Hello, P2TM. For most of the last year, I've been doing two things quite often: Game of Thrones related things, and studying for AP European History. Not too surprisingly, these things mixed in my head, giving me an interesting idea: what would Westeros (and the rest of the World of Ice and Fire) be like if it were mixed with the real life historical period known as the long nineteenth century?
For anyone who hasn't taken AP Euro, the long nineteenth century is a period lasting from 1789 (the year of the French Revolution) to 1914 (the start of World War I). During this period, the old dynasties and nobility of Europe came under increased risk from rising nationalism and liberalism, as the average man became more involved in politics. This period also saw the beginning of imperialism in Africa and Eastern Asia, the fall of such dynasties as the Bourbons, and the beginning of the establishment of republics. So what would Westeros be like in this time period?
I imagine the old houses that have been in power since the Conquest would begin to find themselves facing stress from liberals within their lands, as well as the rise of nationalism between the various cultures (Reachmen, Dornishmen, etc.). Perhaps some lords have already fallen to this. There may be Westerosi expeditions into the jungles and deserts of Sothyros, or increased Westerosi influence over Essos. Who knows?
As of now, these are all just raw ideas, but I'd greatly appreciate assistance in refining them further.
