54 - 40' or...

[Machiavellian]

The garlands of victory and a sudden defeat
When war wing'd its wide desolation,
And threaten'd the land to deform,
The ark then of freedom'm foundation,
Columbia rode safe thro' the storm;
With her garlands of vict'ry around her,
When so proudly she bore her brave crew;
With her flag proudly floating before her,
The boast of the white, red and blue,
The boast of the white, red and blue,
The boast of the white, red, and blue,
With her flag proudly floating before her,
The boast of the white, red and blue.
​

Following the Yukon war, most citizens of Columbia felt disillusioned with the policies of Jingo that the Young Columbian Party espoused. Many felt that they were lied to, as the Russians proved a far stronger foe than they were originally reported to be. The bravery and strength of the Russians soldiers at Wrangel was widely reported by several leading journalists, and despite their desire, Wright and his party respected the institution of free press too much to make any attempt on censorship. Among the lower classes, people pointed out that the war was a pointless bloodshed for the harsh, snow-draped land that most saw as useless. The upper class grumbled about the war taxes and most citizens had no desire to grant the largely Aleutian and Eskimo occupied territories statehood, as President Wright intended. Furthermore, many feared that Wrights saber rattling would anger Great Britain now that she had no need of Columbia making war. Others pointed to radicals in the United States who called for reclaiming the Oregon territory, though they were in a minority.

With an election coming, the Young Columbia Party found itself in a sudden crisis, with support for the current government dropping by the day. In a brave move, Esmond Wright decided to ignore politics until he decided to start his campaign, instead focusing on improving Columbia's standing on the world stage. Throughout October, President Wright went through detailed negotiations with Bavaria, and while he never met King Maximilian II, an arrangement was made with Ambassador Ralf Doersam for a massive exchange of technology. Considerable funds were spent in the endeavor, but even Wrights critics had to applaud the move as plans for the designs of Breech load rifles, naval fire control systems, and Iron muzzle loaded Artillery were given to Columbia's military scientists.

It is also during this time that Esmond Wright has the government establish ties with several private businesses, particularly those in the railroad industry. One man of particular note who prospered from this policy was Leland Stanford, who with his brother Prentice transformed their small business of selling supplies to men who sought to strike out for the Yukon, into the fastest growing rail and steel company in the northwest.

By the start of 1858 the election campaign had begun in earnest and Wright could no longer avoid the mounting troubles that faced his party. Throwing his hat into the ring for a second term, Esmond Wright faced off against only one serious challenger, Delcan H. Silver. The Unionist party candidate had risen in opposition to the faction led by Brady Fitz-James and Fulton Duff, and had actually had a seat in Parliament since the days of the Conservative party. An old hard-liner, Representative Silver had managed to subtly sabotage Fulton Duff's reputation and dug up enough dirt on Fitz-James to win his support.

Early in January, Declan Silver revealed his campaign platform to be one that preyed on the fears of the elite within Columbia, warning them of the encroachment of their rights by the increasing growth of the immigrant population. He made promises of a right and proper Anglo Columbia and warned of Wrights secret agenda to grant citizenship to the various tribesmen of the Yukon.

In an attempt to win favor for the Young Columbia Party candidate, General Duran organized a loose federation of veterans and on February 1st began a propagandistic campaign to re-elect President Wright. The veteran movement is surprisingly effective and Duran's passion for taming the Yukon draws many back to the Young Columbia camp. Though in his later speeches, he draws some controversy from his ill-thought comments on all Russians being treacherous and inbred.

In late April, Daniel "Duke" Silesi, a popular editorial writer in the Seattle Liberty, writes a harsh column on both candidates. In the column "Duke" details the importance of moving against nativist urges and embracing the metis, Cree, and foreign immigrants into Columbia's bountiful fold. The following week, Declan Silver burned a stack of the Seattle Liberty's papers and bitterly replied to Daniel Silesi's opinion.

"It is better to keep the wolf out of the fold than to trust to drawing his teeth and talons after he has entered. Civilization was brought to this land by the white man and fools like him [Mr. Silesi] would readily give away all we have struggled for." -- Declan H. Silver, 1858

Saddly, much of the fire that Wright carried in his speeches during his first campaign had went out, mused to be a result of his injuries and the death of his friend and Vice-President Bruce Catton. This made him quite ineffective against the vicious politics of Declan Silver.

In an attempt to bolster support for his government, Prime Minister Albert released the 1858 census report that revealed that literacy had risen to 80% under President Wright's first term. Unfortunately, while most Columbians were proud of this massive literacy, few attributed it to anything the government did. Further damaging the campaign of the Young Columbia Party was the growth of the activist group Open Hands of Columbia. Throughout the summer months, Open Hands of Columbia held rallies against Militarism in Seattle, Olympia, Donald, Spokane, and Glenora. The stunning success and impact of these rallies can be attributed to the parade of wounded soldiers who came out against the Yukon war and dispelled myths about its glory. While they did not support Rep. Silver, they nonetheless helped his campaign as he ran an anti-military platform.

Sensing defeat looming by late July, Peter Albert gathered his supporters together and began plans to pass several controversial bills that increased the rights of all citizens in Columbia. Though the Unionists raised complaint and cited abuse, there was little they could do. On August 29th, 1858 - six days before the election, Peter Albert's government, seeing that they were going to lose almost all their seats in Parliament, as well as the executive position, decided to act on his July plans and push through an amendment to the constitution that the Unionists would have a hard time altering. Still holding a heavy majority, over eighty percent of the seats in Parliament, an amendment is passed that "grants liberty to all men within the republic". With the amendment, the right to vote was suddenly extended to all citizens, regardless of their wealth or income bracket. This however did not extend to those who were not viewed as true citizens, such as metis or most immigrants.

The Parliament of Columbia, McKenzie Hall


This last ditch attempt did increase the Young Columbia Party's votes, but they still lost the elections by a landslide. Of their 81% hold on Parliament, they lost 72% of the available seats. The Unionists swept the liberals and most of the Young Columbia Party out of Parliament, including Peter Albert, though they were far less successful on a state level winning few if any judicial and gubernatorial elections.

Young Columbia Party tossed out onto Belleville Street!

Victoria - It's a great day to be a member of the Unionist party and an absolutely miserable day for the forward-ho Young Columbian's. Not only will Esmond Wright have to find a new house to live in, but Peter Albert will have to find himself a new job. The only notable member of the Young Columbia Party to retain his seat is the charming Shelby Foote. Another representative to hold his seat was the independent Joesph Lafayette Meek, who has clung to Parliament since Columbia's founding. I do hope Mr. Meek isn't shy, because there are going to be a lot of new faces in McKenzie Hall.

An excerpt from an editorial found in the Victoria Daily, the article was followed by a humorous cartoon depicting the ejected members of the Young Columbia party lying in a heap on the street outside Parliament. Extending from the doors of Parliament a large silver boot with the words Unionist can be seen. Peter Albert's hand tries to rise out of the heap with an amendment in his grasp.


With his victory, Declan H. Silver made a short speech congratulating the outgoing President Wright on an exciting campaign, before moving on to promise greater prosperity for Columbia under his watch. President Silver selected the relative newcomer Christian Nedrow as his Prime Minister and Parliament almost unanimously decided on the gruff, former mayor of Kitimat - Abraham Near. That evening, President Silver and his party were said to have thrown a raucous party in the Parliament building.

Declan H. Silver, 3rd President of Columbia

 

[coz1]

Well, I guess that means there won't be any major expansionists wars in the next few years (unless someone drags you into one, of course.)

 

[CatKnight]

So did I read on your screenie that it's the US vs Mexico, Costa Rica and Bavaria?

 

[Machiavellian]

Yeah, that is correct. Though I am not really sure exactly how Bavaria got itself into an alliance with Mexico. However, from what I have witnessed, none of Mexico's so called allies have helped Mexico out with troops.

 

[Machiavellian]

The Residency Laws

Following his Inauguration, President Declan Silver set about establishing himself as a President who could get things done, at once building on Peter Albert and Esmond Wrights initial progress with the railroads by solidifying a deal with America that brought able techniques for cheap steel and an Iron based Railroad to Columbia, as well as a small some of capital. While some Naval technology and knowledge of Columbia's banking system was given up, the deal seemed to heavily favor Columbia's interests. In addition, President Silver helped steal the achievements of the past administration, by linking them with his own.

While President Silver made some attempts at strengthening ties with the United States, especially considering their recent advance toward Mexico City, for the most part he handled foreign matters with a hesitant hand, not wishing to entangle Columbia in any unnecessary alliances or wars. The nations of Europe were too far away and most in Columbia did not wish to become to closely tied with its much larger neighbors, Great Britain and the United States of America.

Internal affairs were another matter entirely. While technically the responsibility of Prime Minister Christian Nedrow and his cabinet, President Silver would often attend cabinet meetings and send memos to various members of Parliament, offering various policy suggestions. It quickly became clear to those few of the minority party in Parliament, that Nedrow was chosen as Prime Minister to be a puppet of Declan Silver and his Vice President Abraham Near, who unlike earlier Vice Presidents had policies and an agenda strongly in line with the President.

On June 15th, 1859 US forces captured Mexico City and the following day forced a peace that ended the second Mexican-American war. Unlike the bitterly resented peace of the first war against Mexico, President Frémont of the United States tried in earnest to pacify those hawks on both sides who wanted the United States to straddle the continent, though with his abolitionist views made no real attempt to soothe the increasingly belligerent South, save securing a much reduced Texas. Five days following the peace, Frémont dropped out of the Presidential campaign for re-election, as he fell victim to a strain of yellow fever he may have picked up when reviewing the troops at a ceremony following the peace with Mexico. Though he would survive the disease, he made no attempt to get back into the race, fully supporting his Republican replacement, "honest Abe Lincoln".

Despite the anti-war platform, the Unionist cabinet and President Silver began to debate on the best path of expansion, reasoning that if Columbia did not increase it's labor force, it would only be a matter of years until it was swallowed up by Great Britain or the United States of America. The expansion plans were highly secretive and only the closest advisors to President Silver and Mr. Near were privileged to the discussions. Yet by mid-August the plans for expanding the national borders were sidelined, as the Unionist domestic policy began to bare fruit. On August 19th, 1859 the first set of the Residency laws were passed by Parliament.

The initial Residency Laws curtailed the ability for foreign citizens to immigrate to Columbia, especially those who were viewed as colored. The Residency Law also put into affect favored job placement of white-blooded Anglo's. Lineage was also sought to be established via a census department that was to be joined with the growing immigration control department. Very little public reaction was sparked by the initial acts of the Residency Laws, for it in truth did not much affect their way of life. Those of Metis or Cree occupation rarely sought out positions in the factories, instead working as loggers, in mines, or entering into the armed service - rarely needing to compete against the Anglo-Columbian population. In addition, the Census department was far too young and poorly organized to do a proper job, often missing whole counties and judging a man rarely on records, but instead on manners, accent and the shade of ones skin. This allowed more than one Metis to pass as "white" and enter on the records into the voting population.

Vancouver Sun, 3 cents
November 5th, 1859 edition

Republicans win again! Abe Lincoln elected President in the US.
Story on page 2.

Mexican Civil war continues with no end in sight. Thousands killed, as petty warlords seek to power! Fighting spreads to the north and fleeing mexicans violate the North American west. The US senate warns against violating peace treaty stipulations! for more on story, see page 4. ​

The election of President Lincoln troubled the Unionist government of Columbia somewhat. The relationship that had been established with the US under the Wright administration was for the most part a personal understanding with John Frémont and Esmond Wright, not one in which Columbia and the US agreed to officially. Furthermore, when Ambassador Delazon Smith returned from a meeting with Lincoln he reported that Lincoln was cold and many in the high government positions often proved unreceptive to trade exchanges or alliance agreements. He told Silver that Lincoln had privately told him he thought the Unionists Party a step in the wrong direction for Columbia, like the Democrats of the American South. Upon hearing this President Silver became red in the face and reportedly hurled a plethora of curses not meant for a President to utter. It took the calming hand of Vice-President Near to get matters under control, sending Delazon Smith back to the Embassy in Washington, D.C. with instructions to establish friendships with those Senators and Congressmen more friendly toward Columbia and Unionist goals.

Parading down the streets of Victoria to gather in Centennial Square yesterday despite the slight rain President Silver rode on horse at the head of the first all Anglo military force. In good spirits, the lanky frame of President Silver stood straight as a flagpole, his hands waving to the applauding crowd. To further match the fresh faced youths of the new cavalry corp., the President fitted himself with an ornamental Cuirass. Arriving at Centennial Square, the President was helped off his horse and led up to the speakers podium where he removed his hat, as Adolph Gamble, one of those fresh faced young soldiers, sang the National Anthem. Replacing his hat, the President launched into his speech, hitting upon old themes of economic growth, the need to maintain the natural order in society and to properly civilize the savage races. This was followed up by praising the Residency Laws instituted by Parliament and Prime Minister Nedrow. President Silver followed by touching on some new themes, praising the proud traditions of Columbia and extolling the value of simple common sense. Becoming slightly hoarse of voice, the President finished by speaking of Mexico and the bloodshed of their civil war. Perhaps the most memorable words of the day were uttered in the last minutes of his speech when President Silver said, "It is clear that Mexico as a country is the sick man of this Continent and whose illness becomes worse with every passing day. As we stand by, neutral in this conflict, his [mexico] death throes bring starvation, instability, chaos, and violence not only to the people of Mexico but also to all who live on the American continent. Many would wish us to wait the crisis out, but can you rightly ask a doctor to just let a patient die? And if plagued, would you ask the doctor to let the contagion spread? No and No again! We are neighbors and it is your business, when the home next door catches fire. Let us splash some water on this fire before the blaze spreads onto us." Following the speech, the President was ushered away and most of the crowd followed the young cavalry corp. out of centennial square, some even going as far as Port Alberni where they were bound, though this reporter did not.

Article in the Columbia Liberty, January 2nd 1860.


In late January, the strife in Mexico began getting out of hand and the Unionist, seeing an opportunity to extend Columbia's interests, began appealing to the public’s sympathy in order to restore stability to Mexico. Military divisions were also gathered at various ports, where ships were waiting to ferry them down the coast if needed. In addition, by February a movement towards Traditionalism took hold in the northern and eastern cities of Columbia. At its core the movement held that all knowledge is transmitted through the common sense of the citizenry, and that this knowledge that the people possess should be the foundation of society, reflecting the character of their natures. This movement was soon followed by the second and third Residency Law acts.

On March 2nd the second act of the Residency Laws went into affect. While it had some minor laws, at its heart it instituted a policy in which Minorities privileged to be living in Columbia, were said to have an obligation to defend Columbia, and thus could be drafted freely from the populace to serve in the Military in times of need.

Twenty days later the third act of the Residency Laws went into affect, which clearly stated that government benefits to be paid for unemployment would not be given to minorities, so as not to foster a culture of dependence. In addition it gave private companies and public institutions alike the right to cut or deny pensions to those of Residency status. This brought some small amount of protests, but with the sudden appearance of the reactionary Redemption Party movement, most wished to avoid instigation.

The Redemption Party, while it did not hold any elected positions was a small, but growing organization of men who had fought against the Indians on Columbia's borders or who just hated immigrants and other minorities who claimed the Residency Laws were too soft and desired the adjustment of the social castes, going so far in some cases as to state clearly the desire for Slavery to be adopted and extended to those of savage natures. While Unionists did not publicly support the Redemption Party, many secretly supported and funded them, using them to promote extremist views and thusly allowing the Unionists to seem moderate by comparison. In addition the Redemption Party acted as bullyboys, breaking up protests and demonstrations against the various Residency Law Acts.

It should be noted that the Unionist government did not only pass laws that restricted benefits, but also in may passed a general health care reform bill, which extended good health care to the nations citizens. With it however came the forth of the Residency Laws, which tied health care directly to race and the number of years a person lived as a resident of Columbia. For those residents who had lived in Columbia their whole lives an acceptable standard of health care would be provided, while those who had only lived in the country for 5-10 years were given a substantially worse plan and those who had been living in the country for less than five years were provided little more than trinkets by the government. This act was generally well received, though it did almost entirely halt immigration to Columbia. A fact that was appreciated by a significant portion of the population as well.

After giving his speech in early January, the President and his advisors had been working feverishly on developing a plan by which they could expand Columbia borders and influence and after much debate and strategizing had come to a consensus on the best option, which they named "the Portland Plan". Primarily inspired by a suggestion made by Vice-President Near, the Portland plan called for intervention in the Mexican civil war. With the interest of safety and stability in the region, Columbia would take control of Mexican Southern California and the lands of the Rio Grande. Then once Mexico's crumbling government recognized Columbia's authority over that region, Columbia would aid in reestablishing a government in Mexico by supporting one faction or another. In truth Mexico's stabilization was not a top priority. Following the peaceful conclusion, the lands of the Rio Grande would be offered to the United States in exchange for the territory in and around Portland, which was viewed by many as the rightful claim of Columbia.

On June 8th, a polished and sugar coated "Portland Plan" was presented before Parliament and following several heated arguements, was approved on the 16th in a vote that barely met the necessary seats to be passed. A large division of Unionists strongly opposed the action, believing strongly in their Anti-war platform and favoring Isolationism, and it required a few bribes to swing the opposition Young Columbia Party delagates to vote in favor of the Portland plan.

The day following the decision in Parliament, the newly promoted Major General Rupert was ordered to oversee the deployment of troops to secure and stabalize Mexico.

 

[coz1]

So the government chooses intervention in Mexico as a better solution to the need for workers rather than giving full citizenship? Seems that might make immigration dwindle if there is any at all. Counter-productive? I'd say so, but don't tell the Unionist Party. They might have me deported.

 

[Machiavellian]

Truth be told I don't know whether or not Immigration came to a crashing halt because of the Unionist party or not, but as far as the actual game was concerned, shortly after the Unionist Party came to power, all Immigration (and it wasn't that much to begin with) halted entirely. Taking land from Mexico to sell back to America sounded like a good idea, especially since aside from tons of rebels, I didn't see any standing Mexican army. I'll probably continue this later in the week.

Any suggestions on things you might like to see or things you'd like changed will be well received along with critism. But if you are all enjoying it, feel free to pipe in as well and I'll just keep this moving along down the same path. I'm having a tough time imagining Columbia's politics, as its population is so different. They are highly literate, seem to switch party loyalty constantly (I think because they vote on issues and not ideology) and are made up of a mix of former Yankee's, British and Anglo-Canadians with the lower class Metis and Cree. An odd bunch. I hope it isn't too unrealisticly portrayed thus far.

 

[Jape]

I think you're doing a pretty good job so far. The political situation is alot more realistic than most games actually. Is the Redemption Party an actual party you've created or just something for narrative?, either way a little un-nerving with all the breaking up of civil rights groups and Unionist secret support, little Nazi-like still pretty good

 

[Mettermrck]

Ah, I'm enjoying this AAR so far, Machiavellan. You delve into concepts not necessarily covered by the game. Really quality writing!

 

[Machiavellian]

Thanks for the responses, I am glad everyone is enjoying it thus far. As to your question about the Redemption Party. Before I started the game I rolled a few dice and created a few political parties to appear during the game, since in the game files Columbia's only political parties were Liberal and Conservative. The death date for those two has long ago passed, as you know. The Redemption party is indeed a political party, but its reactionary and just appeared. At the moment it has a whole 0% support so rather than make it a political party per say, I've decided to make them a radical hate group along the lines of the Ku Klux Klan, though they could possibly be upgraded if they gain support to something like the Know-Nothing party (which was fairly strong in america at this time). Some big things just happened after I played last night and hopefully i'll get time to write an update soon, though I want to catch up on some forum reading first.

 

[Machiavellian]

I was going to do an update today, but I got bogged down and I started reading Mettermrck's completed HoI AAR, which by the way is great. I only got up to page six and the Mexican war, so no spoilers. As for my own AAR's Mexican war, i'll try to make time for writing this evening, but I can not make any promises.

 

[CatKnight]

Your politics are quite realistic, Mach. I'm really enjoying that aspect, and I can fully believe the part about the Unionists using the Redemptions to make themselves look good by comparison.

Your people may be voting by issues more than ideology because the Unionists and Young Columbians both seem kind of extremists... though in a very young republic that's not unreasonable.

As for Met's AAR....it's not bad until the hovertanks and Germany's alliance with Alpha Centauri on page...32 or 33 I think. Once you get past that and the fighting mecha (giant robots,) you're okay again.

* runs from Mett *

 

[Machiavellian]

The illusion of victory

"In the history of North America, few decisions have so affected the continent on a whole as much as Columbia's decision to invade, liberate and stabilize the rebellion torn nation of Mexico. The great powers saw Declan Silver's rhetoric for what it was, knowing well that Mexico's best interests were never in mind. One cannot help but wonder if the immense bloodshed that followed would have been averted had Columbia not advanced the now infamous 'Operation Portland'." -- Gary S. Harding, historian.​

While called an act of intervention and stabilization, Columbia was forced to declare war against the "Corrupt, negligent and irresponsible government of Mexico". In Europe, this act recieved little scorn, with some nations going so far as to praise Columbia in its humanitarian decision. However in America and at home scorn and abuse was leveled at the Silver administration. Abraham Lincoln called Columbia's actions "Irresponsible and well outside the [Columbian] sphere of influence" while the US Speaker of the House, William Pennington raised public sentiment in the north against Columbia decrying the action as "An unmitigated act of Imperialism.. an action that would plunge the continent further into disaster." He further called for the government of Columbia to reconsider its decision. When plans for Operation Portland continued, Pennington once more appeared in the US and Columbia's newspaper headlines. In one famously repeated tagline, the Speaker of the House said "..Governments often offer up pretexts to cover the real reasons for war, which are too often the pursuit of greed and autocracy. Those who fight the wars, or even those who support the wars for patriotic reasons, rarely know the real reasons. Humanity must open its eyes." Calling on Columbia's citizens and lawmakers to demonstrate against the war had some success, with the Unionist Party still divided over the decision to intervene in Mexico.

William Pennington, 1860 US Speaker of the House


Eyes soon focused on what was at issue in the first place, when early in the morning of July 6th two divisions of infantry under the command of Brigadier General Rupert landed just outside the growing city of Los Angeles. With Parliament still undecided about the decision to intervene, President Silver and his advisors closely followed the actions of Brig. General Rupert, knowing that an early success would return their fading popularity. On July 27th, word returned that Rupert had encountered minimum resistance and had secured Los Angeles. President Silver immediately ordered officials to establish a military government in Los Angeles and ordered waiting divisions to commense with the full scale of the operations.

In the first few days of August the mostly all white Cuirassier division of 3rd Corp landed at San Diego and further south General Duran and his famed Metis Cavalry were deployed, quickly defeating Mexican rebels in El Rosario.

The ease of victory in July and the early successes in August seemed to strike back at the words of Pennington and critics of President Silver. Those who protested against the intervention in June and July turned over a new leaf in August, more willingly accepting the judgement of those in office. The society of Columbia as a whole had steadily been moving to a trend of Authoritarinism, with many feeling that Authority and respect for those who were elected into the higher offices was the most important value of society, giving balance and stability. Columbians argued that without such respect, instability and chaos would be inevitable, pointing to Mexico and the fighting in Kansas as clear examples. This proved to be a strong foundation for those in leadership and helped Declan Silver expand the powers of the presidency. In turn however, the vice-presidents role was also extended, no longer being a merely advisory position.

Vancouver Sun, 3 cents
September 18th, 1860 edition

Rupert captures San Bernardio - establishes order. General Duran brings security and aid to El Rosario and surrounding villages. Intervention praised as a success by its advocates!

The top headline in most of Columbia's papers, 9/18/1860.

By mid-september Rupert and Duran both made stunning progress, with Brigadier General Rupert well on his way to leading his troops eastward along the US-Mexican border, while General Duran scattered any organized resistance threatening the operation by quickly striking at Buena Vista. Perhaps the only real snag at this point in time was the trouble 3rd Corps was having in San Diego. Having encountered one of the former mexican generals opposed to the government in Mexico city, the green cavalry of 3rd Corps suffered some initial casualties, before eventually forcing the rebels to make a stand at San Diego's only brick building. The battle of Whaley House was short but violent, over three hundred of Columbia's soldiers died in the encounter, though small in comparision to the over a thousand mexican rebels who perished along with their General Don Andres Loma in the twelve hour conflict.

The Whaley House - Courthouse and General Store.

Following the bitter resistance and then defeat of General Loma, few Mexican forces, government or rebel, were encountered as all fronts progressed eastward. With Cavalry in Buena Vista and more riding towards Tucson, all seemed well. Before the end of October, word reached Columbia that Rupert had made it as far as Phoenix, securing the region and was waiting further orders. Elated with the news, the Unionist government called for all units to march on Dallas. It was expected that after Dallas was occupied, the north could be fully stabilized and Operation Portland could commense. Disaster however soon struck.

Throughout the months of September and October the United States President, Abraham Lincoln was advised by the intelligence arm of the United States government of a supposed 'Operation Portland' that Columbia was preparing. While they did not know the specifics on the ominous sounding plan, Columbia's imperialistic advances and the recent string of wars in the young republics existance did not sit well with Lincoln or his Generals. Philip Henry Sheridan further argued that in Columbia's trek to the Rio Grande it was trespassing in territory rightfully claimed by the USA. Many argued for a stronger stance towards Columbia. With trouble brewing in South Carolina over the growing Northern dominance, the Abolition movement, and the memory of John Brown's raid still lingering, Lincoln turned his eyes to Columbia. In Columbia he saw three things; 1) An Imperialist power encroaching on America's sphere of influnce and out of line with Abolitionist views. 2) A threat to the security and growth of his great nation. 3) Most importantly, a distraction from the heated fight between North and South over slavery. Lincoln believed that he could use Columbia to avert the dangerous disunity that sought to break his country in two.

US President Abraham Lincoln and his leading Generals​

After a sleepless night of rumination, on the first of November President Lincoln came to his decision. The next few days were spent meeting with his advisors, Generals and eventually the Congress. Then on November 9th, 1860 the ball dropped: The United States of America declared war on the Democratic Republic of Columbia!

Everything had changed.

 

[coz1]

DOH!!

I feared something like this might happen. I was initially worried that they might start trying to beat you to Mexican property, but when you started into Texas, I knew it might be a bad situation soon. Let's just hope your troops, being not so green anymore, can stand up against the might of the US. Good luck!

 

[stnylan]

Ouch! That has to be news you'd rather not have had.

I've really enjoyed reading through this. Nice, clear style, and I especially like the headlines.

 

[unmerged(17581)]

Whoa!

stnylan and coz1 together again! Reminds me of the old days. Good times, good times.

Good luck, Machiavellian, though I doubt that you'll pull through this one! Unless the USA has their civil war now, but from the tone of your update that sounds unlikely.

 

[CatKnight]

Well, unless Machiavellian changed the game, the ACW is a scripted event starting in December 1860.

The potential problem is that the US has had time to build up due to their war with Mexico. They should be much, much stronger than they were historically, and if the US diverts enough troops to teach General Rupert a lesson...it could go badly.

Of course, Columbia is also (technically) in a two-front war, though Mexico probably doesn't signify at this point. Let's hope the Unionists know enough to make peace with one of them...fast!

 

[Jape]

Well i played a game in which the US declared war on Mexico in 1860, and never had a civil war, so Columbia may have to face the whole of the United States military. I cant remember though, do you still have any ties with Britain?, could be a useful ally

 

[Machiavellian]

Thanks everyone for the comments, I am going to update today or at least start writing. Now let's see if I can answer any questions, as I am not sure how much longer Columbia as a nation will survive.

Coz1: While I did not say doh! (I think it was more of an "oh SHieT!") War with the USA was definately not what I or the Unionist's wanted, afterall they had all ready had problems within their party when the Isolationist wing objected to Intervention in Mexico.

Stylan: See my reply to the Coz above and thanks for the compliment.

anonymous4401: War with the USA is definately going to be tough, my goal is to make every inch of land I am forced to give up hurt, maybe they will only strip some territory from me.. I do have one ace up my sleeve. The residency act has given me the excuse to transform almost all my residents into soldier pops. While the debt will no doubt he brutal, I am hoping perhaps a mass conscription will give me a chance.

Catknight: The only change I made to the game was the Columbia Political Parties. I do not really know how to script very well, so do not do it, despite wishing sometimes I could. As far as the Southern secession, as you said it happens in December of 1860. Lincoln declared war on Columbia on November 9th, in an attempt to prevent or forstall problems in the south. While the Unionists will want to make peace, the real question is will the USA accept?

Jape: Unfortunately, the Unionists were trying to strengthen ties with the USA.. heh. Operation Portland, was supposed to be the selling of Rio Grande territory captured from Mexico to the USA in exchange for Portland and better relations. Unfortunately, it has backfired big time.

Well, I better start writing.

 

[Machiavellian]

David and Goliath

"If he be able to fight with me, and kill me, then will we be your servants; but if I prevail against him and kill him, then shall ye be our servants, and serve us." -- Goliath to the armies of Israel, I Samuel 17.9​

Fear and panic gripped the populace of Columbia on November 9th. Word of the declaration of war reached the highly literate masses and the newspapers sought to capitalize on the publics need to know what was happening. Yet by the 10th, they seemed to take a more responsible stance. This was partially due to a meeting the young Hamilton Stewart had with Vice President Abraham Near. In the meeting, Near called on Hamilton to use his influence for the good of the nation. While Hamilton did not agree with Unionist politics, a deal was made. Hamilton Stewart was the son-in-law of Titus Swager and had not only inherited the Vancouver Sun, but had transformed Titus's business into a media empire by buying several other papers that were falling on hard times. As owner of the Vancouver Sun, the Columbia Liberty and other papers from Seward to Nelson, Stewart wielded tremendous influence. In the November 11th issue of the Nelson Mercury and the Columbia Liberty he personally called on the brave men of Columbia to fight against the corrupt Lincoln administration. Halting previous criticism for the Residency laws, Stewart's papers sought to bolster patriotism and call for calm and bravery in the face of villainous war.

Hamilton Stewart, owner of several major newspapers.​

While Stewart's agreement to aid the country and cease attacks or slander against the administration in Victoria, the Unionists faced opposition from other sources. Within their own party several representitives joined with the independant Joesph L. Meek, calling for the President to step down and an immediate cessation of all wars. Siding with Meek however proved to be the wrong decision as Prime Minister Nedrow rallied against Meek, who had strongly objected to the residency laws. Nedrow signaled out the second act of the residency laws, declaring boldly "that without this bill, those men being assembled even now at our time of greatest need, would still be unaccounted for." this caused Rep. Meek to lose some support, though calls for "peace and a return to prosperity" were still common throughout the month.

While Prime Minister Nedrow handled the jackals in Parliament, President Silver sought to rally the people of Columbia behind him in what he called "Columbia's greatest struggle". Knowing that several large divisions of the United States army were moving north to strike at Seattle and Spokane, the President decided to gamble with time and gave a rousing speech in front of the Seattle city hall on November 18th. In it he called on the people of Columbia to stand up and fight for their nation. He slandered the Lincoln admistration as agitators of conflict and asserted that the Lincoln would rather make war afar then solve problems at home. But perhaps most memorable was President Silver's reference to I Samuel, wherein David fights Goliath.

"Just as brave David faced down the giant Goliath and triumphed, so too will Columbia face down the United States and triumph. For Columbia is very much like David, favored by God. Like David the lord has delivered us out of the paw of the British lion, and out of the paw of the Russian bear, He will deliever us out of the hand of the American Philistine! As David prevailed over the Philistine with sling and stone, so too will we prevail over Lincoln and his generals, not with sling and stone, but with detirmination, faith and courage. On this day, Columbia needs her children, let us answer the call!"

Excerpt from President Silver's famous David and Goliath speech, Nov. 18th - 1860.


Meanwhile in the south, General Duran continued operations in Mexico, for the most part unaware of the full magnitude of the situation in the north. After defeating Mexican partisans in Buena Vista, he declares the region secured and orders a march to Roswell. While General Rupert was still attempting to establish control over the vast territory of Alberque, he recieved word of events from the Capital. But much to his surprise, his orders were to continue with his objective to secure Dallas. It was reasoned that a peace with Mexico would be more easily achieved then a peace with the United States, furthermore, most in the war department felt that the US would not be so bold as to cross the Mexican border. Sending his best scout southwards to give word to Duran, Rupert became ever more eager to succeed, knowing that now his own countries fate was linked to his progress in Mexico.

The distinctive sound of rifle fire was heard in the early afternoon of November 20th as the United States Army under the Command of General Joseph Hooker marched from Idaho together on the cities of Spokane, Trail, and Nelson. This campaign was further expanded by the addition of Colonel Philip H. Sheridan in General Hooker's plan. In almost near unison with the armies pouring in from Idaho, Colonel Sheridan quickly swept through Kelso and Centralia, mercilessly slaughtering any citizen resistance, to engage reserve elements at Olympia. News fortunately reached the President quickly and he was hastily sailed out of Puget sound and back to Victoria.

The USA's invasion of Columbia had begun and most in Columbia could only watch and pray. Aside from an enterprising few, only the Prime Minister's cabinet, the war department and the Presidents closest advisors knew the severity of the situation. With the United States sending over fifty thousand soldiers to bring about the fall of Columbia, coupled with the simple fact that the drafted and volunteer divisions could not be expected to be armed, trained and ready for the field until late april at the earliest, the future appeared grim at best.

Yet those who lost hope were soon reminded that every cloud has a silver lining. By the thirteenth of December, Generals Rupert and Duran had successfully pushed past Albuquerque and into Santa Fe and Tucson. While their progress was outstanding, their achievements south of the US border were overshadowed by the surprising events that occured on the twenty-first of December, 1860. A year earlier after failing to come to understandings with Abraham Lincoln, Ambassador Delazon Smith of Columbia was sent back to Washington, D.C. with instructions to establish relations with Senators, Congressmen and parties more friendly to Columbia and Unionist goals. He achieved his objective by courting the Democrats of the South. In Particular, he established a close friendship with Senator James Chesnut Jr. of South Carolina and helped push that state towards breaking from the Union. Delazon Smith's mission was a success that outshined anything his superiors could have imagined. On December 20th, 1860, South Carolina passed an ordinance of secession. The following day, Southern extremists, by focusing their full attention on the most extreme pro-slavery state, announced that they would not be fooled by Lincoln's war of distraction and that South Carolina was now free and independent of the Union and it's Republican radicals.

Ambassador Delazon Smith and Senator James Chesnut Jr. of South Carolina
​

The South saw a chance to forge its own destiny and Columbia saw a beacon of Hope. The powers that be in the south, southern extremists and independant minded democrats alike, soon called for separate state conventions to follow the courageous example of South Carolina. On Christmas day, 1860, the Confederate States of America was born. Joining South Carolina, Virginia and North Carolina seceded from the United States of America. While no formal President or government had yet been set up among the delegates, Delazon Smith was quick to offer Columbia's recognition of the CSA, guaranteeing their continued Independance from the United States and other aggressors.

Unwilling to allow this Southern insurection to spread, Lincoln issued a declaration of war against the Columbia supported "Rebellion of Virginia and the Carolina's". President Lincoln maintained that the United States would restore order to its borders and break the seditious element of Columbia.

As the year 1861 began, a reserve of volunteers, all young men who had served in taming the wilds of the Yukon, were comissioned to fight for Columbia. Knowing that the young men would be throwing their lives away if they marched to face either Hooker or Sheridan, they were instead ordered to hold the vital Fort Vancouver, digging in and awaiting the worst. Yet in southern Columbia the worst had all ready arrived. With Trail all ready occupied and transformed into General Hookers Head Quarters, the General sought to bring about the fall of Spokane and Nelson before the worst of winter set in. In Seattle and Olympia terror reigned unopposed, as hundreds died before the advance of United States soldiers and cavalry. While General Hooker was an enemy of Columbia and the leader of an occupying force, Colonel Sheridan was a despised monster. With a hatred for 'Injins' matched only by those of the Redemption Party, Sheridan executed orders to shoot any who resisted US Occupation. Sheridan openly stated he would make the streets of Seattle run red, if it would bring about its complete occupation an hour earlier then projected.

Colonel Philip H. Sheridan, "The Ogre of Olympia"​

January 3rd, 1861
The Chicago Tribune, 7 cents

The South Secedes!
Six states join the Rebellion as Columbia enters Military alliance with the insurrectionist government of Richmond!​

President Lincoln champions that the right and true government of the United States will triumph in the face of lawless rebellion. In a speech yesterday the President issued a formal statement of war to the new states of the southern Confederacy in addition to these words: "You have no oath registered in Heaven to destroy the government, while I shall have the most solemn one to 'preserve, protect and defend' it. This Union must and will stand."

The Chicago Tribune, unlike the newspapers in Columbia supported Lincoln and the United States of America. In Columbia the headlines championed the southern cause and encouraged ever more states to join the CSA.

Despite the new sense of hope that was fostered by the emergence of the CSA and the alliance signed by Delazon Smith of Columbia and the leaders of the Confederate States, everyone knew that dark days were ahead. This was most apparent in Seattle, where upon the 10th of January, Colonel Sheridan declared that Seattle was pacified. His soldiers were ordered to secure the city and to shoot any who attempt to leave. The few reports that did make it out of the city all made Sheridan out to be a heavy handed tyrant and new reports coming from Spokane hinted that General Joe Hooker was not much better.

Even as the United States broke out into civil war, the mighty powers of Europe turned their eyes towards North America, where Columbia continued to intervene in Mexico's governmental collapse, setting up secure and Columbia friendly administrations in Roswell and Armillo. On January 24th, Generals Duran and Rupert recieved new orders and anxiously awaited the capture of Dallas, yet even as they prepared their armies, Emperor Napoleon III of France declared that France could no longer ignore the chaos in Mexico. With debts unpaid and the United States in no position to object, France and her allies, most notably Spain, declared their intention to intervene in Mexico. And so war was declared against the incompetant government of Mexico and the Great North American Border War began.

The North American Border War begins as fighting grips the continent.