Alliances: how do they work?

[Weltschmerz]

I am currently a count of a small German holding in the HRE. My daughters are married to kings of Europe, but my son-in-laws are ineligible alliance members. Please explain to me the triggers for alliances to work - rank, family connection, etc, & any accompanying strategy or concerns about dynastic or otherwise political alliances.

 

[jordarkelf]

Alliances are family connections. You are automatically allied to your close kin, and every time you arrange a marriage for someone you can see if this results in an alliance.
However, alliances can only be called for independent rulers or within one realm. So if you are a count in the HRE, your alliances to rulers outside of the HRE are all invalid until you become independent.

 

[Iron Chariots]

Alliances are family connections. You are automatically allied to your close kin, and every time you arrange a marriage for someone you can see if this results in an alliance.
However, alliances can only be called for independent rulers or within one realm. So if you are a count in the HRE, your alliances to rulers outside of the HRE are all invalid until you become independent.

Note that this does mean that you can call in your outside allies to aid you in your independence war in the first place.

 

[jordarkelf]

True, that's when they come in very handy. Especially if you manage to marry your daughters to the King of France and/or Poland or Hungary, suddenly revolting on your own against the HRE turns from suicide into a good chance.