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By Sword and Quill: the Aerts Interview, by Pierre Blancharde
This man has certainly interested me for a long time. A second generation of a political dynasty, starting with a rather controversial statesman and politician, Aimeus Aerts, a Minister of War and of Foreign Affairs in several MLP governments. A Belgian patriot with Dutch roots and a Russian name. A Conservative son of a Liberal father. Probably one of the most successful diplomats in our history, architect of our Sokotan expansion and NGF alliance.
It was Monsieur Pytor Aerts, the Minister of Foreign Affars and the member of the Conservative League. The moment I thought about him I understood I must have this interview.
When I contacted Mr Aerts, he responded quite eagerly, writing me a letter of approval. What surprised me was the place he has chosen for our meeting. I expected it to be his mansion – or a magnificent ministerial cabinet, full of expensive furniture, papers with royal seals and grim-looking civil servants. Usually politicians choose such places to intimidate the journalists and keep us from asking uncomfortable questions. However Mr Aerts has preferred another approach.
«Lets meet at Madame Mallardes, at Rue de Roy, 23» - the Minister has written to me – «This café has excellent gingerbread biscuits, shaped as cats, and is rather cosy».
In a few days we were sitting in a little cozy restaurant, surrounded by flirting couples and lunching clerks, drinking tea, eating sweets and chatting. A young-looking well-dressed gentleman was quite an interesting interlocutor. He was answering in a direct manner, without taciturn mannerisms the politicians of an older generation preferred. His responses were usually energetic, rather short – but containing all the detail I needed, or so I thought. Looking at Minister Aerts, I understood why the Dutch King and Yankee President found a dangerous adversary in him. Oh, and the cat-shaped cookies were indeed delicious.
Pytor Aerts, the Minister of Foreign Affairs in His Majesties Government
Blancharde: Minister, I thank you for finding a few hours for this interview. Your life is certainly remarkable, and I would like to deal with its beginning first. You were born in the family of a well-known statesman, Mr Aimeus Aerts. Did the fact that you belong to a political dynasty influence your ambitions and aspirations in any way? How did it happen that a son of a liberal politician became a conservative one? Do you still share any ideas with your father? Сould you please tell us
Aerts: Well, first off, my father did raise me to be a better statesman than he ever was, so from birth I was expected to achieve high office. In regards to ideology, my father was a moderate liberal, he might have joined the centrists if he was still alive. I consider myself to be a very moderate conservative, and hold similar beliefs as my father did. I do like the current set up of the government more than he did though.
Blancharde: You were born during the Damseaux coup, Mr Aerts, the events of which – frankly speaking – were considered by many as a serious stain on your fathers reputation. It was said that it was dishonorable for a Minister of War to support a coup – and that it was double dishonorable for a gentleman to act as a mole and spy, betraying the people who trusted him. Did your father ever share his views on these events with you?
Aerts: He did occasionally from time to tim. When he became Minister of War, he was determined to help the military become great. He placed a lot of trust in Damseaux, and did not ever suspect the coup, even when Brabant confided his fears. When the coup happened, my father felt utterly betrayed. He was not sure whether to flee or not. Damseaux, who respected my father allowed him to leave if choose to do so. After a message from Brabant, my father decided to stay and work for the true government. I believe what he did was quite brave, and Damseaux would have killed him if he had found my father out.
Blancharde: Understood. Another controversial issue connected with your father took place during 1851 elections, when his parliamentary group suddenly announced that it will be supporting the conservatives, and then changed its mind and voted MLP again. After this election your father became MoFA. Could you comment on this occasion?
Aerts: All I know was my father was very disillusioned at this point, and he may not have really cared who was in power.
Blancharde: OK, lets return to you. You spent your first adult years in the army. What can you tell us about that time? Did you get any combat experience? What did your military service teach you?
Aerts: I was an officer in the Army during the conflict with Sokoto and the US. I did see combat. What combat taught me was that war is something I do not take pleasure in, and as such, I turned down a promotion to general, and went into the foriegn service in the hopes of preventing conflicts such as this.
Blancharde: After leaving the army you joined the diplomatic corps, and were the Ambassador to Russia for some time. This country is really distant from us, and we mostly remember it for the sad experience of the Netherlands war, when it supported our enemies. What can you tell us of current Russia, its Tsar and its people? Did you like something about this state? Is there is hope we can become friends in the future - or this empire is too aggressive and barbarous?
Aerts: Russia is a great nation. It is large, and supports a wondrous culture. It also has a great army. It is unfortunately quite aggressive, as most empires are, and we have unfortunately been on different sides of conflicts. I believe the Russian people harbor no ill will towards us, and we might one day be friends. I do not believe that time is soon.
Blancharde: How did you find the Russian monarch and his court? Have you ever participated in the famous Russian leisure activities, such as St Petersburg balls and bear hunts?
Aerts: During my time in russia I had plenty of time to enjoy russian leisure activities, as is often required in diplomacy. I unfortunately did not have too much contact with Alexander II. I mainly dealt with their Foreign Minister
Blancharde: Now we come to Beauffort coup, this event that influenced every family in our country. Where were you during this time? It is known that one of your relatives, General Aerts, was a Beauffortist – did you ever contact him?
Aerts: I was lucky. I stayed with some friends in Russia during the coup. I had no attention to get embroiled in a civil war with brother killing brother. In regards to my cousin, I never really contacted him. Communication from St. Petersburg was not a priority during the coup
Blancharde: After the coup ended, you decided to choose the political career – and, we must say, you were very successful here. During your second term as deputy you got the office of the Minister of Foreign Affairs, one of the highest and most coveted in the cabinet. One that your father managed to get only after long years of governmental service. Why, do you think, were you chosen for such a high position? Did you feel completely ready for it?
Aerts: I personally believe I got the job because the Conservatives had lost most of their main politicians during the coup, and I was one of the most experienced diplomats left. In regards for feeling ready, I was certainly nervous, and not sure how well I would do, but in the end the results far exceeded any expectations.
Blancharde: It must be said, sir, that, despite it being your first term in this office, you proved to be probably one of the best (if not the best!) MoFA in Belgian history. You managed to solve problems that your predecessors could not solve since the establishment of our country! Later we will deal with the details, but now just tell us – what is your system? Magic? Secret techniques? Сats? (Blancharde laughs)
Aerts: Well, my father did have a cat that he brought with him everywhere... Honestly, I just take stock of what i have at my disposal, and use what assets and diplomatic influence I have as wisely as I can. I am not afraid to use Belgian strength in negotiations.
Blancharde: One of your first achievements was driving American influence out of Sokoto, and persuading the caliph to annul the treaty of Common Interest with USA. What was actually the influence of the Yankees in these lands based on, and how did you manage to expel it? It has been said that the Americans have threatened you with another war - why it did not happen then?
Aerts: Well, to gain influence over the Caliph, I just needed to get his top advisors onto my side, along with the military commanders. As such, I had to send my best diplomats to negotiate more favorable agreements with them than the Americans had. In regards to a lack of war, I feel the Americans do not like to get involved in Europian conflicts, and the American public did not want a war with an even stronger Belgium
Blancharde: In the beginning of Wolff term the so-called Belgian succession crisis happened. How did it influence the foreign relationships, how did the other countries react to the fact that the throne was vacant for some time? Did you notice any changes?
Aerts: I really did not. I feel most of Europe does not really pay attention to Belgium most of the time. Despite what may be obviously fact, they do not often see us as a threat. We are at the very edge of Europe, and they have little interest in our lands I do believe the Europian monarchs were relieved a monarch stayed in place, though.
Blancharde: You are said to be one of the principal architects of Belgian colonial expansion during the Scramble. Why were the Yoruba States and West Benin outlined as the primary target?
Aerts: I was actually not that much into the Colonial planning, as I was focusing my energy on Sokoto and Europe, but I do believe we went after the territories we did for population. I believe the hope was that we could use colonial solders to drasticly boost the size of our military.
Blancharde: All right, lets return to Sokoto then. Many were amazed, when you persuaded the Sokotan chieftains to recognize Belgian suzerainty without spilling a drop of blood! How did you manage to do it, make them technically give up or limit their powers? The Caliph was not very popular, it seems?
Aerts: Not just that, but the chieftains knew the writing on the wall. Either it would be us, the Americans, or some other Europian power. I was able to "convince" them to back us instead of the Caliph. The Caliph is also not too good of a leader, and they felt he was too close with the Americans.
Blancharde: Ah, thank you. Some people are worried about the «controllable self-governance» сoncepte that was implemented in Sokoto, instead of our direct rule. These lands still seem to be ruled by the caliph (a new one, though) and local elites. Now they seem to be loyal to us – but who knows, what will happen next? What mechanisms do we have to keep them under control? Are we sure that we will be able to spread Christian and European ideals in these lands, while the old Muslim overlords are in charge? Could you please comment?
Aerts: Well, in order to keep control, their power is completely reliant on our goodwill. Also, we have a far superior army. In regards to spreading Christanity and European ideals, this is the Ministry of Educations job, but I do believe we shall set up missions and schools to encourage conversion.
Blancharde: Your ability to secure to the alliance with North Germany has pleased Belgians greatly as well. Can you tell us, why did it happen now – while NGF had refused to conclude the treaty many times before?
Aerts: I honestly have no idea what they planned on doing. I made sure I meet with the North German ambassador every week, and discussed a possible alliance with them. Everytime it was "sorry, unfortunately we are not interested." Then, one day I walk into my office and sitting on my desk is a telegram from their foreign minister. I was quite suprised and pleased.
Blancharde: It was often said that during 1874 we were absurdly close to another war with Netherlands. Do you think there really was such a threat, or it was just an attempt to intimidate and blackmail us? What measures did you take during these times?
Aerts: I believe the Dutch were planning on invading us, but they did not count on the massive increase in the size of our army. I, for my part continually warned the Dutch ambassador not to do anything that would bring destruction to his county. I also acted with an air of strength. I believe that helped dissuade him from pressing some issues.
Blancharde: An excellent approach, Minister! Now, what course should the Belgian diplomacy take now, you think? If you would keep your portfolio as MoFA after these elections, what will be your main aims?
Aerts: My main aims would be to bring Ethiopia under our influence, and do my part to make Belgium felt on the world stage.
Blancharde: We must say that your start of governmental career has indeed been magnificent. Do you intend, perhaps, to try to move to even greater levels in the future and become the Prime Minister?
Aerts: I am not sure yet. If I do attempt to seek becoming Prime Minister, it will be after most of the old guard of the Conservative League has moved on. I have great respect for those men, and I do feel they are great leaders and men.
Blancharde: Clearly busy with your governmental work, you do not speak very often in the parliament. Our readers would like to enquire, what are the most important political ideals for you? What do you think on the recent monarchy-republic, socialism and secessionism issues?
Aerts: I am quite happy with the current state of the government's structure, and while I realize social reforms will be neccessary, I believe we must proceed carefully, and pragmatically into them. We must be aware of concequences and if our nation can sustain them.
Blancharde: Thank you for your time, Minister! Now, one last question – could you please tell us about your family and leisure activities? What do you do, when you are not busy dealing with international problems?
Aerts: I am married to a wonderful Russian wife. I as of right now do not have any kids. In regards to leisure I mainly attend the usual activities politicans in this town attend, such as operas. Unfortunitely we don't have a concert hall. hope I will be able to change that.
Published in the La Canard Newspaper
This man has certainly interested me for a long time. A second generation of a political dynasty, starting with a rather controversial statesman and politician, Aimeus Aerts, a Minister of War and of Foreign Affairs in several MLP governments. A Belgian patriot with Dutch roots and a Russian name. A Conservative son of a Liberal father. Probably one of the most successful diplomats in our history, architect of our Sokotan expansion and NGF alliance.
It was Monsieur Pytor Aerts, the Minister of Foreign Affars and the member of the Conservative League. The moment I thought about him I understood I must have this interview.
When I contacted Mr Aerts, he responded quite eagerly, writing me a letter of approval. What surprised me was the place he has chosen for our meeting. I expected it to be his mansion – or a magnificent ministerial cabinet, full of expensive furniture, papers with royal seals and grim-looking civil servants. Usually politicians choose such places to intimidate the journalists and keep us from asking uncomfortable questions. However Mr Aerts has preferred another approach.
«Lets meet at Madame Mallardes, at Rue de Roy, 23» - the Minister has written to me – «This café has excellent gingerbread biscuits, shaped as cats, and is rather cosy».
In a few days we were sitting in a little cozy restaurant, surrounded by flirting couples and lunching clerks, drinking tea, eating sweets and chatting. A young-looking well-dressed gentleman was quite an interesting interlocutor. He was answering in a direct manner, without taciturn mannerisms the politicians of an older generation preferred. His responses were usually energetic, rather short – but containing all the detail I needed, or so I thought. Looking at Minister Aerts, I understood why the Dutch King and Yankee President found a dangerous adversary in him. Oh, and the cat-shaped cookies were indeed delicious.
Pytor Aerts, the Minister of Foreign Affairs in His Majesties Government
Blancharde: Minister, I thank you for finding a few hours for this interview. Your life is certainly remarkable, and I would like to deal with its beginning first. You were born in the family of a well-known statesman, Mr Aimeus Aerts. Did the fact that you belong to a political dynasty influence your ambitions and aspirations in any way? How did it happen that a son of a liberal politician became a conservative one? Do you still share any ideas with your father? Сould you please tell us
Aerts: Well, first off, my father did raise me to be a better statesman than he ever was, so from birth I was expected to achieve high office. In regards to ideology, my father was a moderate liberal, he might have joined the centrists if he was still alive. I consider myself to be a very moderate conservative, and hold similar beliefs as my father did. I do like the current set up of the government more than he did though.
Blancharde: You were born during the Damseaux coup, Mr Aerts, the events of which – frankly speaking – were considered by many as a serious stain on your fathers reputation. It was said that it was dishonorable for a Minister of War to support a coup – and that it was double dishonorable for a gentleman to act as a mole and spy, betraying the people who trusted him. Did your father ever share his views on these events with you?
Aerts: He did occasionally from time to tim. When he became Minister of War, he was determined to help the military become great. He placed a lot of trust in Damseaux, and did not ever suspect the coup, even when Brabant confided his fears. When the coup happened, my father felt utterly betrayed. He was not sure whether to flee or not. Damseaux, who respected my father allowed him to leave if choose to do so. After a message from Brabant, my father decided to stay and work for the true government. I believe what he did was quite brave, and Damseaux would have killed him if he had found my father out.
Blancharde: Understood. Another controversial issue connected with your father took place during 1851 elections, when his parliamentary group suddenly announced that it will be supporting the conservatives, and then changed its mind and voted MLP again. After this election your father became MoFA. Could you comment on this occasion?
Aerts: All I know was my father was very disillusioned at this point, and he may not have really cared who was in power.
Blancharde: OK, lets return to you. You spent your first adult years in the army. What can you tell us about that time? Did you get any combat experience? What did your military service teach you?
Aerts: I was an officer in the Army during the conflict with Sokoto and the US. I did see combat. What combat taught me was that war is something I do not take pleasure in, and as such, I turned down a promotion to general, and went into the foriegn service in the hopes of preventing conflicts such as this.
Blancharde: After leaving the army you joined the diplomatic corps, and were the Ambassador to Russia for some time. This country is really distant from us, and we mostly remember it for the sad experience of the Netherlands war, when it supported our enemies. What can you tell us of current Russia, its Tsar and its people? Did you like something about this state? Is there is hope we can become friends in the future - or this empire is too aggressive and barbarous?
Aerts: Russia is a great nation. It is large, and supports a wondrous culture. It also has a great army. It is unfortunately quite aggressive, as most empires are, and we have unfortunately been on different sides of conflicts. I believe the Russian people harbor no ill will towards us, and we might one day be friends. I do not believe that time is soon.
Blancharde: How did you find the Russian monarch and his court? Have you ever participated in the famous Russian leisure activities, such as St Petersburg balls and bear hunts?
Aerts: During my time in russia I had plenty of time to enjoy russian leisure activities, as is often required in diplomacy. I unfortunately did not have too much contact with Alexander II. I mainly dealt with their Foreign Minister
Blancharde: Now we come to Beauffort coup, this event that influenced every family in our country. Where were you during this time? It is known that one of your relatives, General Aerts, was a Beauffortist – did you ever contact him?
Aerts: I was lucky. I stayed with some friends in Russia during the coup. I had no attention to get embroiled in a civil war with brother killing brother. In regards to my cousin, I never really contacted him. Communication from St. Petersburg was not a priority during the coup
Blancharde: After the coup ended, you decided to choose the political career – and, we must say, you were very successful here. During your second term as deputy you got the office of the Minister of Foreign Affairs, one of the highest and most coveted in the cabinet. One that your father managed to get only after long years of governmental service. Why, do you think, were you chosen for such a high position? Did you feel completely ready for it?
Aerts: I personally believe I got the job because the Conservatives had lost most of their main politicians during the coup, and I was one of the most experienced diplomats left. In regards for feeling ready, I was certainly nervous, and not sure how well I would do, but in the end the results far exceeded any expectations.
Blancharde: It must be said, sir, that, despite it being your first term in this office, you proved to be probably one of the best (if not the best!) MoFA in Belgian history. You managed to solve problems that your predecessors could not solve since the establishment of our country! Later we will deal with the details, but now just tell us – what is your system? Magic? Secret techniques? Сats? (Blancharde laughs)
Aerts: Well, my father did have a cat that he brought with him everywhere... Honestly, I just take stock of what i have at my disposal, and use what assets and diplomatic influence I have as wisely as I can. I am not afraid to use Belgian strength in negotiations.
Blancharde: One of your first achievements was driving American influence out of Sokoto, and persuading the caliph to annul the treaty of Common Interest with USA. What was actually the influence of the Yankees in these lands based on, and how did you manage to expel it? It has been said that the Americans have threatened you with another war - why it did not happen then?
Aerts: Well, to gain influence over the Caliph, I just needed to get his top advisors onto my side, along with the military commanders. As such, I had to send my best diplomats to negotiate more favorable agreements with them than the Americans had. In regards to a lack of war, I feel the Americans do not like to get involved in Europian conflicts, and the American public did not want a war with an even stronger Belgium
Blancharde: In the beginning of Wolff term the so-called Belgian succession crisis happened. How did it influence the foreign relationships, how did the other countries react to the fact that the throne was vacant for some time? Did you notice any changes?
Aerts: I really did not. I feel most of Europe does not really pay attention to Belgium most of the time. Despite what may be obviously fact, they do not often see us as a threat. We are at the very edge of Europe, and they have little interest in our lands I do believe the Europian monarchs were relieved a monarch stayed in place, though.
Blancharde: You are said to be one of the principal architects of Belgian colonial expansion during the Scramble. Why were the Yoruba States and West Benin outlined as the primary target?
Aerts: I was actually not that much into the Colonial planning, as I was focusing my energy on Sokoto and Europe, but I do believe we went after the territories we did for population. I believe the hope was that we could use colonial solders to drasticly boost the size of our military.
Blancharde: All right, lets return to Sokoto then. Many were amazed, when you persuaded the Sokotan chieftains to recognize Belgian suzerainty without spilling a drop of blood! How did you manage to do it, make them technically give up or limit their powers? The Caliph was not very popular, it seems?
Aerts: Not just that, but the chieftains knew the writing on the wall. Either it would be us, the Americans, or some other Europian power. I was able to "convince" them to back us instead of the Caliph. The Caliph is also not too good of a leader, and they felt he was too close with the Americans.
Blancharde: Ah, thank you. Some people are worried about the «controllable self-governance» сoncepte that was implemented in Sokoto, instead of our direct rule. These lands still seem to be ruled by the caliph (a new one, though) and local elites. Now they seem to be loyal to us – but who knows, what will happen next? What mechanisms do we have to keep them under control? Are we sure that we will be able to spread Christian and European ideals in these lands, while the old Muslim overlords are in charge? Could you please comment?
Aerts: Well, in order to keep control, their power is completely reliant on our goodwill. Also, we have a far superior army. In regards to spreading Christanity and European ideals, this is the Ministry of Educations job, but I do believe we shall set up missions and schools to encourage conversion.
Blancharde: Your ability to secure to the alliance with North Germany has pleased Belgians greatly as well. Can you tell us, why did it happen now – while NGF had refused to conclude the treaty many times before?
Aerts: I honestly have no idea what they planned on doing. I made sure I meet with the North German ambassador every week, and discussed a possible alliance with them. Everytime it was "sorry, unfortunately we are not interested." Then, one day I walk into my office and sitting on my desk is a telegram from their foreign minister. I was quite suprised and pleased.
Blancharde: It was often said that during 1874 we were absurdly close to another war with Netherlands. Do you think there really was such a threat, or it was just an attempt to intimidate and blackmail us? What measures did you take during these times?
Aerts: I believe the Dutch were planning on invading us, but they did not count on the massive increase in the size of our army. I, for my part continually warned the Dutch ambassador not to do anything that would bring destruction to his county. I also acted with an air of strength. I believe that helped dissuade him from pressing some issues.
Blancharde: An excellent approach, Minister! Now, what course should the Belgian diplomacy take now, you think? If you would keep your portfolio as MoFA after these elections, what will be your main aims?
Aerts: My main aims would be to bring Ethiopia under our influence, and do my part to make Belgium felt on the world stage.
Blancharde: We must say that your start of governmental career has indeed been magnificent. Do you intend, perhaps, to try to move to even greater levels in the future and become the Prime Minister?
Aerts: I am not sure yet. If I do attempt to seek becoming Prime Minister, it will be after most of the old guard of the Conservative League has moved on. I have great respect for those men, and I do feel they are great leaders and men.
Blancharde: Clearly busy with your governmental work, you do not speak very often in the parliament. Our readers would like to enquire, what are the most important political ideals for you? What do you think on the recent monarchy-republic, socialism and secessionism issues?
Aerts: I am quite happy with the current state of the government's structure, and while I realize social reforms will be neccessary, I believe we must proceed carefully, and pragmatically into them. We must be aware of concequences and if our nation can sustain them.
Blancharde: Thank you for your time, Minister! Now, one last question – could you please tell us about your family and leisure activities? What do you do, when you are not busy dealing with international problems?
Aerts: I am married to a wonderful Russian wife. I as of right now do not have any kids. In regards to leisure I mainly attend the usual activities politicans in this town attend, such as operas. Unfortunitely we don't have a concert hall. hope I will be able to change that.
Published in the La Canard Newspaper
Last edited:
An office. Paperwork and books sit in stacks on a desk, barely obscured by African knick-knacks. A map of Central Africa stuffed with pins sits on a mobile corkboard. A man sits at the far side of the desk, hunched over a pile of notes. Several stray hairs on his balding head are backlit and illuminated by the afternoon sun. His reverie is disturbed by a knocking at the door.
"Yes?"
"Mijnheer, there is a man who wishes to see you."
"Does he have an appointment?"
"No sir."
"Is he from the parliament?"
"No sir."
"Is he from the party?"
"Which party sir?"
"Either party."
"No sir."
"Has he been here before."
"Not that I know of sir."
"What is his name?"
"Uhh, Anri Vieux. He said it was most important that he see you now sir."
de Croy looks up.
"Oh. Say, did Damien give a time that he would return?"
"This evening sir."
"Ohhhh. Welllll. We cannot keep our guest waiting. *Sigh* Send him in."
TBC...
"Yes?"
"Mijnheer, there is a man who wishes to see you."
"Does he have an appointment?"
"No sir."
"Is he from the parliament?"
"No sir."
"Is he from the party?"
"Which party sir?"
"Either party."
"No sir."
"Has he been here before."
"Not that I know of sir."
"What is his name?"
"Uhh, Anri Vieux. He said it was most important that he see you now sir."
de Croy looks up.
"Oh. Say, did Damien give a time that he would return?"
"This evening sir."
"Ohhhh. Welllll. We cannot keep our guest waiting. *Sigh* Send him in."
TBC...
An essay from the political magazine, the Bruges Democrat, circulated through many other Belgian papers
“An Indivisible Union”
By Georges Savarin
What has become of the National Democrats?
This is a question that many have been asking of late, owing to Monsieur DeWitt’s adaption of principles of decentralization. “They have gotten corrupt!” they say. “They have abandoned their principles!” they say.
Balderdash.
Note that these are the exact same arguments that our critics, mostly Conservative or conservatives-in-denial, have brought out upon our declaration of intent to build a coalition with the United Workers’ Party fifteen years ago. They claimed that we were working with dangerous forces that sought to destroy the Belgian state. They claimed that we were abandoning our principles for which we fought so hard for the sake of power.
Of course, later in that administration, we got the Colonial Citizenship Equality Act through the Chamber of Deputies, only failing due to the obstructionist Supreme Court, and attempted to pass a bill ensuring freedom of trade. If free markets and free people are not emblematic of the Radical cause, then what is? Just like any political actors, we ally with those who share principles similar to our own. This is not corruption, this is politics. We do not see moderate socialists like Giroux or Loewen calling the Social Union “corrupt” for allying with the Communists, who profess a distinctly different ideology but share enough political goals to make an alliance worthwhile. Why, then, when the NDP decides to pursue an alliance with another republican party, do deputies from across the entire political spectrum throw up their hands in disgust?
I am no fool, and know the obvious answer: that Dr. Verstraten and his Front wish to divide Belgium into independent states, and tear our union asunder Why would the National Democratic Party, which of course has not forgotten the National in its name, work with such a group? First of all, many seem to confuse the Front with the Black Lions. The Black Lions are a militant terrorist organization that seeks to tear Belgium asunder. The Separatist Front, despite its name, ultimately seeks two things: a republican form of a government and a decentralization of power. If our critics cannot see the difference, then I imagine they would also confuse Socialists with Communists, or Conservatives with Beauffortists. I would sooner die than see Belgium divided, but I can understand those who believe the government that governs best governs the least. A measure of decentralization is a logical step towards increasing people’s participation in the democratic process, and that is a principle I believe Socialists, Radicals and Centrists could all support.
Some are terrified that decentralization would spell the end of the Belgian state. I reply that we have already begun the process, and it has brought us nothing but benefits. The Ministries of Flanders and Wallonia and their Parliaments have, whether you like the policies of their Ministers or not, brought benefits to their people and allow them another outlet to direct policy as they see fit. How has this destroyed Belgium or inhibited democracy? Increasing the amount of governing possible at the regional level allows us to have a better, more efficient government. What reasonable man could be against that? Whether one is Conservative, Socialist, Liberal or anything else you could imagine, everyone gets an extra chance to influence what their government can do. It is only a positive thing.
Others claim that we have abandoned principles of liberty or republicanism. This is utter nonsense. Monsieur DeWitt, granted, may come from the right wing of the party, but he is still a Radical through and through whose loyalty to our cause I do not doubt. In Belgium’s hour of greatest need, he and I served together to help pave the way for the return of the rightful government. He famous relative Anthony DeWitt was one of my greatest friends, and he is his equal in every way. He is just as committed to the ideals of republicanism and liberty as Monsieur Peeters and I.
I wish to conclude with this. A Belgian Republic has been my dream ever since the Constitutional Convention. I have devoted my life and career to achieving this goal. I have always served the state loyally, and worked to overthrow its greatest traitor. I will not let anyone destroy the nation that I love so much and have fought so hard so many times to save. The National Democrats stand as resolute as ever at the front lines of the battle for liberty, and our comrades, no matter what level of Belgian centralization they find to be ideal, will help us.
What is Belgium? Belgium is an indivisible union of Flemings and Walloons, all free and equal. Belgium may be indivisible, but so is it a union, and it is time we recognize this fact. Flemings and Walloons alike deserve to have a say in their region just as much as they deserve to have a say in the entire nation. The right of each of Belgium’s peoples – Germans and Beninese as much as Flemings and Walloons – must be protected, and countering the overcentralization of our present state is just one part of accomplishing that fact. There are many others, and we shall fight for them all. Belgium, democracy and liberty shall never perish as long as we draw breath.
“An Indivisible Union”
By Georges Savarin
What has become of the National Democrats?
This is a question that many have been asking of late, owing to Monsieur DeWitt’s adaption of principles of decentralization. “They have gotten corrupt!” they say. “They have abandoned their principles!” they say.
Balderdash.
Note that these are the exact same arguments that our critics, mostly Conservative or conservatives-in-denial, have brought out upon our declaration of intent to build a coalition with the United Workers’ Party fifteen years ago. They claimed that we were working with dangerous forces that sought to destroy the Belgian state. They claimed that we were abandoning our principles for which we fought so hard for the sake of power.
Of course, later in that administration, we got the Colonial Citizenship Equality Act through the Chamber of Deputies, only failing due to the obstructionist Supreme Court, and attempted to pass a bill ensuring freedom of trade. If free markets and free people are not emblematic of the Radical cause, then what is? Just like any political actors, we ally with those who share principles similar to our own. This is not corruption, this is politics. We do not see moderate socialists like Giroux or Loewen calling the Social Union “corrupt” for allying with the Communists, who profess a distinctly different ideology but share enough political goals to make an alliance worthwhile. Why, then, when the NDP decides to pursue an alliance with another republican party, do deputies from across the entire political spectrum throw up their hands in disgust?
I am no fool, and know the obvious answer: that Dr. Verstraten and his Front wish to divide Belgium into independent states, and tear our union asunder Why would the National Democratic Party, which of course has not forgotten the National in its name, work with such a group? First of all, many seem to confuse the Front with the Black Lions. The Black Lions are a militant terrorist organization that seeks to tear Belgium asunder. The Separatist Front, despite its name, ultimately seeks two things: a republican form of a government and a decentralization of power. If our critics cannot see the difference, then I imagine they would also confuse Socialists with Communists, or Conservatives with Beauffortists. I would sooner die than see Belgium divided, but I can understand those who believe the government that governs best governs the least. A measure of decentralization is a logical step towards increasing people’s participation in the democratic process, and that is a principle I believe Socialists, Radicals and Centrists could all support.
Some are terrified that decentralization would spell the end of the Belgian state. I reply that we have already begun the process, and it has brought us nothing but benefits. The Ministries of Flanders and Wallonia and their Parliaments have, whether you like the policies of their Ministers or not, brought benefits to their people and allow them another outlet to direct policy as they see fit. How has this destroyed Belgium or inhibited democracy? Increasing the amount of governing possible at the regional level allows us to have a better, more efficient government. What reasonable man could be against that? Whether one is Conservative, Socialist, Liberal or anything else you could imagine, everyone gets an extra chance to influence what their government can do. It is only a positive thing.
Others claim that we have abandoned principles of liberty or republicanism. This is utter nonsense. Monsieur DeWitt, granted, may come from the right wing of the party, but he is still a Radical through and through whose loyalty to our cause I do not doubt. In Belgium’s hour of greatest need, he and I served together to help pave the way for the return of the rightful government. He famous relative Anthony DeWitt was one of my greatest friends, and he is his equal in every way. He is just as committed to the ideals of republicanism and liberty as Monsieur Peeters and I.
I wish to conclude with this. A Belgian Republic has been my dream ever since the Constitutional Convention. I have devoted my life and career to achieving this goal. I have always served the state loyally, and worked to overthrow its greatest traitor. I will not let anyone destroy the nation that I love so much and have fought so hard so many times to save. The National Democrats stand as resolute as ever at the front lines of the battle for liberty, and our comrades, no matter what level of Belgian centralization they find to be ideal, will help us.
What is Belgium? Belgium is an indivisible union of Flemings and Walloons, all free and equal. Belgium may be indivisible, but so is it a union, and it is time we recognize this fact. Flemings and Walloons alike deserve to have a say in their region just as much as they deserve to have a say in the entire nation. The right of each of Belgium’s peoples – Germans and Beninese as much as Flemings and Walloons – must be protected, and countering the overcentralization of our present state is just one part of accomplishing that fact. There are many others, and we shall fight for them all. Belgium, democracy and liberty shall never perish as long as we draw breath.
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((And now, the conclusion...))
A grey-haired man in a black suit walks in. He is in his sixties and smells of cigars and vinegar. Quickly looking around, this person unceremoniously seats down, and looks at the owner of the cabinet chuckling.
"My, my, this place suits your new office, Monsieur de Croy! And this authoritative glance, together with the black cloak, too. Probably you are glad to see a friend from the old times, when you were in a much more modest position?"
"Monsieur Vieux. I am surprised to see you again after all these years. I had heard that you got out of the business. Please, make yourself comfortable."
"Thank you, sir. Well, business has not been that good since 1866. And, after serving for some many years as the Head of Staff in the Office of the Marquis de Beauffort, I got tired of inaction, and there is not much job opportunities nowadays... Well, this is what we need good acquaintances for, dont we? Especially ones who became great men of our realm."
"Surely a man as talented as yourself would easily find employment. Government service isn't so desirable these days. No need to take a job where your pay is a political hot potato."
"Of course, of course, but, as a poet says, a good wine needs a true connoisseur... And I never cared about money, dear friend, you know that serving Belgium was always a first priority. You know, strangely enough, I have been thinking about applying for a Ministry of Finance position... With my administrative experience I could have been of use, dont you think?"
"Welllllllll, I'm sure that we can find a position here for you. I hope that you'll understand if it isn't the most glamourous role immediately. There are those in both government and the service who don't look kindly upon those in the business before '66.
de Croy scratches his cheek for a moment.
"We will be needing a liaison with the Brusselois government. It's easy work, not to demanding but requiring a certain level of experience."
"I will be honored to serve you in this capacity, Deputy Prime Minister. You know that I am a loyal man - and hope that you will not forget me in the future, when you are in the №19.
Viex bows, then lowers his voice.
"There is also another issue, Minister, which I wanted to discuss... Do you remember Robert de La Marre Jr.? A Vandebruckist leader and a son of Vandebruckist leader... He was an MP for Bruges for some time, now... Well, his affairs have not been going very well, he became rather embittered, and talked about some rather preposterous things lately (clearly, it was the stress!)... Discussed some... unorthodox tactics that were used by Prime Minister de Beauffort and some other prominent persons to get the control over the Reactionary movement... Such talks are bad for the Conservative course, are they not? Сlearly, something must be done with the poor fellow, he must be persuaded to stop these ridiculous actions.... He wants to become a deputy again, if I understood right, without the salary it is a rope for him... The wine and cards took it all..."
"Ha ha, de La Marre, that old dog. And the son is a chip off the old block you saaay. It's amazing what people will say or do when stressed. Of course, such talk is bad for the health of Conservatives everywhere.
de Croy reaches a hand up to his face.
"You say that he wants to become a deputy again. I'm sure that can be arranged. Party Lists have been God's gift to party conveners. If you run into him again, tell him that we'll find him a nice seat in the Chamber. And warn him that we run a tight ship here at the CL these days. Members need to keep their mouths shut in public about matters of politics, present or past."
"Of course, of course, Minister. I am sure he can be sensible - as much as a de la Marre can be of course... I will talk with him as soon as I can. Well, I do not dare to take any more of your time, you are probably busy with the affairs of state... I will send you my application tomorrow, Monsieur... I hope that a glorious future of mutual cooperation awaits us."
Vieux stands up, shakes the hand of his interlocutor and walks away.
"Mutual co-operation indeed.
The door closes. de Croy stands, turns, and stares out the window. The left side of the reflections' face starts to spasm.
"What Hell has God unleashed upon me, these shadows of the past returning now."
((A SirkTheMonkey / Marschalk co-production.))
A grey-haired man in a black suit walks in. He is in his sixties and smells of cigars and vinegar. Quickly looking around, this person unceremoniously seats down, and looks at the owner of the cabinet chuckling.
"My, my, this place suits your new office, Monsieur de Croy! And this authoritative glance, together with the black cloak, too. Probably you are glad to see a friend from the old times, when you were in a much more modest position?"
"Monsieur Vieux. I am surprised to see you again after all these years. I had heard that you got out of the business. Please, make yourself comfortable."
"Thank you, sir. Well, business has not been that good since 1866. And, after serving for some many years as the Head of Staff in the Office of the Marquis de Beauffort, I got tired of inaction, and there is not much job opportunities nowadays... Well, this is what we need good acquaintances for, dont we? Especially ones who became great men of our realm."
"Surely a man as talented as yourself would easily find employment. Government service isn't so desirable these days. No need to take a job where your pay is a political hot potato."
"Of course, of course, but, as a poet says, a good wine needs a true connoisseur... And I never cared about money, dear friend, you know that serving Belgium was always a first priority. You know, strangely enough, I have been thinking about applying for a Ministry of Finance position... With my administrative experience I could have been of use, dont you think?"
"Welllllllll, I'm sure that we can find a position here for you. I hope that you'll understand if it isn't the most glamourous role immediately. There are those in both government and the service who don't look kindly upon those in the business before '66.
de Croy scratches his cheek for a moment.
"We will be needing a liaison with the Brusselois government. It's easy work, not to demanding but requiring a certain level of experience."
"I will be honored to serve you in this capacity, Deputy Prime Minister. You know that I am a loyal man - and hope that you will not forget me in the future, when you are in the №19.
Viex bows, then lowers his voice.
"There is also another issue, Minister, which I wanted to discuss... Do you remember Robert de La Marre Jr.? A Vandebruckist leader and a son of Vandebruckist leader... He was an MP for Bruges for some time, now... Well, his affairs have not been going very well, he became rather embittered, and talked about some rather preposterous things lately (clearly, it was the stress!)... Discussed some... unorthodox tactics that were used by Prime Minister de Beauffort and some other prominent persons to get the control over the Reactionary movement... Such talks are bad for the Conservative course, are they not? Сlearly, something must be done with the poor fellow, he must be persuaded to stop these ridiculous actions.... He wants to become a deputy again, if I understood right, without the salary it is a rope for him... The wine and cards took it all..."
"Ha ha, de La Marre, that old dog. And the son is a chip off the old block you saaay. It's amazing what people will say or do when stressed. Of course, such talk is bad for the health of Conservatives everywhere.
de Croy reaches a hand up to his face.
"You say that he wants to become a deputy again. I'm sure that can be arranged. Party Lists have been God's gift to party conveners. If you run into him again, tell him that we'll find him a nice seat in the Chamber. And warn him that we run a tight ship here at the CL these days. Members need to keep their mouths shut in public about matters of politics, present or past."
"Of course, of course, Minister. I am sure he can be sensible - as much as a de la Marre can be of course... I will talk with him as soon as I can. Well, I do not dare to take any more of your time, you are probably busy with the affairs of state... I will send you my application tomorrow, Monsieur... I hope that a glorious future of mutual cooperation awaits us."
Vieux stands up, shakes the hand of his interlocutor and walks away.
"Mutual co-operation indeed.
The door closes. de Croy stands, turns, and stares out the window. The left side of the reflections' face starts to spasm.
"What Hell has God unleashed upon me, these shadows of the past returning now."
((A SirkTheMonkey / Marschalk co-production.))
The latest article of Monsieur Georges Savarin makes a number of quite suprising revelations. He tries to persuade us, that we are both blind and deaf, and that Separatist Front, despite its quite convincing name and a number of official statements from its leaders and members, does not wish to tear Belgium apart! He calls our respectable Supreme Court obstructionist for stating a clear thing - that an amendment was an amendment - but forgets about the outright obstructionism of his separatist friends that deliberately vote against all national bills, just to damage unified Belgium! He tries to convince us that SF is a party of republicanism, while this issue never was a part of its platform, and the leader of the movement only once noted that such an outcome could have been good... since it would weaken our state.
Honestly, the hypocrisy of the radical republicans keeps amazing me.
- Count Alexandre de Lannoy, Colonel of the Reserve, Minister of Interior
Honestly, the hypocrisy of the radical republicans keeps amazing me.
- Count Alexandre de Lannoy, Colonel of the Reserve, Minister of Interior
Region: Wallonia
Party: NDP
1st Choice Minister of Wallonia: Herriot
2nd Choice Minister of Wallonia: Constantin Achille de Brienne
Party: NDP
1st Choice Minister of Wallonia: Herriot
2nd Choice Minister of Wallonia: Constantin Achille de Brienne
Region: Flanders
Party: Belgian Social Union
Minister of Flanders: Carl Coppens
~ de Vos
Party: Belgian Social Union
Minister of Flanders: Carl Coppens
~ de Vos
Great men of the two separate but not-necessarily-hostile nations, Flanders and Wallonia,
I have a vote, to further the goals of ultimate glory and righteousness.
Region: Flanders
Party: NDP
Minister of Flanders: Abstain
The only road to progress is one that we must tread alone.
Break the union, and let our nations self-determine into the stars!
I have a vote, to further the goals of ultimate glory and righteousness.
Region: Flanders
Party: NDP
Minister of Flanders: Abstain
The only road to progress is one that we must tread alone.
Break the union, and let our nations self-determine into the stars!
((Tally.))
Conservative League: 9
Belgian Social Union: 6
Centrist Alliance: 6
Vlaamse Beweging: 1
Separatist Front: 0
National Democrats: 6
Communist Party of Belgium: 1
Flanders:
Andrei Popa Vanderhoof ((Dadarian)): 10
Carl Coppens ((viola)): 4
Abstain: 6
Wallonia: ((1st Choice only))
Simon Giroux ((atomicsoda)): 2
Constantin Achille de Brienne ((Maxwell500)): 5
Isidore Herriot ((Ab Ovo)): 1
Abstain: 0
Conservative League: 9
Belgian Social Union: 6
Centrist Alliance: 6
Vlaamse Beweging: 1
Separatist Front: 0
National Democrats: 6
Communist Party of Belgium: 1
Flanders:
Andrei Popa Vanderhoof ((Dadarian)): 10
Carl Coppens ((viola)): 4
Abstain: 6
Wallonia: ((1st Choice only))
Simon Giroux ((atomicsoda)): 2
Constantin Achille de Brienne ((Maxwell500)): 5
Isidore Herriot ((Ab Ovo)): 1
Abstain: 0
((So it seems the SF has actually joined the NDP as the SF gets no votes so far))
Region: Wallonia
Party: Conservative League
1st Choice Minister of Wallonia: Isidore Herriot
Party: Conservative League
1st Choice Minister of Wallonia: Isidore Herriot
((then why did all the SF vote NDP instead of for SF. As it stands now the SF will have no deputies and will be shut out of parliament. If its just a coalition you usually vote for your party not your coalition partner's party. ))
The 1876 General Election: Left, Right, and Center
1. The Election Results
Wolff's tumultuous first term as Prime Minister, which had seen the start of the scramble for Africa, invasion scares, the death of a monarch, and more, finally drew to a close in 1876. As with Poisson before him, Wolff's leadership was extremely peculiar as he came from the junior partner in a coalition. As as disgruntled public went to the polls in 1876, with the d'Hondt method to be used at the national level for the apportionment of seats for the first time, the Centrist Alliance gambled on lightning striking a third time. None of the other parties had built coalitions prior to the election, and they seemed unlikely to position themselves in a manner that would allow them to seize control. The failure of Parliament to execute on the late King August's wish to pass a minority government amendment made the specter of hung Parliament more serious than ever.
The surprise of the election season was William DeWitt emerging as head of the NDP. Prior to his death, Willem Peeters had continued the old NDP stances of laissez-faire and friendly attitudes towards Republicanism. William DeWitt, assuming the leadership with the aged Georges Savarin's blessings, continued the same policies but did something few had expected: he made friendly overtures towards the Separatist Front and Vlaamse Beweging, a pair of organizations that no one had consorted with at the last election. DeWitt saw the NDP's goals of a business-friendly Belgium with a reduced or abolished monarchy as parallel to decentralization of the state. The Separatist Front/VB coalition agreed to the NDP's offer of alliance. The vagaries of the new d'Hondt method led the Separatist Front to calculate that the coalition would capture more seats if the SF voted NDP instead of for their own list of candidates and Separatist leaders encouraged their caucus to vote NDP. As a result, the National Democrats seized 40 seats in the chamber, more than they held since the days of King Prosper-Louis, up from just 17 in 1871.
The Conservative League, its electorate not much perturbed by Jean de Croÿ's growing jingoist and hardline stances, took 68 seats, the largest winner of the night. The Centrist Alliance, with the Prime Minister firm at their helm, took 40 - as did the Belgian Social Union, with another 40. The largest loser of the night was the Communist Party of Belgium, who found themselves marginalized by the growing power of the BSU. They took only six seats, down from their 23 of the last election. Meanwhile, the BSU was up from the same number. Vlaamse Beweging elected to continue to run with its own list of candidates, and took six seats.
Many wondered what the next government would look like. While the NDP's sizable presence in the chamber made them formidable, many felt that their new policies of decentralization made them unappetizing partners for other major parties. The growing cleft between the National Democrats and socialist quarter made a "grand coalition of the left and center", as Luc Poisson had built, seem increasingly unfeasible. A new CL-CA coalition would hold 108 seats, more than enough to form a government, but the party had begun to openly question the wisdom of ceding the leadership of the country to Wolff for another five years. Reform was also heavy on everyone's minds. Usage of the D'hondt method had not been enough to satisfy the electorate, but De Croÿ had vowed to only consider senate reform and not, as the socialists demanded, legalization of trade unions and the right to organized labor.
2. Seat breakdown, 1871
Flanders saw a match between the incumbent Minister of State, Andrei Popa Vanderhoof, pitted against left-wing firebrand Carl Coopens. Coopens was unable to attract enough of the state assembly's vote to seriously challenge his opponent, and Vanderhoof easily won his second term looking after Flemish interests in the cabinet. However, the sizable Flemish separatist faction abstained wholesale, as did other assemblymen who were disaffected by the lack of choice. Jean-Luc Poisson became the first ever Minister of Brussels in a unanimous confirmation vote by the city assembly.
In Wallonia, Isidore Herriot found himself in terrible difficulty without the support of the Separatist faction. He was beaten outright both Simon Giroux and Constantin Achille de Brienne, the latter of whom replaced him Minister of Wallonia.
-------------------------
Player Actions Needed:
I will put in images later.
You have one day to form a government.
If you cannot do so by 8 PM tomorrow, you will have a hung parliament, which will result in a constitutional crisis and will have unexpected and negative effects (which are as yet unknown even to me). Recall the penalty of failure for the last mission...
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I see no reason why we would not continue in the last five years' spirit of governance. Invasion scares aside, Prime Minister Wolff's term was very successful.
- Gen. WB van Stern
- Gen. WB van Stern
I am honoured to be considered as such, and to be considered for such a prestigious award as well.
I would also like to announce that my party and the Conservatives have come to an agreement once again. I would like to note to my fellow liberals that I have prevented the establishment of trade barriers in this country, massive subsidization of the economy, and heavy discrimination of minorities, while greatly expanding our colonies and keeping the domestic peace. I intend to continue that agenda, as well as embarking on a process of senate reform. I repeat, our party has formed a coalition with the Conservatives, with the distribution of cabinet positions to be the same as last time, with the exact appointments to be determined by the respective party leaders.
~Franz Ludwig Wolff, Prime Minister of Belgium
I confirm the Prime Minister's words; the Conservative League and Centrist Alliance will renew their coalition for the next five years. While the status quo might aggrieve some of the loudest voices in my party, the last five years have been good for the nation and good for us. I see no reason to gamble it all on what could only be a minuscule gain.
- Deputy Prime Minister Jean de Croÿ
Leader of the Conservative League
- Deputy Prime Minister Jean de Croÿ
Leader of the Conservative League