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While we have been recent enemies, that has passed. The people of China view the RUssians, as equals ad not as foes - furthermore, as our latest dealings may have shown, we feel that Tsarista Olga is the rightful ruler of the Russian Empire, and we are willing to support her in whatever way necessary. Those that continue to attack us are clearly supporting the Bolshevik cause.
Also, Keldy, rulers with absolute powers > limited governments that are in office for ~4 years
Of course, you could get stuck with a crappy monarch (a la Charles II), but if you get someone along the lines of Louis XIV or Frederick the Great then you're all set.
The Russian Empire announces today that all Central Power POW will be liberated and sent to their country of origin. We hope they follow this path of reconciliation.
The British Government sends out money to various industries, to try and shore them up from the ongoing War in Europe. One company, a Steel Mill, released an impressive report that with funding from the British Government, they were able to open up a new factory, increasing the output of the British Empire. [+2 Industry to the UK. -10,000 Gold from the UK.]
In the United Kingdom, government efforts to bring aviation into the nation are successful as Horatio Frederick Phillips, a native of South London, was given government funding to try and create a heavier-than-air flying machine. Surprising advances were made, and a new Government office, the British Royal Air Academy, was formed in London in late 1905. The British Government, the first in Naval Power, now claimed to be the first in Air Power. They announced that in a years time, they could produce a working plane to be used for military purposes. [+1 Air Level in 1 turn to the United Kingdom. -4,000 Gold from the UK.]
Horatio Frederick Phillips' flying machine, that brought aviation to the United Kingdom.
In France, a general expansion of the French Railway System is announced, one that would allow for greater traffic, and larger rolling stock. The French dug deep for this new expansion, but the long term effects can only be positive for the Republic. [-60,000 Gold from France. +1 Infrastructure Level in 2 turns.]
In the Netherlands, the Government enacts a general policy of lowering taxes, to the point where some citizens are no longer taxed. Coupled with this, regulations are eased in the Netherlands. Thousands of businesses flock to the Dutch as the economy booms. The Government, however, loses much control over the economy. A stock market is opened, and wild speculation runs rampant. The Dutch Economy massively expands, but the Government no longer has control over it, becoming the most Free-Market state in Europe. [+25,000 Base Income to the Netherlands. +50 Industry to the Netherlands in 2 turns. Netherlands prevented from using economic orders.]
In Sweden, the Government begins Construction of a new railway, supposed to link East and West, but the project stalls when Finland and Norway declare independence. The line is somewhat built, but the Government decides to cancel the entire project. [-20,000 Gold from Sweden.]
In the Russian Empire, Tsaritsa Olga I toured the country, promising aid to the devastated areas, and gave speeches warning against siding with the Reds, and promoting the Romanov Rule, and pointing out what Tsar Nicholas II had achieved near the end of his rule. Thousands support the Russian Empire, and come out in droves in a show of strength of the Tsaritsa. [+2 Stability to the Russian Empire.]
In the Urals, new factories are opened to help both the Russian War Effort, and the general Russian economy. The Government in Moscow ordered all of this, and had the coffers opened for this endeavor. [-45,000 Gold from Russia. +3 Industry to Russia in 1 turn.]
The German General Staff, intent on trying to make the Sub-Machine gun a viable weapon, works out many kinks in it through a lot of research. However, the new gun is not light enough, or cheap enough, to be distributed to the entire Army. Instead, it is reserved for only a few units, while the rest of the Army is given standard issue rifles. The Kaiser, now seeing the Army as the most powerful in the World, looks towards the Navy, and orders that under no circumstances should the German Navy be in such a bad condition. He orders thousands of Reichmarks to be poured into the Naval Department, and to use any means necessary to gain Naval Intelligence. By December, and with peace reigning over Europe, the Government announces that information from their allies and enemies helped to bolster their knowledge of Naval Affairs. [+1 Army Level to Germany in 1 turn. +3 Naval Levels to Germany. -90,000 Gold from Germany.]
In Spain, A massive Bill that focused on helping the War Effort passes, improving the Equipment inside the Kingdom of Spain, and laying the foundation for two new ships. [-20,000 Gold from Spain. +5% Equipment Level to Spain. +2 Small Ships to Spain in 2 turns.]
A new factory is opened in Madrid with Government help. Surprisingly, it was an Automobile Manufacturing Company, one of the first in Europe, but the cars were of low quality, but they were cheap, and soon flooded into the rest of Europe. [-15,000 Gold from Spain. +1 Industry to Spain.]
In the Danubian Federation, in the middle of a War, and with government Debt spiraling out of control, they attempt to order the construction of more industry in Vienna, that goes through, but the Danubian Government sinks deeper into Debt, forcing them to cut funding for some programmes, one being to support the Polish people in the North. Ethnic tensions between the Polish and the Ukrainians breakout, and the Polish people start a general uprising, to try and throw off the rule of the Vienna-led Government. [-1 Stability from the DF. -75,000 Gold from the DF. +5 Industry to the DF in 2 turns. Polish Uprising.]
In the Danubian Federation, Federal Elections are held, as a mandate for the current War in Europe. The Christian Social Party, the current governing body of the Danubian Federation, had a strong showing in the Austrian Lands, but the Social Democratic Party made massive gains in Transylvania, Hungary, and Slovakia. Although they did not hold the majority, the Social Democratic Party showed that the rest of the Empire was not supportive of the war, and any more mismanagement on the part of the Christian Social Party could show the Government fall to the leftists.
The Danubian Federation calls for a new Naval Doctrine for the Empire, and a former British Admiralty member signs up to work for the country. His secrets, however, come at a high price and he becomes the highest paid government official in the world. [+2 Naval levels to the DF. -30,000 Gold from the DF.]
In Italy, the Government orders the construction of several new Railways and an expansion of Industry in the South. The costs for this are great, but Southern Italy is poised to greatly benefit from it. [-268,000 Gold from Italy. +1 Infrastructure Level in 2 turns to Italy. +15 Industry to Italy in 2 turns.]
New Ships are laid down in the Naples Shipyard, to try and bolster the strength of the Italian Navy. It will consist of submarines and a few torpedo boats. However, from the massive Government spending in Southern Italy, many Northern Italians begin to get angry at the Italian Government. [-40,000 Gold from Italy. +10 Submarines in 2 turns. +15 Small Ships in 2 turns. -1 Stability from Italy.]
Serbia and Japan enter into an agreement of Trade and Peace, which ended the de jure War between Japan and Montenegro. The two nations, now that Serbia has access to the Sea, begin to trade goods. [+500 Trade Balance to Serbia (+500 Asia). +500 Trade Balance to Japan (+500 Europe).]
In Albania, work on reconstruction of the country continues as railroads are laid down and linked up with the Serbian Railway System. Thousands of Albanians accept their fate, and begin to support the Serbians, knowing that they were far better than their Ottoman Overlords. [+1 Stability to Serbia. -22,000 Gold from Serbia.]
Efforts to expand the Serbian Army fails as thousands of Serbians just want to remain at peace, and not seem bellicose to their neighbors. However, King Alexander I states that he will try and focus some of the extra Serbian budget into Industry, and asks many of the rich people to do the same. A few new factories open, but the majority of it was with Serbian money. [+3 Industry to Serbia. -30,000 Gold from Serbia.]
In Greece, a move to expand the regular forces met with limited success. Taking advantage of their relative weakness compared to their neighbors and the fact that the French support had been necessary to remove the German garrison, the government successfully managed to whip up a patriotic fervor that brought new people to the ranks. However, progress on
[+5,000 Regulars to Greece; -3,000 Gold from Greece]
A move to extend the Athens-Larissa line met with unexpected setbacks. A new domestic railway concern met the government bid with a highly competitive offer, one that promised to renovate the existing rail line and add two new parallel lines at only a fraction of the cost for the initial Athens-Larissa gauge (which had notoriously taken five times longer than the original 5-year plan had anticipated to complete). However, the railway consortium proved to be nothing but a grand con, and after fleecing the government and stockholders for all they were worth, the owners vanished with a prince’s ransom in drachma, leaving both the government and now-destitute stockholders with absolutely nothing to show for their investment save a broken shell corporation, and a rail spur as far as Malakasa constructed with what turned out to be worthless pig iron that would shatter if placed under the sort of strains of a locomotive engine, which cost the government even more money to be torn back up and removed.
[-8,000 Gold to Greece]
The development of a tremendous new shipyard near Athens began far more auspiciously, by contrast. Setting up shop at Skaramagas, a small town and suburb of Athens, the new Royal Hellenic Naval Shipyards would enjoy the advantages of royal favor, government support in the form of subsidies and preferred status for contracts, and a knowledgeable and potent cadre of veteran designers poached from fellow Greek private shipyards and competitors Neorion and Basileiades Shipyards by competitive salaries. The new shipyards promise to supplant Basileiades as the largest shipyards in Greece, with particular focus on naval innovation and progress.
[-8,500 Gold to Greece; +2 Industry to Greece]
The senior military leadership of North Epirus was receptive to the offer by the Greeks, and assented to the Greek offer for a combined army command to be formed in the event both nations should find themselves at war with the same opponents. The recent wars that have consumed the Balkans have convinced many in the nation that partnership with Greece, and by extension their Great Power allies, would help protect them against potential threats. Domestically, this is greeted positively in Greece proper as a first step towards unification, though the Epirotes themselves may beg to differ.
[+1 Stability to Greece]
The Greek and Epirote governments agree to a treaty of friendship. In conjunction with the military cooperation between the two nations, the governments have agreed to relax trade and border restrictions between them, encouraging the free flow of commerce and people.
[+500 Trade Balance to Greece]
Trade between the Greek and Serbian governments was greatly enhanced by the reduction in tariffs by the two nations’ trade agreement. New border crossings popped up along the Macedonian border as trade between the two nations boomed.
[+500 Trade Balance to Greece; +500 Trade Balance to Serbia]
In Bulgaria, the Government announces that many farms and mines would be getting a tax break, in an effort to try and get them to expand their production. Many see this as a positive move, and production slightly increases. [+1 Stability to Bulgaria. -1,000 Gold from Bulgaria. +100 Base Income to Bulgaria.]
The Bulgarian Tsar calls for War Industry to be build around Sofia, but several people call against this motion, considering the peace negotiations in Europe. No factories are built, and a deal between the Government and several Factories to create equipment for the Bulgarians fails as no need is seen for it.
North America
In the United States, President Roosevelt orders the creation of the Department of Commerce, which had the express purpose of regulating commerce between the states, and regulating the new commercial services industry. These changes are positive, but some of the new regulations stun the growth of industry. [-1,000 Base Income from the United States.]
The Roosevelt Administration begins a myriad of Anti-Trust Legislation, aimed at curbing the control of what he deemed to be "Bad Trusts". This anti-Trust stance begins to gather the President more support amongst the people, even though many Businessman begin to see him as a negative factor in the country. For the first time, a small poll in South Carolina, the most anti-Republican state in the Union, shows that more newspaper were praising Roosevelt than damning his name.
The Army Bill of 1905 passes the United States Senate, and is signed into Law by President Roosevelt. It called for the study of the arms and tactics of the Warring Powers in the Three Emperor's War. After a few months of study, a massive breakthrough was made with captured Russian and German Machine Guns. They are adapted and used for the American Military, with some of the glitches removed from them. [+2 Army Levels to the USA. -70,000 Gold from the USA.]
The Colombian Government, and the United States of America, finalize the agreements to begin construction on the Panama Canal. By the end of the year, the U.S. Government sends the military to spray the entire area, ridding it of mosquitoes and helping sanitation services for the people who would be building the canal. [-25,000 Gold from the USA. Canal Area clean of diseases.]
South America
Argentina and Australia complete a trade treaty, having both similar economies, the rural sector benefits from the exchange. [+500 trade to Argentina (+500 Oceania), +500 trade to Australia (+500 South America).]
Also Argentina signs a trade treaty with Mexico, by now Buenos Aires harbours are working 24/7 with all the imports and exports. [+500 trade to Argentina (+500 North America).]
A new electoral bill is passed by the Argentinean congress allowing all males over 18 to vote. The vote will be mandatory and secret, allowing people to vote without fearing reprisals from any political party.This has pleases a lot of people. The Conservatives are happy because with this the Socialist won't complain as much, and the Socialist are happy because the working class has much more participation in politics. The Radicals, staunch enemy of the Conservatives still hold a grudge towards them. [+1 Stability to Argentina.]
Another project that has successfully worked out is the creation of the Technical and Arts & Crafts schools along the country. Said project was put under the supervision of Krause, the one responsible for making Buenos Aires the most advanced and beautiful city in Latin America. Soon said places start flourishing and people learning new skills and crafts. With this Argentina starts getting a skilled workforce so much needed for it's developing economy [-45,000 Gold from Argentina, +1,500 Base Income to Argentina.]
The Argentinean War Ministry announced that several officers are to be sent to Paris to learn modern tactics from one of the most advanced nations in the world. After months of learning at the military academies they sail back to Argentina much more instructed, making Argentina advanced further into modernization. [+1 Military Level to Argentina. -18,000 Gold from Argentina.]
The government of Brazil passed today a new bill increasing the budget for education in 200%. Thanks to this a large number of schools were built were before there was only rural education. It is expected that in the following years, maybe a decade, illiteracy will be eliminated from Brazil, thus giving Brazil a more educated population. [-20,000 Gold from Brazil, +2,000 base income in 6 years to Brazil.]
Another project started by the government, is the construction of a coastal rail road, all through the coast of Brazil. Since such project cost are bigger than Brazil GDP, it was divided into sections to be able to complete it. The first part, a connection going from the Uruguayan border until Curitiba is laid. Thanks to this rail road, new industry are installed along the coast since now they have a cheap way of transporting goods. [-150,000 Gold from Brazil, +2 Infrastructure in 2 turns to Brazil, +5 Industry in 2 turns to Brazil.]
The new Empress of Brazil, knowing that time was something she couldn't waste hasted to have a conference with the Imperial War Minister and both arranged that the first thing to be done was to create an Imperial Army to face the rebels oligarchs. Officers and soldiers of the old Republican army were called to join the Empire, lot's of them did, but taking into account that the Republican Army was small to begin with training of more men began. Results were spectacular and soon the barracks were filled with thousands of soldiers loyal to the Empress [-25,00 Gold from the Empire of Brazil, +30,000 regulars to the Empire of Brazil, +60,000 Conscripts to the Empire of Brazil.]
With a new and fresh army, very motivated, loyal and eager to fight an offensive was planned and made by the Imperial War Ministry. The first phase of the offensive was to take care of the Oligarch forces in the south, with a swift move the First Imperial Army, composed of 10,000 regulars and 20,000 conscripts assaulted the Oligarch positions. Knowing well the terrain the ex-veterans didn't find the place too worrying, though conscripts had some trouble getting used to. When they met the rebel army, they surprised them while the soldiers were getting ready to fight. A pincer movement was enough to force them to surrender, after the main bulk of the enemy army was captured, the rest was a mop up operation to clean any remaining pocket of resistance. Though looses were moderate for the Imperial Army they were made of by capturing vast amount of war material and having some members of the Oligarch soldiers joining the new Empire. Now that the coastal area, full of populated cities and industries was under control, they would soon be put to work to improve the economy. [Brazil controls the North-east, -3,500 regulars from Brazil, -5,000 conscripts from Brazil, +5% Equipment to Brazil, +1,000 conscripts to Brazil, +25 industry to Brazil in 2 turns.]
Now that the North-East was under control, the second phase of the offensive was to take care of the North. The problem was the huge size of that region and the lack of infrastructure, mixed with vast jungle regions ideal for a prolonged guerrilla war. While the First Imperial Army stayed in North-East pacifying the region and licking it's wound, the Second Imperial Army, composed of 20,000 regulars and 40,000 conscripts advanced deep into enemy territory. Learning from the Russians in the Great War the Oligarchs started an organized retreat leaving nothing for the Imperials, still they managed advance further on living of hunting, fishing and gathering food. While some pockets of Oligarchs forced set up ambushes and made the Imperial loose some men, soon they were taken care of. Advance stopped when the soldiers were too tired to advance or too sick due to tropical diseases. On the other side all Oligarch forces retreated to Roraima making the region a military camp. Some spies reported that vast amount of weaponry arrived to them by sea. [Brazil controls half of the North, -2,000 regulars from Brazil, -5,000 conscripts from Brazil, -5% equipment from Brazil]
Supporters of the new order controlling Brazil raised in areas controlled by the Oligarchs, they compared the New Empire to the one of Napoleon I in France, and how the new orders would bring Brazil to a new Golden Era, while some joined them, others were afraid that the Oligarchs would take reprisals against their families if they showed the slighest amount of sympathy towards the Empire. The few who joined slipped through the lines and joined the Second Imperial Army, while few they had vast amount of information regarding the Oligarch camps, sizes of armies and officers in command, vital information to quickly finish the war. [+1,000 conscripts to Brazil.]
Though the problem of Rio de Janeiro persist and an offensive was promised, the First Army was pacifying the North while the Second Army was fighting in the North-East. There is danger now that Rio starts an offensive on it's own to extend it's influence.
China and Brazil signed a trade treaty allowing goods to be bought and sold more easily between both nations [+500 Trade to Brazil (Asia), +500 Trade to China (South America).]
Africa
In the Suez, cleanup continues, but goes faster than expected with a German ship moving from the bottom of the Canal easier than what was expected. Many in the British Admiralty felt that the project could be finished by the middle of next year. [-15,000 Gold from the UK. Suez Canal Cleanup 3/4.]
The Ethiopia offensive continues but with some difficulties, while Eritrea has been overrun by Ethiopian forces, in Somaliland the Italians, combined with the rough terrain are giving more headaches to the Ethiopian chiefs than they expected. Still, if help doesn't arrive soon the capital Mogadishu will be taken by next year. [Eritrea occupied by Ethiopia. -1,000 Regulars from Italy.]
Asia
In Japan, a new military academy was attempted to be opened in Kyoto, to be modeled after and in cooperation with the Imperial Naval Academy. However, the incident developed into a full-fledged political scandal when large portions of the Army objected to what they saw as a threat to their status and dominance. The situation continued to build up, with the Japanese Minister of War threatening to resign, and cause the downfall of the cabinet. The situation was tense, and in the end, was diffused thanks to the influence of the Genro and the emperor's own intervention. However, it resulted in mass resignations from disgraced Army officers, resulting in instability and chaos, although the break of the strong Chōshū dominance and the attempts to mend the rivalries between the army and the navy will prove to be greatly beneficial in the long run. [-5,000 Gold, -1 Army Level, -1 Stability, +2 Army Levels and +1 Navy Level in 2 turns, +1 Army Level in 4 turns, +1 Army level in 6 turns]
In the storm of political scandals from the war against Germany to the recent Army scandal, series of new military parades were held in order to boost morale and the population, to parade over their victories over Germany. Lavish amounts of funding was spent to calm down the people. However, many blandly pointed out that the lack of action in New Guinea as well as the current dissent and confusion over Japan's foreign policy, resulting in the parades being called vain and lacking in honour. The further dissent in the army led to the disruption of some parades by juvenile officers, as well as an overall large backlash against the government. [-5,000 Gold, -1 Stability]
On the economic side, tax breaks were offered to help subsidize small businesses similar to that of owned by factory owners. At this initiative, new smaller scale businesses and factories seemed to have sprung up, but quickly failed. The new demand in war materiel from the Great War caused big industrialists to eat up the smaller ones, while the large influxes of businesses that attempted to take advantage of policies crashed and burned due to their numbers and hasty decisions. The loss of capital by middle-class investors across the nation caused a chain reaction in which the original businesses began to fall and the economy took a severe downturn, which coupled with recent events, caused increasing public dissent towards the government. [-7,500 Gold, -4,000 Income, -1 Stability]
In the military, attempts to implement usage of radio transmissions began, inspired by the successes in the navy. However, radio proved inefficient on land which had to communicate much further distances away, while decoding proved too timely in a tactical situation, nor were the recent breakthroughs in radio transmissions of the human voice developed enough for military use. A futile effort at the current time, it seemed further technological advances were needed before this innovative implementation could succeed. [-7,500 Gold]
Japanese military officers from both the navy and the army were sent to France to study WWI and the developments in new tactics. The study included analysis of the Russian front as well as experiences with fortifications and long-range artillery, all of which helped to develop military understanding. On the naval matters, however, it was overshadowed by lack of naval warfare in the war, and not as much new knowledge could be gleaned. [+1 Army Level in 2 turns.]
Following the disappointing results in the Pacific, Japanese troops follow up to invade the German colony of Qingdao. Accompanied by heavy fire support from the navy, the small garrison is quickly overrun, but strong diplomatic condemnation comes from China and results in increased tension between the two nations. [-1,500 Regulars from Germany, -1,000 Regulars from Japan]
Meanwhile, in Korea, Japanese troops undergo a large redeployment as over 300,000 men all quietly station on the Manchurian border secretively. Within a few months, their objectives are revealed as they quickly strike at the Chinese troops, attempting to overrun them. The Chinese troops are caught by surprise, and they are pushed back, as the Japanese surprise them and outnumber them. The Japanese troops push deep within Manchuria, as Port Arthur quickly falls, and approach as far as Harbin but are pushed back as Chinese reinforcements from Mongolia quickly come and blunt the attack, and the Japanese advance is pushed back a little. However, the breakthrough in Chinese positions opened up Chinese supply depots in area, and many men were lost from routs and desertions. [-25,000 Regulars from Japan, -50,000 Regulars from China, -35,000 Conscripts from China, -5% Equipment Level to China, +5% Equipment Level to Japan]
In the South, the Japanese offensive pushed along the coast. There is no timely reinforcements for the Chinese troops in this front however, as troops are either rushing from the far West, or busy up North. The situation is worsened when Japanese troops from the territory of Qingdao break free from the peninsula and follow up with a pincer strike towards the Chinese capital. Although Chinese troops prepare for the worst, the sledgehammer towards Beijing seems unstoppable. The imperial capital is only saved from utter defeat when large chaos rushes through the Japanese ranks as the crisis in the Home Islands prevents the Japanese military to act. The lull in the attack allows the Empress Dowager and the Emperor to make a quick evacuation from the capital and avoid capture. The Japanese offensive resumes a while later, and Beijing is encircled, along with some 20,000 troops inside it. From the West, some 100,000 Chinese troops arrive having traversed the country - tired but ready. [-7,500 Regulars from Japan, -10,000 Regulars from China, -20,000 Conscripts from China, 10,000 Regulars and 10,000 Conscripts encircled in Beijing.]
Frontlines of the Sino-Japanese War
The Japanese Empire also undergoes a period of mobilisation throughout the nation, calling up reserves and recruiting able men into the armed forces. The recruitment drive is a success, although internal strife hindered events. Armaments are purchased and stockpiled to arm the new recruits. [-10,000 Gold, -5% Equipment Level, +300,000 Conscripts]
In the Empire of China, a new industrial heartland begins to grow in the centre of the nation, away from the coast. Western experts are key in the planning of this endeavor. After several years of planning, the Emperor is released from house arrest and re-established as sovereign. He starts off by calling for national unity among the Chinese people in times of crisis, and he praises further progress in China as he announces the reform of the government of China, creating a new legislature, with an appointed upper house and an elected lower house. A new constitution is written, similar to that of the German Empire, and a bill of rights is formalised, although the war dampens the celebrations. [+5 industry to China, -90,000 gold from China]
In Guangdong Province, Japanese supplies reach the Tongmenghui through rebel-controlled ports, re-arming the battered force. Thousands of Japanese ‘volunteers’ also arrive. Their disdain for the Chinese makes relations awkward, but they agree to work with the Chinese rebels for now. However, the division within the Tongmenghui continues to create problems, with different factions refusing to support one another. Buoyed by the support of the Japanese, the rebels attempt to take control of the province and establish a government. At the same time, the Chinese were preparing for a campaign involving several hundred thousand loyalists to push the rebels into the sea. As the two sides met, the rebels’ main weakness again decided the outcome – Their disorganization caused many units to break when pressed, and the Japanese were forced to act as a rear-guard for the retreating force. After the battle the field was strewn with the dead of both sides – the body of Sun Yat-Sen himself was discovered, his body riddled with shrapnel. Leaderless, Sun’s faction of the Tongmenhui submits, and for the first time in years the rebels are unified under the leadership of Zhang Binglin. The Imperial Army struggled to effectively clear the rebel strongholds, and by the end of the year the geographical situation was much the same as the start. The Tongmenghui knew that they could not win such a war of attrition however, and some were openly considering fleeing the country while they still could. [-150,000 conscripts from China. Tongmenghui well supplied but low on manpower.]
In Indochina the French launch a counteroffensive against the Siamese. The constant threat from rebels, and the large Chinese army to the North, means the French cannot send their whole strength against their Western foe, but a sizable detachment is deployed with the aim of retaking Luang Prabang. Winning over locals with a large quantity of goods, the French expeditionary force has little trouble reaching the city. After several days of fighting, the Siamese are pushed back. However, the French themselves took significant losses, and felt the risk of stretching their supply lines further was too great. [Siam extent of control pushed back, -5,000 conscripts from France.]
Supplies from China begin to reach the Vietnamese rebels in the locale of Lao Cai, equipping them with better rifles and allowing them to expand the range of their activities against the French forces. In co-ordination with the rebels, the Chinese army presses deeper into Indochina, with the aim continuing down the Red River to Hanoi. While the French give much resistance, they are ultimately unable to hold Tonkin when so vastly outnumbered. [Most of Tonkin under Chinese/Vietnamese occupation. -35,000 conscripts from China, -15,000 regulars from France]
In the Dominion of India, vast spending continues on public projects. Advisers from Britain help oversee construction, and Delhi becomes a beacon of industry in the subcontinent. Agriculture output also increases somewhat due to significant investment by the Indian government. [+8 Industry to India, +1,500 base income to India, -170,000 gold from India.]
Following the Treaty of Geneva, the Indian army demobilizes, reducing their conscript force to a rump of 90,000 willing soldiers, who are in turn trained to the quality of the regular army. [-5,000 Gold, -3,500,000 conscripts from India, +90,000 regulars to India, Equipment level set to 120%.]
The loss of such a large manpower pool renders efforts to use the army for municipal works futile, and the materials purchased to improve the nation’s infrastructure are left in the depot. [-30,000 gold from India.]
Seeing themselves as side-lined in most aspects of Indian society, Muslim separatists rise up across the Punjab after receiving funding and equipment from foreign backers. Muslim soldiers in the Indian Army refuse to fight against the uprising, and many desert. In eastern Bengal, many people march in a gesture of solidarity with their religious brothers. [-20,000 regulars from India, -1 stability from India.]
The uprising forces the Indian government to react, postponing other military activities until a more stable time.
In Australia a government initiative was put forth to create new breweries in New South Wales, for creation of beer. However, this move slammed into opposition by temperance movements who called it an outrage. With large support from Protestant churches and women's organizations, the following public outrage forced the government to stop the initiative. In fact, the movement was increasingly gaining pressure, trying to force the momentum to introduction of local-option laws in all colonies, which would allow the residents to veto all licenses, from breweries to brothels, in their area. [-3,500 Gold, -1 Stability, Temperance laws will be passed unless acted upon]
Members of the Australian Temperance League
Industrially, government attempted to develop car manufacturing industries in Sydney in hopes of gaining success in this virgin area. German companies like Daimler failed to make usage of their inventions due to the war, while the British had failed. The move was coupled with a general decrease in taxes in the industrial sector, and despite its precedents, the results were a spectacular. The Australians managed to innovate by implementing large-scale assembly lines for mass production, as well as improving the Daimler petrol engines, and the new car company "Aussie" grew into the international stage. Although low demand currently, it promised to deliver big when interest would begin to build up. [-15,000 Gold, -1,000 Income, + 1 Industry, +3 Industry and 1,000 Income in 3 turns]
A deal between the British Government and the Australian Government is concluded, transferring control of the British colonies of New Zealand and New Guinea to the Australian Commonwealth. [+2,000 Base Income to Australia.]
Efforts were taken to restructure the Australian military, while the Army underwent restructuring and the fledgling Navy attempted to better itself in reforming naval command similar to that of the British Admiralty. although some questioned the wisdom in such an extensive reform amidst the war. It was a success for the army, with studies being done on the war, and improved artillery models developed, but not so much on the naval side of things, where the fledgling navy, already advanced in command, didn't have any ships or resources to emulate the reforms. [-5,500 Gold, +5% Equipment Level, +1 Army Level in 1 turn]
In the Dutch East Indies, thousands spurn a Government programme to migrate to the East Indies, and instead many Natives pack up and move to the Mainland, to try and get a job in a Factory and live a better life. By the end of 1905, a total of 100,000 people have left the East Indies. Dutchification programmes begin to fail as many of those motivated to speak Dutch and practice Dutch customs have already moved to Europe.
Mesopotamia went around massive redevelopment near Iraq. Foreign architects, engineers and specialists were all called in by the Caliph to help plan and design the new Babylon, and to irrigate the land to make it fertile once again. Although the efforts were limited by the war and technical skills in demand, interested specialists traveled to the Ottoman Empire where they met and discussed the project in great detail. The new calling also introduced many newer forms of industrial technology to the Ottoman empire, brought by these men which could potentially help the empire in other areas. This large-scale project has started and is entering its construction, and although it may be of a great expense, it will certainly help the Ottoman Empire's standing in the world. [-20,000 Gold, +1,000 Income, +50 Prestige, Mesopotamia Project Begun]
Irrigation Canals in Mesopotamia being built.
Efforts were made to root out corruption in the Ottoman empire. However, the government found itself in mess as the corruption had built an extensive system for itself during the years of failed and partial reforms, and return to absolute rule - even within the federalized system, corruption was an almost stabilizing influence. Problems ensued when the efforts began to inevitably target the reactionary factions, and resulted in the reactionary forces, going on full-head opposition against the government. This in turn divided the parliament itself between the liberals and the conservatives, and tensions are running high as there is de facto a full-blown revolt against the new constitutional government, with the state seemingly at the brink of a coup. [-1,000 Gold, -3 Stability, -20,000 Income until crisis is diffused]
The country continued its attempts to industrialize the nation. New industrial centers were attempted to be developed in major settlements. The government investments succeeded, and new industrial centers rose up in Anatolia and the Middle East. The successes were particularly helpful in help making the nomads in Mesopotamia settle down, until now who were largely uncontrolled and hindered local governments, which also helped to develop agriculture in their areas. [-25,000 Gold, +2 Industry, +1000 Income]
The Ottomans after its recent successes in pacifying the Arabs, sought to expand its influence through dealings with the UAE. While their representatives were welcomed, the dealings were rebuffed as the cautious UAE policy led them to prevent anything that might lead to the British as a breaking of their treaties, including the clause which prevents any dealings with foreign powers. Privately, trade and cooperation increased, although no official policies took place. [+150 Trade balance to Ottoman Empire (+150 Middle East).]
Persia's industries continued to spring up, taking in high amounts of profit as the war continued and demands for war materiel rise. Government support pours into the factories to continue the growth, making it increase at an amazing rate, pushing Persia forward as an industrial power - that is, of course, as long as the war lasts. [-50,000 Gold, +5 Industry, Bubble economy]
The Persian military began to improve itself further, with a large recruiting drive and modernization of doctrines to see a closer resemblance to Western ones. They are, both by and large, successful, with the standing army more than doubling its size, although over expansion temporarily stretches resources. Modernization continues, especially as the new arms industry helps bring in newer, more modern equipment as well as a larger supply of it. However, attempts to research in areas such as aircraft and heavy armor are fruitless, with generally random or little no results. [-30,000 Gold, +30,000 Regulars, -1 Army Level, +2 Army Levels and +5% equipment in 1 turn]
The Shah travels around Persia to help improve relations with the public, attempting to make use of its new railroads in the process. However, Persian rails are still very limited other than the the thin strip connecting India and Russia, and an attempt at a rail-based nation-wide tour amounts to expensive costs, as well as necessary trips off the rails many points; the continuous change in transportation not helping in terms of money. While the Shah helps quell dissent and desires by reformers, the trip's lavishness faces criticism. [-3,000 Gold, +1 Stability]
The British Government is monitoring and analyzing the growing crisis in China. The renewed spread of war and lack of progress towards peace in Asia is very concerning as is the continued apparent expansionism of the Ottomans. We are also very proud of our push towards aerial development. Where an automotive policy failed, it is perhaps possible that an aerial development will greatly exceed our hopes and expectations. The Suez should be fully cleaned and operating at 100% of normal shortly as well, it is time to push ahead the development of the Empire and Commonwealth.
People of Bulgaria! Today is a day for rejoicing, for today we have peace. The allied forces have left our lands and we may start to rebuild from the devastation of our lands. With our soldiers home from Russia we can begin the process of rebuilding, not only of our countries but also those of others, both allies and enemies whose lands were devastated by war. Together we can rebuild our nations and enter a new age of prosperity!
It is with great happiness that I speak to you today. Government-funded industries - spurred on by independent businesses and entrepreneurship - have created one of the world's first automobile factories. Though of questionable quality, steps will be made to improve their quality for the consumer while keeping the prices of purchasing and maintenance affordable and reasonable. Spanish ingenuity is almost unmatched in this theater, and improvements will be made in due time. Spanish industry is growing with the economy. The Kingdom of Spain is seeing new heights of economic prosperity and growth!
In regards to the military, we have seen an increase in arms and ammunition for our under-equipped Army. Troops are receiving more and higher-quality equipment, meaning their effectiveness in future conflicts will be much higher, and losses will be minimized. Steps will be made in the future to increase this equipment level even further, as well as instituting new training regimens for officers and recruits alike, including new tactics and organization on the field.
Turning to international affairs, I would like to condemn Japanese actions in their sudden invasion of the Qing. Without previous warning - much like their attack on Korea several years ago - they have violated an East Asian country's sovereignty, believing they could subjugate the enormous Chinese state without any negative repercussions. It seems they have also done this without any real reason other than to expand their nation through extremely aggressive imperialistic means.
To the Brazilian Empress Isabel I: economic aid can be provided, as well as military support, should you so wish. I would also like to announce the creation of the Spanish Volunteer Corps, a force of dedicated volunteer soldiers who will be dispatched internationally on the request of a nation that requires them. This Corps will be deployed into international theaters on request of nations that require their service: this service shall not extend over two years in each deployment. The deployment of this corps shall only be allowed following the confirmation by myself, King of Spain. The Corps shall also not exceed 25,000 armed and equipped men of the Spanish Army.
I would also like to take this time to congratulate and support the United States of America on their ability to convince the Colombians to begin construction of the Panama Canal. With time, hard work, and determination, the United States may bring a new era of economic prosperity and international trade to the world.
Trade agreement between the Kingdom of Serbs and Albanians and the United States of America.
The signees of this treaty agree to pursue a mutual and profitable trade relationship with each other, and encourage increased exchange of goods and culture.
[X] Alexander I, King of Serbs and Albanians, Prince of Montenegro, Protector of Albanians
[X] President Theodore Roosevelt of the United States of America
I, Tsar Ferdinand I of Bulgaria, request that the Ottoman Empire commence the clean-up operation for the Bosporus. It is severely harming Bulgarian trade as well as that of other nations in the Black Sea area as well as creating difficulties in getting supplies to the Russian Empire to help in fighting the Bolsheviks.
The year of 1905 saw many changes in our great country. It saw the birth of the Department of Commerce to aid in the regulation of trade between states. This new agency will aid the improvement of the regulation of commerce and facilitate interstate commerce. The current Anti-Trust Legislation will also aid in supporting the growth of the economy by spurring competition and leading to lower prices for the consumer, and greater profits for well run businesses. It should also aid in securing the worker a Square Deal.
The Army Bill of 1905 was another great success for the nation. Now our troops will be better equipped and better trained. Thus increasing the capabilities of our nation's armed forces.
Furthermore, this year marks great progress with the beginning on construction of the Panama Canal, soon those two mighty oceans will be joined, increasing the flow of commerce between our coasts and across the world!
The situation in China is worrying, and it is hoped that the legations present will not be threatened.
