Balance of Power: II (Gameplay Thread) (Turn Two)

[Lumine]

Balance of Power II: 1861
(Gameplay Thread)

_____________________________________________________________________________________________

Cast:

GM: Lumine
Assistant GM: Dereich

First Lord Palmerstone: Spamage.
Emperor Napoleon III: Kingpoleon.
Tsar Alexander II: NeverAgain.
Kaiser Franz Joseph: Cranberry.
Sultan Abdulmecid: Steelers.
President Abraham Lincoln: Darthebearnc.
President Jefferson Davis: Enduro.
King Wilhelm I: Kalwejt.

Wars, Economy and Popularity:

Ongoing Wars:

American Civil War:
(USA v. CSA)
-Starting Phase (Confederate Goverment installed in Richmond)

Taiping Rebellion:
(Qing China v. Taiping Rebels)
-Ongoing

Cochinchina Campaign:
(French Empire and Spain v. Vietnam)
-Ongoing, Siege of Saigon by the Vietnamese

-Popularity Ratings:

First Lord Palmerstone: High
President Abraham Lincoln: High (Civil War effect)
President Jefferson Davis: High (Civil War effect)
King Wilhelm I: Medium
Emperor Napoleon III: Medium
Tsar Alexander II: Medium
Kaiser Franz Joseph: Medium
Sultan Abdulmecid: Low

-Economic Ratings:

British Empire: Strong
French Empire: Moderate
Austrian Empire: Moderate
United States of America: Moderate
Kingdom of Prussia: Moderate
Russian Tsardom: Weak
Ottoman Empire: Weak
Confederate States of AmericaWeak

[Lumine]

Warfare:

The World in Early 1861

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[/]

Yay!

[Lumine]

Turn One being written as we speak. Remember to include me and Dereich on all PM's.

[Lumine]

Turn One - Early 1861:

To the British Empire:

-Evening, First Lord. The year of 1861 begins with your Government riding high across British society, fresh from international triumph in the Second Opium War and enjoying from a strong economy focused on debt reduction. Best of luck keeping the Liberal Government strong!

-Victory at the Second Opium War has earned British large concessions in Kowloon, and merchants are enthusiastic about the opening of even larger trade in Chinese markets. On the other side, plenty of Liberals have denounced the Opium Trade and Britain's involvement on it, even with its economic benefits. Will you place any restrictions on trade in China and with Opium?

-Following fears of French resurgence in 1859 you put together a Royal Commission on the Defence of the United Kingdom, and the results of its report propose the building of large amounts of forts across the Southern coast to defend against any invasion. The "Palmerstone Forts" enjoy broad support in Parliament, but their large cost has been denounced by your Chancellor, William Gladstone, who has threatened to resign (something he has done in the past) if the plan moves ahead. Will it?

-All of Europe has been following the seccession of the Confederate States with great interest, public opinion being harshly divided. Both you and your Chancellor are known to have some degree of sympathy for the Confederates (but not for slavery), and the Cabinet seems divided on the course of action. Most believe a Declaration of Neutrality needs to be issued, and foreign recognition could depend on the following months, while a minority believes even this could be a hostile sign to the US. It has been suggested that Canada should be reinforced as well.

To the French Empire:

-Evening, your Majesty. Under your leadership France has just crushed Austria in the war that secured the unification of Italy, and your expeditionary forces have humilliated the Russians and the Chinese already in past conflicts. Alas, your position has never been truly firm, catholics enraged at your treatment of the Papacy forcing you to keep Rome safe from the Italians. France can prosper, but be wary of internal dissent.

-Over the past couple of years French forces have seen significant engagement across the East, with a French expedition to Cochinchina having captured Saigon and intervention in the Second Opium War along with the British yielding excellent results and prestige. Alas, an excessive focus on China has allowed the Vietnamese to strike back and besiege your outnumbered garrison in Saigon, and the war has turned bloody and slow. What will you do to break the siege and how will French forces move forward regarding the war on the area?

-As debt rises and threatens the French economy, some of your more liberal supporters have proposed a significant change in domestic policy: to empower Parliament. Opposed fiercely by the more loyalists of your Ministers, this proposal would allow the Senate and Assembly to respond to your policies, force the Ministers to defend policies before them, give further rights to amend programs and keep a formal record of all meetings. A risky gambit that could direct opposition force into a productive channel, but that could also undermine your power.

To the Austrian Empire:
 
-Good day, your Majesty. As you enter your 13th year of Government (and remain young as 31), your personal rule has proved moderatedly succesful at keeping the forces of 1848 at bay. Still, coming out of a decade of repressive policies and a humilliating defeat at the hands of the French and Italian in 1859 the fundamental questions about the nations inside the Empire have only grown more relevant. Can you keep your Empire together?

-Under the need of reform you passed the so called October Diploma in 1860, creating a Parliament that was given control of economic affairs, while the Hungarians got control of their internal affairs in their own Diet. This experiment has proved unsuccessful so far, proving too weak and too divided to work out. It has been suggested to you that you should change the course and amend the constitution, creating a bicameral parliament (one house appointed, the other indirectly elected), powerful yet still under your complete control. Will you take that step despite the risk of angering the Hungarians?

-The Minister-President, Count Bernard von Rechberg, has chosen to resign his position in order to focus on his office as Minister of Foreign Affairs, where is recognized as an able and expert diplomat. With the office thus open, who will you appoint? An able politician? A member of the Imperial Family? Or perhaps... something more bold and dangerous?

-Archduke Ferdinand Maximilian, your brother, has been a constant source of headaches due to his far more liberal beliefs. Maximilian has taken the Austrian Navy as his chief issue, often promoting further funding and support, and conducting reforms that have been instrumental in aiding the fleet. He now wishes to go a step further, asking you to committ to a large scale naval expansion and a massive build up on the new naval bases of Pola and Trieste. Others believe Maximilian to be a dangerous force, and ask for him to be demoted and put in a harmless role.

To the Ottoman Empire:

-Praised be your rule, Sultan! Despite being weakened by tuberculosis you have enjoyed a relatively successful rule by surviving the Crimean War and pushing for large scale social reforms across the Empire, decried by conservatives as extreme and by liberals as not far enough. Can you continue to push for reform and bring the Empire up from its increasingly complicated situation?

-Given your sickness and the possibility of not living long, many have suggested its time the Ottoman Empire has a change in succession rule. Conservatives and traditionalists argue for current Agnatic succession (eldest family male), while more Liberals push for Primogeniture. Will you act on this?

-It is known Russia has been desiring to take over Istanbul for years, and to the luck of the Empire their ambitions crashed in the war five years ago. But the fear remains ever present, and the British and French ambassadors often wield large influence as the ones that can keep Russia at bay. Will you seek a formal alliance with the European powers?

-Outrage at the killing of Christians through Lebanon led to foreign intervention last year, and 12,000 European troops keep the peace in the area. The European negotiators have asked you to sign the Règlement Organique, an arrangement that would grant autonomy in the region, which would improve your standing in Europe but damage your prestige in the Empire. What will you do?

[Lumine]

To the Russian Empire:

-Good day, Tsar Alexander. To the shock of the Russian people, you have emerged as a strong advocate for liberal reforms across the Empire, to battle the corruption and the misery that caused such a disaster for Russia in the Crimean War. Can you keep the course and bring Russia back as as truly major power?

-The issue of serfdom has been controversial through your reign, Russia being one of the last places where serfdom is a reality. A number of options has been presented to you, ranging from gradual emancipation to immediate emancipation with different levels of support for the serfs. How will to solve this major issue? Will you take radical action, or perhaps, leave this cause for another time?

-The Crimean War showed the complete disaster the logistics of the Russian Army involved, and should war break out it is not certain Russia would fight effectively. A young and brilliant officer, Dmitry Milyutin, has been suggested by many as a good option to lead reforms to the military, although some worry about his radical proposals. Others believe the best course of action is to hire a military mission, although it would involve a loss of prestige. What will you do?

-Following the end of the Crimean War the Black Sea was turned into a demilitarized zone, one of the greatest losses for your country in the Treaty of Paris. Many in the court are of the opinion this provision should not be observed any longer, and press you to fortificate the area and rebuild the Black Sea Fleet. Will you take a gamble and declare this provision null?

To the Confederate States of America:

-Welcome, Mr. President. As the recently elected head of state of the CSA, you face a daunting task in trying to fight the Union to preserve the independence of the new nation. It will be hard, but the South stands behind you on the fight, and with them come some of the most brilliant minds of the nation.

-Due to President Lincoln's call for volunteers Virginia led several states into seceding and joining the CSA, bolstering your forces. Some believe that Virginia deserves a reward and that the capital of the CSA should be put in Richmond, others warn that in a conflict it would be heavily vulnerable. Where will the seat of powe be?

-Organization can be complicated in a new Government, especially as a war needs to be fought and men need to be levied. You need to appoint a Cabinet for the CSA, and mirroring the Union some politicians and officers have also suggested that the nation could benefit from having a Commander in Chief for the war effort, allowing you to focus on politics.

-Border states seem divided on their course of action, as there's heated debate in Missouri, Kentucky, the west areas of Virginia, Maryland and Delaware on how to act. How will you persuade these states to join the Confederacy? Diplomacy? Intrigue? Military Action?

To the United States of America:

-Evening, Mr. President. The burdens of your office have become as hard as they come, with you having to fight what seems to be an all out civil war within weeks of taking office. Can you save the Union and crush the Confederate States, or will your Presidency end in a disaster for the nation?

-As the times are dangerous, it becomes vital to make sure the Union is behind the war in a bipartisan effort, lest the blame for a lack of success fall solely on the Administration. A contentious use is the use of federal power to supress dissent inside Union territory, and the suggestion of Secretary Seward and others to suspend Habeas Corpus and detain Confederate sympathizers or spies. What will your overall approach be?

-The Chief General of the reorganizing armies, Winfield Scott, has been critized by many as the wrong man to be leading the army. Scott, while a respected veteran, is old and weakened, with many arguing a younger man needs to be put in command. Will you replace your Chief General as the war is beginning to take shape?

-Border states seem divided on their course of action, as there's heated debate in Missouri, Kentucky, the west areas of Virginia, and Delaware on how to act. The most dangerous situation comes from Maryland, as pro-segregation forces could rebel and encircle Washington D.C. How will you persuade these states to remain in the Union? Diplomacy? Intrigue? Military Action? How will you protect the capital of the Union?

[NeverAgain]

Masterful work! My responses will be edited here in a bit.

[Cranberry]

Austrian Empire - Turn One

It is His Imperial Majesty's, Franz Josef I of Austria's, wish for the following to be enacted:

that Richard Graf Belcredi be named Minister-President of His Imperial Majesty's government

that a Special Naval Command be created at Triest, with the task of modernising and improving the Imperial Navy

that His Highness Archduke Ferdinand Maximilian be named the chairman of a Special Council sitting ahead this Special Naval Command

Furthermore, His Imperial Majesty issues the following February Patent, to serve as constituting document of the Austrian Empire, in order to easen the governance and administration of His Imperial Majesty's crown lands:

- The Reichsrat at Vienna shall be divided into two houses:
The Herrenhaus, with its members to be appointed by His Imperial Majesty at his ministers' advise
The Abgeordnetenhaus, with its members to be elected by the Landtage of the crown lands

The members of both houses shall equally represent the individual peoples and language groups of the crown lands and the Empire at-large, with the sole exception being the people of the Kingdom of Hungary, whose representation shall at no times be smaller than one quarter of each house of the Reichsrat.

x Franz Joseph I of Austria, of the House of Habsburg
Emperor of Austria

[Enduro]

President Jefferson Davis executive order 1:

-My official residence is moved to Richmond, Virginia.
-The capital is hereby moved to Richmond, Virginia.
-General Robert E. Lee is hereby appointed command of the Army of Northern Virginia.
-General Joseph Johnston is hereby appointed command of the Army of Tennessee.
-I hereby call on 100,000 men to enlist in order to protect this new nation.

[Enduro]

An open letter from Jefferson Davis to the people of Maryland, Kentucky, Missouri, and Delaware,

I appreciate you considering joint our young nation, and ask for you to do so. We may be small, we may not have the greatest economy at the moment, but with your help, we will be independent. The war can, and will, be won if you join us.

I offer the chance to protect your way of life, we don't plan on forcing you to give up any of your property, no matter what it is. Abraham Lincoln will force you to do what he wants you to do, but together, his reign of tyranny will not spread to you, or your family.

The Confederate States of America welcome you as full citizens, and will secure the freedoms that offers. You can change the course of this nation.

As we speak, I'm directing soldiers to protect those who would want to succeed from the oppression of the United States federal government. This is a precaution, to make sure he can't influence the vote with bully tactics.

Before you even join us, I'm trying to protect your rights; think of what I'll do if you're apart of this new nation.

Jefferson Davis, President of the Confederate States of America.

[Ex-Assemblyman Steelers]

We, Abdulmecid I
Caliph of Islam
Amin al-Mu'minin
Sultan of Ottoman Empire
Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques

I appoint Mehmet Emin Ali Pasha for Grand Vezier of Ottoman Empire. Koca Mustapha Resid Pasha for Foreign Minister and Mehmet Fuad Pasha for the Chairman of the Council of Tanzimat.

[Enduro]

Jefferson Davis executive order #2

-Robert Toombs is nominated to Secretary of State.
-Christopher Memminger is nominated to Secretary of the Treasury.
-LeRoy Pope Walker is nominated to Secretary of War.
-Judah P. Benjamin is nominated to Attorney General.
-Steven Mallory is nominated to Secretary of the Navy.
-John H. Reagan is nominated to Postmaster General.

[Spamage]

The British Empire- Early 1861

The Americas:

-Pass the Homestead Act in Parliament. Offer 100 acres of land to any person willing to settle permanently (meaning construct a primary residence on the land) in Canada or Australia starting in June 1861, regardless of birth or race. Married men are to be given 150 acres, plus an additional 25 for every child they have. Send surveying teams West in Canada to map out land plots.

-Pass the Trans-Canadian Railway Act. The Crown shall establish two companies to construct a railroad stretching the length of Canada. Construction shall begin as soon as possible. Import materials from Great Britain and British companies.

Europe:

-Conduct advertising concerning the Homestead Act abroad in Germany, Austria, and Italy. Offer immigrants land in return for loyalty. Highlight the potential for a better life in the New World.

-Host an Imperial Display in London. Highlight the splendor of the Victorian British Empire by showing off exhibits from every corner of our vast domain. Animals from Africa and Asia, inventions from London, and a whole host of other displays reflecting the grandeur of the British Empire. Use this as a way to instill national pride.

Asia:

-We shall not interfere with the actions of our merchants in East Asia. The Opium Trade is a permissible activity, vital in keeping the British economy stable. Ignore calls to limit Opium trade at the present time, citing the fact that currently, British interests lie elsewhere.

NOTE TO MODS: Private orders were removed from this public list of actions.

[Lumine]

To the Kingdom of Prussia:

-Condolences and congratulations both, your Majesty. King Frederick William has perished after a long medical struggle, ending your Regency and giving you the Crown of Prussia. Your Kingdom is strong, but its military and economy requires reform, and your rule must be firm and efficient if Prussia is to rise above the rest of the German nations to fulfill the dream of unity. Can you do it?

-Overall, your Regency has been considerated as a conservative one, with a willingness to see the liberal point of view through the influence of the Minister-President. But now that you are King, what will the philosophy and approach of Wilhelm I be?

-The first political issue to rise is that of the Coronation. The more conservative elements believe an old-style coronation is much needed reaffirming your divine right to rule and the more traditional aspects of the Prussian regime, establishing your grasp of the situation. Liberals, on the other hand, may be dismayed at seeing you (a ruler they believe more openminded than Frederick William) crowned in such a way. What will you do?

-The last few months have seen War Minister Roon battle endlessly with Parliament and the liberals on attempts to reform the military, which had a shameful performance in the war of 1859. So far, this has ended into a compromise of increased military funding, but the fundamentals of the army have not been truly changed. Is it the time to restart the struggle, or should this wait until your rule is more secure?

[MASHED POTATOES. VOTE!]

- We desire to be crowned according to an ancient traditions in Koenigsberg.

- In order to commemorate our accession to the throne and to honor the memory of our beloved brother, the King, we commute all death sentences in Prussia as well as declare an amnesty for a wide number of imprisoned prisoners. Specifics of said amnesty shall be determined by a special judicial committee.

- Our son and heir, Crown Prince Frederick, shall be send as our personal representative to the Imperial Display in London and deliver our best wishes to the British people.

- Our government is fully sympathetic to President Lincoln's noble efforts to preserve the unity of his country in face of the slavers' rebelion. Against advice of some of our advisers, we shall not proclaim neutrality, since it would mean recognizing the rebels as "belligerents".

- Prussia needs reform, there's no doubt about that and We are more than happy to listen to ideas from across the spectrum, which naturally includes liberal circles. However Prussia can be secure only if our military power is maintained and We shall not allow domestic disputes to threaten our military capabilities. We direct Minister von Roon to prepare a confidential report on the army reform.

[MASHED POTATOES. VOTE!]

Oh, one more thing.

1. No Prussian subject may engage in aiding in any way the so-called "Confederate States".

x Wilhelm

[Kingpoleon]

The Second French Empire; Early 1861

Europe:
A Prime Minister, appointed by the Emperor, shall be created. The Senate shall confirm his cabinet by simple majority vote. His duties and the duties of his cabinet will be mostly the administrative and legislative side. He, the proper minister, or the Emperor may veto any legislation the legislature passes. He himself must be a member of the Senate, and he has the right to demand and accept legislation.

The Prime Minister of France shall be Charlemagne de Maupus, and his cabinet will include Minister of War Charles Oudinot, the republican and son of one of Napoleon's Marshals, Minister of the Interior Charles de Morny, Minister of Navy and Colonies Francois d'Orleans, to pacify the Orleanist royalists, and Minister of the Interior Emile Ollivier, to satisfy liberals, republicans, and democrats.

Non-Public:
The chief goal will be to follow non-social traditions of conservatives, propose a nationwide railroad constantly well-kept, and use a coalition of Catholics, common soldiers, liberals, and Orleanists whie pacifying Republicans. Jacobins, Marxists, Legitimists, and the other minor opponents to Bonapartism will be played off of the liberals, democrats, republicans, and the regionalists, while the pro-Bourbon politicians and the Legitimists will be played against the Orleanists.

Colonies:

The French Empire will use nationalism to increase popularity among colonists. All locals who show excessive acts of loyalty(I. E. defending Bonapartist or allies soldiers, official, nobles, royals, and etc., defending diplomats, any loyalty noticed by a French official, and etc.) will receive the same legal treatment as Frenchmen for life or until anti-Bonaparte/French activity is noticed.

Additionally, all locals who become soldiers or French government workers or officials will be treated legally and financially as Frenchmen. To encourage stability, a 2:1 ratio of colonists/notably loyal locals : not notably loyal locals will be demanded in all colonies police and armed forces.

[Kingpoleon]

We hereby announce the appointment of Prince Lucien Murat, claimant to the Throne of Naples, whose maternal first cousin is Emperor Napoleon III, as Ambassador to Vienna. Additionally, Alexandre Collona-Walewska will be appointed Ambassador to London.

Prince Robert, Duke of Chartes, is to hereby become Napoleon's mediator with the Orleanists. He receives amnesty.

[NeverAgain]

The Glourious Empire of Russia

Public:

- Thank you very much.

- On the issue of serfdom. We will be gradually letting serfs apply for their freedom with a "work to own system" which allows serfs to slowly become citizens while working for their former masters. After five to ten years of service (either in the military or on their former master's plantation) these serfs can apply for citizenship which will give them a plot of land from their former masters' plantation.

- We would very much enjoy having Mr. Milyutin join our ranks with his brilliant strategies, of course, he must agree to moderate his radical positions to adequately protect the safety of this nation.

- The Crimean War was an atrocity, but we must move past it. The Treaty of Paris refuted the fact that Crimea cannot stand without help from their Russian brothers and sisters many of whom are families just spread across just a few miles. We will be helping rebuild the area and setting up defenses in case of another aggressive affront to the Russian people. To do this we will rebuild the Black Sea Fleet and bring back Russia to the forefront of the world's stage.

Non-Public:

- We will be staunchly aiding the Confederacy in its fight for freedom, we abhor the practice of Slavery but do support the ideals of freedom from tyanny. They will be given a 'blank check' for their armies.

[Lumine]

End of Early 1861:

Wars, Economy and Popularity:

Ongoing Wars:

American Civil War:
(USA v. CSA)
-Warfare Phase (Confederate and Union initial levies on the field)

Taiping Rebellion:
(Qing China v. Taiping Rebels)
-Ongoing

Cochinchina Campaign:
(French Empire and Spain v. Vietnam)
-Ongoing, Siege of Saigon lifted and Vietnamese in retreat

-Popularity Ratings:

King Wilhelm I: High
President Jefferson Davis: High
Prime Minister Cavour: High
First Lord Palmerstone: Medium
Emperor Napoleon III: Medium
Tsar Alexander II: Medium
Sultan Abdulmecid: Very Low

-Economic Ratings:

British Empire: Strong
French Empire: Moderate
Kingdom of Prussia: Moderate
Confederate States of AmericaMedium
Russian Tsardom: Weak
Kingdom of Italy: Weak
Ottoman Empire: Very Weak

As 1861 began, it seemed as if the fires of war, a constant all too familiar since the 1848 Revolutions, the War in Crimea and the recent Italian Independence, could be reignited again, clouds in the horizons. Across Europe, monarchs made their attempts at political reform with varied results, from mildly successful reforms in Hapsburg Austria, an evolving situation in the Russian Empire and both criticism and praise for Emperor Napoleon in France. As befitted the Ottoman Empire, reform in their case seemed to be stalled for the year, causing some levels of uncertainty. The situation was not helped by rumours coming from Crimea and the possibility of ships being built there, as sources both refute and support those claims. Britain took the lead in hoping to increase its prestige, hosting a successful and popular Imperial Display in London.

Across the East European prestige has been enhanced once again by a series of operations in Indochina and the Qing Empire itself, with the Manchu court being humiliated once again by being forced to open favorable trade with Austria and the powerful Vietnamese revolt being decisively routed at their now failed siege of Saigon. Now with the port firmly in their hands and a large expeditionary force, it seems the French are there to stay, even if a war to take the rest of the region would be bloody and long. Across South America, however, a botched attempt at aggressive colonization and clumsy posturing with the Venezuelan Government came up to the newspapers, leading a wave of anti-British sentiment to spread through the neighboring countries as Lord Palmerstone finds himself in trouble to answer to harsh criticism from anti-colonials not only in the Empire, but in Europe.

And finally, it was America that perhaps drew the most attention, with its civil war all but imminent now. With the new Confederate Government setting up in Richmond and preparing for a long conflict the European powers have rushed to take sides, causing concern to different groups of merchants with different interests. The boldest position taken was that of Russia, whose open bankrolling of the Confederate Government was surprisingly exposed through bad luck (more on this later) and opened up major questions for the Tsar to answer. With Prussia prudently taking a firm stance in favor of the Union, rumour has it Britain and France have a strong interest in backing the Confederacy, which brings up support and dissent of its own.

As Confederate troops seem set to march on Washington, and the Union soldiers look towards Richmond, an uneasy balance of power looks more unstable every day...

[Lumine]

Warfare:

The World in Late 1861

Changes:

-Outer Manchuria taken by Russia (not player action, this is something I missed from Early 1861)
-French expansion through Southern Vietnam, aftermath of victory in the siege of Saigon
-Santo Domingo is annexed by Spain through petition

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[Lumine]

Turn Two - Late 1861:

To the British Empire:

-Evening, First Lord. It has been quite a curious six months, bringing both triumphs and defeats for your Government and ending up with an overall loss of popularity, although confidence in the Empire is high as ever after the succesful Imperial Display.

-The British economy is going strong with the opium trade taking full force across China once again, and the east looks overall as a positive front for the Empire with experiments in India regarding cotton. Still, the Government has been warned that it would take years for a replacement to this resource to be cost effective.

-In foreign affairs you secured an early success by lowering tensions with France and defusing a conflict with Gladstone over the planned fortifications in South England, but any success here was ignored due to recent Venezuelan scandal. This diplomatic failure has brought condemnation from most of the South American countries and anti-colonialists in Parliament, leading to a loss of prestige. Will you make amends with the Venezuelan Government, perhaps find a scapegoat, ride out the dissent and move on...?

-The war in North America is bringing a spirited response across the nation, with the press taking a stand more pro-unionist and many warning of the dire consequences support for the Union or the Confederacy would bring. Also, the Homestead Act and the Trans-Canadian Railway Act passed Parliament , although the first attracted significant criticism as several MP's voiced out their concerns for a measure supportive of the colonies rather than Britain itself.

To the French Empire:

-Evening, your Majesty.

-Charlemagne de Maupas has been confirmed as Prime Minister after lenghty debate in the Senate with a healthy margin of victory, but the attempts at creating a broad coalition have met both failure and success. While the creation of the Prime Ministerial office brings acclaim, Maupas is still remembered from his harsh methods which led to his dismissal almost a decade ago, leading Ollivier to refuse serving in the cabinet under him and undermining the Government somewhat. What will be the priorities of the de Maupas ministry?

-Policies conducted by the Government have led to mixed results in political terms, with measures regarding integration of locals being met by resistance from the administration and conservatives. On the other side, the potential for support of the Confederace has brought heavy criticism from liberals and republicans, making the American Civil War a new and potentially decisive issue on French politics. Likewise, Parliamentary Reforms have been critiziced for not giving Parliament power over taxation, with Bonapartists advising you to stand firm on the issue.

-Despite this, a much needed prestige surge has been brought by events on the Far East, as decisive action and successful coordination with the Prussian and Spanish Governments have brought over the defeat of the Vietnamese in Saigon. Still ,few of them have deserted and they refuse to being negotiations, which poses the strategic question. Should the French Empire invade the rest of the area, despite being a potentially long term conflict?

To the Ottoman Empire:

-Praised be your rule, Sultan.

-Ali Pasha has taken over as your Grand Vizier one again, immediately beginning to retake influence in power once again. With a lack of action regarding increasing unrest in Lebanon and the issue of the succession (as your health is not improving), uncertainity has caused the Imperial Court to divide itself, your own position and power weakened by it. Can you prove the Empire you remain a strong ruler? What will you direct your new Grand Vizier to do?

-The Ottoman economy has been taking a lot of strain lately, leading to a very poor financial situation which many describe as critical. What should be done about this? Raise the taxes once again? Ask the foreign powers for yet another loan? Or perhaps, something else?

To the Russian Empire:

-Good day, Tsar Alexander.

-Your bold decision to bankroll the Confederate States of America was leaked from the diplomatic section in St. Petersburg (as most Russian diplomats do favor the Union), bring praise from conservatives but horrifying liberals. Your compromise on the issue of the serfs has been compromised from this leak, as the reactionary landowners are emboldened and their cause has been given new life. They are strongly pressing you to end your proposed emancipation of the serfs while your erstwhile allies speak out against your new policy. What will you do?

-While Milyutin expresses some disappointed at feeling heavily restricted by the more conservative officers, he has nonetheless began his work to aid the reform of the Russian army. Depending on the level of freedom he has, he expects to have concrete results in brief time.

-Growing weakness and decadence in the Ottoman court brings serious doubts on the viability of Abdulmecid's rule, and indeed, the more opportunist and bold officers in your entourage openly muse about taking revenge from the Crimean War. Would you take risks regarding your Turkish opponent, despite the wounds of war being fresh?

To the Confederate States of America:

-Welcome, Mr. President. Your new Cabinet has been appointed and taken place, with the Confederate Congress extending your term and that of Vice-President Stephens until Early 1868 and your Government moving to Richmond. With the war about to enter a battle phase, you have enough time to make and remake the Confederacy, if you prove effective enough.

-Russian support and aid from other countries has begun to arrive, bolstering CSA logistics and finances in order to face the first months of war. Alas, in response, the Union has set up a blockade of the coastline, which while on its infancy is beginning to severely hurt the Confederate trade. How will you respond?

-The border states situation will be dealt with via event (in charge of Dereich). Likewise, war decisions and context will come up in the Civil War thread (this will be ready on Sunday evening).

To the Kingdom of Prussia:

-Congratulations, King Wilhelm, your rule has started not only effectively, but also with a large surge in popularity with liberals and conservatives alike for your rule. May Prussia continue to prosper thus!

-Your Coronation took place in the ancient way, pleasing conservatives and the nobility alike. While this brought its share of criticism from the liberal side, the pardons issued by you and your stance in favor of the Union have silenced their concerns, making up for a balanced and popular start.

-The issue of War Reform has been suspened by a few months on a compromise, giving time for Prussian forces to gain some experience on colonial warfare in Vietnam and for technical cooperation from another power to bring over benefits in arms production and sales. Minister Roon's findings stress that, in his opinion, Prussia needs to change its mobilization system to extended service and the end of the Landwehr, coupled with higher expenditures on training, logistics and superior weaponry. Alas, liberals and Parliament denounce this as mere warmongering from von Roon. It will take skill to solve this issue if Prussia is to become a more powerful force in eastern Europe.

To the Kingdom of Italy:

-Welcome, Prime Minister Cavour. After narrowly surviving a health care you can resume your term as the first Prime Minister of the unified Kingdom of Italy, and the task ahead is daunting. You have to create a nation from the several smaller ones that used to be independent, and fend off Garibaldi and the radicals that despite you. Can you succeed in this Herculean task?

-Your Government begins with the advantage of a foolproof parliamentary majority and the confidence of the King, which means a program can indeed be implemented without too many hardships. What will be the priorities of the first Italian government?

-While the borders of Italy look rather consolidated after 1859, two regions remain outside your control and a source of discontent. Venice is still under Austrian domination and unlikely to be returned unless war was to break out - and it's doutful the new Kingdom is truly ready for a second round -, and Rome not only defies your rule, it is also openly backed and garrisoned by France, a situation that Garibaldi has vowed to address. Thread carefully.

-The issue of brigandage has taken the Kingdom's attention this year, as countless bands of criminals roam Sicily and southern Italy sacking, pillaging and killing on their way. How will you address this?

[Lumine]

Event – Rise of the Ironclad:

TO: All players.

A naval race is about to be started.

With the building of the "Glorie" in 1859 the Second French Empire took a decisive step in causing a revolution in naval warfare, with the Ironclad becoming a concept to be feared as most of the fleets of the world could potentially become obsolete against the ironclad warship. Initially confined to a design similar to the Ships of the Line and not yet becoming a norm, a major breakthrough has been achieved, sending nations into an stampede. Prestigious shipbuilder John Ericcsen, recruited by the Royal Navy to plan for their own series of ironclad warships, has come up with a design that outmatches the "Gloire", pushing for ironclads made fully of iron (the "Gloire" is made of wood, despite being armoured) that are faster (more like frigates than ship of the line battleship) and potentially more deadly in sufficient numbers.

There are plenty of options for nations to find their own way into ironclads, from converting ships into improvised ironclads (which would not stand a chance against the real ones, but would prove effective against wooden ships), building ironclads of their own (despite the expense in procuring the level of naval ship yards, or commissioning them from the leading nations on the field: Britain (Warrior-class, faster yet more vulnerable) and France (Gloire class, slower yet more armoured and with more firepower). On one hand, not having ironclads might prove a major drawback on nations that were to need to engage in large open naval warfare, but on the other, the expense is quite high, making it a complicated choice.

[Lumine]

Crisis – Benito Juarez suspends foreign payments!

TO: Britain and France.

Desperate over a disastrous financial situation following a bloody civil war, the recently reelected Government of President Benito Juarez has taken dramatic action to stabilize the Mexican economy, with Spain, Britain and France suffering a suspension of internet payments on their substantial loans, a heavy blow to the European nations that had bankrolled past Mexican governments. Despite Foreign Minister Manuel Doblado's insistence that this suspension is only to last for two years to give breathing room to the Juarez administration, the move has brought heavy criticism from the European powers, accusing Mexico from fiscal irresponsibility and demanding the repayment of the substantial debt. With the Juarez Government standing up for its policy, it remains to be seen how Lord Palmerstone and Emperor Napoleon (as well as Queen Isabella and Prime Minister O'Donnell) will react to this issue, particularly now that anti-British and anti-Spanish sentiment rises across South America over the Venezuelan scandal and the Spanish peaceful takeover of Santo Domingo.

[MASHED POTATOES. VOTE!]

Kingdom of Prussia

1. Our cousin and Minister President, Prince Karl Anton of Hohenzollern-Sigmaringen, shall continue on his present post.

2. His Majesty the King would like to invite our allies in Northern Germany to hold a conference, aimed at strengthening a cooperation in the region for everyone benefit.

3. Prussia is looking forward to improve our already promising relations with the French Empire. Sending a contingent to support their efforts in Indochina, without asking any favor in return, is intended as a clear sign of good will.

4. His Majesty the King must disagree with the criticism of General von Roon’s efforts to reform our army. The history teaches Prussia is secure only when our military does not fall behind other powers, as it happened during the Napoleonic Wars. His Majesty is not a young man and remembers well those dark days.

The King understand those arguing that such reforms would led to futher militarization of Prussian society. However, replacing the Landwehr, a relic of old times, with smaller, yet more efficient professional force, would have exactly the opposing effect. Furthermore, the development of infrastructure these reforms demand, such as the railways, is only going to benefit the civilian population.

No one has been more devoted to our ancient and mighty traditions than His Majesty himself. However, times are changing and he realizes that serious reforms are necessary. But it cannot be done without securing our fatherland militarily.

It is His Majesty’s wish that von Roon’s reforms will be implemented as soon as possible. (and I mean it must really happen)


Not Public

The liberals should be appeased to accept von Roon’s reforms with a promise of implementing legal, social and economic reforms throughout the realm. To prove our intentions, the Minister President, Prince Karl Anton, should create a special committee, with leading reformists participating, to prepare detailed proposals.

Both sides of the issue, that is reformists and the military establishment, should be made aware that there is no real conflict of interests. Liberals get their agenda seriously considered and the civilian society is going to benefit from abolition of Landwehr and building an infrastructure.

Furthermore, the industrial circles, that may fear reforms, should be appeased with perspective of benefiting from our increasing arms trade with the Union and other projects that will come soon.