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This is Trouble, Part I - Trouble Begins
Trade in the Far East
Trade must flow! More specifically, trade must flow from Portuguese Malacca to Seville. Though nowadays, Portugal could just send all the trade across the Indian Ocean to Zanzibar, this is not an optimal solution. If trade flows from Bengal to Ceylon to Aden to Zanzibar, it is much more profitable for Portugal. First, merchants of other nations add considerably to value of the trade flowing towards Portugal. Second. the value of the other nodes is added to the steady flow of goods. From Malacca, goods worth of 32 gold are sent towards Portugal. To Lisboa, 82 gold arrives, meaning another 50 gold is added on route.
Lisboa, center of the Eastern trade
In that route, the next stop from Malacca, Bengal, is the weakest link. Portugal has there 20 frigates, patrolling the waters and fully developed trade base in the Andaman Islands, but that is not enough. 32 gold goes in, 27 comes out- even when including all the bonuses from foreign merchants. By the time the trade reached Lisboa, the difference is even bigger. So, it is no wonder that João V is more then interested in expanding Portuguese influence down to Bengal node.
The Bengali node was owned mostly by Bengal, regional power in the East India. 10 provinces, from coastal provinces to provinces bordering the Himalaya mountains. Controls Deva Bengal, one of the richest provinces in India and also, as estuary of the Bengal river, the only important trade node in Bengal area. One of the Hindu strongholds, still trying to stay afloat in the sea of Muslims in the North and Catholics in the South. Currently at war with Tibet and with Jainpur. Overall, juicy target.
Defeat of the Bengali
In August 1646, all was ready. João V had now three armies in India, one of them recruited totally from the local population. Total 30 000 soldiers, 20 000 of them waiting in the Portuguese-Bengali border and another 10 000 of them waiting on the ships, to start invasion. Can someone even imagine the war ends with anything but the total Portuguese victory?
In October, the Bengali army attacked the Portuguese sieging Deva Bengal. Portuguese managed to beat them off, killing nearly half of their soldiers. The army retreated to Chittagong, the most eastern of the Bengali provinces- only to be attacked by second Portuguese army, fresh from ships. By middle of November, main Bengali army was no more, second was sieging single province of Malwa and Portuguese and Jainpur armies were dominating the Bengali lands.
End of Bengal main army
One of the Portuguese armies, led by conquistador Alfonso Teles de Menses, marched all the way to Bhutan, unstopped, and mapped the Bengali lands for the Portuguese Empire. Even though the war was far from over, the war had already been won. Rest was just formalizing it.
The trip of de Menses to Himalayas
This is Trouble!
In 7th January, 1647, Spain decided to declare war on Great Britain. Target- province of Gascoigne Spain still considered theirs, though the Brits had taken it back in 1589. For Spanish, it was a bad timing though. For Spanish. Had they done it a few years earlier, they would certainly get more success... But now, they faced the united Portuguese and British resistance.
Spanish army of 38 000 soldiers, stationed Madrid, marched south to Toledo as soon as the war begun. 25 000 Portuguese soldiers waiting there got caught up by surprise- Spanish arrived in Toledo just a week after the war. Sure, they have picked up that quickness from the Portuguese- and surprised Portuguese by doing so. To Spanish surprise, second Portuguese army that was nearby, made a quick forced march and joined the battle. Result- Spanish were defeated. If it was only Spanish, the Portuguese would have won now...
First battle in the war
In 23rd January 1647, Spanish allies joined the war. French, one of the most powerful nations in all of Europe, joined the Spanish. This was trouble. French were well known as fearless soldiers, good generals and threat to all the nations who were their neighbours. Once good allies of Portugal, the recent developments had left two nations like bitter enemies. Now, it was time to settle the differences in the battlefield.
Now, this is trouble
As soon as the war broke out, small French fleet attacked Portuguese fleet transporting soldiers home from England in Cote D’Argent. Now, if the French were successful, it could mean up to 30 000 soldiers in the bottom of the sea... and much easier war for the French. The Portuguese showed though that they were the masters of the seas. The transport fleet forced French to flee and captured two French frigates in the process.
The French trying to sink Portuguese transport forces
Then the fleet sailed to Gascoigne and dropped of the army. Just to be safe. And the army was given a task- march through the French territory to Spain and intercept the Spanish army on the run. And that it did- after the the main army beat the Spanish in Toledo and then pull back to recover from the costly battle, the second army managed to reach Cantabria and force the retreating Spanish into battle. It was all going so well, but then the French came. Reports of total 90 000 French troops marching to Spain came in- and joined the Spanish.
Battle of Cantabria that was supposed to be easy, quick victory of the Spanish turned into something else. Portuguese found themselves fighting an enemy more then 100 000 soldiers strong. Too much for the Portuguese to take. Third of the Portuguese dead, they pulled back, retreating to Lisboa. The Spanish-English, or let’s be fair, Portuguese-French war had begun...
Not a good start...
Trade in the Far East
Trade must flow! More specifically, trade must flow from Portuguese Malacca to Seville. Though nowadays, Portugal could just send all the trade across the Indian Ocean to Zanzibar, this is not an optimal solution. If trade flows from Bengal to Ceylon to Aden to Zanzibar, it is much more profitable for Portugal. First, merchants of other nations add considerably to value of the trade flowing towards Portugal. Second. the value of the other nodes is added to the steady flow of goods. From Malacca, goods worth of 32 gold are sent towards Portugal. To Lisboa, 82 gold arrives, meaning another 50 gold is added on route.
Lisboa, center of the Eastern trade
In that route, the next stop from Malacca, Bengal, is the weakest link. Portugal has there 20 frigates, patrolling the waters and fully developed trade base in the Andaman Islands, but that is not enough. 32 gold goes in, 27 comes out- even when including all the bonuses from foreign merchants. By the time the trade reached Lisboa, the difference is even bigger. So, it is no wonder that João V is more then interested in expanding Portuguese influence down to Bengal node.
The Bengali node was owned mostly by Bengal, regional power in the East India. 10 provinces, from coastal provinces to provinces bordering the Himalaya mountains. Controls Deva Bengal, one of the richest provinces in India and also, as estuary of the Bengal river, the only important trade node in Bengal area. One of the Hindu strongholds, still trying to stay afloat in the sea of Muslims in the North and Catholics in the South. Currently at war with Tibet and with Jainpur. Overall, juicy target.
Defeat of the Bengali
In August 1646, all was ready. João V had now three armies in India, one of them recruited totally from the local population. Total 30 000 soldiers, 20 000 of them waiting in the Portuguese-Bengali border and another 10 000 of them waiting on the ships, to start invasion. Can someone even imagine the war ends with anything but the total Portuguese victory?
In October, the Bengali army attacked the Portuguese sieging Deva Bengal. Portuguese managed to beat them off, killing nearly half of their soldiers. The army retreated to Chittagong, the most eastern of the Bengali provinces- only to be attacked by second Portuguese army, fresh from ships. By middle of November, main Bengali army was no more, second was sieging single province of Malwa and Portuguese and Jainpur armies were dominating the Bengali lands.
End of Bengal main army
One of the Portuguese armies, led by conquistador Alfonso Teles de Menses, marched all the way to Bhutan, unstopped, and mapped the Bengali lands for the Portuguese Empire. Even though the war was far from over, the war had already been won. Rest was just formalizing it.
The trip of de Menses to Himalayas
This is Trouble!
In 7th January, 1647, Spain decided to declare war on Great Britain. Target- province of Gascoigne Spain still considered theirs, though the Brits had taken it back in 1589. For Spanish, it was a bad timing though. For Spanish. Had they done it a few years earlier, they would certainly get more success... But now, they faced the united Portuguese and British resistance.
Spanish army of 38 000 soldiers, stationed Madrid, marched south to Toledo as soon as the war begun. 25 000 Portuguese soldiers waiting there got caught up by surprise- Spanish arrived in Toledo just a week after the war. Sure, they have picked up that quickness from the Portuguese- and surprised Portuguese by doing so. To Spanish surprise, second Portuguese army that was nearby, made a quick forced march and joined the battle. Result- Spanish were defeated. If it was only Spanish, the Portuguese would have won now...
First battle in the war
In 23rd January 1647, Spanish allies joined the war. French, one of the most powerful nations in all of Europe, joined the Spanish. This was trouble. French were well known as fearless soldiers, good generals and threat to all the nations who were their neighbours. Once good allies of Portugal, the recent developments had left two nations like bitter enemies. Now, it was time to settle the differences in the battlefield.
Now, this is trouble
As soon as the war broke out, small French fleet attacked Portuguese fleet transporting soldiers home from England in Cote D’Argent. Now, if the French were successful, it could mean up to 30 000 soldiers in the bottom of the sea... and much easier war for the French. The Portuguese showed though that they were the masters of the seas. The transport fleet forced French to flee and captured two French frigates in the process.
The French trying to sink Portuguese transport forces
Then the fleet sailed to Gascoigne and dropped of the army. Just to be safe. And the army was given a task- march through the French territory to Spain and intercept the Spanish army on the run. And that it did- after the the main army beat the Spanish in Toledo and then pull back to recover from the costly battle, the second army managed to reach Cantabria and force the retreating Spanish into battle. It was all going so well, but then the French came. Reports of total 90 000 French troops marching to Spain came in- and joined the Spanish.
Battle of Cantabria that was supposed to be easy, quick victory of the Spanish turned into something else. Portuguese found themselves fighting an enemy more then 100 000 soldiers strong. Too much for the Portuguese to take. Third of the Portuguese dead, they pulled back, retreating to Lisboa. The Spanish-English, or let’s be fair, Portuguese-French war had begun...
Not a good start...
This is it. 200 years into game and most challenging fight appears. Luckily the French were on my side before... But now, i'm in for a fight of my life.
Nikolai - João V is 37 at the moment, so death is still far off. Hopefully.
Nikolai - João V is 37 at the moment, so death is still far off. Hopefully.
The Portuguese-English PU will provide the strength to defeat the Danes at sea. The French are the obvious enemy on land for the Union to take on. Rather embarrassing for the French fleet to be driven off by Portuguese transports. Situation normal for the French navy.
It does promise to be a long war.
It does promise to be a long war.
This is Trouble, Part II- the Flood
Changing the Country
After the defeat at Cantabria, Portugal was in trouble. French forces with more then 100 000 soldiers were in Spain, marching towards Portugal. Or had already crossed the French-Portuguese border in Pirineo and Girona. In fact, the French main army run after the Portuguese army, threatening total destruction. It was like the gates had been opened and Portugal was flooded by the French and the Spanish.
Of course, Portuguese were not totally defenceless. Besides the army that lost at Cantabria and was about 15 000 strong, the Portuguese had another 50 000 soldiers, currently in Lisboa. The problem was around 70 000 French chasing them. João V was not interested in risking it all in one big battle. Instead, he ordered the troops to march south, leaving northern Portugal undefended.
In addition, he ordered recruitment on some mercenaries, a troop about 10 000 strong, to be recruited in Mediterranean coast, where the army was matching. Overall, the idea was giving armies some rest and chance to grab some peasants from the villages and fresh recruits for the army and giving time for mercenaries to arrive and settle in and giving time for the generals to make plans and the French to make their mistakes.
In 2nd April 1647, João V addressed the nobility of the country, talking about the new threat in a great assembly held in Lisboa. The fact that the Portuguese troops were marching south while the French approached may have contributed a bit to the nobles feeling a bit more relenting as usual. In there, it was agreed that João V and his heirs will have supreme, absolute control over the country, especially the army.
João V addressing the people in Lisboa
The Lisboa Pact was signed and though it totally took years to become reality, the changes in the army were imminent. Now, less fractured and under one command, the Portuguese troops will fight better. Much better. Just what was needed for the war...
Change into absolute monarchy was quick...
Freeing the Portugal
In Portuguese areas, three provinces were under French siege. Braganca, Beira and Coimbra. Total 40 000 French and Lisboa just one province away- you just can’t ignore these threats. João V ordered to make it a priority and Inacio de Magalhaes, put in charge of the largest Portuguese army ever, a bit under 90 000 soldier strong, wowed to kick French out of the Portugal.
Meanwhile, the Portuguese-French border regions were overwhelmed by Spanish and French troops. Ever more then around Portugal. Here, the total number of the enemy forces reached even 100 000 soldiers. Of course, the Portuguese rulers had taken into account the same thing happening and thus, the French and Spanish were faced with state of the art Portugese fortresses. It would take time to breach these walls and as for storming- no general wants these kind of losses that occur when storming these castles. So, the French and the Spanish had no other chance then to continue the bombardment, hope for a breach and slowly, starve the defenders.
In June 1647, Sicilian navy came under attack in Gulf of Lion by the Spanish fleet. Portuguese navy who had been chasing the Spanish since Gibraltar, sailed as fast as they could and caught Spanish, chasing the fleeing Sicilians. Result- the Spanish fleet was sent to the bottom of the Mediterranean.
What happens where Portuguese catch the Spanish fleet
In the middle of August 1647, the Portuguese army marched across Iberia and attacked the 40 000 French sieging the three Portuguese provinces. Braganca was the first. 11 000 French became under attack by 88 000 Portuguese. Before anyone could react, they were wiped out. Same for soldiers sieging Coimbra. Again, 11 000 French and now, a bit over 90 000 Portuguese. There was no question of who would come victorious out of this...
Portugese march towards troops sieging Beira- and what happened while marching
The result- in two quick battles, the Portuguese had defeated what was about half of the French forces. Since the French were divided, the Portuguese managed to overwhelm the defenders and now, they only had to face the rest of the French. Much better then fighting three armies simultaneously.
Meanwhile, Danish fleet appeared outside the shores of Lisboa. As the Portuguese army attacked the final French army in Beira, the Portuguese Armada Real engaged the Danish navy. 18 heavy ships and 20 transports- it looks like the Danes were planning an invasion. That also meant that the ships were near the shore and vulnerable in the shallow water. Or to put it simply- easy prey. In the end, all of the Danish fleet was sunk.
As the Portuguese ships were pounding the Danish, the Portuguese soldiers were pounding the French. In Beira, French tried desperately to fight back against overwhelming Portuguese troops, but to no avail. You might be good soldiers, but to win against odds more then 4:1, you have to amazing. The French obviously were not. 21 000 strong French army was destroyed that day and Portugal Proper was cleared of French troops that day.
Kicking French main army in Portugal Proper and sinking the Danish fleet- that's proper warring!
Situation in Bengal
Yes, the Portuguese were still fighting Bengal as well. Progress was slow, but steady. Bastar and Deva Bengal had fallen. So had Rajapara- in October 1647, the province fell, forcing the Bengali Navy out of the safe haven there, and right into the waiting cannons of the Portuguese fleet. They all were sunk and Portugal became the only nation with ships in the Bengali area.
Most important piece of Bengali war- sinking their fleet!
African War
Attacking the Great Britain was not the only way Spain thought to make Portugal angry. Far from it, they did something worse. Colonizing in Africa! Didn’t they know that Africa was Portuguese or rather, will be Portuguese? To be honest, Spanish managed to outcolonize Portuguese in America. Mostly thanks to them having more colonists and Portugal being busy all over the world, but now the Spanish dare to put their noses into Africa? The fools! Trying to colonize three provinces near the Cape, namely Benguela, Damaraland and Greater Namaqualand... is not wise from them. Especially when they are at war with Portugal and Portugal has an army in Africa. During late 1647, 6000 Portuguese troops marched through undefended Spanish outposts, forced them to swear fealty to Portugal and also cleared the native problem. Now, Portugal needed just one more province, Lesser Namaqualand, to become owner of everything from Morocco to Cape...
To start colonization of Africa during the war with Portugal is not the smartest decision...
The War Continues...
In 1647, Portugal managed to turn the tide a bit: Portugal Proper was clear of the enemy troops and total 43 000 French had lost their lives in the lands of the Portugal. Still, the situation was all but promising, for the combined French and Spanish troops in the East were still more then 100 000 soldiers. Getting rid of that would be hard work... and something to be done in 1648.
Situation in the end of 1647. There is still a lot of trouble ahead!
Changing the Country
After the defeat at Cantabria, Portugal was in trouble. French forces with more then 100 000 soldiers were in Spain, marching towards Portugal. Or had already crossed the French-Portuguese border in Pirineo and Girona. In fact, the French main army run after the Portuguese army, threatening total destruction. It was like the gates had been opened and Portugal was flooded by the French and the Spanish.
Of course, Portuguese were not totally defenceless. Besides the army that lost at Cantabria and was about 15 000 strong, the Portuguese had another 50 000 soldiers, currently in Lisboa. The problem was around 70 000 French chasing them. João V was not interested in risking it all in one big battle. Instead, he ordered the troops to march south, leaving northern Portugal undefended.
In addition, he ordered recruitment on some mercenaries, a troop about 10 000 strong, to be recruited in Mediterranean coast, where the army was matching. Overall, the idea was giving armies some rest and chance to grab some peasants from the villages and fresh recruits for the army and giving time for mercenaries to arrive and settle in and giving time for the generals to make plans and the French to make their mistakes.
In 2nd April 1647, João V addressed the nobility of the country, talking about the new threat in a great assembly held in Lisboa. The fact that the Portuguese troops were marching south while the French approached may have contributed a bit to the nobles feeling a bit more relenting as usual. In there, it was agreed that João V and his heirs will have supreme, absolute control over the country, especially the army.
João V addressing the people in Lisboa
The Lisboa Pact was signed and though it totally took years to become reality, the changes in the army were imminent. Now, less fractured and under one command, the Portuguese troops will fight better. Much better. Just what was needed for the war...
Change into absolute monarchy was quick...
Freeing the Portugal
In Portuguese areas, three provinces were under French siege. Braganca, Beira and Coimbra. Total 40 000 French and Lisboa just one province away- you just can’t ignore these threats. João V ordered to make it a priority and Inacio de Magalhaes, put in charge of the largest Portuguese army ever, a bit under 90 000 soldier strong, wowed to kick French out of the Portugal.
Meanwhile, the Portuguese-French border regions were overwhelmed by Spanish and French troops. Ever more then around Portugal. Here, the total number of the enemy forces reached even 100 000 soldiers. Of course, the Portuguese rulers had taken into account the same thing happening and thus, the French and Spanish were faced with state of the art Portugese fortresses. It would take time to breach these walls and as for storming- no general wants these kind of losses that occur when storming these castles. So, the French and the Spanish had no other chance then to continue the bombardment, hope for a breach and slowly, starve the defenders.
In June 1647, Sicilian navy came under attack in Gulf of Lion by the Spanish fleet. Portuguese navy who had been chasing the Spanish since Gibraltar, sailed as fast as they could and caught Spanish, chasing the fleeing Sicilians. Result- the Spanish fleet was sent to the bottom of the Mediterranean.
What happens where Portuguese catch the Spanish fleet
In the middle of August 1647, the Portuguese army marched across Iberia and attacked the 40 000 French sieging the three Portuguese provinces. Braganca was the first. 11 000 French became under attack by 88 000 Portuguese. Before anyone could react, they were wiped out. Same for soldiers sieging Coimbra. Again, 11 000 French and now, a bit over 90 000 Portuguese. There was no question of who would come victorious out of this...
Portugese march towards troops sieging Beira- and what happened while marching
The result- in two quick battles, the Portuguese had defeated what was about half of the French forces. Since the French were divided, the Portuguese managed to overwhelm the defenders and now, they only had to face the rest of the French. Much better then fighting three armies simultaneously.
Meanwhile, Danish fleet appeared outside the shores of Lisboa. As the Portuguese army attacked the final French army in Beira, the Portuguese Armada Real engaged the Danish navy. 18 heavy ships and 20 transports- it looks like the Danes were planning an invasion. That also meant that the ships were near the shore and vulnerable in the shallow water. Or to put it simply- easy prey. In the end, all of the Danish fleet was sunk.
As the Portuguese ships were pounding the Danish, the Portuguese soldiers were pounding the French. In Beira, French tried desperately to fight back against overwhelming Portuguese troops, but to no avail. You might be good soldiers, but to win against odds more then 4:1, you have to amazing. The French obviously were not. 21 000 strong French army was destroyed that day and Portugal Proper was cleared of French troops that day.
Kicking French main army in Portugal Proper and sinking the Danish fleet- that's proper warring!
Situation in Bengal
Yes, the Portuguese were still fighting Bengal as well. Progress was slow, but steady. Bastar and Deva Bengal had fallen. So had Rajapara- in October 1647, the province fell, forcing the Bengali Navy out of the safe haven there, and right into the waiting cannons of the Portuguese fleet. They all were sunk and Portugal became the only nation with ships in the Bengali area.
Most important piece of Bengali war- sinking their fleet!
African War
Attacking the Great Britain was not the only way Spain thought to make Portugal angry. Far from it, they did something worse. Colonizing in Africa! Didn’t they know that Africa was Portuguese or rather, will be Portuguese? To be honest, Spanish managed to outcolonize Portuguese in America. Mostly thanks to them having more colonists and Portugal being busy all over the world, but now the Spanish dare to put their noses into Africa? The fools! Trying to colonize three provinces near the Cape, namely Benguela, Damaraland and Greater Namaqualand... is not wise from them. Especially when they are at war with Portugal and Portugal has an army in Africa. During late 1647, 6000 Portuguese troops marched through undefended Spanish outposts, forced them to swear fealty to Portugal and also cleared the native problem. Now, Portugal needed just one more province, Lesser Namaqualand, to become owner of everything from Morocco to Cape...
To start colonization of Africa during the war with Portugal is not the smartest decision...
The War Continues...
In 1647, Portugal managed to turn the tide a bit: Portugal Proper was clear of the enemy troops and total 43 000 French had lost their lives in the lands of the Portugal. Still, the situation was all but promising, for the combined French and Spanish troops in the East were still more then 100 000 soldiers. Getting rid of that would be hard work... and something to be done in 1648.
Situation in the end of 1647. There is still a lot of trouble ahead!
I wasted almost all admin power i had saved in order to grab the admin tech 20 and proclaim Portugal to be absolute monarchy. Mostly because i felt that the +10 discipline i gained would be really useful. French had a bit over +20, so that evened the odds a bit. Anyhow, the Portugal Proper is free and the rest of the Spanish armies will be part of the next update!
Nikolai - Yeah, tell me about it. I was planning to fight them eventually, but i though to do it on my terms- attack when i'm ready and preferably when they are caught up in a war or three. Now, i have to do it unprepared...
Chief Ragusa - You are right about the PU. Danes keep half their fleet patrolling British coast, so i'm having easy time picking up their ships. But the damned brits did not sent me any troops- they just sieged the Danish Orkney Islands. And btw, though frigates have much more cannons, 20 vs 8, the transports have actually stronger hulls, 24 vs 16. So no wonder i won! And since i really dislike long wars, i promise to make them as short as possible.
Nikolai - Yeah, tell me about it. I was planning to fight them eventually, but i though to do it on my terms- attack when i'm ready and preferably when they are caught up in a war or three. Now, i have to do it unprepared...
Chief Ragusa - You are right about the PU. Danes keep half their fleet patrolling British coast, so i'm having easy time picking up their ships. But the damned brits did not sent me any troops- they just sieged the Danish Orkney Islands. And btw, though frigates have much more cannons, 20 vs 8, the transports have actually stronger hulls, 24 vs 16. So no wonder i won! And since i really dislike long wars, i promise to make them as short as possible.
It's only natural the people flock around an absolute monarch in these troubled times...
This is Trouble, part III- Turning the Tides
First Battle of Pirineo
Pirineo is an unimportant province in the Pyrenees, right in the Portuguese-French border. Not particularly rich in taxes nor in population, it was just one of the provinces. With one vital difference- it had the best land route to France. And since the Portuguese ruled the seas, it was the only way French could resupply their huge armies in Iberia. Meaning- cut off that province and you can slowly strangle the French in Iberia.
In the beginning of the year 1648, Portuguese army did just that. With the skill of Inacio de Magalhaes and the Portuguese ability to quick march, the over 90 000 soldiers strong Portuguese behemoth of an army marched across the Portuguese and Spanish territories, avoiding battle of all kind and attacked the 10 000 soldiers strong Spanish army currently bombarding the fortifications Portuguese had built over the countryside. Really unsuccessfully, i might add- and the border provinces were really well defended.
In short, the Portuguese attacked the Spanish and as usual, killed them off to the last man. Nearly 100 000 Portuguese versus 10 000 Spanish- no chance there, it would seem. So, the Portuguese took over the Pirineo, liberated the garrisons under siege and most importantly, closed the French reinforcements and supplies pouring in through the Pyrenees.
Portuguese taking position in Pirineo, French on their tail
Second Battle of Pirineo
Simon de Chambly, the French general, understood what threat the Portuguese posed. With their control of Pirineo, French were bound to lose. His combined army of over 70 000 Frenchman has been chasing the army of de Magalhaes and failed to do so. Now, de Chambly would have to make a decision what to do...
Elan is always the French way. With zeal, the French attacked. It was now 74 000 French against 93 000 Portuguese. The biggest battle Portugal had ever fought. The number of cavalry and the guns was about the same for Portuguese and French- 23 000 cavalry and about 140 guns for each army. The main difference was in infantry- the Portuguese had 55 000 and the French 37 000.
Portuguese had good defensive positions in the mountains, forcing the French to first cross the water and then mount an attack on the Portuguese defences, situated properly in the high ground. Meaning- whatever advantage French had, they lost. Still, you have to admire them. They still attacked, even though Portuguese outnumbered them and were in a very good defensive position.
Portuguese and French facing each other in Pirineo
In the end, the Portuguese won- with quite a number. The French paid a horrible price- over 30 000 Frenchman lay dead on the foothills of the Pyrenees. Still, de Magalhaes assessed the main concern of the French wrong. He assumed that the French were attacking his positions to end the Portuguese blockade of the Pyrenees, but the French had other plans. de Chambly had had enough of Iberia- most likely because the Spanish were not the best allies and he realized the danger of fighting with the Portuguese. So, instead of keeping the path open, he tried to use the path to head back to France. Result- his forces broke through, for de Magalhaes had blockaded other parts of the county. Still, in Battle of Pirineo that took place in 29th March 1648, the Portuguese held their own. As said, over 30 000 French dead, against 14 000 Portuguese. Even though de Magalhaes was unable to stop the French breakthrough, it also meant that when French fled towards France, Iberia was now clear of the French. Only the Spanish remained.
The biggest battle of Portugal thus far
End of Bengal
Also in March 1648, the Portuguese had destroyed enough of Bengal for the Sultan of Bengal to give in. Portugal gained total four provinces in this war, including the most important one, Deva Bengal or Bengal Delta- the estuary of Ganges and the center of trade for Bengal.
That was easy...
Result- Portuguese became the undisputed leaders of the Bengal node, owning up to three quarters of the trade passing through the node. Also, when before the war, Portuguese managed to pull about 27 gold forward, With the new conquests, the amount had increased over 10 gold. It meant that to Lisboa, even larger number appeared. Portugal was now a definite master of the Asian trade.
Instant results- no more a chokepoint, but valuable addition to Portuguese Asian trade
Third Battle of Pirineo
In April 1648, to everyone’s surprise, Spain finally moved. Their army of 20 000 soldiers were busily sieging Aragon entire time the French were fighting Portuguese suddenly started to move. Most likely, they thought to keep Portuguese off guard and force them to retreat or something, but the reality was different. Spanish were defeated. Wonder what would have happened if the Spanish had joined the French...
It was now clear what happened. Portuguese armies were split into two and they met the fleeing Spanish army in Asturias. There, the Spanish military power was destroyed yet again.
Not sure why the Spanish attacked...but one does not look a gift victory in the mouth
End of War
By the middle of 1648, the Portuguese were once again in total control of their territories. French were busy retreating to somewhere in France and Spanish were just defeated. The war was about to end- and against all odds in Portuguese victory.
Portuguese were so confident now that João V ordered the Portuguese fleet to sail to the shores of England. A Danish fleet had been busy blockading the English ports, giving England a really hard time. Now, it was time to put an end to it- 30 Portuguese war galleons left the Portuguese coast undefended as they headed out to the sea.
Portuguese ships sinking the Danish ones
Indeed, they did find a Danish fleet. Though the Danish were good sailors and well known of their naval prowess in the Baltic Sea, they were no match for the Portuguese galleons. In a battle fought in July 1648, the Portuguese sunk every last ship of their fleet. 5 galleons and 20 frigates in the bottom of the sea- not a good thing to any nation, no matter how rich they are.
Sinking one of Danish fleets
As for Spain, they tried to build an army again. 40 000 Portuguese did not think it was a good idea and made it very clear to Spanish that Portugal will not take kindly to any Spanish resistance. In battle of Leon in August 1648, the Spanish were defeated once again.
Last battle of the war
With that, the war was quickly coming to an end. It was a strange war, with no provinces changing hands. The French and Spanish armies were defeated before they could finish any sieges and Portuguese were too busy fighting them so they did not have time to start their own. As a result, when João V finally decided to sign peace (mostly due to the French returning) in September 1648, there were no provinces for Portugal to claim. Instead, João V demanded the independence of Galicia and forces Spanish to give up claims for several Portuguese provinces. The first French-Portuguese war was over.
Finally, the peace
Aftermath
It was a costly war. Portuguese military losses were so high that they actually depleted the Portuguese manpower pool. Before the war begun, Portugal had over 100 000 soldiers in reserve, now they had none and armies still needed about 20 000 soldiers more to become truly effective. Basically meaning that Portugal now has to wait for about 10 years before being able to mount a full scale war once again.
As for Galicia- João V entered a royal marriage with them as soon as the war was over and soon, the treaty was signed with Galica becoming a Portuguese vassal. At least one province was gained from this war...
Enjoy your temporary and limited freedom, Galicia!
First Battle of Pirineo
Pirineo is an unimportant province in the Pyrenees, right in the Portuguese-French border. Not particularly rich in taxes nor in population, it was just one of the provinces. With one vital difference- it had the best land route to France. And since the Portuguese ruled the seas, it was the only way French could resupply their huge armies in Iberia. Meaning- cut off that province and you can slowly strangle the French in Iberia.
In the beginning of the year 1648, Portuguese army did just that. With the skill of Inacio de Magalhaes and the Portuguese ability to quick march, the over 90 000 soldiers strong Portuguese behemoth of an army marched across the Portuguese and Spanish territories, avoiding battle of all kind and attacked the 10 000 soldiers strong Spanish army currently bombarding the fortifications Portuguese had built over the countryside. Really unsuccessfully, i might add- and the border provinces were really well defended.
In short, the Portuguese attacked the Spanish and as usual, killed them off to the last man. Nearly 100 000 Portuguese versus 10 000 Spanish- no chance there, it would seem. So, the Portuguese took over the Pirineo, liberated the garrisons under siege and most importantly, closed the French reinforcements and supplies pouring in through the Pyrenees.
Portuguese taking position in Pirineo, French on their tail
Second Battle of Pirineo
Simon de Chambly, the French general, understood what threat the Portuguese posed. With their control of Pirineo, French were bound to lose. His combined army of over 70 000 Frenchman has been chasing the army of de Magalhaes and failed to do so. Now, de Chambly would have to make a decision what to do...
Elan is always the French way. With zeal, the French attacked. It was now 74 000 French against 93 000 Portuguese. The biggest battle Portugal had ever fought. The number of cavalry and the guns was about the same for Portuguese and French- 23 000 cavalry and about 140 guns for each army. The main difference was in infantry- the Portuguese had 55 000 and the French 37 000.
Portuguese had good defensive positions in the mountains, forcing the French to first cross the water and then mount an attack on the Portuguese defences, situated properly in the high ground. Meaning- whatever advantage French had, they lost. Still, you have to admire them. They still attacked, even though Portuguese outnumbered them and were in a very good defensive position.
Portuguese and French facing each other in Pirineo
In the end, the Portuguese won- with quite a number. The French paid a horrible price- over 30 000 Frenchman lay dead on the foothills of the Pyrenees. Still, de Magalhaes assessed the main concern of the French wrong. He assumed that the French were attacking his positions to end the Portuguese blockade of the Pyrenees, but the French had other plans. de Chambly had had enough of Iberia- most likely because the Spanish were not the best allies and he realized the danger of fighting with the Portuguese. So, instead of keeping the path open, he tried to use the path to head back to France. Result- his forces broke through, for de Magalhaes had blockaded other parts of the county. Still, in Battle of Pirineo that took place in 29th March 1648, the Portuguese held their own. As said, over 30 000 French dead, against 14 000 Portuguese. Even though de Magalhaes was unable to stop the French breakthrough, it also meant that when French fled towards France, Iberia was now clear of the French. Only the Spanish remained.
The biggest battle of Portugal thus far
End of Bengal
Also in March 1648, the Portuguese had destroyed enough of Bengal for the Sultan of Bengal to give in. Portugal gained total four provinces in this war, including the most important one, Deva Bengal or Bengal Delta- the estuary of Ganges and the center of trade for Bengal.
That was easy...
Result- Portuguese became the undisputed leaders of the Bengal node, owning up to three quarters of the trade passing through the node. Also, when before the war, Portuguese managed to pull about 27 gold forward, With the new conquests, the amount had increased over 10 gold. It meant that to Lisboa, even larger number appeared. Portugal was now a definite master of the Asian trade.
Instant results- no more a chokepoint, but valuable addition to Portuguese Asian trade
Third Battle of Pirineo
In April 1648, to everyone’s surprise, Spain finally moved. Their army of 20 000 soldiers were busily sieging Aragon entire time the French were fighting Portuguese suddenly started to move. Most likely, they thought to keep Portuguese off guard and force them to retreat or something, but the reality was different. Spanish were defeated. Wonder what would have happened if the Spanish had joined the French...
It was now clear what happened. Portuguese armies were split into two and they met the fleeing Spanish army in Asturias. There, the Spanish military power was destroyed yet again.
Not sure why the Spanish attacked...but one does not look a gift victory in the mouth
End of War
By the middle of 1648, the Portuguese were once again in total control of their territories. French were busy retreating to somewhere in France and Spanish were just defeated. The war was about to end- and against all odds in Portuguese victory.
Portuguese were so confident now that João V ordered the Portuguese fleet to sail to the shores of England. A Danish fleet had been busy blockading the English ports, giving England a really hard time. Now, it was time to put an end to it- 30 Portuguese war galleons left the Portuguese coast undefended as they headed out to the sea.
Portuguese ships sinking the Danish ones
Indeed, they did find a Danish fleet. Though the Danish were good sailors and well known of their naval prowess in the Baltic Sea, they were no match for the Portuguese galleons. In a battle fought in July 1648, the Portuguese sunk every last ship of their fleet. 5 galleons and 20 frigates in the bottom of the sea- not a good thing to any nation, no matter how rich they are.
Sinking one of Danish fleets
As for Spain, they tried to build an army again. 40 000 Portuguese did not think it was a good idea and made it very clear to Spanish that Portugal will not take kindly to any Spanish resistance. In battle of Leon in August 1648, the Spanish were defeated once again.
Last battle of the war
With that, the war was quickly coming to an end. It was a strange war, with no provinces changing hands. The French and Spanish armies were defeated before they could finish any sieges and Portuguese were too busy fighting them so they did not have time to start their own. As a result, when João V finally decided to sign peace (mostly due to the French returning) in September 1648, there were no provinces for Portugal to claim. Instead, João V demanded the independence of Galicia and forces Spanish to give up claims for several Portuguese provinces. The first French-Portuguese war was over.
Finally, the peace
Aftermath
It was a costly war. Portuguese military losses were so high that they actually depleted the Portuguese manpower pool. Before the war begun, Portugal had over 100 000 soldiers in reserve, now they had none and armies still needed about 20 000 soldiers more to become truly effective. Basically meaning that Portugal now has to wait for about 10 years before being able to mount a full scale war once again.
As for Galicia- João V entered a royal marriage with them as soon as the war was over and soon, the treaty was signed with Galica becoming a Portuguese vassal. At least one province was gained from this war...
Enjoy your temporary and limited freedom, Galicia!
Yay, i won! Though barely, for i was burning manpower like crazy. And finally decided to give up when 80k French troops crossed the border again. Didn't want yet another battle of Pirineo. So- the first French-Portuguese troops ended up with Galicia... at least something.
Nikolai - Heh, yes. Absolute monarchy most likely means that the King is responsible, not you!
Nikolai - Heh, yes. Absolute monarchy most likely means that the King is responsible, not you!
An absolute monarchy? At least we can look forward to a liberal revolution in about 150 years' time. Or maybe you'll preempt them and become an enlightened despotate à la Portugal in our timline – only maybe be a bit more enlightened...
Good to see further expansion a home. Galicia is a good expansion avenue – especially comsidering the western seaboard is now de jure wholly yours. Looking forward to more!
Or maybe you'll preempt them and become an enlightened despotate à la Portugal in our timline – only maybe be a bit more enlightened...Good to see further expansion a home. Galicia is a good expansion avenue – especially comsidering the western seaboard is now de jure wholly yours. Looking forward to more!
So instead of fleeing to Brazil, Portugal actually forced the French out of Iberia. After forcing the english under her heels. And beating the crap out of Spain. And monopolizing the Indian trade.
Now you just have to beat the Dutch in a colonial war and you'll make just about every dreams of portuguese imperialism true.
As for Island Portugal, they just insist in calling themselves British, those fools.
Now you just have to beat the Dutch in a colonial war and you'll make just about every dreams of portuguese imperialism true.
As for Island Portugal, they just insist in calling themselves British, those fools.
Three Wars
Royal Palace
To celebrate the victory over the French and Spanish, João V celebrated with the most lavish, biggest and the most beautiful and utterly decorated palace in the known world. In Ajuda, in heart of Lisboa, a new palace was build with record time. With just 12 month, the old palace was cleared and the most beautiful palace, remained of Portuguese power, was built. Ready in December 1649, João V moved in by Christmas. Palace of Ajuda soon became the envy of every royal ruler in Europe- and all of Europe became full of the smaller copies of the palace.
Palace of Ajuda
Why Does the Pope Need Land?
The Papal State had grown. They had became one of the dominant powers in Italy, controlling 6 provinces in Central and South Italy, plus the city of Venice and the Island of Crete. And they held to that power. Even though João V was de facto controlling the Pope, the Pope refused to give up their earthly claims. And claims they did have...
It was in May 1650 when Portuguese finally started the annexation of Sicily. One month later, João V declared war on Papal States, claiming the province of Ancona to Portugal and seeking to give Lucania and Bari back to their rightful owners- Sicilians. Portuguese had total 33 000 soldiers in Central Italy. Since the Portuguese were still suffering from severe manpower shortage, all of the soldiers were mercenaries, only with Portuguese generals.
The war begun traditionally- with cannons of the Portuguese Armada Real, 30 war galleons, pounding away the enemy fleet. In this case, reliving Papal States from most of their fleet in Ligurian Sea, sinking and capturing a total of 25 ships and then, a few days later, sinking yet another 6 galleys in Tyrrhenian Sea.
Meanwhile, mercenaries lead by Inacio de Magalhaes attacked the Papal Army in Ancona. A bit over 20 000 soldiers attacking 14 000. And the Portuguese were lead by one of the greatest generals in the world- no wonder the Portuguese managed to surrender and destroy the Papal army. The Pope never got a chance to raise another. Portuguese troops split up and covered all of the Papal lands with armies.
The beginning of the war of destruction of Papal forces
By the end of 1652, all of Papal lands were occupied by the Portuguese, including Crete and Venice. The peace was signed by May 1653. Main reason for it taking so long- João V waited until Bengal Delta and some other Indian provinces became cores of Portugal, so he could make peace without the overextension problems. With peace, Papal States lost 4 of his 8 provinces. Two to Portugal and two to Sicily. And João V promised to take others away as well, leaving the Pope rule over just Rome.
The peace is made
Incidentally, in that time, Europe saw the strangest army. One day, an army landed to Ottoman-controlled Italian province of Verona and sieged the province. Their leader spoke a bit of Portuguese (you have to when you’re living in that region) and it turned out to be forced of Mawar, the most powerful of Indian nation, had sailed from home to siege Ottomans in Europe. Truly a global war.
Strait of Hormuz
Indus is a third Indian node. Thus far, Portuguese only had province of Suhar and 10 frigates patrolling it- but in order to gather all the riches from India, you need to control Indus as well. So, in June 1653, Portugal declared war on Persia. A powerful country, holding Hormuz, one of the trade nodes of the Indus area. Also, João V ordered one of his merchants to move from Bengal to Indus.
Total 30 000 Portuguese took part of the conflict, 20 000 in Persian area and 10 000 in India, where Persia had a loyal ally Jainpur, one of the big powers in India. First, Jainpur invaded Portuguese India with 17 000 soldiers. Portuguese attacked and won- then marching after them to as far as Kashmir, until the Jainpur forces were destroyed.
End of the Jaipuri...
As for Persia, they attacked with 32 000 units and it took Portuguese over a year to finally destroy their army. But in the end, Portuguese proved once again their superiority over the Eastern troops. Both times, Portuguese were outnumbered, but their military discipline, equipment and tactics proved superior.
... and the crushing of Persian troops
Even Great Britain decided to send their small army to help. Good to see the Portuguese-British relationships were improving. Together, the coalition pushed into the lands of Persia, and soon, the enemy capitulated.
In December 1655, the peace was signed, giving Portugal all the Persian coastal provinces in Indus area. Most importantly, Hormoz, the local trade center. Portuguese had now total control over the navigation in Gulf of Persia. They were the ones deciding who is left in and who out.
New holdings of Portugal- and overextension screen
Plus, Portugal now had quite a share in the Indhus node. With nearly 8 gold flowing towards Aden and Portuguese supremacy there, Portugal could soon risk to move trader from Ceylon to where he is needed the most and still keep the money flowing towards Aden.
African Conquest
Kilwa, formerly known as Swahili, were still a power in the East African area. Though the Portuguese had taken most of their power and provinces, they still had four remaining. In July 1656, João V decided to take even these, because they still managed to disrupt Zanzibar. Kilwa had also moved their capital from Mozambique to Lamu up north, where they still had three provinces.
The Portuguese used 26 000 soldiers for this one- 20 000 from Indian troops and another 6000 was the small African army who now sieged and took Mozambique. The war was quick and easy,with 8000 Kilwa soldiers beaten in battle, their fleet sunk and no resistance left, it was only siege.
Most importantly, in January 1658, a colonist arrived to Lesser Namaqualand, One province before the Cape of Good Hope and established an Portuguese colony there. With that, the entire coastline of West Africa, from Morocco up north to Cape back south, was firmly under Portuguese control.
Arrival in Lesser Namaqualand meant that the Portuguese hold of the Coast of Africa is complete
Kilwa gave up in March 1658, giving Portuguese all their provinces but their capital. East coast of Africa was also coming Portuguese sole property, though the Kilwa will most likely remain a one-province minor for quite a long time. For two simple reasons- Kilwa has merchants in Aden and Indus, adding small percentage from the money coming the Portuguese way. More useful to keep them alive and doing that.
Kilwa giving up
Other matters
During that period, the Portuguese finished their naval ideas and pushed the religious ideas also a bit further. Also in December 1649, Portuguese increased their military technology to 20, meaning more defences, better cannons and more firepower for the infantry.
Royal Palace
To celebrate the victory over the French and Spanish, João V celebrated with the most lavish, biggest and the most beautiful and utterly decorated palace in the known world. In Ajuda, in heart of Lisboa, a new palace was build with record time. With just 12 month, the old palace was cleared and the most beautiful palace, remained of Portuguese power, was built. Ready in December 1649, João V moved in by Christmas. Palace of Ajuda soon became the envy of every royal ruler in Europe- and all of Europe became full of the smaller copies of the palace.
Palace of Ajuda
Why Does the Pope Need Land?
The Papal State had grown. They had became one of the dominant powers in Italy, controlling 6 provinces in Central and South Italy, plus the city of Venice and the Island of Crete. And they held to that power. Even though João V was de facto controlling the Pope, the Pope refused to give up their earthly claims. And claims they did have...
It was in May 1650 when Portuguese finally started the annexation of Sicily. One month later, João V declared war on Papal States, claiming the province of Ancona to Portugal and seeking to give Lucania and Bari back to their rightful owners- Sicilians. Portuguese had total 33 000 soldiers in Central Italy. Since the Portuguese were still suffering from severe manpower shortage, all of the soldiers were mercenaries, only with Portuguese generals.
The war begun traditionally- with cannons of the Portuguese Armada Real, 30 war galleons, pounding away the enemy fleet. In this case, reliving Papal States from most of their fleet in Ligurian Sea, sinking and capturing a total of 25 ships and then, a few days later, sinking yet another 6 galleys in Tyrrhenian Sea.
Meanwhile, mercenaries lead by Inacio de Magalhaes attacked the Papal Army in Ancona. A bit over 20 000 soldiers attacking 14 000. And the Portuguese were lead by one of the greatest generals in the world- no wonder the Portuguese managed to surrender and destroy the Papal army. The Pope never got a chance to raise another. Portuguese troops split up and covered all of the Papal lands with armies.
The beginning of the war of destruction of Papal forces
By the end of 1652, all of Papal lands were occupied by the Portuguese, including Crete and Venice. The peace was signed by May 1653. Main reason for it taking so long- João V waited until Bengal Delta and some other Indian provinces became cores of Portugal, so he could make peace without the overextension problems. With peace, Papal States lost 4 of his 8 provinces. Two to Portugal and two to Sicily. And João V promised to take others away as well, leaving the Pope rule over just Rome.
The peace is made
Incidentally, in that time, Europe saw the strangest army. One day, an army landed to Ottoman-controlled Italian province of Verona and sieged the province. Their leader spoke a bit of Portuguese (you have to when you’re living in that region) and it turned out to be forced of Mawar, the most powerful of Indian nation, had sailed from home to siege Ottomans in Europe. Truly a global war.
Strait of Hormuz
Indus is a third Indian node. Thus far, Portuguese only had province of Suhar and 10 frigates patrolling it- but in order to gather all the riches from India, you need to control Indus as well. So, in June 1653, Portugal declared war on Persia. A powerful country, holding Hormuz, one of the trade nodes of the Indus area. Also, João V ordered one of his merchants to move from Bengal to Indus.
Total 30 000 Portuguese took part of the conflict, 20 000 in Persian area and 10 000 in India, where Persia had a loyal ally Jainpur, one of the big powers in India. First, Jainpur invaded Portuguese India with 17 000 soldiers. Portuguese attacked and won- then marching after them to as far as Kashmir, until the Jainpur forces were destroyed.
End of the Jaipuri...
As for Persia, they attacked with 32 000 units and it took Portuguese over a year to finally destroy their army. But in the end, Portuguese proved once again their superiority over the Eastern troops. Both times, Portuguese were outnumbered, but their military discipline, equipment and tactics proved superior.
... and the crushing of Persian troops
Even Great Britain decided to send their small army to help. Good to see the Portuguese-British relationships were improving. Together, the coalition pushed into the lands of Persia, and soon, the enemy capitulated.
In December 1655, the peace was signed, giving Portugal all the Persian coastal provinces in Indus area. Most importantly, Hormoz, the local trade center. Portuguese had now total control over the navigation in Gulf of Persia. They were the ones deciding who is left in and who out.
New holdings of Portugal- and overextension screen
Plus, Portugal now had quite a share in the Indhus node. With nearly 8 gold flowing towards Aden and Portuguese supremacy there, Portugal could soon risk to move trader from Ceylon to where he is needed the most and still keep the money flowing towards Aden.
African Conquest
Kilwa, formerly known as Swahili, were still a power in the East African area. Though the Portuguese had taken most of their power and provinces, they still had four remaining. In July 1656, João V decided to take even these, because they still managed to disrupt Zanzibar. Kilwa had also moved their capital from Mozambique to Lamu up north, where they still had three provinces.
The Portuguese used 26 000 soldiers for this one- 20 000 from Indian troops and another 6000 was the small African army who now sieged and took Mozambique. The war was quick and easy,with 8000 Kilwa soldiers beaten in battle, their fleet sunk and no resistance left, it was only siege.
Most importantly, in January 1658, a colonist arrived to Lesser Namaqualand, One province before the Cape of Good Hope and established an Portuguese colony there. With that, the entire coastline of West Africa, from Morocco up north to Cape back south, was firmly under Portuguese control.
Arrival in Lesser Namaqualand meant that the Portuguese hold of the Coast of Africa is complete
Kilwa gave up in March 1658, giving Portuguese all their provinces but their capital. East coast of Africa was also coming Portuguese sole property, though the Kilwa will most likely remain a one-province minor for quite a long time. For two simple reasons- Kilwa has merchants in Aden and Indus, adding small percentage from the money coming the Portuguese way. More useful to keep them alive and doing that.
Kilwa giving up
Other matters
During that period, the Portuguese finished their naval ideas and pushed the religious ideas also a bit further. Also in December 1649, Portuguese increased their military technology to 20, meaning more defences, better cannons and more firepower for the infantry.
This is now what most wars tend to look like. Portugal arrives, destroys the enemy army and then sieges until enemy gives up. No need to talk too much about it.
Let's just say that by the end of the period, Portugal has recovered enough to start getting some revenge. And these conquests all added a little to the economical and military power Portugal still needs to compete with the greatest of nations.
DensleyBlair- since absolute monarchy does have the nicest bonuses, revolts are likely. Or well, since i'm the monarch, i'd rather call it official liberal-hunting days!
Orlov Kruskayev - Heh, true that, i'm like a Portuguese dream at the moment. Still, can't help with the Dutch, for they are non-existent. Will some colonial wars against Spain help? And no worries, the Brits will come to their senses in about 50 years or so.
Let's just say that by the end of the period, Portugal has recovered enough to start getting some revenge. And these conquests all added a little to the economical and military power Portugal still needs to compete with the greatest of nations.
DensleyBlair- since absolute monarchy does have the nicest bonuses, revolts are likely. Or well, since i'm the monarch, i'd rather call it official liberal-hunting days!
Orlov Kruskayev - Heh, true that, i'm like a Portuguese dream at the moment. Still, can't help with the Dutch, for they are non-existent. Will some colonial wars against Spain help?
And no worries, the Brits will come to their senses in about 50 years or so.
This was playing in the background as I read all this:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1H-cbCZlafY
I could really use some Malasada right now...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1H-cbCZlafY
I could really use some Malasada right now...
Colonial wars with Spain would be great indeed. Now that you could bring the mighty BBB down, there's little they can do anyway.
And, holy s@#t, I forgot to mention how awesome it is that you freed Galicia. Northern brothers are now freed from Castillian oppression, hell yeah!
And, holy s@#t, I forgot to mention how awesome it is that you freed Galicia. Northern brothers are now freed from Castillian oppression, hell yeah!
That Africa is nicely green. All you need now is to colonise Comoros, Madagascar and that bit of the Cape, and then we can enjoy some colonial wars!
Might even take the sting out of the fact that you're absolutist...
Might even take the sting out of the fact that you're absolutist...
Yes, West Africa is the right shade of green. There is still an unslightly colour blocking the way. As those other conquerors would have put it 'Morocco delenda est'.