The Uneasy Peace (1684): RP Thread

[thesmellypocket 1839]

RP posts below. A turn is 6 months; we begin in 1684. I have no preference to whether you wish to post on the forum, or linking a doc in your post instead – I myself will do modposts in the latter format.

 

NOTICE: I will be on holiday next week (For 5 days), so post for this weekend, and we might scrape a turn before then. Posts and turns will be weekly; modposts will be on Sunday.

 

Good luck.

[GrimBeard 46]

 

Qing China

Music

Far to the east, and then east some more lays a great Empire. One of silk and silver, power and tribute. Many in distant Europe only hear of this place in passing. Embellished tales of palaces of silver, and hundreds of millions. Perhaps once the Aztecs or Maya could have rivaled it in size and splendor. By glorious China now stands alone as a true Great Empire. Their ruler, the righteous Kangxi Emperor, is mandated by the divine to rule. Through them, and earthly power, Kangxi is fast on the rise to China’s greatest Emperor to date. The Qing Manchus were nearing complete and total dominance. Even now a final holdout is falling...

 

Off the shores of the fabled island of Taiwan, a great war fleet lays in anchor. Over three hundreds Qing ships comprised one mass of the fleet. They were glorious in their numbers and detail. Each ship was a work of art, curtailed by it’s Captain. One could tell it was more a mass of ships then fleet. Flag signals and mirrors flashed in communication, and barefoot sailors lounge in the sun. Their duty was over, for now at least. Anchored opposite to them was their previously ships of the Kingdom of Tungning. The fierce Admiral Shi Lang had defeated Kangxi’s rebellious grandson in a truly grand naval battle. Now the two fleets were one, and Taiwan is ruled by the Qing.

 

*Word filters back to the Imperial Court in Beijing. Emperor Kangxi himself had been quite busy on the home land. With news reaching him of Taiwan being subdued, glorious feast is held. After a few days, the proper letters are written out. The Emperor’s commands roll back out to his Generals and Admirals. With Taiwan secured, the immediate Russian threat to the north can be addressed. The Cossack settlers in Albazin had been increasingly bold in their raids and settling. With no further option, their town had to be purged. The Eight Banners army, in it’s faded glory, is mobilized. Fifty thousand soilders shall muster in Beijing, then march north towards Albazin. Their intention is not too engage the Cossacks in a battle. They instead are used for their best talent now-a-days, logistics. These troops begin to clear the way and prepare for a much larger host to advance. However it is rumored some Cossacks had come to Kowtow to the Emperor, and negotiate.

 

**With Taiwan subdued, Kangxi also looks south again. The tributary states in Indochina had by and large remained loyal to the Qing. They paid their due, and honored the Emperor. Taiwan for many had been a final hope of Ming restoration. But the Ming armies were Qing loyalist, dead, or long gone. The Green Standard Army was led by experienced Generals, who paid homage to their Emperor. To test his Tributary subjects, and Generals, Kangxi lays a task upon them. A coalition force of Han Generals and their men will march south to the peninsula of Singapore. Needing only military access from their tributaries, the army pays for what it takes. And yet again the Eight Banners army paves the way, to secure a logistical route of advance. The Imperial Fleet no longer tied down in Taiwan will sail to meet them. [30,000 Eight Banners, 70,000 Green Standard, 250 Junks]

 

 

–

 

In more domestic affairs the Emperor had devoted all of his attention. The Qing were now in a state of dominance over the Entire former Ming Empire. The Manchus ruled from Korea and their land down to the far south. For years now rule has been increasingly centralized in the Imperial Court of Beijing. Kangxi did not fall for the Imperial trap of opulence and ignoring the outside world. He has already led several campaigns, and secured rule. Edicts that continue to this day are of increasingly important matters. The [Edicts]  list such as;

 

-The Standardized Testing of the past is continued to be implemented. Extremely difficult test from the Imperial Court are offered to any who can afford it and are intelligent enough. Many spend their early life in savage schools, for education is all consuming. This ensures the government officials are entering based off their merit, and they are up for the task required.

 

-With peace secured on the mainland and islands, the Green Standard Army not deployed is returned to garrison duties. Many generals and troops are rewarded with pay and plunder. But the Qing will not make the same mistake of lending power and rule to local warlords. It had just gotten them into a four decade long civil war. Now Generals will answer to Imperial Court, not local magistrates and generals. Generals will also not be based locally for extended times. Generals and their banner host will rotate with one another to different provinces, to keep them from establishing too much in one area.

 

-The decrepit system of foreign trade the Ming employed is abolished. The Qing will begin to restore China’s importance on the Asian market. However the Han were the biggest traditionalist. To kill two birds with one law, the Qing focus their attention on their homeland of Manchu. So as not to upset the status quo in Han lands, but to also help improve the wealth of the Imperial core. It is rumored a few European monarchs are invited to send envoys to Kotow to the Glorious Emperor. Christians will be allowed increased trade rights and permits in Coastal cities. To balance such lucrative rights being handed out, the religious tax on Christians is doubled. The increased trade opportunities will help balance out the higher tax.

 

 

–

 

Actions [Sorry for this many, but it’s the first post!]

 

*Russian War Plans

 

**Sending a Host and Fleet to muster in ‘Singapore’

 

Refer to the 3 Edicts

 

 

 

 

Edited May 29, 2019 by GrimBeard

[Krefarus 65]

Dutch United Provinces

Music

---

Victory in the North!

For three years now, the United Provinces have been risen in rebellion against their Spanish overlords. A united cause in the north had led them to many victories against the forces of the incompetent Charles II. Throughout the years of 1861 and 1862 William of Orange had slowly claimed and consolidated the provinces north of the Rhine, culminating in the Fall of Rotterdam in 1863; where Dutch riders valiantly stormed the city with the help of the local populace.

Now, the rebellion has entered its second stage. The Spanish have been rooted out of their northern strongholds, sent fleeing south, and the flag of the rebellion flies proudly throughout cities and towns north of the Rhine; However the war is far from over, with a battle hardened and dedicated army, William looks south to retake the rest of the south.

 

---

The Rotterdam Line

With the north secured, and a new Spanish army in the low countries, the defense of the recently reclaimed northern territories is paramount. A natural defense along the Rhine alone disways any advance north, though it is still deemed insufficient. In early 1864, Rebel Leader William of Orange, orders the fortification and construction of the ‘Rotterdam Line’. The many towns and fortresses across the Rhine are further fortified and provisions are allocated in the case it is besieged. Furthermore, numerous outposts and garrisons are set up along the Rhine in order to harry and whittle down any Spanish incursions northward.
 

---

Wartime Industries

The Principal Army, headquartered in Rotterdam, though well motivated and well led lacks much of the heavier and proper equipment required to wage a proper war. In order to better remedy this issue, the United Provinces look to their Protestant brothers as well as the homefront. Domestic policies facilitating the growth of a Dutch arms industries in and around the core territories are put into place, and a plea is issued to all [Protestant Nations], calling for any and all aid in their rebellion against the Spanish oppressors

 

 ______________________________________________________________________

Actions

 

-Construction and fortification of the Rotterdam line, a string of towns and forts along the Rhine begins. Towns are allocated provisions to weather any possible siege, and garrisons/skirmishing forces are positioned in outposts along the Rhine to slow and harass any Spanish force that might launch an incursion north. Bridges across the Rhine are destroyed.

 

-Domestic policies that would facilitate and encourage the growth of domestic arms and shipping industries, such as subsidizing new companies, and reducing taxes on those industries, and providing loans are enacted in the northern and core territories in order to better supply and equip the Principal Army and Navy. Furthermore, existing laws and legislation are reviewed. legislation deemed ‘unneeded’ is repealed and an effort is made to make sure the laws regarding business are transparent, adequate, and clear cut.

-A plea is sent to all [Protestant Nations] calling for any and all aid for their war against the Spanish oppressors.

-Secret Actions

Edited June 1, 2019 by Krefarus

[Otto Hohenzollern 5]

Brandenburg-Preußen

 

Deep in the vast fields and forests, lakes, marshes, and lowlands of the vast lands of Prussia, and Brandenburg, her dominions have been making steady progress after the devastations of the great religious war that lasted 22 years.  centralizing the political administration, reorganizing the state finances, rebuilding towns and cities damaged in the fighting though by now almost all the damage done was fixed and Brandenburg Prussia was seemingly on the rise, by now an experienced Frederick William in both Military, and matters and ruling and politics. But Frederick William of the House Hohenzollern wanted more. Not just for him, but of his lands.For the last few hundred years him and all the inhabitants of Prussia and their rulers have been under Polish Vassalage, and recently a Swedish one to get out from under the Polish. Frederick is determined to expand his power, and lands. If Prussia is to become what it is meant to be, a large army will have to be amassed over the coming months. Frederick calls for 20k more men to be recruited and trained for the army, bringing the total count to 35k, this will be done over a year and a half, or longer and just starts now. Production of military equipment is put in high importance, and as many as 45 cannons and ammunition for them are ordered to be constructed, as well as firearms and ammo in bulk to supply the army, and send some to France. While the Civilian Industry is also expanded upon, Military industrial strength is of utmost importance to the future of the realm.

Another thing introduced is Military reforms, introducing conscription

 

    Diplomats are sent to Russia, Austria, Sweden, Poland, and France to maintain good relations, as well as to further trade. In Prussia, bills are passed and an importance on becoming a key player in Baltic trade in all areas are pushed for, including fishing and Amber collection and processing and much more.

 

Furthermore, population growth is heavily promoted, and the further settling of Germans in Prussia and the Ermland is encouraged.

 

___________________________________________________________________________

 

Actions

 

                                         – Military reform passed introducing conscription.

-an effort is made to expand private arms industry in all of Brandenburg- Prussia.

 

-Recruitment of 20k men begins, though it is expected to take much time

 

-Construction of 45 cannons is started, as well as all private artillery foundries are expanded

 

-Diplomats are sent to Russia, Sweden, Poland, and France in an effort to maintain good relations with the powerful neighbors as well as more trade agreements with Sweden and France.

 

-Prussian trade in the Baltic is increased, and all maritime industries like fishing and amber collection and processing are promoted within the local economies of Prussia to create demand and competition for Prussian industries and goods within the Baltic. And the price at which amber is sold is increased.

Edited June 1, 2019 by Otto Hohenzollern

[adamc2000 1134]

 

 

Duchy of Brittany

{I hope I got the right flag for its time period}

(Hi sorry for the short post as Mod may understand its the month of Ramadan so hopefully after ramadan i may provide better rp posts and maybe some sort of tv drama that may be completely unrelated to the frp xD)

-------------

Leader: Duke Leo
Trade: practically almost every nation except ottoman, france and spain as we are waiting for responce letter…

Relation: Friends with British Empire, Sweden, portugal, Papacy, and  Venice
Cautious of Spain

Hostile of france

Neutral with everyone else

Economy: Significant

----------------------------------------

Duke Leo listen to the council of men as they discuss the future of their country
“Men of the court! I have already dispatch letters to nations and empires for trade agreement, but this is not the issue we face! For GOD knows our history with the french forever at our border see our lands as french and not of our own! And even if they dare not cross into our lands with an army what's to stop the british in hopes to retake our land to directly rule us or dare I say the spanish?! My noble men of this court i beseech you we must not have a militia as our only line of defense! We must have regiments! Standing army to man our borders and forts! But not only as such! A new way of warfare! We cannot hope to meet them in the field to take them head on! What do you say!” with a silent mutter scatter across the room a single man stands “I agree to such terms! We have the best people for this job! For we are Stubborn little bastards who refuse to give an inch I say we make it harder for them if they dare enter our homes! I John Firand side with Duke Leo! Who do ye stand with!” John says stand up proud within minutes loud slamming on table and desk would be heard to as far as to the courtyard “An argument? Now out of all times?” one of the new servant girls ask her friends “No, an agreement.” smiles to his friend as he help carry the dishes to the ballroom.

-------------------

Actions:
4-5 Regiment are to be created by any volunteer who would be willing to join the defense and safety of the Duchy of Brittany. 1 regiment are too began recruitment in the province of Leon, 2 regiments are to recruit in the province of Cornouaille, 1 Regiment to recruit in the province of Vannetais, and 1 regiment to recruit in the province Pays Nantais. As soon as a regiments is fully manned they would immediately begin to learn how to move as a single unit and are equipped with its armory, training for their pinpoint accuracy and fast reloading, they are expected to see significant progress in a year or a year and a half.[They are to give in report on how many men joined each regiment by the before the end of 6 months]{MOD}

 

Repairment of the large amount of forts that is damage by either lack of maintenance or by wars.

Trade taxes on the british, french and swedish traders are reduce to half of the normal trade taxe.

Letters of Non Aggression pact and trade agreement are sent to:
France, Spain, Ottoman Empire.

Letter sent to the holiness the pope:
“Dear holy father we ask in God holy name that you pray and bless our nation on whether in war or peace and bless us in our wealth and food growth as we struggle to serve you and GOD. we ask that we have a permanent Embassy and a request you send some holy men to establish an Embassy here in our nation. Pray for us holy father.” (pls keep in mind im muslim irl so if I did something not really related spare me of the reee meh overlords! I happily take info on how such letter and costum go thx u!}

[PaxZeon 0]

 

Tsardom of Russia

Background

By the year 1684 Anno Domini, The Rurik Dynasty has ruled a united Russia for over a century. It was they who drove out the Mongol hordes, they who conquered all those who threaten the Russian people, and it is the Ruriks alone whose bloodline descends from that of the last Roman Emperors of Constantinople, making Russia the true and rightful successor to the glory of Rome. Ivan VI inherited Russia from his father, Vasili V upon his death in 1681. He is married to the German princess Sophie Luise of Königsberg and seeks to grow greater ties between Russia and the northern German states. He has fathered four children, his eldest Tsarevich Alexander Ivanovich is seventeen years old and is currently studying abroad in Europe, his two daughters Maria and Euphemia are quickly becoming young women and the Tsar has played with the idea of a marriage alliance to grow Russian influence in the courts of Western Europe. Finally there is the Tsar’s youngest child, Dmitry a boy of only twelve and will have much to learn before he can prove useful to his father. With the devastating defeat inflicted on the Turks at the recent Battle of Vienna, Ivan seeks to strike while the iron is hot and invade Ottoman territories on the Black Sea and secure Russia a warm water port. Furthermore Ivan seeks to grow Russian influence within the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth, hoping that one day either Alexander or Dmitry will be elected King and forever secure Russia’s border with Europe.

 

Westernization of Russia

Vasili V like his father before him was a staunch defender of Russian culture and traditions, he also recognized that the world was changing. The western powers grew stronger by the day, new lands continued to be discovered and explored, the long standing balance of power was shifting, and as Russia expanded ever eastward they began to come into contact with the militant Qing Dynasty of China who also sought expansion into Siberia. To prepare Russia for the threats it would inevitably face in the future, the Tsar and his son Ivan, built up western style institutions in Russia. Including schools, manufacturers, and a modern civil administration. While the Tsar did not overtly force westernization on his subjects the more they saw him and his family dressed in European clothing, converse with foreign emissaries in their tongue, along with he and the Tsarevich shaving off their beards in favor of a more clean shaven look gave off a strong impression that they better do the same. Though there were also many who rejected westernization and remained opposed to the new order in Russia. With many of them retreating into the rural countryside or migrating east to settle the lands of Siberia far from the perceived corrupting influences of the West. Though despite their worst fears Russian culture was not overtaken by Europe, rather while the aesthetics of Russian society became very European esque. At its core Russia maintained its traditions with a new hybrid culture emerging which would come to mirror that of the early Russian city states with various regions developing their own cultures and identity in accordance with their traditions and whether or not they chose to embrace westernization. Despite the vast distances of the country and the spectrum of ideologies that divide them, the Russian people remain strong in their unity of faith and their allegiance to the Tsar.

 

Military Reforms of Vasili V

The reign of Vasili V saw an era of great reforms for the Russian Army. Having witness the events of the Great Religious War in Europe, the Tsar went about inviting veteran officers to his court and having them drill his soldiers in modern tactics with a heavy emphasis on combined arms warfare. The reforms also included the introduction and mass implementation of firearms imported from Germany, The performance of Polish Winged Hussars has greatly influenced Russian heavy cavalry with the Tsar forming his own personal regiment known as the Gusarskaya gvardiya . Cossacks are primarily used as light cavalry specializing in scouting terrain and raiding enemy towns and supply lines. Russian fighting doctrine is much more aggressive than its European counterparts with a resemblance mirroring the Swedish model.

 

Actions

- Offers of Alliance are sent to King John III Sobieski and Emperor Leopold I, The Tsar hopes to unite the forces of Russia, Germany, and the Commonwealth to free Eastern Europe from Ottoman rule

 

- A simple ultimatum is sent to the Ottoman Sultan, he is to relinquish his claims to Crimea, Ukraine, and Azov. Should he refuse these territories will be taken by force

 

- The Tsar begins to Mobilize the Russian Army, he calls for 50,000 men to assemble in Moscow

 

- With tensions growing on Russia’s Far East frontier, several new forts are to be constructed around Lake Baikal and a emissary is to be sent to the Qing Emperor’s court in order to resolve the conflict before it can escalate any further

Edited May 29, 2019 by PaxZeon

[UnusualBrit 2050]

The Commonwealth of Poland-Lithuania

 

Anno Domini 1684; the calm before the storm.

 

The Lion of Lechistan

 

John III of the esteemed noble house of Sobieski has held sway in the Commonwealth ever since the Sejm elected him after the death of the sickly King Michael I, under his reign the Crown Army has been reformed to become a more professional uniting counterbalancing the many militaristic threats on the Commonwealth’s border. Yet the greatest achievements in his reign are yet to come, aged 55 he now seeks to secure a legacy of House Sobieski eternal in the annals of Poland, to do away with the decadent and corrupt elective monarchy and to replace it with the hereditary system prevalent while the Jagellion dynasty, though the Monarchy would be bounded by laws of a constitution to keep his nobles happy with their loss of influence. Of course, even then, these reforms would be drastic and would take time to fully develop

 

Sobieski’s chief concerns lie to the North and East, the Swedish lion is still strong and though they have gazed eastward Russia still remains a threat, the memory of the failed Russian invasions is still present in the minds of many Poles, some whisper that they will return. Though it is to the south he now looks personally, the mighty Ottoman turkic empire has held hegemony in the Balkan’s and Black Sea for almost two centuries now. Though their empire is experieincing cracks at the seams, such weakness the Commonwealth might exploit.

 

Of course, while dangerous, the Turks may prove a valuable ally to counterbalance the ever expanding power of Russia, though such a match will only be possible if the Austrians agree with it. The Hapsburgs will be a strong ally to counterbalance the Swedish and their vassal Brandenburg’s power arrayed against the Commonwealth, time will tell what match may be fruitful though. For now, Sobieski seeks to secure the current borders of the Commonwealth, and to begin implementing his reforms. 

 

Beginning of Domestic Reforms

 

His first enemy was the ‘liberum veto’ which was held by any Sejm deputy, this since 1652 allowed any Sejm deputy to nullify any votes made by the Sejm, it was extremely dangerous and risked blocking any serious reform Sobieski wished to pass. Therefore Sobieski would convene a meeting of the Sejm to discuss the matter, (and to hopefully remove the corruptive system which could easily be exploited by foreign powers.)

 

The King’s Military Reforms

 

Following this, John Sobieski also enacted military reforms to increase the discipline of his army with an emphasis on drills, and he began a recruitment drive to the crown army to bring it’s numbers up by 10,000 men, empathically claiming to his people these new soldiers would better protect their country from any threat upon it’s borders and counter-attack the Swedish army if they chose to bring war to the Commonwealth.

 

Foreign Policy

 

There were also foreign matters to be taken care of, envoys were sent to Stockholm and Moscow to foster good relations and also to establish non aggression pacts, the length of which were dependent on what the Monarch of each respective country wished. An envoy was also sent to Vienna to establish an alliance, and if that was impossible, a defensive pact to protect both countries from foreign powers. Good relations were to be fostered with Brandenburg as well.

 

Actions:

 

- The alliance offer with Russia is considered, however John Sobieski states to the envoy that he would only enter a war with the Ottomans if the Austrians were willing to participate against the turks as well, and even then, he does not wish to have his country bear the brunt of the Turkic assault.

 

- John Sobieski summons the Sejm to discuss the Liberum Veto.

 

- A recruitment drive to bolster the crown army with 10,000 men begins.

 

- Envoys are sent to Sweden and Russia to foster good relations and to enter into a non aggression pact, the former is done with Brandenburg. Offers of alliance are sent to the Hapsburgs in Vienna, (if that fails a defensive pact.)

 

 

 

 

 

Edited May 31, 2019 by UnusualBrit

[Will (TauFirewarrior) 2464]

Archduchy of Austria and Holy Roman Empire

 

 

Overview

 

The Habsburgs hold on the Holy Roman Empire and its Imperial Title was secure and the familial alliance between the Habsburgs of Austria and those of Spain remained strong and intact. Leopold I was the latest in the lines of Austrian leaders of the Holy Roman Empire, the recent conflicts had left the Empire reluctant to go to war for further conquests that would be for the glory of the Habsburgs leaving most of the territorial gains for the Austrians. This was a mood that the Emperor couldn’t ignore or bypass for the time being and it was imperative for the integrity of the realm to be maintained and strengthened.

 

Economy

 

The Imperial Court would fund endeavors to look into economics, strengthening the Austrian Economy and then looking to see if such methods could be spread across the Empire in order to raise the realms prosperity and enrich the everyday lives of the Merchants, Nobles and Peasants alike. (Mod)

 

The Imperial Court would accept offers of trade from their neighbours, though would use Spanish Merchants to handle most of its oversea trade. (Mod)

 

Domestic Policy

 

The Austrian part of the Empire would see the realm Centralise further, in order to have a straightforward and efficient bureaucracy, though for the time being no such effort is attempted in the greater HRE as not to infringe on the freedoms of the smaller states. (Mod)

 

Diplomacy

 

The Austrians would accept a defensive Pact with the Poles, though makes clear it has no intent to wage aggressive war with the Turks at this time.

[The_Mad_Skylord 28]

THE KINGDOM OF SWEDEN

Sweden is a proud bastion of Protestantism! Throughout the hellish violence of the Great Religious War, Sweden continuously defended both the Protestant Princes of Northern German and the whole concept of Protestantism itself. While the conflict ended up in a defeat for the Protestant League and her allies, Sweden emerged from the conflict intact, save for the loss of Swedish Pomerania. Militarily, Sweden is more secure than ever, with only the Portuguese fielding an army as well disciplined and trained as the army of the Kingdom of Sweden. The Royal Swedish Navy, though largely designed for the Baltic waters, if still a powerful force that dominates trade and shipping in what is essentially a Swedish lake. Sweden is blessed not only with a strong military force, but with a capable network of shipyards and what is easily the best artillery foundries in Europe. So long as King Karl XI sits the Swedish Throne, Swedish ambitions will not be so easily cowed that what was essentially a minor defeat on the continent will defeat her.

 

---

THE BUILDING OF A NAVY

The Royal Swedish Navy is, as it stands, perhaps the fourth largest fleet in Europe. Unfortunately, it is a fleet designed not for the high seas, but to project Swedish power over those states that rely on the Baltic for trade and shipping. Thusly, it is within the plans and ambitions of Carolus XI to build a fleet that can actually project Swedish authority over the continent, a fleet that can effectively challenge a larger foe when removed from the safety of the Baltic’s tides.

 

To this end, the King begins to expand his shipyards. At the Headquarters of the Swedish Navy in Karlskrona, the newly built and vast shipyard there is expanded even more, with more dry docks, workshops and forges added to what is already there. At the shipyards in Stockholm and Skeppsholmen, similar actions come underway, and Karl XI hires a series of skilled and renowned shipbuilders for his shipyards.

 

Additionally, new regulations introduce the concept of uniformity to the Swedish Navy – all new warships are to obey not only similar designs and schematics, but are to carry armaments in line with other ships of their rating. This act becomes known as the Establishment of 1684, and seeks to resolve an issue that plagues all European navies – ships that appear, on paper, to possess the same guns and capabilities but in reality operate at different speeds, sea worthiness and vastly disproportionate armaments.

 

The first ships to be built under these new orders are five new frigates, the first Swedish attempt at a “true frigate”. Designed to be of a decent size, these ships are built to be truly weatherly in the open sea. Bearing only a single deck (more than one deck will make them slower) they are designed to be swift and ruthless birds of prey, to hunt and protect shipping in the far colonial trade routes. With 24 8pdr guns for a broadside (12 guns a side) and a total of 4 3pdr guns on the quarter deck, the hope is to create a fast, well armed raptor that is more than capable of surviving long sea voyages on independent cruise.

 

TAX EFFICIENCY

In order to swell the usually low Swedish coffers, Karl XI undertakes a monumental task. The reign of Gustavus Magnus was remarkable not only for its military achievements, but also for the progress Gustav II had made in creating a financially stable state capable of expanding upon her own interests. To this end, a major census is taken of all areas, seeking to accurately record every potential tax payer and conscript, in an attempt to maximize Swedish tax revenue and to provide an extensive force to form as reserves.

 

EXPANSION OF THE FOUNDRIES

Swedish artillery is the pride and honour of the Swedish state. Unmatched across the length and  breadth of Europe, Swedish guns are seen in the hands of every army and mercenary, every sailor and pirate, and every rebel too. Thus, it became Swedish policy not only to manufacture artillery for national usage, but to also develop and expand on the existing foundries and armories, to create an exceptional military industry to fund both the Swedish Army and to be traded abroad to Swedish allies.

 

The first steps of this process begins with a census of all gunsmiths across Sweden – from this, gunsmiths are offered a set price for each apprentice they successfully train, an attempt by Karl XI to foster a healthy industry of men capable of making muskets and carbines in Sweden. In addition, Karl XI also orders the expansion of the country’s most major armories, foundries and arsenals, seeking to double the production of many of them. In Stockholm, a new and major armory is founded and begins construction, while a facility dedicated solely to the production of naval artillery is built in the Swedish shipyards at Karlskrona.

 

FOREIGN POLICY

1684 is a major year for Swedish policies – a marriage and an alliance is arranged between the Tsardom of Russia, with the young Hedvig Sophia Augusta of Sweden being betrothed to the youngest of the Russian Princes. This action largely secures the long border in the East, and provides safety and security to a Swedish state usually surrounded by foes.

 

Another marriage and alliance is announced in the same year, with the Princess Sophia Hedvig of Denmark being betrothed to Prince Karl, heir to the throne of Sweden. Again, this action largely secures the borders of the Kingdom of Sweden, and provides another capable ally to defend the North from Catholic aggression.

 

---

 

 

THE SWEDISH EAST INDIA COMPANY

In 1682, Niclas Sahlgren sailed to China with a vast wealth of Swedish trading goods. Upon his arrival, he spent many months quarantined in port, before he finally managed to gain an audience with the Emperor of China in 1683. After an extensive amount of flattery and the gift of several Swedish cannons (including a massive 36 pounder gun by the name of “Great Gus”) Sahlgren managed to negotiate a surprisingly excellent deal with the Chinese government, which would provide the Swedish with a port city in China to be governed by Sahlgren, to serve as a major trading hub. 

 

Sahlgren sailed back to Sweden, his deal in tow, and eventually attempted to sell his deals and plans to King Karl XI. Karl, impressed by the idea of Sweden becoming wealthy from trade, swiftly gave Sahlgren charter as the East India Company with sole trading rights to Oriental, Indian and African trade in Sweden. In addition, the King gave a large donation from his own personal wealth, along with several merchantmen and the protection of the Swedish frigates, Hjoren and Fenix, to the endeavor. This show of faith convinced many nobles and merchants to invest in the expedition, and Sahlgren organised a fairly sizable flotilla for his plans. In 1684, Sahlgren finally set sail.

 

---

COLONIES

The Swedish East India Company, under the direction of Niclas Sahlgren (with the Crown as the majority silent shareholder) sets sail to achieve the goals of trade in the East. Particularly important to this goal is the existence of a way point on the route. Thus, while much of the SOIC convoy sails onwards for China and the wealth that awaits there, three ships anchor off of the Cape of Good Hope, where they quickly begin to set up a colony. The key priority is firstly a wooden fort to defend the area, while crude docks swiftly follow. Protecting the colony are 500 men of Company regulars, largely recruited from ex-soldiers, with many of their officers being men with no prospect of promotion in the actual Swedish Army. Once defences are in place, attempts are swiftly made to secure major sources of ivory and slaves, by negotiating with local tribes.

 

---

 

-Expansion of Swedish shipyards. [Mod]

 

-The introduction of the Establishment Bill of 1684, an attempt to make Swedish ships uniform in design. [Mod]

 

-Expansion of Swedish artillery foundries, census of gunsmiths and incentives for gunsmiths to take on more apprentices. [Mod]

 

-Census of the population, to provide better information for conscription and taxes.

 

-Foundation of the Swedish East India Company, colony on the Cape of Good Hope, attempts to trade with natives. Company ships sail on for China to take ownership of new Swedish colony there, as agreed with the Chinese. [Mod]

 

-Betrothal between youngest Prince of Russia and Hedwig Sophia Augusta of Sweden and betrothal between Prince Karl of Sweden and Princess Sophia Hedwig of Denmark.

 

-Construction of 5 new “true frigates” designed to be fast and well armed commerce raiders and protectors, capable of surviving long journeys in open sea. 

[j0k3rf99 12]

The Kingdom of Great Britain

Richard the Fourth, by the Grace of God, King of England, Scotland, France, and Ireland, Defender of the Faith, and His other Realms looked upon the city of London from a window in his solar within the Palace of Whitehall. Here he sat studying of a copy of the Douay Rheims Bible, while his brother George the Prince of Wales discussed foreign affairs, pondering on potential marriage pacts and other such agreements with the various Catholic Kingdoms, yet Richard seemed to listen little for the moment, silencing his brother as he explained the necessity of producing an heir to the throne. “I know George, but there is no need to worry. Britain will go farther than where it had been before and show to Europe our true power. The Kings of Sweden, Prussia, and Russia conspire to destroy our Godly world” He paused for a moment, then began to quote a verse he had read only a few hours earlier, “For the king hopeth in the Lord: and through the mercy of the most High he shall not be moved. Let the hand be found by all thy enemies: let the right hand find out all them that hate us. Thou shall make them as an oven of fire, in the time of thy anger: the Lord shall trouble them in his wrath, and fire shall destroy them all.” The King pauses, looking at his brother quietly before returning to the Bible, making clear his thoughts on the matter.

 

Elsewhere in London, Princess Alexandra labored outside of Westminster Abbey, where she and a number of Church Officials handed out bread and blankets to the people of London. She spoke quietly to the John Churchill who had opted to partake in the event in order to oversee the protection of the young Princess discussing her brothers and a supposed marriage being arranged for her, which she slightly laughed at the mention of. As the day drew to a close, she was lead back to Whitehall Palace where she met with a number of the Ladies of England, discussing the issues which plagued them and their territories and doing what she could to solve these issues, what she could not solve was passed on to her brother George or in some cases King Richard. Despite being a young girl of six-and-ten, Alexandra had taken a large role within the court of England and had already gained respect among her father’s most loyal Dukes.

 

The Palace of Whitehall and Westminster Abbey

 

Across the Channel, a young boy sat in a small palace along the coastline of Calais. The Earl of Calais had arrived in the region only two months before and had adjusted well to the French way of life, even beginning to learn the language at a surprising rate. Prince Henry spent his days on the balcony of the palace overlooking the Channel and watching British and other ships going by, studying the flags and types of ships. Here he read of the legacy of Robert Blake and his own writings, as he continued to study the history of the Royal Navy and their tactics. Only four-and-ten years old, Henry had been sent to Calais for study and so he could not be distracted by the politics of the realm and rather focus on a career which many in his family expected to be within the British Navy.

 

Colonial Expansion

As the Tudor Dynasty had united Britain before them, the brothers Richard and George sought to continue the legacy of their fathers and looked East. A land of opportunity and potential riches. King Richard would scour the city of London for companies who seemed viable options and hoped they could scour the Americas for wealth, and increase colonization to beyond just the coastlines. Furthermore, the British Crown would offer support to Priests who hoped to establish religious colonies and further the education of the Natives hoping to work with the Indians of North America to educate them. Furthermore, the East India Company is instructed begin planning for a trading post and potential colony of roughly 500-1,000 men, aiming to quickly take up a large amount of the Gulf of Guinea, primarily west of and surrounding the Niger River. King Richard and his brother have been known to have met with the East India Company as well, hoping for a Catholic future in the Far East. Rumors of a diplomatic mission to the Qing also begin to persist in the capital.

 

Good, Catholic Relations

Diplomats arrive in Lisbon for discussion with the King Alfonso II de Braganza, with rumors arising of the Prince of Wales attending himself. Together an alliance between the two nations was formed, and military advisors are dispatched between the countries. The Anglo-Portuguese Treaty is signed and shortly after British admirals arrive in Lisbon to aid in the restoration of the Portuguese navy, while Portuguese generals are expected to arrive in London to aid with the military reforms being overseen by the John Churchill.

 

Similarly, a group of diplomats arrives in the Commonwealth requesting relations with their King and begin to work on the formation of an alliance.

 

In Austria, the Duke of Somerset arrives and proposes two marriages to King Leopold I. A marriage between King Richard and Maria Antonia is the primary concern of the meeting, with the hope of leaving with solid relations between the two countries. Marriage is also offered between Prince George and Maria Elisabeth, with the hope that these Catholic Unions can further both nations.

 

Actions

- Princess Alexandra Elizabeth works in London alongside the church, performing

- Colonialism is promoted throughout Britain and especially in Scotland, with both King Richard and Prince George hoping to continue their ancestors legacy. The Archbishop of Westminster looks for potential candidates in overseeing the peaceful conversion, education, and integration of American Indians.

- The East India Company is ordered to commission the beginning of the colonization of the Gulf of Guinea, primarily surrounding and west of the Niger River. The goal is to provide trading ports which can both act as a means for British merchants to reach India more easily, while also allowing for trade with the natives.

- The John Churchill would work with Portuguese military advisors to improve the standing British forces and create a well trained and elite core for the Royal Army who can protect the mainland and British interests in times of need.

- Diplomats are dispatched to Portugal (George, Prince of Wales), the Commonwealth (Not Specified), and Austria (Edward Seymour, Duke of Somerset) with varying messages and intentions.

- Tariffs with Portugal are lowered significantly, with the hope that cheaper British goods could alleviate their suffering economy. Prince George upon his return advocates for members of the court to also invest in Portugal.

Edited June 2, 2019 by j0k3rf99

[. 6]

 

Kingdom of Portugal

 

Following the death of King Alfonso VI in late 1683, the appointed heir and regent, Pedro (II) ‘Pacifico’ Braganza ascended to the throne. The now-Queen Maria Francisca would also pass away at the end of 1683, leaving their daughter Isabel Luísa as the heir to the throne of Portugal.

 

Marinha Portuguesa

During the War of Restoration, most warships evacuated the country to join the Spanish cause. The now-empty ports are inadequate for the protection of the state and its trade. In order to solve this problem, King Pedro II has called the Marinha to Lisbon to plan its expansion and restructuring. Preparations are made to visit captains, merchants, and shipwrights in order to get a better idea of what the situation is across the country, as well as to adjust production in accordance to the capabilities. Some 10 Frigates and 15 Galleons are planned for commission in accordance with the Marinha’s needs and capacity. (Mod)

Domestic Manufactories

The loss of the colonies has left a hole in goods being delivered to Portugal. In order to solve this, minor shipping privileges are given to domestic producers of goods such as wine, porcelain, jewellery, processed woods, and especially textiles. Textile supplies would be used in the reconstruction of the navy and outfitting of the military. (Mod)

Anglo-Portuguese Treaty (1684)

The ratification of a military alliance between the two kingdoms assuring friendship, co-operation, and defencive alliance was signed by the incumbent kings.

Edited June 12, 2019 by Dex

[Sagittarian99 6]

T H E   K I N G D O M   O F   F R A N C E

EARLY 1684

 

LE ROI

 

 

- LOUIS XIV -

 

“Versailles is much better in the summer,” François Michel Le Tellier, Marquis de Louvois thought to himself as he gazed out at the snow-covered garden façade outside the Hall of Mirrors. The stunning green interlock patterns of the precisely trimmed grass, the pride of the Master Gardener, were replaced with a flat layer of stark white snow. The lake, lying just beyond, was frozen over- its deep calming blue paled by ice that also had contrived to become snowbound. The King could do little about the garden or the lake, but as God was his witness, he could very well have something done about the statues of Hercules, Venus, Mercury, Mars and all the other Romans; which commanded the wintry scene upon their pedestals in the façade. The idle Gardener hurriedly brushed each marble figure clear of snow, lest their diving majesty be tarnished, under the watchful eye of the King after each snowfall. It was a shame they could not call upon their associate Aquilon to put an end to the incessant winter storms that battered Versailles this cold January. Francois had always found Versailles captivating in his brief visits there thus far; a hunting lodge in the middle of nowhere, suddenly the object in which the fruits of the late Jean-Baptiste Colbert’s labor had been invested. Opulence to the extreme, conveying the king’s awesome power in equal magnitude- yet under the flagrance, a more Machiavellian, calculating purpose betrayed by heap of expenditures that floated through Francois’ books directed towards the nobility who congregated in this nowhere like moths to a candle. The proud, arrogant fools happily ensnared themselves in the world’s most expensive rat trap, removed from any power spare their proximity to the august royal personage in the middle of the woods. Some occupied positions in regiments that did little but parade down the Hotel les invalides he had helped the King to build in the year ’71, others had titles whose only power was being at Versailles year-round. For all Francois knew, the Master Gardener could be the ******* Count of Toulouse. The thought amused him, and he betrayed a mild chuckle.

 

Suddenly, the piercing cry of the doorman- “Le Roi!”. Francois quickly made a graceful about-face and bowed. Thus entered Louis XIV, King of France, dressed in all the natural finery of an absolute monarch with deep pockets. The giant oaken doors of the Hall of Mirrors swung shut, and Francois found himself alone with the most powerful man in France.

“Louvois, it is good to see you here, not delayed by the tempests of winter,” said the king.

“Indeed, my survey of the warehouse at Reims is complete,” Francois replied.

Louis smiled, before sitting himself down in a brilliant piece of silver furniture. Francios, who would never dare to put the king out place, quickly repeated the measure himself. The two were silent for a moment, as Louis gazed at the ornate ceiling, contemplating the scene above.

“That painting, the wondrous commission of Charles Le Brun- you know what it is called?” Louis said, gesturing to the ceiling work with his cane. Francois shook his head. “The king rules by himself. That is my government; there is no Catholic clergymen, as Henry IV saw to, to leech off Royal revenues. The nobility, thanks to your predecessor Colbert, can no longer skim our taxes and choke royal finance. I’ve devoted these spoils to our economy, to Versailles, and of course as your father knows, to expanding the size of the army. We’ve innovated a standing army, something that is in service constantly and ready to fight at my command. I share my power with no one; I protect the people from the machinations of a greedy nobility. All possible through my peerage, through my direct control of the realm. The state is me, and I am the state.” The king’s voice boomed through the Hall of Mirrors as he spoke. “After Jean-Baptiste Colbert, my First Minister of State, died in September, I appointed you- the Minister of War- to his position. You continue to hold that role; I know the significance of that is not lost upon you.” Francois furrowed his brow.

“You have considered my reforms then?” Francois said.

“I have, and you have my backing Louvois. I have approved the transfer of funds, and I think we should start immediately.” Louis replied, smiling slightly.

“Your Majesty, I swear it shall be my life’s mission to serve at your command- for the glory of France. I am heartily glad you have given me your approval to proceed.”

“Your proposals were never far from my mind, dear Louvois. It is not my trust in you or the value of your reforms that have stayed my hand these past years, but the machinations of our enemies. From all sides, we are surrounded by foes, powerful and nearly invincible. But this reality, that so frustrated our court previously, may yet change, and soon. We must seize the moment; and restore the honor of France whilst the opportunity presents itself…”

 

 

 

The Armee du Roi

 

François-Michel le Tellier, The Marquis de Louvois has served as the King’s Minister of War since 1663- and recently, his role was expanded to include the office of the legendary Jean-Baptiste Colbert in September 1683. Now as the forty-first year of the reign of Louis XIV begins, Louvois enacts a broad series of reforms to the French Army with the king’s support.

 

Louis, encouraged by the Crown’s expanded treasury thanks to Colbert and his reforms in the 1670s, innovated something unique: the standing army. Instead of drawing up soldiers from the manpower pool0 only whenever war would take place, a process that took time and often produced green troops, Louis devoted much of his profits to maintaining 110,000 men in active service. This system is highly desirable for France, with hostile borders in many places. These men however, are not well equipped nor entirely well trained. To fulfill the requirements set by the standing army, the army circulated old and unreliable muskets through the new regiments whilst retaining the far cheaper pike formations in higher numbers than Louis would have liked. Louvois, hoping to rectify the supply issue, first begins by falling back on Colbert’s model of economic growth: Colbertism.

 

Colbert used the patronage and funds of the crown to support the migration of foreign skilled workers in craftsmanship, ranging from the fabric trade in the Netherlands to even coveted Venetian mirror-making in the form of the Manufacture royal de glaces de miroirs (the latter enabled the Hall of Mirrors in Versailles and is still in existence in modern times), all the while enforcing strong regulations on qualities upon the guilds. These were almost entirely devoted to luxury goods. But now Louvois turns this model of state-sponsored production to encourage military production. The production of the newest and most powerful form of musket is to be established in a number of dense population centers in France – Paris, Le Havre, Chartres, Bordeaux, Toulon and other places, with royal backing financially. The goal is straightforward- France shall produce her own muskets and replace the old models in her regiments. A cannon foundry is also to be established near Reims. The king is very much aware of the expenses of such an operation, and even considers melting down some of that opulent silver furniture for the enterprise.

 

 

Louis himself takes more interest to the quality of his troops. Taking notes from their Protestant brethren in the beleaguered Netherlands, Louis and Louvois work on developing their own system of drill with both musket and pike formations. The advantage with the drill is that it is easier to train; new recruits and old veterans alike repeat a series of motions to load, otherwise prepare and then fire their weapons, whilst pikemen practice different formations. It’s hoped a new French drill will instill a deeper sense of discipline in the troops; who have little to do in peacetime in the standing army other than parade the Hotel les Invalides and, well… drill! Louis also takes to the new French cloth manufacturing centers with request to produce new, lavish uniforms for the soldiers. New uniforms may not only increase the martial beauty of the French in the field, but also help improve morale and professionalism.

 

 

The Treaty of Châteaubriant

 

Whilst Louvois feverishly takes to his reforms, Louis dispatches Jean-Jacques de Mesmes, Conte d’Avaux, to Brittany for a diplomatic mission. Overtures for a treaty of non-aggression between the Kingdom of France and the Duchy of Brittany are received with much interest by Louis- who visits the border town of Chateaubriant with his retinue to deliberate upon the notion of such a treaty.

 

The terms of a treaty are finally worked out after a week of negotiations, which Louis presents to Versailles with much satisfaction:

 

1)     The hostile border tariffs are relaxed considerably to allow trade between the two disparate nations.

2)     Neither power shall incur upon the other’s territory with their or their allies troops in accordance with a non-aggression pact.

 

Such an act cannot mend the religious divide between the two countries; but at least both can relax knowing neither shall be invaded by the other. The border between France and Brittany is not insignificant, marked by no natural barriers and thus the maintenance of defenses there is difficult. Perhaps most significant is the trade agreement; allowing the two realms to exchange goods and make a profit doing so. France’s economy is gigantic, and Brittany’s natural resources are coveted by French merchants- allowing the barrier to be permeated by trade will present new revenues and connections to either state. 

 

 

Other diplomatic actions achieved include:

 

-Sneaky Secret Subterfuge…

-France buys a wealth of muskets from Brandenburg-Prussia to assist the equipment reforms.

 

 

Other Actions

 

Louis XIV calls for a census of the French population and its productivity domestically from the landed nobility. It serves two functions: obviously to provide information, but second and less obvious- to even further increase the accountability of the nobility to French land and produce taxes as France has done for forty years.  

 

Louis instructs Jean-Baptiste Colbert, Marquis de Seignelay (the son of the late Colbert made the Naval Secretary after his death) to forward designs for a twenty-four gun “true frigate”. French designers in the 1670s innovated a new technique for design in which they thought they had discovered a mathematical means of predicting ship performance. Though this proved to not be wholly correct in the 1710s, for now it has helped spur a period of French naval innovation- especially in frigate design. The design will, like all true frigates, confine its armament to the long spar deck situated a full deck above the waterline for seakeeping purposes, with a large open waist to reduce windage. Per French naval tradition, no armament spare swivels are to be placed upon the quarterdeck for the sake of preserving sailing qualities. These ships should be fast seaworthy vessels that easily fetch Biscay and the Channel in Fall weather.

 

Louis also finances an Acadamie for the sciences in Paris, further adding to the wealth of public works he has established there. Louis has always enjoyed bestowing his patronage to the academics and the arts; perhaps encouraged by the flurry of activity in Versailles following the new reforms, he also installs a large golden globe in the Hall of Mirrors. Perhaps the nobles and elites of France will take to educating their children there; such acts are encouraged at Versailles where privileges for admission are offered in exchange for finance.

 

 

All Things Summarized:

 

Louis XIV and Louvois apply their collective intellect and martial abilities to spearhead a number of military reforms.

-Domestic production of the newest model of muskets per Colbertist economic doctrine is established in large quantities at great cost. A cannon foundry is also established in Reims.

-This domestic production will go to the replacement of old equipment in the French army; already, a sum of muskets are bought from Brandenburg-Prussia.

-New uniforms are also distributed to all regiments in hopes of instilling professionalism and pride in the army.

-A new French Drill for training with the musket is to be taught. Recognizing the pike-heavy nature of the army, this drill does incorporate the use of that weapon.

 

-The Treaty of Châteaubriant is signed with the Duke of Brittany. It includes a non-aggression pact and a relaxing of tariffs and other predatory economic measures to encourage trade.

-Sneaky Secret Subterfuge

-A census is called to record French population statistics, which includes productivity. It serves both to provide information… and make the nobles more accountable to their contributions to the crown.

-A stout 24-gun true frigate is commissioned. Hopefully French naval ingenuity will indeed produce a legendary rendition.

-Louis funds a new academy for the sciences in Paris, leaning on the patronage of nobles who might take to educate their children there.

[SuperKeziak 8]

 

The Most Serene

Republic of

Venice

Early 1684

Background

Doge Marcantonio Giustinian looks before his city of Venice, impressed by the stunning visual achievements of the city over the past thousand years. Even today, the recent paving of the Merceria highlights the growth and lavish nature of the Republic. But underneath weakness plagues the state. The Doge prides himself as a pious virgin, but the problem runs deeper than that. Most Doges before him this past century have been virgins, the patricians can no longer afford the dowries and are forced to hold their sons as bachelors in the hopes of attaining one. Even worse, most poorer Patrician families now regularly take place in vote selling. Never the less, several houses go extinct each year. The decline of the Patrician class has been mirrored by other declines. Long gone are the days where the Venetian Republic dominated the Mediterranean with thousands of different ships. These days the English and Spanish do more trade in the Eastern Mediterranean individually than Venice does, and most Patricians spend more time supervising their agriculture than trading. Venice also still produces galleys and forces it’s merchants in convoys to counteract the problems of Spanish and English pirates. Sadly, this naval and mercantile inferiority is shown outside of Venice every week when another sly Spanish trade ship heading to Ravenna outmaneuvers a Venetian galley heading to tax it. Venice continuous to transition from a great mercantile power to just another Italian city state. Doge Marcantonio seeks to undo some of these woes but alas he is largely bound by decisions of the conservative Council of Ten.

 

Diplomatic

Throughout Early 1684 diplomats arrive back and forth between Venice and Constantinople. Furious negations occur between the Ottoman Sultan, and the Venetian delegation led by Antonio Foscari, most esteemed ambassador. By summer both sides hammer out an agreement and it is met by applause among members of the Senate and the public.

 

 

The Treaty of Candia

• The Ottoman Empire cedes the islands of Crete and Negroponte to the Republic of Venice
• The Ottomans Empire grants merchants of Venice exemption from all taxes and tariffs in it’s lands
• Both the Venetian Republic and the Ottoman Empire will act amicably with one another and defend each other in times of conflict

 

This treaty acts as a catalyst for a bout of imperial pomp in Venice. Soldiers and administrators, bound to return to the island lost just over a decade ago rejoice and the name Antonio Foscari gains some reputation among the citizenry along with several accolades.

 

As well as the Treaty of Candia, several other diplomatic movements are made by the Republic. Alvise Pisani, ambassador to France is seen talking with Louis XIV and his ministers and seems to have left a good impression on his court, the Council of Ten sends him a letter of gratitude. Additionally; Portugal, England, Austria, Poland-Lithuania, Russia, Spain, the Swiss Cantons, and the Holy See are called upon in a diplomatic fury that sees Venice hire two more ambassadors and spend thousands in travel expenses. In the course of this Venice manages to gain permission from the Emperor to pass armies through Imperial territory in Italy.

 

Military

After the signing of the Treaty of Candia, Doge Marcantonio Giustinian calls the attention of the people of Venice onto the wayward Duchy of Modena and Reggio which had so acted against Venice in the past century, proclaiming the existence of such a state “a serious threat” to Venice’s land holdings and the Republic itself. Francesco Morosini is called forth to lead the Venetian army which assembles near the borders of Mantua, which is offered the opportunity to let Venice through peacefully.

 

Venice musters 4,000 soldiers, 12,000 mercenaries (8,000 French speaking and 4,000 Hanoverian and Saxon), and 8,000 citizen militia.

 

Francesco Morosini presents demands to the Duke of Modena; Two million gold sequins to be paid over the course of fifteen years, a promise not to take up arms against Venice, and free passage and provision through the Duke’s territory for the course of fifty years.

 

In smaller news, 2,000 soldiers are sent to Cyprus and 500 to Negroponte to take over Ottoman fortifications.

 

Administration

Statistics

The population of the City of Venice currently stands at 130,000. The population of the rest of the Republic brings this up to well over 2,000,000 with the recent arrival of Cyprus. Population growth rate is normal, although plagues throughout the century have had lasting affects.

 

The Republic of Venice currently brings in two million gold sequins yearly, although expected to rise with the return of Crete and new trade rights. The lions share ends up in the hands of the administration and the navy. However, due to mercenary payments and wartime the expense of the army is expected to raise.

 

Government Affairs

Throughout spring 1684 the Council of Ten and lower bodies in Venice consider and advise the Doge on various matters. Chiefly taking charge of the diplomatic actions and preparations for war. Being a highly secretive body, the Council of Ten’s workings remain a mystery to the common folk. Rumors do spread however, that the powerful Capello family is outraged by the sudden decision to start conflict in Italy, where their estates extend deep into border areas. Time will tell what will come of this.

 

In other news, the Venetian government has put out notice that a new round of noble titles can be bought by the new wealthy. This is to raise funds for the war.

 

The reoccupation of Crete and Negroponte are also a new and tremendous task for the Venetian administration. Giacomo Corner is appointed as Governor General of Crete and Negroponte. As part of a three year process, a committee of senators are sent to the new lands: Jeronimo Renier, Domenico Gritti, and Marino Michel.

 

They are sent to launch a census, reorganize the provincial administration, revive local authorities, compile a cadaster, and settle land disputes. Additionally Crete is split into two administrative zones which are supplied with their own rectors, chamberlains, etc. By the end of their terms they will also compile a comprehensive list of recommendations that will aid in future development in the coming decades.

 

Citizenry

The citizens of Venice are overjoyed this Ascension Day. Aside from the usual celebrations a new 30 foot Venetian flag is painted and paraded around, to be hung in Crete. Of note, Venerio lo Grato launches his first Opera at Teatro San Cassiano about the return of Crete to the Republic. Among the wave of support and patriotism, even though the production is rushed, it turns out to be a smash hit and is widely seen by any men with means.

 

Ascension Day in Venice after the diplomatic Victory

 

After the popular aggrandizement of the return of Crete, the demands against Modena are made in a public speech. The populace is riled up with the potential for another great victory and throughout Venice there seems to be a temporary return to the Imperial zealousness of the previous century.

 

!Must Mod!

• The success of raising 4,000 Saxons and Hanoverian's and consequences.
• Modena and Mantua’s response to the demands. Plus the regional reactions.
• The success of fundraising through selling noble titles.
• The success of the beginning of the occupation of Crete and Negroponte. Also how many Muslims left, etc.
• How happy the people are at the recent goings on.
• The success of Venerio lo Grato’s Opera internationally.
• How Venetian merchants (still pretty un-competitive) are doing with the extremely extensive privileges granted in Ottoman lands.
• How Europe reacts to the Ottoman-Venetian alliance.

 

Edited June 24, 2019 by SuperKeziak

[ibraheemc2000 2565]

Suqur Allah

Turn

1

Current Leader

Amar Al-Husan

Anwar Al-Husan

Base of Operations

Damascus Outskirts

Total Military Personnel

4,000 Total

1,500 Syrian Arab Elite unit

1,500 Syrian Arab Foot Men

1,000 Syrian Arab Dragoon/Cavalry

Trade

Open

Trade with Nations

None(yet)

Faith

Sunni Islam

Nation Relations

Ottoman Empire-Employer(2 years left)

Muslim Nations-Great respect and Good Friends

Christian Nations-Cautious

Everyone Else-Neutral

 

--------------------------------------------------------------------

The Encampment

Amar Al-Husan looked upon the military encampment on the outskirts of Damascus, So far things seemed well, It was home, The men sat around campfires, making bread, cleaning weapons, and some marched together in units. The City in the distance with a dog barking obnoxiously, A few voices seemed to break out into a nasheed for the work.

Amar signaled to a officer to muster up the men, an hour later all the men were in line formations awaiting orders, in which Amar spoke up

“From now on, we will begin the recruitment of a thousand more men, which will be trained, but from now on, you will all begin your intensive training, the city of Damascus will learn well of our skill and determination as they always have. You will practice your firing, your loading, and your accuracy.

 

You will learn to fire farther, to fire faster, to hit your target ALWAYS!

You will be drilled in marching, and you will practice your fighting skills!

You will wake up at Fajir and train till Maghrib! Takbir!”

 

In which the silent sky broke with the United shout “Allahu Akbar!”

 

The city

Four Months later...

 

Anwar Al-Husan leads in a cart caravan into the city a large smile waving to the citizens giving his Salams, stopping by shops to buy wheat and food to keep the army fed, In the distance which now seemed to be a common sound was the sound of united gunfire of the men training. “As-salamu alaykum rafiqi! Allah bless this market inshallah!” with that, some soldiers jumped out of the cart to take some of the sacks of wheat in which was used to make the bread, some others took the sacks of beef and lamb, and the shop owners smiled counting their dinar. The city benefited and so did the men. Some Soldiers as ordered singing nasheeds to lift spirits, and to show the piety of the men to the city, to increase populace’s approval.

 

Anwar sat talking to merchants, something about getting discounts and such and news, while the men worked, filling the carts before returning to the encampment.

 

Meanwhile, in another part of the city, some men were tasked with selling rugs and other goods to increase funds for the ‘brotherhood’.

 

The Meeting

“Send the letters to the ottomans, for the negotiation of better deals on the contract, We need more funding to expand and more equipment. As well as twenty cannons, to train men on such.” Amar stated after going to the next topic

 

“Flintlocks, We have seen them, and we will benefit from them if we get more, make it known we are interested, send merchants to Europe for deals if anyone is willing to sell in mass, around four to six thousand.”  he finished and then began to look among the grouping

 

“The men, have begun their training as ordered, any slackers, were put to the whip, and so forth.” answered a Captain

 

“Captain Faiz, You made sure prayer and time for the faith is still in effect?” Anwar glanced to him

 

“Na’am, Commander, all are doing well, ill give you a full report in the coming months.” the captain state. With that, an hour or two went by and the meeting concluded.

 

-----------------------------------------------------

ACTIONS

 

1. A thousand men will be recruited, they must be of Sunni Islam and go through training, once ready they will make their oaths into the brotherhood, they will go under the Exact training as everyone else.[MOD]

2. Training will be enhanced to this:[MOD]

Spoiler

 

From Fajir Prayer(Before dawn) to Maghrib prayer(Sunset),

Men will be in their regiments, Uniforms will be checked and made sure there was NO Slacking of any form, The lines perfected, They would be trained to become fully disciplined.

They will drill constantly on marching, and speed marching, staying in formation, nice and organized.

All men would practice every day their reloading and firing, learning to fire four times a Minute while making sure their accuracy is improved as well as their range!

They will also practice melee, ONE ON ONE, making sure they can defeat a enemy with ease, the use of the shamshir, and other common weapons will be in effect!

All new Recruits will go under ONE elite Syrian Arab Soldier(1k recruits, 1.5k Elite Syrian Arab Soldier)

500 of the current Syrian Arab Soldiers will be trained by 500 Elite Syrian Arab Soldiers, to train them to become their equals and once ready transfer them into the Elite Syrian Arab units

The 1,000 Syrian Arab Dragoons will practice their riding skills, being able to dismount and fire as a UNIT, as well as able to reload and fire four times in a minute, as well as mounting and dismounting!

The Syrian Arab Dragoons will practice firing from horseback into selected targets, while idle and in movement, setting up sacks of sand as targets.

The Syrian Arab Dragoons will also practice melee on horseback as well as foot.

Every man would have to clean his weapon, uniform and keep everything well organized and at its peak!

 

ALL Men will be lashed if they are caught slacking off, or un-disciplined(messed up uniform, disobeying orders, ya know the works)

THIS IS TO MAKE A EXAMPLE

 

3. Recruitment of around a hundred Imams to join the brotherhood, to help teach Islam to the soldiers and populace where ever they may venture.[MOD]

4. Soldiers will also go and buy wool in towns that sell it cheap, make rugs and sell the rugs at a profit.(they will sing nasheeds to show the piety of the group while selling and gathering stuff)[MOD]

5. A cheaper/ Discount will be found for Food supplies to cut down the expenses I.E finding a farmer, or company that would sell to us at the cheapest price for such large shipments/orders of supplies[MOD]

6. Find someone willing to sell us 5-6k flintlock muskets. Word is spread through merchants, to go deep into Europe and the known world that a group wants such.(maybe through Venice merchants[MOD]

8. A man is sent to the ottomans to work out a deal on the contract to get 20 cannons, and more funding in return for a expansion of the contract, MAKE DEAL STUFF.[MOD]

 

[Knightei 317]

The Swiss Confederacy

 

Background

Having been a Confederate, multi-religious collection of states during the Religious war of 1640, the Swiss Confederacy remained neutral, on the ground that the Catholic Cantons attempted to promote their religion to the protestant states. Due to this, refugees from the surrounding companies swamped through the mountain valleys in the West, burgeoning Geneva into a large state. This fact, coupled with the rise of french-speaking protestants settling across the entirety of the confederacy, has seen Geneva been made as the 14 Canton in 1683.

 

The religious tension in the region is rising, as the refugee crisis of 1641 has swollen the typically catholic heartland of the Confederacy be over wrought by french peasant families, now entering their second, or even third generation. Cantons and peasants alike chose Protestantism out of their own accord, but the Catholic heartland still holds the sway of power in the Swiss Diet, even if in monetary or manpower this power may have dropped away.

 

Due to their numerous defence and mercenary contracts the individual cantons have signed to their neighbours, they’ve remained neutral in the recent years, but certain associates have been ravaged by the great powers travelling their land. The Swiss have maintained a state of readiness for hundreds of years, and have tried to remain at the forefront of military innovation, regardless that their more minor manpower would lend to it.

 

The Cantons

             

The burghers met in their guild halls, deciding on their professions stance on the new legislation that their colleagues have put forward. The discussion and debates continued until the town meeting had arrived. The guild masters, charged with their constituent's wants, desires and wishes, seated themselves in the hall, nodding and waving their greetings to fellow businessmen. The meisters had their debate, leaving the hall with their heads held high, for while some had their discourse, they had agreed to put forward the reforms to the Diet.

 

Weeks later, the delegates from Zurich prepared their burg for the 13 other delegations of the cantons, with their 72 associates, protectorates, subjects and condominiums sending their representatives to argue and watch the major 14 states decide their fates.

 

These 72 lesser states watched, whether aghast or in glee as the cantons had decided their Reformation, a wide range of legislature to improve centralisation of the Confederacy.

 

For if the great powers began to pool their resources to form nation-states, why shouldn’t these liberal and intelligent Swiss?

 

The Swiss Reform, 1684

As signed by:

Zurich, Berne, Lucerne, Geneva, Uri, Schwyz, Unterwalden, Zug, Glarus, Basel, Fribourg, Solothurn, Schaffhausen, Appenzell

 

That these states do so agree that their separate and indifferent borders are to be eroded away. The 14 Cantons do swear that they are not 14, but 1 Swiss Confederacy. Therefore, they agree that the Confederacy shall be made of constituent members of the Cantons to present a fair system of Democracy to represent all 14 areas of the Swiss. Due to this agreement and their centralisation, the Confederacy formally absorbs the following condominiums and subjects into the Confederacy proper, to be distributed and allowed to reside within the Cantons themselves.

 

The Condominiums of:

Freie Amter; County of Baden; County of Sargans; Landgraviate of Thurgau; Vogtei of Rheintal; Vogtei of Blenio; Vogtei of Rivera; Vogtei of Bellinzona; Landvogtai of Valmaggia; Landvogtai of Lugano; Landvogtai of Locarno; Londvogtai of Mendrisio; Count of Schwarzenburg; Curten; Grandson; Orve and Echallens; Uznach; Windegg; Hohensax; Valley of Leventina; Valley of Urseren; Kussnact; Einsiedeln Abbey; March; Hofe; County of Wedenberg;

 

The Confederacy also does agree to pool their resources and economy to supply a standing Swiss Army made up of the separate Cantons to provide a force to protect the Confederacy. Furthermore, the Swiss Army could not be put into contract as Mercenaries unless ratified by the whole Confederacy.

 

Finally, the Confederacy so allows the cantons to levy a singular tax upon all its subjects. In order to both pay for this new standing army while also to provide relief for those Cantons and subject states to build highways and bridges throughout the Confederacy, simultaneously to reinforce the mountain passes and Burgs.

 

Actions

[Diplomacy] The Cantons send diplomats reaffirming their neutrality to the great powers of the world, such as the Hasburgs, the French, the Venetians, the Danes, the Spanish or the English; while also offering the Swiss banking service for the neighbouring states.

 

[Mod] The Swiss Confederacy unifies their military might between them, undergoing a series of military reform and joint training to cement loyalty to their fellow cantons.

 

[Mod] The Swiss Confederacy offers the opportunity to their Associates: the The City of Biel, The City of St. Gallen, the Bishopric of St. Gallen, the Seiben Zendel, and the Three Leagues; the chance to join the confederacy.

 

The census of the confederacy, to provide an expectation of their tax revenue for the years to come.