their industry and infrastructure increases, but at a huge price. [-500 Gold from Guatemala, +1 Industry and +2 Infrastructure to Guatemala in 4 turns]
They also propose a mutual defensive alliance and military cooperation with all Central American States. This is accepted by all powers, and joint exercises soon begin. During one of these exercises, a joint force of Central American troops accidentally crosses into Panama, they did not realise their mistake, and upon encountering the local police and militia, a fierce argument ensued between the commanders of each force as to who was on the wrong side of the border. After a while, the Central American General looked at a map and realising he was wrong, decided to withdraw. Tensions are still high between the 2 nations however, and the build up of power by Central America does not go down well in Colombia.
South America
In Colombia, Confederate Engineers arrive with a chest load of Gold to try and build a new railroad, linking an Atlantic port with a Pacific port. Greedy Colombian bureaucrats try to siphon the money away, but the Confederates keep a right hold on the money, spending it themselves to create the new railroad. Money leftover is simply invested into the surrounding area. [-200 Gold from the Confederate States. +1 Infrastructure to Colombia in 1 turn. +20 Base Income to Colombia.]
The French Government announces an investment into Colombia, which is beneficial to both nations. [-150 Gold from France. +1 Infrastructure in 1 turn to Colombia. +30 Base Income to France.]
The Colombian Government calls for a massive new investment into the country, where it establishes a programme for people to go out and search for new natural resources, while at the same time establishing new areas of extraction for goods and raw materials. The overall expansion of the economy is highly beneficial to Colombia, as it sees it's tax income increase slightly. [+40 Base Income to Colombia.]
Uruguay and Paraguay sign trade agreements with the Spanish Government. [+10 Trade Income to Spain. +5 Trade Income to Paraguay. +5 Trade Income to Uruguay.]
Along the Southern Coast of Brazil, the Brazilian Navy attempts to try and lure the Spanish Navy into a trap. However, the Spanish Admiral had ordered complete and utter caution when dealing with the coast times, and that smaller, fast, clipper ships should be used to scout out hidden anti-naval batteries or defensive works. The Brazilians, thinking they captured the Spanish Navy, lure two clippers into the Bay of Guanabara, where the main force of the Brazilian Navy emerged and smashes the Clippers. Thinking the rest of the fleet is waiting for them, the Brazilians rush out of the bay and into the waiting guns of the Spanish Armada. Quickly turning about, the Brazilians retreat back into the bay, but the Spanish first take their toll on the Brazilian Navy. [-3 Small Ships from Spain. -2 Large Ships from Brazil. -6 Small Ships from Brazil.]
The Brazilian Government announces that it will begin shipping raw materials to Great Britain and Germany, in exchange for manufactured goods. [+10 Trade Balance to Brazil. +5 Trade Balance to the United Kingdom. +5 Trade Balance to Germany.]
A vastly successful draft is undertaken in Brazil, with the government announcing people are flocking to the recruitment centers, eager to serve their country. These "Fatherland Volunteers" are poorly trained, but very numerous. [+110,000 Conscripts to Brazil.]
5. Emperor Pedro II, shortly after the news was given to him of the Fatherland Volunteers recruitment.
The Spanish attempt to raid the coastlines of Northern Brazil, but are thwarted in their attempts by heavy Shore Batteries, some of which were only recently constructed by the Brazilian Engineer Corps. [-20 Gold from Brazil.]
The conflict with Rio Grande do Sul continued. The rebels, hard pressed by superior Brazilian forces were struggling to hold on, despite support from their allies to the South. The final stages of their rebellion came when the Brazilian army struck towards Porto Alegre, crushing the heart of the rebel resistance and causing most of the remaining rebels to desert in the hope of saving their lives. Along the way, the local population had their anger calmed by bread handed out by the army. [-1,500 Regulars from Brazil, Rio Grande do Sul surrenders, order restored]
Elsewhere, on the Paraguayan front, the Brazilian army received 10,000 men as reinforcements. These new troops joined the old and began the task of constructing a series of defensive works in front of the Paraguayan army. The Paraguayan army also digs in, and the 2 forces stare warily at each other from their lines, neither willing to move. The only action is the odd raid on the others supply lines or skirmishing between patrols. The largest action comes when a Squadron of Brazilian cavalry ambushes a Company of Paraguayan infantry as they bathed in a lake, butchering them in a most dishonourable way. [-500 Regulars from Brazil, -1,000 Regulars from Paraguay]
In Argentina, trade starts with Greece and Denmark. Argentine Beef is popular with the Greek and Danish noblemen, and trade takes off quickly. [+10 Trade Balance to Argentina, +5 Trade Balance to Greece, +5 Trade Balance to Denmark]
French Officers, left without a job by the Treaty of Versailles are invited to Argentina in an attempt to modernise the military. The Argentine Government also employs veteran officers from the US Civil War to modernise their army. Unfortunately, the Union, Confederate and French Officers find it hard to overcome their differences, and the modernisation breaks down into petty squabbles of doctrine between the different groups. [-100 Gold from Argentina]
The Argentine army does however continue to buy a large supply of French weapons. As a result, their army is far better equipped than many of their opponents. [+1 Army level to Argentina]
The Argentine economy also takes off, as new factories spring up. These factories play to the strengths of Argentina's existing economy. Canned Beef is a popular Argentinian export in many countries, and is particularly popular with soldiers. [+10 base income to Argentina, +1 Industry to Argentina]
In the Naval theatre, most of the Argentine fleet is put under the command of the Spanish. In heavy fog, the Argentine fleet sets off, unfortunately, 2 ships collide due to poor visibility and are wrecked. The others meet up with the Spanish fleet off the coast of Brazil. [-2 Small Ships from Argentina]
The rest of the Argentine Navy is sent to blockade the Rio Grande. Again, bad luck struck the Argentinian fleet, as they were surprised by the Brazilians. After a ferocious 30 minute battle, the Argentine flagship was destroyed by a lucky shot which hit her boiler, and 2 other ships are destroyed for the loss of only 1 Brazilian. [-1 Large Ship from Argentina, -2 Small Ships from Argentina, -1 Small Ship from Brazil]
Although the Brazilians took a great success from the battle of the Rio Grande, the Brazilian flagship suffered a mysterious, underwater, explosion that ripped her forward deck to shreds, from the bottom up. There was no enemy ships nearby, and it was not friendly fire. Surprisingly, the area of explosion was on the other side of the ship from where munitions are stored, meaning it could not have been an explosion of the case mate. However, the Brazilian Navy finally just agrees that some powder was mistakenly placed there and it exploded. [-1 Large Ship from Brazil.]
The main thrust of the Argentine army follows the course of the Uruguay river. They move 15,000 men and 4 ships up the river, reaching the source and then marching to the sea without engagement. The Brazilian army in Rio Grande Do Sul is now cut off by land, but is still able to be supplied through the sea.
Meanwhile, a smaller force of 7,000 men is detached to bolster the Uruguayan push into Rio Grande Do Sul. Together with 10,000 Uruguayans they move into Rio Grande Do Sul, attempting to link up with the rebels and demand the surrender of Brazilian forces there. The plan was that the Brazilian army, expected to be fully cut off from supply, would surrender if engagement was avoided long enough, and therefore the Alliance forces kept their distance from the Brazilian army. The Brazilians had other ideas however, and the Alliance forces were brought to battle in a bloody engagement. The Brazilian forces sustained casualties, but the Alliance forces, unprepared for a direct engagement and expecting the Brazilians to be a starving bunch of ragtag soldiers got the worst of it. [-5,000 Conscripts from Argentina, -2,500 Regulars from Uruguay, -2,500 Conscripts from Uruguay, -2,000 Regulars from Brazil, -3,000 Conscripts from Brazil]
In Chile, the Government began conscription in an attempt to recover some of their losses and finish off the Bolivians. Many men were called up, and willingly went to serve their country against the Bolivian menace. Due to this, the size of the Chilean army increased by 200% from its pre-war size. [+20,000 Conscripts to Chile]
The Government also tried to promote further immigration to Chile. In this field, they met setbacks. Most of the money put to the cause was pocketed by local officials, and nothing was gained from the attempt.
In Paraguay, the Government offers freedom to any slave who fights for them. The slave soldiers in theory would have equal rights as the other soldiers, but this was far from the case. Some slaves join, but the number is meagre and the main effect of this policy is to irritate many slave owners, who feel the Government should not be touching their property. [+5,000 Conscripts to Paraguay]
The Paraguayan army also goes through changes, with surplus weaponry from both sides of the US Civil War being brought in an attempt to modernise the army. The new weapons are far better than the old ones, but they come at a high cost. [-200 Gold from Paraguay, +1 Army Level to Paraguay]
Attempts to construct industry and infrastructure do not go to plan however. Government funds in many cases simply disappear, and in others are blatantly spent on unneeded items for the local officials, who claim that things such as fans and fine wines are required for them to cope with the stress of their job and service to their country. [-100 Gold from Paraguay]
Paraguayan agents are busy in Brazil, spreading propaganda about the imminent defeat of Brazil, the hopelessness of their cause and the war warmongering of Brazil. These are successful, and many Brazilians begin to doubt both their countries cause, and their chances of victory. [-1 Stability from Brazil]
Brazilian hopes of victory take a further turn for the worse when Paraguay calls up a huge number of men to fight for them. Thousands of Conscripts are brought in, and retired Veterans are brought back into the army. The new Paraguayan forces are numerous, and the high command feels confident that with their numbers, they can beat Brazil. [+45,000 Conscripts to Paraguay, +5,500 Regulars to Paraguay]
On the front lines however, the war was looking far less sunny. Both sides were now dug in opposing each other, and the commanders decided against any further advance. The Paraguayan forces, together with their newly arrived reinforcements continued to strengthen their positions. Apart from the odd skirmish, neither side decides to make any move, instead preferring to dig in. After a while, 2 formidable networks of defences lie opposite each other, and each side dares the other to attack.
6. Paraguayan defenders in their well-dug in positions.
The Paraguayan Government had planned to break this deadlock through use of Naval firepower. The entire Paraguayan fleet was sent up river to support their invasion, unfortunately, the Brazilians were not going to simply let the Paraguayan fleet break the stalemate. The opposing fleets met at night, rounding a bend in the river, they came face to face, completely surprising each other. In the chaos the followed, the Brazilians got the best of the action, sinking 3 of the 4 Paraguayan ships and forcing the other onto a sand bank which tore out its hull. The Brazilians did take some losses however, 2 of their ships being wrecked in the engagement. [-1 Big Ship from Paraguay, - 3 Small Ships from Paraguay, -2 Small Ships from Brazil]
In Uruguay the President starts to campaign with the rich landholders to gain support for the war. He meets with little success, despite his efforts, the landholders are angry at many men being taken from their holdings to fight the war.
Tax cuts are given for business starting up using cattle and sheep related products. Some small wool companies set up, but the cost in lost revenue is high. [+1 Industry to Uruguay, -100 Gold from Uruguay]
The Uruguayans also start a large propaganda campaign in Brazil. They attempt to convince people to defect to Uruguay, and try and encourage further rebellions in Rio Grande Do Sul. The local populace stays loyal, but some slaves do flee to Uruguay, where they go to work in primary labour. [+5 Base Income to Uruguay, -50 Gold from Uruguay]
The Government calls for volunteers for Infantry among the Urban population, and for Cavalry volunteers from the Rural population. They meet with little success, but they need every last man they can get to match the Brazilian juggernaut's potential. [+3500 Conscripts to Uruguay]
The Uruguayan Government attempts to improve fortifications in several places around the nation. The defences are built, but due to a lack of funds, materials are poor quality. The result is a increasing of the Uruguayan debt, for the benefit of a few, in most cases poorly made defences. [Uruguay has some poorly made fortifications, -70 Gold from Uruguay]
Elsewhere, 10,000 Conscripts are moved to the Western border of Rio Grande Do Sul in an attempt to support the uprising there. The idea is quickly abandoned by the commanders however, when they realise they have no hope of aiding the already crushed rebellion. They move their forces East, to meet up with the forces retreating South from the battle in the Rio Grande Do Sul area.
Africa
Morocco opens up trade with the CSA, boosting its economic power. Many Confederate merchants sail across the Atlantic to Morocco, purchasing many fine wares. Soon, Confederate houses are full of various poorly made novelty items. [+5 Trade Balance to Morocco, +5 Trade Balance to CSA]
Meanwhile, Moroccan 'Geologists' venture into the Atlas mountains in search of minerals. Unfortunately, their remains are found several weeks later by a party of Moroccan soldiers. They had been ambushed by bandits and anything of value taken from them, although the soldiers do find one 'Geologist' still alive, he dies before he can pass on any information.
Attempts to reorganise the army also fail. The idea of focusing on defensive guerilla warfare was sound on paper, but unfortunately, the generals had not counted on the wishes of their men. On various exercises over the course of the reorganisation, many men desert their posts and return to their homes. [-1,000 Regulars from Morocco]
Meanwhile, 250 men are sent into the Sahara desert to try and claim more land. they set up a small outpost near a Oasis, and thereby secure some Desert. Unfortunately, half the force dies during travel, the glaring heat of the sun causing even the hardiest to struggle. [Morocco gains some desert]
Elsewhere, the people are encouraged to pray for the nation and its success. They do so, and many people feel encouraged that their nation shall benefit from the blessing of the almighty. Nothing actually happens however.
In the South African Republic, the military is reorganized from a small militia force of rag-tag farmers into a highly-professional Germanic-styled army. This greatly increased their effectiveness on the battlefield. [+1 Army Level to Transvaal.]
Fighting between the Pro-British Garrison at Cape Town hold off attacks from the Transvaali forces, resulting in a complete rout of the Army of Transvaal, where they were forced to retreat back into the heartland of South Africa. Trade halts in South Africa as the British blockade the country. [-10 Trade Balance from South Africa. -500 Regulars from Transvaal. -2,000 Conscripts from the United Kingdom.]
7. Boer Snipers fighting on the front.
In the Congo, Belgian explorers push farther inland up the river, claiming more territory for Belgium. The government announces that they will assist anyone in moving to Leopoldville. Hundreds of Belgian rush to this new, European, City in Africa. By the Summer of 1864, over three thousand Belgians live in this new city.
The new Swedish Territories in Afrika are formalized, and the transfer from Portugal to Sweden is complete, with the Swedish colonies undergoing a slight modernization, with racism and slavery removed, and Swedish the new language in schools. Many Portuguese Administrators head back for home, but many more Swedes, Finns, and Norwegians come down to take their jobs. [-575 Gold from Sweden. +575 Gold to Portugal.]
Further south along the coast of Afrika, Danish settlers, funded by the Government, found a small settle trading post on the inlet of a bay. Dubbed, Walvis Bay, this area is directly annexed to the Kingdom of Denmark. [+5 Trade Balance to Denmark]
The area of Africa controlled by the German Empire find that the Germans are a peaceful and cooperative bunch. Many of the natives grow accustomed to the Germans, as they send peaceful delegations that wish to learn the native cultures and customs of the tribes. A small telegraph station is created to try an link all of the colonies together, and is expected to be done in a few months. [+1 Colonial Infrastructure to Germany in 2 turns. -150 Gold from Germany.]
Asia
The Ottoman Empire announces a new trade treaty is to be signed with the Austrian Empire, promoting cooperation between the two. [+5 Trade Balance to the Ottomans. +5 Trade Balance to Austria.]
The farmers within the Ottoman Empire begin modernizing their equipment, supported by cheap loans from the government. Utilizing recent technological advances, the agricultural productivity throughout the country is increased. [+20 Base Income to the Ottomans.]
Furthermore, a new Tax System is established in the Ottoman Empire, replacing the old, ineffective one. Relying on the Census taken only a short while ago, this new tax system proved wonders for cutting out red tape and bureaucracy, which increased the amount of income the government received. [+40 Base Income to the Ottomans.]
Sultan Abdülaziz I announces that the size of the current Army is insufficient to deal with the war in Persia, and that it will consequently be increased. However, modern equipment is scarce, and it will take a while to equip and train the new troops properly. [+40,000 regulars in 4 turns to the Ottomans. -40 Gold from the Ottomans.]
In Istanbul, the construction of a state of the art Ironclad is ordered. The recently-modernized Ottoman Shipyards, supported by experienced French specialists, complete this impressive feat within less than 6 months. The Ottoman Navy now boasts the most modern and deadly ship in the world. [+1 Large Ship to the Ottomans. -200 Gold from the Ottomans.]
American investment flows into the Ottoman Empire, centering in on a new railway to link the African territories of the Ottoman Empire to the European Territories of the Ottoman Empire. [+1 Infrastructure in 2 turns to the Ottoman Empire. -200 Gold from the United States.]
Along the Ottoman-Persian Border, a brazen attempt by the Persians to invade Ottoman territory in May of 1864 ends in a complete failure as a sizable Ottoman Army meets them just across the border. On the defensive, the Ottomans repeal the 65,000 strong Persian Army with little casualties of their own. [-1,000 Regulars from the Ottomans.]
Up in the Caucasus, the Ottoman Empire ramps up border security and defenses along the border with Russia. Although covert, the Russian Border Army has complete knowledge of their movements, and relays it to St. Petersburg, where the nation's Armed Forces are put on high alert.
In Mongolia, the self dubbed Khan starts a huge drive for recruits. Any man that can fight is called up and given a weapon of some sort, propaganda is everywhere and local figures rally men to the cause. [+20,000 Conscripts for Mongolia]
The army then rallies in the Eastern part of Omnogovi province, before heading off to battle with the Taiping, who were moving into Mongolia with a force of 1,500,000 men. Their outdated tactics, poor morale and lack of equipment are no match for the armies of Taiping and they sustained heavy casualties. Repeated charges into the face of the Krupp guns and Enfield rifles resulted in what could only be described as a massacre. The Taiping take a few casualties, but the Mongols hardly leave a dent in the opposing force. The Taiping forces go on to secure most of Mongolia. [-1,000 Regulars from Taiping, -4,000 Conscripts from Taiping, -40,000 Regulars from Mongolia, -16,000 Conscripts from Mongolia.]
2,500,000 Taiping soldiers march into Yunnan. They move into Yunnan and come to the Warlord's capital without incident. Once there, they dig in for a siege and bombard the area to dust with their Krupp artillery pieces. After 5 days of continuous fire, the Warlord leads a sally. He is captured by the Taiping forces who sustain minimal losses, and is beheaded in front of the rest of his host. They then offer a pardon to the rest of the Warlords in Yunnan, which they accept, the only other choice being death. The executed warlord however quickly becomes a matyr to the other Warlords in China, and the events serve to only harden their determination.[-100 Gold from Taiping, -1 Stability from Taiping, order restored to Yunnan]
In Qinghai, 1,000,000 Taiping soldiers invade. After a series of short battles and sieges, they control all the key points in the province. After a 3 month campaign in the wilderness, the last of the Warlords are successfully brought to justice and order is restored. [-3,000 Regulars from Taiping, -7,000 Conscripts from Taiping, order restored to Qinghai]
8. A battle between Taiping Soldiers and Warlord Forces.
Domestically, the Taiping take many measures to modernise the nation. The Treaty of Aberdeen is signed with Britain, promoting friendship between the 2 nations. The Taiping also cut taxes on German goods, promoting a boost in income for the German Empire. Furthermore, business regulation goes through a massive restructuring. Private growth begins to take off and soon the Taiping economy is taking its first steps towards the industrial age. Trade is also signed with Belgium and Manchuria [+30 base income to Germany, +582 Gold to Taiping, -1,500 Gold from Taiping, +60 base income to Taiping, +10 Trade Balance to Taiping, +5 Trade Balance to Belgium, +5 Trade Balance to Manchuria]
German agents, operating on behalf of the Government, are found in Taiping controlling some new and wealthy businesses. They do their best to control some of these businesses, and exploit them for every penny of profitability, while at the same time paying the workers a decent wage, and encouraging them to innovate and explore more, especially for resources. [-100 Base Income from Taiping. +80 Base Income to Germany.]
In Manchuria, Dalian is leased to the Confederate States of America for 50 years at a price of 10 gold a year. The Confederates quickly move into their new base and set up basic dockyard facilities as well as defenses. The Confederates also take over some old Governmental buildings, where they establish a new Colonial Government. Dalian City is renamed to Leesburg, after General turned President Robert E. Lee. [-10 Base Income from CSA, +10 Base Income to Manchuria]
Manchuria also sets up trade links with the CSA and Japan, promoting trade between both and leading to a large increase in profit for all nations concerned. [+10 Trade Balance to Manchuria, +5 Trade Balance to CSA, +5 Trade Balance to Japan]
The politics of Manchuria also experience change. The capital is moved to the city of Changchun, located centrally within Manchurian territory, in an effort to aid any potential defence of the country, as well as aid the growth of infrastructure. Furthermore, the Empress Dowager Cixi tours the nation, giving speeches and motivating people to support the new Kingdom through the tough aftermath of a horrific defeat. [+1 Stability to Manchuria]
Furthermore, industry is constructed in the new capital. The process is slow, and construction is both inefficient and antiquated in its methods, but the foundations are soon set and the buildings begin to take shape. [+1 Industry to Manchuria in 3 turns, -200 Gold from Manchuria]
In Japan, free public education is instituted in an attempt to modernise the nation. Initially nobles protest, but a combination of the God-Emperor's words and the realisation that their children will still have a higher standard of education quickly stops their fears. [-100 Gold from Japan, -100 Base Income from Japan]
The Emperor also orders the lowering of taxes on new factories in Japan, promoting a string of small, privately owned business' to appear. the tax cuts hurt Japanese income, but many say the industrial pay off is worth it. [-50 Base Income from Japan, +1 Industry to Japan in 2 turns]
In the Dutch East Indies, the colonial government announces that a new round of money from the mainland has arrived in the Colony. It is immediately sent out to hire local workers to improve the railway across the Dutch East Indies. [+1 Colonial Infrastructure in 2 turns. -50 Gold from the Netherlands.]
Author's Note: To Westernize, you need 10 Industry, 3 Infrastructure, a Trade Balance of 25 or higher, Income levels of above 150, and a positive Bank Account.
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