From Dawn to Decadence (M3 AAR Thread)

[juv95hrn]

The war against Piracy

In 1550 the Venetian preparations were finally finished. The navy was ready to sail and the army mustered. The scarred veteran from the siege of Ragusa Leonardo de Foscole was in command of the army and Lord Admiral Grimani commanded the impressive fleet of galleys in the lagoon. Austria and Denmark, true catholic friendly nations had contributed to the preparations of the campaign and in their honor their national banners were flown from the foremast of the flagship ‘St. Christina” along with the Venetian winged lion and a sculpture of the Madonna. Priests blessed the expedition and the populace waved from the quays as the truly massive fleet of ships steered off into the Adriatic Sea. The splendor was magnificent but the stench from the rowers of the galleys was, as usual, impossible to go by unnoticed.

After a few weeks of travel, making port at Corfu and later at Malta the fleet reached the infamous barbary pirate nest Tunis. A shot from a bow cannon announced the arrival of the fleet. Soon a minor flotilla of sleek vessels was moving from the harbor to meet the approaching Christian vessels but the outcome was given from start considering the Venetian fleets numerical superiority and the old fashion design of the infidel buccaneers crafts. Once the enemy fleet was dispersed a landing took place. Wise from the damage in Ragusa 8 years earlier considerable care was given to the preparations. A minor field force engaged the landing force but was easily routed. The pirates nests crenellated oriental walls was soon bombarded and an assault began. The city was soon taken and the prisons and dungeons filled with Christian prisoners emptied. Unfortunately it showed that the Pirates overlord, the sheik of Al-Djazair, had already claimed his yearly tribute and the fortress treasury did not contain a single ducat of gold. But the honour was so much greater. Banners of the participating nations flags and a great cross was elevated on the highest tower of the fort before the storages of powder were set alight and the fortress and its coastal fortifications were all disabled allowing free passage, or military access if you will, in the future for Venetian ships. The fleet returned to Corfu later the same summer and disembarked its kidnapped passengers so that they could freely return to their ports of call free from the threat of piracy.

It is rumoured that the Sheik of Al-Djazair was so enraged with the event that he let the pirates chief be beheaded and thrown to the Dogs. What is certain is that the Tunisian province fell under Algerian government only months after the successful raid. Christ be thanked for thy mercy in giving your faithful servants a rightful victory.

 

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THE RISE (or fall) OF THE RUSSIAN EMPIRE 1520 – 1820

Chapter 2

“My Tsar, the Poles have advanced across the border. They have not yet reached any of our main cities, but we have to hurry if we are to meet them ",Yurij hesitated before continuing “and there is another matter beside the invasion my Lord”.
Ivan sat on his throne in a poorly lit receiving room.
“I trust you have already taken care of the mobilization and defences Yurij, now what is this other matter you speak of?"
“The other matter? Yes, it is one of great weight, but also of darkest deceit. I dare not speak it to the Tsar unless it will be to his ears only”.
Nodding acceptation, Ivan signed to the guards to leave. When they had left the room, Yurij continued.
“A powerful and successful man such as yourself is bound to attract many friends as well as enemies, my Lord. I have been your advisor for many years now and I hope you have come to trust me in what I say and that you are sure that none of what I speak is foul and lie."
“Of course Yurij, you have been very important to me, now tell me what this dark matter is all about”.
“A number of high ranking officers in your army has been talking of deserting, aiming to join the Polish side. I know you see general Kurbski as your friend, but he is one of the leaders of this conspiracy, my Lord”.
A rush of sadness flickered over Ivan’s face. Kurbski! His mentor since he was but five years old. He had taught him everything about warfare and court schemes. Until Muravjov came along, he had been the second most influential man in the Empire. Since then, Yurij had convinced Ivan that such a man could only be of ill, he would most probably stir trouble against the Tsar if he remained in the vicinity of the court for too long. Kurbski had been sent away, now in charge of the eastern armies bordering the great steppes.
“Very well Yurij, I trust that you will take care of this however you see fit. You have my fullest agreement in this matter and I will allow you to go as far as you see possible in exterminating this threat”.
“As you wish, my Lord”.

When leaving the throne room, Yurij tried his best to conceal the laughter that was bubbling within him. It had been easier than he had suspected. In fact, it had been so easy it was almost susceptible. Nevertheless, naïve Ivan had fallen for his move and soon, Yurij would have more power than he could imagine…

1552
“Are you sure this is a good idea, Yurij? I mean, the Polish war has been over ages ago and it would be rather unlikely that Kurbski and his cooperates would try to do something at this stage, now that we have shown who is the most powerful country in Eastern Europe?."
“My Lord, the scheming generals are only waiting for the moment you are weak. Then they will come down on you like vultures. I have managed to halt their plans for a while, but they will come back, then with an even more sinister plan, most probably threatening your persona, my Lord”.
“So to thwart any conspiracies against my person, you want to form this…Opritjina?”.
“Yes, my Lord. Even though the fact that I will have half the Empire’s lands in my possession, as well as a powerful security force, it will only be for your own benefit, my Lord”.
“I trust you Yurij. If it wasn’t for your ancient wisdom and strong mind, I would have lost the throne ages ago”.
“I am honoured my Tsar, the plan will be seen to”.

Developing the secret police named the Opritjina, Yurij would become the most influential man in Russia. The Tsar was now a background figure, never exerting much power and never saying anything in public without the permission of Muravjov. The supposedly scheming generals (who hadn’t done a thing), would be heavily watched and exterminated the second they did anything against the state. Kurbski had tried to remove Yurij Muravjov from his place the moment he discovered what a bad influence the old man was on Ivan. This gave Yurij the idea to use the scheming generals as a cover to his plans of taking power.
In the end, Yurij’s influence resulted in both good and bad. The Empire grew, conquering the former Khanates of Astrakhan and Sibiria and reached the vast steppes of inner Asia. Minor settlements had sprung up along the corridor in 1560. The future was indeed rimmed with gold, but enemies were still lurking in the dark corners. When Yurij died in 1562, he left a great state, though it was backwards thanks to his policies, it had the ambition to become big and strong…

 

[Damocles]

The Second Swedish Wars of Freedom: 1540-1562

At the conclusion of the thirteen year struggle against the tyranny of Denmark, Sweden was left in a rather desperate position. Even though the indomitable willpower of Gustav Vasa had forged a nation, it was surrounded on all sides by enemies, with Denmark to the west and Russia to the east. To the north was wasteland and glaciars, and to the south was the cold waters of the Baltic sea which were held in an iron grip by the Danes. Though further south there were friendly states to be found in Poland and Brandenburg, they might as well have been on the Black sea.

Gustav knew that only economic prosperity would guarantee the future of Sweden, and the route of profit lay in trading across Europe. Thus Gustav showed that he not only had a massive willpower in guiding his country in war but also economically. Over the next twenty years, Swedish trade would continue to grow by leaps and bounds. Inspired by their Protestant doctrine which encouraged the self-made men, Swedish merchants flooded across Europe in the search of fair profit. Truth be told, it was not a very great amount that was made, but the income of Sweden was so low, that it was easily doubled by trade alone.

To the west, Gustav could see that Denmark was lagging behind in technological advancement or trade, and was allowing its armies and it's borders to rot away while it poured all its funds into repressing the protestants of Scandinavia and north germany. In contrast, Sweden was one of the most militarily innovative countries in the world and was exceedingly concerned with the quality of its armies and the fortifications of its borders.

Thus, during the late 1540s, war was declared on Denmark. Swedish armies though few in number seemed to be everywhere at once. In a series of stirring tactical successes, the Danish army was defeated in Ostlandet despite the grievous losses it inflicted, and was later caught in Trondelag and given a double pounding. In barely three months, all of Norway was under Swedish control, causing Denmark to cede the province of Skane to Swedish possession.

Then there was peace for another ten years, until Denmark declared war on Holstein, intending to subjugate the Protestant duchy whilst the miserable excuse for an Emperor in Vienna did nothing. It was left to Sweden to insure the integrity of the Protestant north. And though Norway was once more occupied, and Copenhagen was even sacked, it was unable to prevent Denmark's annexation of Holstein. With the danish control of the baltic sea, there was little that could be done except for Gustav to punitively annex Ostlandet in response.

During this war, the mighty Russian bear declared a despicable war on Sweden in support of Denmark, yet Sweden's friend and ally Poland, was instrumental in fending the bear of the east off.

Towards the end of Gustav's reign, the Teutonic Order was jointly annexed by Sweden and Poland, after a difficult and bloody campaign which saw some thirty thousand of the Teutonic soldiers holed up in swampy Estland, and required several campaigns before they could be ousted. Gradually, Sweden was making more of a presence for itself on the Baltic. Perhaps it would be soon to began the incredibly expensive task of matching the Danish navy?

 

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The Concise History of England

Chapter I
1520 - 1540

- Development based on Venetian and Portuguese loans -
- Intervention in Denmark against Swedish rebellion and the consequences -
- English Protestant Church independent from the Pope -
- War against Scottish raiders -
- Normalisation of the relations with France -
​

Development based on Venetian and Portuguese loans

After the loss of the most of French possessions, England turned to New World. Rumours and news about riches just waiting to be collected were simply too tempting. However, the problem was exploration and colonisation were extremely costly adventures English treasury couldn't afford without very bad consequences in the long term prospective. Therefore foreign funding was arranged, first from the Bank of Venice, and later also from the Bank of Portugal. At one point, when those very favourable loans were not any more available, even The Bank of London was addressed, although the terms were somewhat less attractive.
The report dated from 1540 indicated England took almost 1.400 d of loans on the average period of 11 years. All the loans were being repaid, because England was very much interested to keep the good credit rating for the future business relations. Total interests on those loans were close to 430 d, definitely not insignificant, but it was either that or suffer a much higher inflation that would in the long run destroy turn much more expensive.
There were times when even military maintenance was financed from loans, while taxes were diverted almost exclusively to naval research. The Admirality was founded in London, as well as the centre of trade, while in Irish province of Munster a naval manufactory was opened, that even more speeded English naval research. From the mediocre naval power in 1520, along with Spain and Denmark (naval technology 11), behind Venice (naval technology 12) and Portugal (naval technology 14), in 1540 England, along with Venice and Genoa (naval technology 13), was second only to Portugal (naval technology 14), and ahead of Denmark (naval technology 12) and Spain (naval technology 11).


Intervention in Denmark against Swedish rebellion and the consequences

England and Denmark entered the third decade of the 16th century as two very friendly nations with a defensive pact signed to ensure mutual help against any possible aggressor. A full alliance of two strong naval and colonising nations was what England had in mind for the future. But for the start a defensive alliance was very much needed, because both countries had enemies on their borders, which was soon proved as Denmark faced the rebellion in Sweden.
As Danish provinces started one by one falling under rebel control, England started asking her ally if help is needed, naval as agreed, and later even land, although strictly in defensive purposes. So, although gold (500 d) paid from Royal family from Spain to England for mercenaries was a nice incentive (well, double nice in fact, because it meant 500 d for England and 500 d less for English main competitor), it didn’t influence the decision.
English mercenaries under Norfolk landed in Skane in May 1523 and laid Swedish controlled city under siege, while the navy was blockading Norwegian coast helping Danish sieges in the coastal provinces. Unfortunately, the events still unexplained by historians (OOC: GM ruling) made Norfolk decide to retreat the entire landing force and return to England in November the same year. The whole campaign saw England losing two warships and some infantry and cavalry, of total worth of about 120 d.
Instead of direct help, England offered her ally Denmark monetary help from the gold Spain send for mercenaries – a most noble and just gesture. Total of 311 d was send to Denmark. Well, that would mean a minimal profit of 69 d for English services, if there were no greedy Spain: she demanded 250 d to be returned to her, which left England in the huge loss of 181 d! A matter of “principle”, said Spanish ambassador, some "money back guarantee" principle…
Naturally, when all hostilities were over, England suggested that expenses should be shared with Denmark. The ambassador couldn’t believe his ears when he heard the ansver: "I can only recommend you to pay it up gracefully and try to get as much goodwill from those money as possible."
Only much later, when England was no longer a member of the Catholic community and linked to Habsburgs with Royal Marriage, things became completely clear. Apparently Denmark “forgot” to mention to England that she is receiving Spanish help for conversion of Protestant provinces and that Denmark will be Spanish Catholic bastion in the north.
When asked to chose between Spain and England, Denmark offered no clear answer – clearly Spain got this round of the diplomatic war and the strategic alliance between England and Denmark went to history. History which will show which side lost more…


English Protestant Church independent from the Pope

The roots were much deaper than just a matter of Popes and Spanish decission to deny King Henry VIII the chance to have an hair to the trone. Apparently many English citizens were unhappy seeing riches of the Catholic Church while they themselves lived in poverty.
Clearly, it was time for the change to happen, because when The Act of Supremacy gave English King the role of the supreme religious authority in the country, only minor disorder were reported in some provinces with strong Catholic majority. Nothing that a cunning move couldn’t direct in the right direction, as proven by the next major decission…


War against Scottish raiders

For too long were those northern savages left unchecked, free to pillage English northern provinces! But England was too weak to directly provoke Scottish ally France, or Spain , self-proclaimed protector of all Catholic countries. So, King Henry waited…
In December 1531 Scots made a mistake attacking Hannover, electorate of the Holly Roman Empire, over which they lost their ally France, who couldn’t risk a war against mighty Habsburgs. One settled, one to go…
Well, waiting too long is also not good, and the opportunity after English conversion to Protestantism was perfect, with England needing to direct attention to an external enemy, and Spain still at war against some natives called Inca. So in January 1534 the war was declared against Scotland. After three years of heavy battles England annexed the Scottish provinces of Grampians and Highlands, very source of the raiding parties that were threatening English north for so long time. Perhaps that would prove enough, and if not…


Normalisation of the relations with France

The victorious war against the ancient enemy Scotland wasn’t enough to settle the internal troubles, mainly related to religion matters. The worst situation was in Wales. With English soldiers tired after the war against Scotland, King Henry turned to foreign mercenaries.
But which country to address? In one of his moments of brilliance, Henry chose France. The issue of Calais was mentioned, but the details were left for later, for raising it publicly now would mean even more distress among English nobility.
French help against the Welsh rebellion was the first step in the process of the normalisation of relations between England and France. When later Spain raised the issue of 250 d England allegedly owed to her, Henry finally decided to finalise it: the city of Calais and the surrounding land was sold to France for 300 d, removing thus the cause of possible dispute between two countries.

 

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English Development in the Period 1540-1563

- Queen Elizabeth I receiving the report from her Chancellor -​

Your Majesty, here are the newest income figures, mostly for the year 1562, except for Austria and Brandenburg, which are currently in a long lasting war, so for them the data for the year 1552 is given.

Interesting…Spain is still incomparable rich relative to other countries. She is also leading in trade. And Sweden made the largest increase relative to 1539. Thank God someone is better, otherwise England could become a object of envy .

True, Your Majesty, although as you surely noticed the increase of English disposable income was not at all that spectacular. Instead, England is collecting the benefits of good investments in manufactories. England leads with Venice having four manufactories and 240 d of research/cultural income.

And unfortunately even The London Museum is “working” constantly, because the stability of our country is always lower than optimal L. But tell me, how much did that naval manufactory help English naval technology?

Your Majesty, I can proudly announce England is now leading in the naval technology, along with Genoa, Portugal and Venice (naval technology 15), Denmark is close behind (naval technology 13), surprisingly, France and Austria (naval technology 12) are ahead of Spain which is still at the beginning of the century level (naval technology 11). Still, we are more than a decade away from the decisive advantage over the competition…

Well, I am afraid it will be too late, but nevertheless, the sooner the better, it will be needed to revenge for the defeat…

I am sorry, Your Majesty, I don’t understand, what defeat are you talking about?

And you can’t know, my friend, because the ambassador from Spain just arrived, but let’s leave it for later, and continue with the economic analyses.

As you wish, Your Majesty, although we are practically done. All I can add is you can notice Portugal still doesn’t trade enough, while the data for France give them to little credit, because they are now in the middle of a religious war. My estimation is French income will be about 300 d higher when at peace.

Well, I think we should be thankful to our good subjects, for England did good. However, the news from Spain are very disturbing, my friend… Let me rest for a few minutes, while you hear it from the ambassador, and than we will discuss it.

 

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The Concise History of European Waged Warfare

Chapter II
1540 – 1562​

The list of wars waged by the most important European powers* in the period 1540-1563

1. RUSSIA against Astrakhan, started in March 1538, ended with 50$, Volgograd, Uralsk and Orenburg ceded from Astrakhan to Russia in December 1540 and Return to Status Quo agreed between Nogai and Russia in January 1541.
2. FRANCE against Benin, started in August 1538, ended in May 1541 with 50 $ and Accra ceded to France
3. SPAIN against FRANCE, started in January 1540, ended in June 1542 with Calais and Lombardia ceded to Spain.
4. VENICE against Ragusa, started in January 1540, ended in December 1541 with Ragusa annexed by Venice.
5. OTTOMAN EMPIRE against Persia, started in April 1540, ended in December 1542 with Iraq, Kurdistan and Kirkuk ceded to Ottoman Empire.
6. PORTUGAL against Vijayanagar, started in June 1540, ended in August 1540 with Vijayanagar annexed by Portugal.
7. First Indian War against PORTUGUESE expansion. Although there are no historical records on the exact date (OOC: no diplomatic relations with England), other Indian states must have realised they better do something against Portuguese expansion and declared war at some point. The outcomes were: 200 d paid from Portugal to Hyderabad in October 1540, 125 d paid from Portugal to Taungu in December 1542, 100 d, Bombay and Gujarat ceded to Portugal from Gujarat, Return to Status Quo agreed between Portugal and Delhi in January 1544 and finally 150 d paid from Portugal to Jodhapur in March 1544.
8. Apparently soon after there was a Second Indian War against PORTUGUESE expansion. Sadly, the historical records regarding the starting date are again unclear, but it ended up with some success: in January 1546 Portugal paid 100 d to Hyderabad and in November 1549 Portugal ceded Gujarat to Jodhapur.
9. Teutonic Order and Pommern against Prussia, started in January 1540 with POLAND joining Prussian side in September 1540, ended with 46 d paid from Pommern to Poland in April 1542, 109 d paid from Teutonic Order to Prussia in October 1545 and a White Peace signed between Prussia and Pommern in November 1550.
10. BRANDENBURG, Mecklenburg, Saxony, Hannover and Würzburg against Münster, started in July 1541, ended in January 1544 with Münster paying 75 d and becoming vassal of Brandenburg.
11. DENMARK against Holstein, started in August 1541, ended in June 1543 with Holstein paying 50 d and accepting Catholic religion.
12. ENGLAND against Scotland, started in May 1542, ended in March 1544 with Strathclyde ceded to England.
13. RUSSIA against Kazan and Crimea, started in April 1543, ended in March 1544 with 70 d and Tambow ceded to Russia.
14. FRANCE against Tuscany, started in May 1543, ended in July 1544 with Tuscany annexed by France.
15. SWEDEN against DENMARK, started in March 1544, ended in March 1545 with Skane ceded to Sweden.
16. BRANDENBURG, Mecklenburg, Saxony, Hannover and Würzburg against Pommern and Teutonic Order, started in October 1547, ended in January 1551 with Pommern accepting to become vassal of Brandenburg.
17. RUSSIA against Sibir, Astrakhan and Nogai, started in February 1548, ended with Astrakhan annexed in October 1548, Sibir annexed in May 1549 and 75 d paid from Russia to Nogai in August 1549.
18. OTTOMAN EMPIRE and Wallachia against Persia, started in March 1548, ended in February 1550 with Basrah, Daghestan and Azerbaijan ceded to Ottoman Empire.
19. VENICE against Tunisia, started in June 1548, ended in April 1549 with Return to Status Quo agreed.
20. Algiers, OTTOMAN EMPIRE and Wallachia against Tunisia, started in November 1549, ended in August 1550 with Tunisia annexed by Algiers.
21. Bavaria, Papal States, Genoa, Baden, Hessen (April 1554) and Mainz (April 1554) against Würzburg, Saxony, BRANDENBURG, Hannover (February 1550), Mecklenburg (March 1550) and Oldenburg (June 1562), started in January 1550, still going on with Baden paying 25 d and giving Brandenburg military access in July 1551, Bavaria paying 125 d and becoming vassal of Brandenburg in April 1554, Hessen annexed by Saxony in June 1554, Mainz annexed by Brandenburg in June 1555, Genoa paying 200 d to Hanover in October 1558, a White Peace signed between Brandenburg, Würzburg, Hannover and Saxony and Papal States in October 1561 (the war against Genoa still going on).
22. Morocco against PORTUGAL, started in January 1550, ended in February 1550with Tangiers ceded to Morocco.
23. Third Indian War against PORTUGUESE expansion, again with the start in one of rebellions unrecorded by the history, ending up with Portugal paying 275 d to Hyderabad in April 1551, and agreement between Portugal and Delhi to Return to Status Quo in February 1552.
24. FRANCE against Benin and Ashanti, started in February 1551, ended with Benin annexed by France in May 1554 and Ashanti annexed by France in December 1555.
25. DENMARK against Holstein, started in April 1552, ended in December 1553 with Holstein annexed by Denmark.
26. SWEDEN against Denmark, started in April 1553, ended in September 1555 with Řstlandet ceded to Sweden.
27. PORTUGAL against Malacca, started in April 1554, ended in April 1555 with Malacca annexed by Portugal.
28. SPAIN against The Palatinat, started in July 1554, ended in September 1555 with The Palatinat paying 150 d, accepting Catholic religion and giving military access to Spain.
29. ENGLAND against Scotland and The Palatinat, started in November 1554, ended with Scotland annexed by England in July 1555 and a White Peace was signed between England and The Palatinat in June 1558.
30. AUSTRIA against BRANDENBURG, Saxony, Mecklenburg, Hannover, Würzburg and Oldenburg (June 1562), started in February 1555, up to now ended with Würzburg paying 100 d to Austria, giving military access to Austria and accepting Catholic religion in November 1560, while the rest of the countries are still at war.
31. RUSSIA against SWEDEN, Prussia and POLAND, started in February 1555, ended with Return to Status Quo agreement between Russia and Sweden in November 1557 and Poland paying 100 d to Russia in February 1559.
32. OTTOMAN EMPIRE against AUSTRIA, started in May 1555, ended in October 1556 with Banat ceded to Ottoman Empire.
33. Pommern against BRANDENBURG, Saxony, Mecklenburg and Würzburg, started in March 1556, ended in July 1558 with Brandenburg paying 25 d.
34. Although it remains unknown exactly which event triggered The Fourth Indian War against PORTUGUESE expansion, it is known Hyderabad declared it in June 1556, with Bengal, Orissa and Malwa following immediately and China joining later. The war ended with 25 d, Palakimedi and Berhampur ceded from Orissa to Portugal in November 1557, Portugal paying 125 d to Hyderabad in June 1558, and Guangdong ceded from Portugal to China in July 1558.
35. FRANCE against Songhai and Mali, started in August 1556, ended with 53 d, Buré, Bambuk, Begho and Zaria ceded to France in February 1558 and Mali paying 115 d to France in March 1558.
36. RUSSIA and DENMARK against Kazan, started in February 1560, still going on.
37. FRANCE against Genoa, Papal States and Baden, started in March 1560, ended with Genoa paying 75 d in February 1562 and Papal States paying 20 d in June 1562.
38. POLAND, Prussia and SWEDEN against Teutonic Order, started in March 1560, ended 50 d paid to Poland in December 1562 and 50 d, Livland and Estland ceded to Sweden.
39. SPAIN, The Knights, Cologne, Kleves and Portugal against FRANCE, started in October 1561, ended with Return to Status Quo agreed with Portugal in October 1561, and Return to Status Quo agreed with Spain in August 1562.
40. OTTOMAN EMPIRE and Moldavia against AUSTRIA, started in November 1561, still going on.
41. ENGLAND against Shawnee and Iroqouis, started in December 1561, still going on with Iroqouis, ended with Shawnee annexed in November 1562.

Clearly, the most famous wars of the period were German Religious Wars, started by Brandenburg with some remarkable success and still going on, but currently The Emperor is striking really strong. The first two wars were relatively short, but this third one lasts already over 13 years now.
The Portuguese attempt to take full control over India and the remarkable strong and frequent opposition by united Indian states will probably also be legendary and remembered as Indian Wars. It seems like Portugal really did something very, very bar and upset the local Maharajas .
War for Milan and Calais between France and Spain was probably also very intense, although it lasted relatively short time.



Casualties by country compared with wealth**

AUSTRIA

• 3 wars (2 still going on), total 8 years in the state of war
• gains: 100 d, Würzburg accepted Catholic religion and gave military access
• losses: Banat
• army losses: 139.000 infantry, 64.000 cavalry
• costs of army losses: infantry 970 d, cavalry 640 d, total 1.610 d
• total costs of military losses 1.610 d, which is 13% of wealth accumulated in the period 1540-1563

BRANDENBURG

• 5 wars (2 still going on), total 18 years in the state of war
• gains: Mainz annexed, Münster, Pommern, Bavaria vassals, Baden gives military access, 225 d
• losses: 25 d
• army losses: 117.000 infantry, 8.000 cavalry, 10 artillery
• costs of army losses: infantry 700 d, cavalry 140 d, artillery 30, total 870 d
• total costs of military losses 870 d, which is 27% of wealth accumulated in the period 1540-1563

DENMARK

• 5 wars (1 still going on), total 9,5 years in the state of war
• gains: Holstein accepting Catholic religion, Holstein annexed, 50 d
• losses: Skane, Řstlandet
• army losses: 36.000 infantry, 6.000 cavalry
• costs of army losses: infantry 430 d, cavalry 120 d, total 550 d
• total costs of military losses 550 d, which is 8% of wealth accumulated in the period 1540-1563

ENGLAND

• 3 wars (1 still going on), total 6,5 years in the state of war
• gains: Strathclyde, Lothian (no more Scottish threat), Shawnee annexed
• army losses: 86.000 infantry, 1.000 cavalry
• navy losses: 20 transports
• costs of army losses: infantry 1.200 d, cavalry 20 d, total 1.220 d
• costs of navy losses: transports 200 d, total 200 d
• total costs of military losses 1.420 d, which is 8% of wealth accumulated in the period 1540-1563

FRANCE

• 7 wars (1 started before 1540), total 11,5 years in the state of war
• gains: Accra, Buré, Bambuk, Begho, Zaria, Tuscany, all the rest of Benin and Ashanti annexed, 260 d
• losses: Calais, Lombardia
• army losses: 261.000 infantry, 87.000 cavalry, 6 artillery
• navy losses: 13 warships, 5 galleys, 2 transports
• costs of army losses: infantry 2.350 d, cavalry 1.650 d, artillery 20 d, total 4.020 d
• costs of navy losses: warships 830 d, galleys 60 d, transports 40 d, total 930 d
• total costs of military losses 4.950 d, which is 25% of wealth accumulated in the period 1540-1563

OTTOMAN EMPIRE

• 5 wars (1 still going on), total 7 years in the state of war
• gains: Iraq, Kurdistan, Kirkuk, Basrah, Daghestan, Azerbaijan, Banat
• army losses: 462.000 infantry, 114.000 cavalry, 22 artillery
• costs of army losses: infantry 4.620 d, cavalry 2.390 d, artillery 60 d, total 7.070 d
• total costs of military losses 7.070 d, which is 28% of wealth accumulated in the period 1540-1563

POLAND

• 3 wars, total 7 years in the state of war
• gains: 96 d
• losses: 100 d
• army losses: 103.000 infantry, 41.000 cavalry
• costs of army losses: infantry 410 d, cavalry 410 d, total 820 d
• total costs of military losses 820 d, which is 7% of wealth accumulated in the period 1540-1563

PORTUGAL

• 8 wars, total 12 years in the state of war
• gains: Bombay, Gujarat, Palakimedi, Berhampur all of Vijayanagar and Malacca annexed, 125 d
• losses: Gujarat, Tangiers, Guangdong, 975 d (of that 700 d to Hyderabad – no wander they were eager to lead all those Indian Wars )
• army losses: 66.000 infantry, 10.000 cavalry
• navy losses: 6 warships
• costs of army losses: infantry 860 d, cavalry 260 d, total 1.120 d
• costs of navy losses: warships 260 d
• total costs of military losses 1.380 d, which is 5% of wealth accumulated in the period 1540-1563

RUSSIA

• 5 wars (1 started before 1540, 1 still going on), total 10,5 years in the state of war
• gains: Volgograd, Uralsk, Orenburg, Tambow, all of Astrakhan and Sibir annexed, 220 d
• losses: 75 d
• army losses: 238.000 infantry, 50.000 cavalry
• costs of army losses: infantry 710 d, cavalry 550 d, total 1.260 d
• total costs of military losses 1.260 d, which is 9% of wealth accumulated in the period 1540-1563

SPAIN

• 3 wars, total 4,5 years in the state of war
• gains: Calais and Lombardia, The Palatinat accepting Catholic religion and giving military access, 150 d
• army losses: 280.000 infantry, 99.000 cavalry, 32 artillery
• navy losses: 4 warships
• costs of army losses: infantry 3.350 d, cavalry 1.780 d, artillery 90 d, total 5.220 d
• costs of navy losses: warships 300 d
• total costs of military losses 5.520 d, which is 8% of wealth accumulated in the period 1540-15630

SWEDEN

• 4 wars, total 7 years in the state of war
• gains: Skane, Řstlandet, Livland and Estland, 50 d
• army losses: 122.000 infantry, 12.000 cavalry
• costs of army losses: infantry 850 d, cavalry 200 d, total 1.050 d
• total costs of military losses 1.050 d, which is 7% of wealth accumulated in the period 1540-1563

VENICE

• 2 wars, total 2 years in the state of war
• gains: Ragusa annexed
• army losses: 16.000 infantry, 3.000 cavalry
• costs of army losses: infantry 180 d, cavalry 80 d, total 260 d
• total costs of military losses 260 d, which is 2% of wealth accumulated in the period 1540-1563

----------------------------
* Player countries, written in CAPITAL LETTERS
** Military unit prices according to domestic policy and inflation for the last year of the analysed period. Wealth is defined as disposable income minus military maintenance costs.

 

[juv95hrn]

Venice 1562


The chamber was in uproar…
-They did what?
- They threw out the priests, the crucifixes, the Holy Madonnas, everything, Sire!
- And what about the Duke, our beloved friend and relative?
- He was dethroned in the ruthless invasion.
- Well this sort of behavior just can’t be accepted. Heresy is spreading everywhere and we can’t just sit idly watching anymore. We will do our best to prevent this type of actions from happening again, and if possible restore the situation to its former self. May God be with us! I suggest we do our best to throw out the invader and restore the Holy Church’s supremacy in this region once and for all.
Under silence the vote was taken…

 

[ForzaA]

The treaty of Firenze​

The Holy Roman Emperor hereby proclaims the Republic of St. Mark as the holy and eternal protector of the Duchy of Firenze for the services granted our Throne and Nation. It will be our loyal subjects sole prerogative to appoint ruler, authorities and bailiffs in the province and when such are not available or appointed to enjoy the taxes and benefits of the land for maintaining the one and only faith in this realm.

 

[juv95hrn]

Liber Chronica di Venezia anno 1563-1584

- 1563-1569 Switzerland goes reformed and Venice intervenes and forces them to reconvert to Catholicism at dear cost
- 1563 Venice pays money to avoid unrest in the realm
- 1564 Rebels in Steiermark are attacked and annihilated
- 1566 During 3 years chance of revolts are much more frequent
- 1568 Nobles demand their ancient rights and stability in the realm is severely affected.
- 1570 Plague hits Marche and Corfu
- 1572 Tax incomes are increased in Marche
- 1575 The Venetian Doge has a lapse of madness during 3 years
- 1579 Venice is embargoed from trade in France for no reason
- 1580 Venice initiates an alliance with Genoa and Baden
- 1580 A new currency decreases inflation in the Republic. The Grand Council rejoices!
- 1582 Religious turmoil in Corfu
- 1582 War to liberate Firenze and lift French trade embargo is initiated
- 1584 Free trade policies initiated

 

[unmerged(11031)]

The Ascent of Portugal on the World Stage.

While Portugal’s influence in Europe was extremely limited, being restricted to offering loans to various European courts, on the World Stage, Portugal was very active, seeking to establish her dominance on three different continents. This was to prove a great drain on her resources, but it was hoped that by the dawning of the next century, the 1600s, that her position would be unassailable.

The might of Portugal was focused on three areas. Thousands of ducats were poured into colonising the area of the new world that the Pope had set aside for us, which we had termed Brazil. The area was also where a large number of Portugal’s manufacturing was based, it was hoped that the area would provide safety and security for the many Portuguese who wished to leave the homeland for pastures new.

Of lesser concern was the Cape of Good Hope. While the area was settled, it was not given the attention that Brazil was. The area was important as a stopping place for India, but it’s investment would have to wait for the Brazilian projects to be completed.

Much of Europe heard of our conquests in India. The place was under attack every 3 or so years, in the past 60 years alone there was something like 20 separate wars in the sub continent as the various Indian powers sort to slow down the conquest of the land. Portuguese influence slowly snaked it’s way North-eastwardly along the coast, till we were knocking on the door of Ganges, which is our ultimate aim. But we were unable to do so, having only a slight advantage in Military technology over Bengal and Hyberbad who had formed an alliance which constantly snipped at us, every chance they got. The only Power that had any true success was the Mughal Empire as together with China and Arthyuia (excuse the spelling, I forget the proper way of spelling their name) they managed to take two provinces off us, but it was hoped back in Lisbon that with the conquest of Bengal and the bribing of Hyberbad, Portugal should be able to turn it’s full attention on the Mughals and recapture the lost two provinces that they had stolen from us.

Back in Europe Portugal, under diplomatic pressure from Spain accepted Philip as their King and a union of the two nations, though the old council still ruled the country in Philip’s name and so managed to avoid the wars that were spreading across Europe, especially with England. Lisbon policy was to make up the technological cap that had grown due to our time in India. The English are an especial worry to us, they are better traders then us and their navy rivals our own, indeed it is slightly better then ours as we are forced to focus on two oceans where as they only have one ocean to concern themselves with. Also we had heard rumours that they desire to expand their influence in India. While they are welcome to attempt to take land from the Mughal’s, we will not tolerate them attempting to take anything from us.

 

[unmerged(10146)]

The Concise History of England

Chapter II
1540 - 1563

- English economy slowly growing - less Portuguese and Venetian loans needed -
- The Second Scottish War -
- The Third Scottish War - the islands finally united under one ruler -
- War against natives in America -
- Religious matters and relations with Spain – England alone facing the Armada -
​

English economy slowly growing - less Portuguese and Venetian loans needed

The investments in trade and colonies started returning profits to England, which was more than enough of a sign for more and more entrepreneurs to try their fortunes in the new world. Therefore, despite money printing from the Royal Treasury, foreign loans were still very much needed to continue the expansion.
The largest one ever was arranged with the Bank of Portugal: 750 d for building of The English National Museum in London. Two loans of 100 d each were arranged with the Bank of Venice, to facilitate the return of expired loans, and one 200 d loan was arranged with The Bankers Trust. Total 1.150 d of loans was taken with the interests of 410 d on an equivalent of 16 years.


The Second Scottish War

France and Spain were occupied with their war for Milan and Calais – a perfect opportunity to…err… punish Scottish raiders for pillaging across northern England.
The war was declared in May 1542 and with minimal losses ended in less than two years with Strathclyde ceded to England and Scotland left as one province minor. Perhaps now there will be peace…


The Third Scottish War - the islands finally united under one ruler

…but no! They learned nothing . And they made a serious mistake leaving Catholic faith and converting to Reformed! Now even the Emperor didn't have anything against final lesson, so in November 1554 Scotland was incorporated in England. For the first time in the history British islands were ruled by one monarch.
Scottish navy was a nice addition on top of the land, because England needed every ship she could acquire – suddenly there was a large sea area to be patrolled and guarded against possible aggressors.


War against natives in America

English colonial possessions in the New World were developing steadily along the coastline for decades now, bringing a nice profit to adventurers ready to try their fortune across the Atlantic. Going further into the continent, explorers found more and more native nomads, until one day they reached the first real settlements of Shawnee nation.
A small regiment of English marines was meat with spears and arrows: some older warriors still remembered their southern neighbours from the Creek nation and White People that attacked them a few decades ago. There was no way to explain them those were French, not English white man.
Well, the decision was hard, but inevitable, for it was either English or French domination.
So in December 1561 the war was declared against Shawnee. Surprisingly, their allies Iroqouis joined them! Nevertheless, with the superior tactics and weaponry English marines succeeded in annexing all the Shawnee land, total of about 5 provinces, in less than a year and with minimal casualties on both sides: the intention was to recruit as many of those brave warriors in the English colonial forces.
With this newly acquired land English North American colony got a stable fortified border towards the French colony in the south.


Religious matters and relations with Spain – England alone facing the Armada

According to our ambassador in Madrid, the new Spanish King Felipe II doesn't care at all about relatively stable Spain -England relations that existed for about two decades now, while Spain was ruled by the glorious Emperor Carlos, his father.
England did all to ease the religious tensions, for example not only that Catholics were not forced to convert to the state religion, but Catholicism was in fact declared the most favoured religion in England under the former Queen Mary of England.
Also, to please Spain, Scots were left independent, until they converted to Reformed Church, a most unwise decision, because the Emperor almost encouraged us to teach them a lesson when we asked for the permission to continue our campaign against those northern savages .
But sadly, His Majesty King Felipe II acts like nothing of the above stated ever happened . He puts rather unfortunate demands on England, that are threatening to again provoke religious war and unrest that would mean many, many dead on both Catholic and Protestant side.
King of Spain demands Elizabeth, Queen of England, to marry him and accept English vassalisation to Spain. Either peacefully, or she will be forced!
The matter is far too large to be decided in a hurry. The demand is also completely unexpected for England, in the light of a relatively good understanding developed during the reign of the Emperor Carlos.
1560es will be the hardest years in English history, but Queen Elizabeth is firm in her decision to not allow her nation to be enslaved; well, not without a fight! With Felipe II promising the Armada of the size not seen in the history, it was clear English future will be decided on seas. Fortunately, England succeeded in becoming then leading nation in the naval technology. Also, with the income form her American colonies English economy was strong enough to start the first massive construction of warships in the history. Now only the time was needed… Rumours from Spain were indicating a few more years will pass until the Spanish Armada is ready… Perhaps there was a chance after all, although Spanish leaders were unmatched both on seas, lead by the admiral Bazan, and on land, lead by Duke of Alba.

 

[unmerged(10146)]

European Economy in 1583 – England Slowly Catching Up​

Your Majesty, here is the latest comparison of the leading European nations concerning the economy. I must stress that Austria and Ottoman Empire still suffer consequences of their wars. Our best estimation is Ottoman income should be about 400-500 d higher, and Austrian about 100-200 d higher. Nevertheless, Austria was beaten really bad in the last two decades.
Spain is still in the lead, and when she concentrate on trade again… And Portugal is growing steadily, despite some problems in India.

​

I am very pleased, my dear Chancellor . It looks like our small country is showing steady growth of income as well. And it pleases me greatly to see that we are the leading trading nation.

Indeed, Your Majesty, the increase is about 2,3% yearly for the last four decades, which is unmatched in history. If you add that English naval technology is the best for decades, that English navy is the largest...

And we will need every single ship we have, my friend. You are greatly mistaking if you believe Felipe II of Spain gave up on his sick ambition to submit our islands to his mighty Spain

But surely, Your Majesty, the defeat in the war for the Caribbean will teach him! Everyone agree England is ruling the seas. Only Portugal and Spain united could threaten us…

You are mistaking when dismissing the threat we are facing. English navy could be the strongest, but our armies are very much backwards comparing to Spanish. Imagine they land… And all it takes is one mistake…No, as much as we can be happy with really good results and development of our small island, we must have in mind the final goal that will make as a bit safer: two fleet standard regarding navy strength and two economy standard regarding income.
The current English fleet of 130 warships is just slightly more than 100 warships Felipe II has under control (Spanish and Portuguese). And income-wise we are not even the leading nation, let alone stronger than the two second best nations !

So what are your orders?

England will continue investing in military, especially naval technology. We will also invest in even more warships, for control over seas is the only defence our small island has against the enemy and the only way to continue our expansion. I would also like to eventually see the museum like The English National Museum in London build for every nation of our country, but let's leave this for some better times… And now, leave me, my friend, we both have a lot to do…

 

[unmerged(10146)]

The Concise History of European Waged Warfare

Chapter III
1563 – 1584​

The list of wars waged by the most important European powers* in the period 1563-1584

1. Bavaria, Papal States, Genoa, Baden, Hessen (April 1554) and Mainz (April 1554) against Würzburg, Saxony, BRANDENBURG, Hannover (February 1550), Mecklenburg (March 1550) and Oldenburg (June 1562), started in January 1550, ended with Baden paying 25 d and giving Brandenburg military access in July 1551, Bavaria paying 125 d and becoming vassal of Brandenburg in April 1554, Hessen annexed by Saxony in June 1554, Mainz annexed by Brandenburg in June 1555, Genoa paying 200 d to Hanover in October 1558, a White Peace signed between Brandenburg, Würzburg, Hannover and Saxony and Papal States in October 1561 and Return to Status Quo agreed between Genoa and Brandenburg (May 1568).
2. AUSTRIA against BRANDENBURG, Saxony, Mecklenburg, Hannover, Würzburg and Oldenburg (June 1562), started in February 1555, ended with Würzburg paying 100 d to Austria, giving military access to Austria and accepting Catholic religion in November 1560, Brandenburg paying 41 d and accepting Catholic religion in October 1564 and Hannover and Austria agreeing to Return to Status Quo in November 1564.
3. RUSSIA and DENMARK against Kazan, started in February 1560, ended in February 1564 with full annexation of Kazan by Russia.
4. OTTOMAN EMPIRE and Moldavia against AUSTRIA, started in November 1561, ended in July 1566 with Austria paying 25 d and Krain, Pest and Steiermark ceded to Ottoman Empire.
5. ENGLAND against Shawnee and Iroqouis, started in December 1561, ended with Shawnee annexed in November 1562 and Iroqouis annexed in January 1565.
6. The Fifth Indian War: Mughal Empire against PORTUGAL, started in December 1561, ended in April 1564 with Portugal paying 575 d.
7. VENICE against Helvetia, started in July 1564, ended in March 1569 with Helvetia paying 50 d, agreeing to allow Venice military access and accepting Catholic religion.
8. POLAND against AUSTRIA, started in October 1564, ended in November 1566 with Ruthenia and Silesia ceded to Poland.
9. PORTUGAL against Bengal and Hyderabad, started in January 1565, ended with Howrah ceded from Bengal to Portugal and Return to Status Quo with Hyderabad in July 1567.
10. SWEDEN against DENMARK, Georgia and RUSSIA, started in May 1565, ended with Jämtland ceded from Denmark to Sweden in May 1566 and Karelia and Kola ceded from Russia to Sweden in May 1568.
11. SPAIN, The Knights and PORTUGAL against OTTOMAN EMPIRE and Algiers, started in April 1566, ended with Return to Status Quo with Portugal already in May 1566, and with Spain in September 1566. In the meantime, in July 1566 Austria lost three valuable provinces, Steiermark included… I guess the intervention came 117% too late.
12. OTTOMAN EMPIRE, Algiers, Morocco and The Hedjaz against Persia, started in June 1568, ended in July 1571 with Persia paying 100 d and Armenia ceded to Ottoman Empire.
13. POLAND against Teutonic Order and Pommern, started in December 1568, ended with full annexation of Pommern by Poland in September 1572 (after Vorpommern was ceded to Sweden) and full annexation of Teutonic Order by Poland in February 1574.
14. The Sixth Indian War: Orissa against PORTUGAL, started in January 1569, ended after only 13 days with Portugal paying 225 d.
15. Prussia and SWEDEN against Teutonic Order and Pommern, started in January 1569, ended in July 1570 with Pommern paying 116 d and Vorpommern ceded to Sweden.
16. The 7th Indian War: Mughal Empire, Ayutthaya and China against PORTUGAL, started in May 1569, ended in July 1569 with Portugal paying 550 d and His Majesty King of Portugal heard screaming: "5 years of peace, that's all I ask for, just 5 years of peace!" Isn't it better when the enemy starts a war? No loss of stability…
17. FRANCE against Songhai, started in June 1569, ended in May 1570 with Timbuktu ceded to France.
18. POLAND against Moldavia, started in April 1570, ended in October 1572 with Moldavia paying 125 d and Wallachia ceded to Poland.
19. DENMARK selling Gotland to SWEDEN in August 1571 in a war staged probably for internal policy purposes.
20. AUSTRIA and Münster (June 1573) against OTTOMAN EMPIRE, Algiers, The Hedjaz and Morocco, started in September 1571, ended with Austria paying 33 d to The Hedjaz in July 1576 and Austria paying 150 d and Croatia, Transylvania and Istria ceded to Ottoman Empire in November 1577. Obviously, something went very, very wrong, as this surely was planned more like a decisive revenge against the last devastating defeat .
21. The 8th Indian War: Bengal and Hyderabad against PORTUGAL, started in October 1572, ended in March 1573 with Portugal paying 200 d.
22. The 9th Indian War: Orissa against PORTUGAL, started in April 1574, ended in February 1575 with Orissa annexed by Portugal. Mughals must have anticipated this kind of outcome and…
23. The 10th Indian War: Mughal Empire, Ayutthaya and China against PORTUGAL, started in August 1574, ended in March 1575 with Portugal paying 700 d.
24. Netherlands against SPAIN, started in August 1575, ended in December 1576 with Return to Status Quo (OOC: waiting Netherlands to be player country).
25. The 11th Indian War: Bengal and Hyderabad against PORTUGAL, started in May 1578, ended in July 1579 with Portugal paying 200 d.
26. The 12th Indian War: Mughal Empire, Ayutthaya and China against PORTUGAL, started in May 1580, ended in June 1581 with Portugal paying 375 d, Perak ceded to Ayutthaya and Bombay ceded to Mughal Empire. Apparently Maharajas realized they can get even more than just a lot of money .
27. ENGLAND against SPAIN, started as a colonial war in June 1580.
28. OTTOMAN EMPIRE against POLAND, started in April 1581, ended in June 1581 with Wallachia ceded to Ottoman Empire.
29. SPAIN against FRANCE, started as a colonial war in September 1582.
30. VENICE against FRANCE, started in November 1582.
31. AUSTRIA against Helvetia, started in June 1583.

We saw the end of German Religion Wars, after 14 years of bloody fighting. Austria forced Brandenburg to accept Catholic religion, but the cost was huge and surely unexpected: she lost five provinces to Ottoman Empire and Poland. Later attempt to return Steiermark form Ottoman Empire was clearly poorly prepared, for it ended with Austria losing three more provinces and Ottomans completely controlling former southern Hungarian provinces.
Sweden and Poland finished partition of Teutonic Order and Pommern. Prussia is still intact – no doubt God himself is keeping an eye on her .
England declared a colonial war, the first in history; if this is how every colonial war will look like, she will be in the constant state of war; at least until all out-of-Europe land is English .
But all this fades when compared with the continued saga about the Portuguese Indian Wars, nine of them in the last 20 years, lasting total nine years. The outcome was much, much less favorable for Portugal than a few decades earlier, because now real powers, Mughal Empire and China, decided to take part. The total sum Portugal paid for a number of short term truce agreements is 2.825 d or an equivalent of two manufactories :wacko:, all for gaining provinces of Howrah and Orissa, but on the other side losing Perak and Bombay – where is profit in that?!

Casualties by country compared with wealth**

AUSTRIA

• 5 wars (2 started before 1563, 1 still going on), total 11,5 years in the state of war
• gains: 41 d, Brandenburg accepted Catholic religion
• losses: 208 d, Krain, Pest, Steiermark, Ruthenia, Silesia, Croatia, Transylvania, Istria
• army losses: 277.000 infantry, 46.000 cavalry
• costs of army losses: infantry 1.940 d, cavalry 500 d, total 2.440 d
• total costs of military losses 2.440 d, which is 34% of wealth accumulated in the period 1563-1583

BRANDENBURG

• 2 wars (2 started before 1563), total 4 years in the state of war
• losses: 41 d, accepting Catholic religion
• army losses: 28.000 infantry, 5.000 cavalry
• costs of army losses: infantry 170 d, cavalry 100 d, total 270 d
• total costs of military losses 270 d, which is 8% of wealth accumulated in the period 1563-1583

DENMARK

• 3 wars (1 started before 1563, 1 staged for internal purposes), total 2 years in the state of war
• losses: Jämtland, Gotland sold in a war staged for internal purposes
• army losses: 23.000 infantry, 5.000 cavalry
• costs of army losses: infantry 280 d, cavalry 90 d, total 370 d
• total costs of military losses 370 d, which is 5% of wealth accumulated in the period 1563-1583

ENGLAND

• 2 wars (1 started before 1563, 1 still going on), total 5,5 years in the state of war
• gains: Iroqouis annexed
• army losses: 65.000 infantry, 2.000 cavalry
• navy losses: 19 warships, 3 transports
• costs of army losses: infantry 970 d, cavalry 70 d, total 1.040 d
• costs of navy losses: warships 820 d, transports 30 d, total 850 d
• total costs of military losses 1.890 d, which is 6% of wealth accumulated in the period 1563-1583

FRANCE

• 3 wars (2 still going on), total 3,5 years in the state of war
• gains: Timbuktu
• army losses: 134.000 infantry, 26.000 cavalry, 4 artillery
• navy losses: 7 warships, 1 transports
• costs of army losses: infantry 1.200 d, cavalry 500 d, artillery 10 d, total 1.710 d
• costs of navy losses: warships 450 d, transports 20 d, total 470 d
• total costs of military losses 2.180 d, which is 10% of wealth accumulated in the period 1563-1583

OTTOMAN EMPIRE

• 5 wars (1 started before 1563), total 13 years in the state of war
• gains: 308 d, Krain, Pest, Steiermark, Croatia, Transylvania, Istria, Armenia, Wallachia
• army losses: 648.000 infantry, 132.000 cavalry, 6 artillery
• navy losses: 1 warships, 36 galleys, 2 transports
• costs of army losses: infantry 6.480 d, cavalry 2.770 d, artillery 20 d, total 9.270 d
• costs of navy losses: warships 70 d, galleys 500 d, transports 40 d, total 610 d
• total costs of military losses 9.880 d, which is 38% of wealth accumulated in the period 1563-1583

POLAND

• 4 wars, total 10 years in the state of war
• gains: 125 d, Ruthenia, Silesia and Wallachia, full annexation of Pommern and Teutonic Order
• losses: Wallachia
• army losses: 108.000 infantry, 20.000 cavalry
• costs of army losses: infantry 650 d, cavalry 220 d, total 870 d
• total costs of military losses 870 d, which is 7% of wealth accumulated in the period 1563-1563

PORTUGAL

• 10 wars (1 started before 1563), total 9 years in the state of war
• gains: Howrah, Orissa annexed
• losses: 2.825 d, Perak and Bombay
• army losses: 91.000 infantry, 15.000 cavalry, 12 artillery
• navy losses: 2 warships
• costs of army losses: infantry 1.180 d, cavalry 480 d, artillery 30, total 1.690 d
• costs of navy losses: warships 80 d
• total costs of military losses 1.770 d, which is 6% of wealth accumulated in the period 1563-1583

RUSSIA

• 2 wars (1 started before 1563), total 3 years in the state of war
• gains: Kazan annexed
• losses: Karelia and Kola
• army losses: 109.000 infantry, 18.000 cavalry
• navy losses: 4 galleys
• costs of army losses: infantry 330 d, cavalry 190 d, total 520 d
• costs of navy losses: galleys 50 d
• total costs of military losses 570 d, which is 3% of wealth accumulated in the period 1563-1583

SPAIN

• 4 wars (2 still going on), total 6,5 years in the state of war
• army losses: 254.000 infantry, 36.000 cavalry, 69 artillery
• navy losses: 15 warships, 4 transports
• costs of army losses: infantry 3.050 d, cavalry 690 d, artillery 210 d, total 3.950 d
• costs of navy losses: warships 1.170 d, transports 80 d, total 1.250 d
• total costs of military losses 5.200 d, which is 9% of wealth accumulated in the period 1563-1583

SWEDEN

• 3 wars, total 4,5 years in the state of war
• gains: 116 d, Vorpommern, Jämtland, Karelia, Kola, Gotland bought in a war staged for internal purposes
• army losses: 56.000 infantry, 2.000 cavalry
• navy losses: 2 galleys
• costs of army losses: infantry 450 d, cavalry 40 d, total 490 d
• costs of navy losses: galleys 30 d
• total costs of military losses 520 d, which is 3% of wealth accumulated in the period 1563-1583

VENICE

• 2 wars (1 still going on), total 6 years in the state of war
• gains: 50 d, Helvetia allowing Venice military access and accepting Catholic religion
• army losses: 63.000 infantry, 8.000 cavalry, 14 artillery
• navy losses: 2 galleys
• costs of army losses: infantry 690 d, cavalry 200 d, artillery 30 d, total 920 d
• costs of navy losses: galleys 20 d
• total costs of military losses 940 d, which is 7% of wealth accumulated in the period 1563-1583

----------------------------
* Player countries, written in CAPITAL LETTERS
** Military unit prices according to domestic policy and inflation for the last year of the analysed period. Wealth is defined as disposable income minus military maintenance costs.

 

[Damocles]

The Emergence of Sweden in the Baltic:1563-1583

After the turbulence of it's original wars of independence, which saw Sweden emerge with the gains of Skane and Ostlandet at the expense of Denmark, and the military adventures across the Baltic Sea which ended up with 2/3rds of the Teutonic Order falling under Swedish sway, there followed around a decade of peace and prosperity. Sweden became a vibrant trading power, and though it's wealth was nothing compared to the greatness of other powers, for it's region, it was fairly well off! It was also leading Europe in military tactics and training.

Thus, by 1563, Sweden found itself with enough economic strength to consider expanding again at the expense of it's neighbours. Denmark was an old foe, and the constant persecutions of the Protestants whom were under their control, as well as several border conflicts made the 1565 ripe for war. Sweden declared war on Denmark, which resulted in Russia declaring war on Sweden for the sake of their ally.

Once again, Swedish armies proved themselves in a series of campaigns which saw all of Norway conquered swiftly. The Danish General Rantzau landed in Skane and marched on Svealand with a force of nearly fifty thousand, half of which was cavalry. The Swedish general Karl Horn attacked him in the dense forests outside the capital with an army of similar size yet predominately comprised of infantry. In the resulting battle, the Danish army was malued and forced to retire towards the south, whereupon it embarked on ships to escape the wrath of the Swedes, with mostly only those who were mounted still alive. Denmark then made peace with Sweden, whereby Jamtland was turned over.

Throughout the year or so of fighting, over a hundred thousand Russian troops had been attacking Swedish positions in Finland and Livland and Estland, yet were unable to make much gains except for an assault on Finnmark. With the Norwegian and Danish front now finished, the armies of Sweden under Karl Horn embarked on the Swedish fleet, to sail across the Baltic. A russian fleet of galleys attempted to hinder the expedition, yet they were crushed and the Swedish army was able to disembark in Estland, routing the Russian army that had been sieging the process, and doing the same to the Russians in Livland. There were now twenty three thousand Swedish soldiers defending the river which guarded Estonia.

At the same time, another Swedish army of around thirty thousand had been raised from all across the realm and assembled in the Savolaks. While the Army of Livland under Karl Horn defended against the Russians, the newly raised Army of Finland was placed under the command of General P.T Gardia. The Army of Finland was launched in a three-pronged attack against the westernmost provinces of Russia, assaulting the fortresses of Karelia, Kola and Kexholm, all of which fell in succession.

In the south across the bay of Ingermanland, Karl Horn commanded the Army of Estonia which was surrounded by two Russian armies of fifty thousand and thirty-thousand who were mustering in the province of Ingermanland and Pskov. In a final bid to take Estonia, they attacked across the Volga whereupon the largest battle ever fought in the North was conducted, the Swedes outnumbered by more then four to one. Yet leadership, technology, morale and terrain were in favor of the Swedish army, which resulted in a devastating loss for the Russians. The worst was to come. Whilst the depleted Swedish army under Karl Horn retreated across the baby to support the offensive in Finland, the retreating Russians whom were caught across the river, were subjected to two months of bitter winter, which killed twice as many Russians as the battle!

In the closing campaigns of the month, Russia attempted a counter offensive of the territories that it had lost in the north. It failed an assault of Kexholm and Kola, succeeding in Karelia. Sweden then counter-attacked, re-assaulting Karelia and defeating the Russian army that was then stranded in Kola, nearly destroying it.

Russia then gave in to modest demands, ceding Karelia and Kola to Sweden. Missionary work over the next 15 years converted the Ugric orthodox residents to Protestant.

The next decade and a half was relatively peaceful except for two occurences. Gotland was purchased from Denmark and in a historic treaty, the border between Norway and Sweden was established once and for all. In support of it's ally Poland, Sweden invaded Pommerania and clawed out a foothold in North Germany, annexing Vorpommern.

 

[juv95hrn]

Liber Chronica di Venezia anno 1584-1604
- Increased land investments
- 5 Private warships donated to the Republic
- Diplomatic success in Europe
- Artisans demand former rights costing the treasury some money
- New land is cultivated on Crete
- White peace is concluded with France
- The state received a sum of money
- Naval manufactory constructed in Ragusa
- The Clergy is unhappy about the slackness against heretics

 

[unmerged(11031)]

The dawning of a new Century. The tales of Portugal in the years leading up to and after 1600AD.


What can be said of Mother Portugal in the 1580s, 90s and the 1600s? The strength of her Colonial possessions in South Africa were increased, so that colonies thrived there, with fortresses to protect them from any aggressive moves by the other European Colonial Powers, namely England and the Netherlands. A new army was also created, the Army of the South, with the expressed purpose of destroying any invader as well as increasing our colonial presence there.

In South America, the final touches were being put on our territories there, The last few areas of unclaimed land were being put into being and a number of economical improvements were being put into place.

Over in India, Things progressed in their usual fashion. The Mughals declared war on us every 5 years, causing us to lose one province and a colony, areas which we had no concern with and also a number of Ducats, about 600d. These losses were considered worth it in Lisbon as we managed to gain control of Ganges, a very important province, controlling the trade from Northeast India. The capture of the province also brought to an end the wars with Hyberbad, which allowed us to give more thought into how to deal with the massive Mughal armies, their last invasion involving almost a 100,000 men on their side. Combined with the increased conflict with the Mughals, the Dutch managed to take 2 provinces of us in Indonesia. Only by some concerted Diplomacy were we able to strike a deal with them, allowing us to hold onto Tindore.

Back on the European stage, Portuguese officials managed to wrangle a deal out of King Philip to allow us to maintain our own separate state of affairs. We would answer Philip’s call if he made it, but otherwise we preferred it if he didn’t invite us to the party as it were. And Spain was increasingly in conflict with England and France, Colonial wars sprang up between the powers, with Spain able to do significant damage to either party, but not both together. We therefore fear that shortly Spain will pull us into the various wars and so it has been decided that the Portuguese Atlantic navy will be increased to a 110 Warships, with the possibility of 30 more, as well as the creation of a marine force to be deployed where it is needed.

 

[juv95hrn]

Time had passed so slowly and peacefully in the republic lately that its rulers had almost forgotten how the realm should be managed, what diplomatic deals had been concluded and what her aims were.
- Brothers what do you remember from our last meeting so long ago, preached the current Doge.
- We remember the war against the French and the Pope aiding our enemies.
- We remember the different Spanish Kings and the diplomacy concluded with him
- We remember prosperous times and increasing trade.
- Very well then, concluded the Doge. New times are here and that calls for new measures. The Protestants are firmly lodged in Northern Germany, the Turks on the Balkan and the French in Italy. We must all learn to live with the new realities of our new century. We shall however nor forget the ones who treated us fairly in the passed and the ones who didn’t. We will act on these premises to preserver in the long run.

 

[ForzaA]

The treaty of Breslau​

After years of bitter enmity, King Zygmunt the third and Archduke and Emperor Rudolf the second, have put aside their differences, and have united in the face of the combined threat of the Heretics in the north and west and the Heathens in the south and east.
Let the world know that they have agreed on the following matters.

Firstly,
As a sign of good will, Poland will return authority over Breslau and its surroundings, the German lands west of the Oder river, to Austria.​

Secondly,
Austria will accept the authority of the Commonwealth over Ungvár and its surroundings, the mountainious region that is the southern defense of the Polish plain against the Heathens.​

Thirdly,
both Austia and the Commonwealth pledge to fight for the one true religion, Catholicism.​

Fourthly,
seeing the results of enmity, Austria and the Commonwealth both pledge that in the event that an issue rises, everything will be done to preserve the peace between the two nations​

Hereby signed,

Rudolf the second,
Emperor of the Holy Roman Empire,
Archduke of Austria,
King of Bohemia,
King of Hungary.

Zygmunt the third,
King of Poland,
King of Lithuania,
King of Ruthenia,
rightful king of Sweden.

Rumour has it, that a second, secret, treaty was signed on that fateful day aswell, but noone can tell if its true, and if it is, what is in it.

 

[juv95hrn]

“- Sire, the Austrians and the Polish have signed an alliance. They seem intent on removing the heathens and heretics from the face of the earth” uttered the excited advisor. “Should we not join them in their endevours, Sire?”
“-Luigi, we must be practical about these matters. Luther’s disciples might be wrong and burn in Hell after their days filled with misery on earth. But it’s not our sake to sent them their prematurely nor judge them. God will see to that. Our duty is to see to that their traders, heretics or not they are damned skilled and annoying for us, will not corner us from our markets.” The Doge seemed tired and old stating these facts. “A new era is dawning where the Kingdom of men is the rule rather than the Kingdom of God. Listen to the talk in the streets and in the alleys. People are talking about new things. Religion isn’t on their mind as it used to be, at least not here in Venice. We can’t go against our peoples will. We will remain neutral in their crusade, wishing them good luck but they must manage on their own while we deal with our own problems.”
“-As you command, Sire!” said the advisor and withdrew from the chamber…

 

[juv95hrn]

Liber Chronica di Venezia anno 1604-1630
- 1609 Genoa vassalized
- Scandal at court, relations with Palatinate soured
- 15 revolters take to arms in Corfu costing 10.000 Venetian infantry in two landings to defeat.
- Nobles demand former rights but are denied them causing unrest in the realm.
- The current Doge goes insane
- Another scandal at court yet again sours relations with an obscure German state
- Diplomatic incident with France grants a CB which isn’t used
- The Venetian state receives a gift of 300 Ducats
- The Doge produces an Heir but Venice couldn’t be calmer already
- Exceptional year