The Imperial Times (Official Imperial Fatherland News Thead)

[Deutschenreiche]

The Imperial Times ~ The #1 Destination for Imperial Fatherland RP Related News

Finally, it is here. The Official Imperial Fatherland Role-Play News Thread is ready to be utilized and bent at your will to further our narrative. Of course, we must go over a few points before you can delve into the fray. Point one, all RP will now take place on the NS forums. Obviously, this is our news thread, but other more specific role-plays must have their own thread created. Point two, one-liners are generally associated with the less skilled RPers of NS and have no place on this thread. Point three, I (Deutschenreiche) am all-powerful when it comes to the acceptance or rejection of a news post. If I (Deutchenreiche) find a post in violation of our Ruled & Etiquette or locate a pesky one liner it will be voided without question. Now, I believe that is all from me and now it is time for you to begin posting! Good luck.

[Diogott]

Die Wacht am Preßethäul
the Eighteenth Day of June, 1960 A.D.

Construction of a new "rail-road station" to begin in Merano

Following recent innovations from the ever expanding social, economic and cultural capital of Diogott's researchers and inventors, His Majesty's Government has declared it fit that it should lend its support and endorsement to the rapidly increasing pace of technological advancement within the nation. Hence, following a short Herrensrat meeting involving His Majesty the Grand Duke, the Reichskanzler, the Minister of the Royal House and of Foreign Affairs, and the Royal Treasurer earlier this morning, it has been announced that planning for the construction of a "rail-road station" is to begin in the capital, Merano, in the coming months.

The advent of steam power, and subsequently the rail-road, in early 1958 A.D. and late 1959 A.D. respectively, invented by Franz von Sonnleithner, has been met with great acclaim by Diogott's elite. His invention has already been implemented in the Wilhelm der Große Mine, north of Algund, where its value in transporting coal, iron, and other resources that the Alps bear, has not gone unnoticed. Using carts placed on the rails to sustain the weight of the Mine's bounties, and young foals to shift them, production has increased fivefold due to the enormous increase in efficiency. No longer must miners lug large bags from the depths, for their lives have been made infinitely easier through the march of progress.

Diogott's elites have begun to see the value of the rail-road in transporting not just resources and capital, but people too- and this has led to the present situation. Travellers may rest assured in the knowledge that there are no known plans to ferry humans in the same way as lumps of rock and metal, however, as elaborate carriages, similar to the type presently (if uncomfortably) seen on horses and roads, are being seriously considered as the mode for passenger rail-roads. Sonnleithner's genius has not ended either- he envisions that a machine utilising steam power will be able to replace the role of horses, a contraption he terms the "locomotive" from the Latin "causing motion from a place". The so-called "locomotive" will change the lives of Diotians permanently- and, perhaps more importantly, create more space for cavalry.

For now, Diotians can only wait, but the future promises to bear fruits of every flavour.

[The Swedish Coast]

(Image)

Die Wacht am Preßethäul
the Eighteenth Day of June, 1960 A.D.

Construction of a new "rail-road station" to begin in Merano

Following recent innovations from the ever expanding social, economic and cultural capital of Diogott's researchers and inventors, His Majesty's Government has declared it fit that it should lend its support and endorsement to the rapidly increasing pace of technological advancement within the nation. Hence, following a short Herrensrat meeting involving His Majesty the Grand Duke, the Reichskanzler, the Minister of the Royal House and of Foreign Affairs, and the Royal Treasurer earlier this morning, it has been announced that planning for the construction of a "rail-road station" is to begin in the capital, Merano, in the coming months.

The advent of steam power, and subsequently the rail-road, in early 1958 A.D. and late 1959 A.D. respectively, invented by Franz von Sonnleithner, has been met with great acclaim by Diogott's elite. His invention has already been implemented in the Wilhelm der Große Mine, north of Algund, where its value in transporting coal, iron, and other resources that the Alps bear, has not gone unnoticed. Using carts placed on the rails to sustain the weight of the Mine's bounties, and young foals to shift them, production has increased fivefold due to the enormous increase in efficiency. No longer must miners lug large bags from the depths, for their lives have been made infinitely easier through the march of progress.

Diogott's elites have begun to see the value of the rail-road in transporting not just resources and capital, but people too- and this has led to the present situation. Travellers may rest assured in the knowledge that there are no known plans to ferry humans in the same way as lumps of rock and metal, however, as elaborate carriages, similar to the type presently (if uncomfortably) seen on horses and roads, are being seriously considered as the mode for passenger rail-roads. Sonnleithner's genius has not ended either- he envisions that a machine utilising steam power will be able to replace the role of horses, a contraption he terms the "locomotive" from the Latin "causing motion from a place". The so-called "locomotive" will change the lives of Diotians permanently- and, perhaps more importantly, create more space for cavalry.

For now, Diotians can only wait, but the future promises to bear fruits of every flavour.

"Look," says Swedish Minister of Transport Charles Duchågen on the telephone to Grand Duke Georg of Diogott, "Here in Sweden we've plenty of Steam Locomotives, so we'd be more than willing to give you some of them. It's either that or they go to scrap, and I'd prefer to see them go to a worthy cause. How about it?"
The Grand Duke says he'll think it over.
He wishes good day to Mr. Duchågen, and they both put the phones down. Will Diogott have new, top quality trains from Sweden or will Diogott only accept Diotian trains? The Grand Duke is only a decision away from making a great, well connected country, and make allies with Sweden, a liberal paradise from the north.

[Konratopia]

(Image)

Die Wacht am Preßethäul
the Eighteenth Day of June, 1960 A.D.

Construction of a new "rail-road station" to begin in Merano

Following recent innovations from the ever expanding social, economic and cultural capital of Diogott's researchers and inventors, His Majesty's Government has declared it fit that it should lend its support and endorsement to the rapidly increasing pace of technological advancement within the nation. Hence, following a short Herrensrat meeting involving His Majesty the Grand Duke, the Reichskanzler, the Minister of the Royal House and of Foreign Affairs, and the Royal Treasurer earlier this morning, it has been announced that planning for the construction of a "rail-road station" is to begin in the capital, Merano, in the coming months.

The advent of steam power, and subsequently the rail-road, in early 1958 A.D. and late 1959 A.D. respectively, invented by Franz von Sonnleithner, has been met with great acclaim by Diogott's elite. His invention has already been implemented in the Wilhelm der Große Mine, north of Algund, where its value in transporting coal, iron, and other resources that the Alps bear, has not gone unnoticed. Using carts placed on the rails to sustain the weight of the Mine's bounties, and young foals to shift them, production has increased fivefold due to the enormous increase in efficiency. No longer must miners lug large bags from the depths, for their lives have been made infinitely easier through the march of progress.

Diogott's elites have begun to see the value of the rail-road in transporting not just resources and capital, but people too- and this has led to the present situation. Travellers may rest assured in the knowledge that there are no known plans to ferry humans in the same way as lumps of rock and metal, however, as elaborate carriages, similar to the type presently (if uncomfortably) seen on horses and roads, are being seriously considered as the mode for passenger rail-roads. Sonnleithner's genius has not ended either- he envisions that a machine utilising steam power will be able to replace the role of horses, a contraption he terms the "locomotive" from the Latin "causing motion from a place". The so-called "locomotive" will change the lives of Diotians permanently- and, perhaps more importantly, create more space for cavalry.

For now, Diotians can only wait, but the future promises to bear fruits of every flavour.

Күнделікті Алматы шежіресі

25 June 1960

New plans for railroads in Diogott sparks debate in Konratopia over lack of industrialization and domination by foreign powers

In a press conference last night following the recent announcement of a new rail-road station in Diogott, announced a week ago but only arrived now because the news had to be brought by horse since the nation's only telegraph machine was broken, Treasury Secretary Walsh Alkeyeva has described the innovation in Diogott as "telling".
"We continue to live in a world dominated by the Western Powers, and this new raily-way contraption in Diogott, one of the least industrialized nations in Europe, only confirms it." said Secretary Alkeyeva yesterday. "If Konratopia is to take its place in the sun, we must industrialize and and then force smaller countries to buy all our goods, like the European nations!"
This anti-Europe sentiment has been echoed before, ever since the end of World War II, when the victorious European powers over Russia and her allies, including Konratopia, chose to give some traditional Konratopian land to the new state of Quintipoli, whom many consider to be nothing but a Russian puppet state.
The Secretary of the Interior, Lyndon Snowtzer, who really shouldn't be getting involved in this and just go plant some trees, has said repeatedly that Konratopia should industrialize, and make its primary goal to gain access to the ocean for trade, both ideas that seem really contrary to his position in government. After the news about trains in Diogott, his response was more of the same, some rumbling and yelling about how Konratopia must expand to the ocean and industrialize to keep up with Europe as well as some very well-phrased death threats about what he would do the next time reporters started asking him questions while he was bathing.
Since we needed a contrary opinion for the article and everyone in the government seems to agree perfectly with that weird guy wearing a dark hood standing next to President Disain all the time, we talked to local farmer Harlod Joltston to get his opinion on the trains in Diogott. His response was memorable:
"We don't need no fancy-smancy machines in Konratopia! All we need is our farms and a lot more guns, so that when we talk to the other nations, they'll be so intimidated by our large farms and our even larger gun collections that they'll just agree to do whatever we say! Sometimes you just gotta think, ya know?" he added at the end, tapping his forehead with one finger.
New reports coming in from Almaty spread rumors that President Disain was heard yelling in the Capital Building "D*MN IT! WHY DIDN'T I THINK OF TRAINS FIRST! HE'S GOING TO HAVE MY HEAD FOR THIS!" After he calmed down some, he pointed at a random Cabinet member and began to say "Why didn't you come up with trains before Diogott did! You've failed in your duties and this is all your fault!" These reports cannot be confirmed or denied as of now, but raise many troubling questions.

[Diogott]

(Image)

Die Wacht am Preßethäul
the Eighteenth Day of June, 1960 A.D.

Construction of a new "rail-road station" to begin in Merano

Following recent innovations from the ever expanding social, economic and cultural capital of Diogott's researchers and inventors, His Majesty's Government has declared it fit that it should lend its support and endorsement to the rapidly increasing pace of technological advancement within the nation. Hence, following a short Herrensrat meeting involving His Majesty the Grand Duke, the Reichskanzler, the Minister of the Royal House and of Foreign Affairs, and the Royal Treasurer earlier this morning, it has been announced that planning for the construction of a "rail-road station" is to begin in the capital, Merano, in the coming months.

The advent of steam power, and subsequently the rail-road, in early 1958 A.D. and late 1959 A.D. respectively, invented by Franz von Sonnleithner, has been met with great acclaim by Diogott's elite. His invention has already been implemented in the Wilhelm der Große Mine, north of Algund, where its value in transporting coal, iron, and other resources that the Alps bear, has not gone unnoticed. Using carts placed on the rails to sustain the weight of the Mine's bounties, and young foals to shift them, production has increased fivefold due to the enormous increase in efficiency. No longer must miners lug large bags from the depths, for their lives have been made infinitely easier through the march of progress.

Diogott's elites have begun to see the value of the rail-road in transporting not just resources and capital, but people too- and this has led to the present situation. Travellers may rest assured in the knowledge that there are no known plans to ferry humans in the same way as lumps of rock and metal, however, as elaborate carriages, similar to the type presently (if uncomfortably) seen on horses and roads, are being seriously considered as the mode for passenger rail-roads. Sonnleithner's genius has not ended either- he envisions that a machine utilising steam power will be able to replace the role of horses, a contraption he terms the "locomotive" from the Latin "causing motion from a place". The so-called "locomotive" will change the lives of Diotians permanently- and, perhaps more importantly, create more space for cavalry.

For now, Diotians can only wait, but the future promises to bear fruits of every flavour.

"Look," says Swedish Minister of Transport Charles Duchågen on the telephone to Grand Duke Georg of Diogott, "Here in Sweden we've plenty of Steam Locomotives, so we'd be more than willing to give you some of them. It's either that or they go to scrap, and I'd prefer to see them go to a worthy cause. How about it?"
The Grand Duke says he'll think it over.
He wishes good day to Mr. Duchågen, and they both put the phones down. Will Diogott have new, top quality trains from Sweden or will Diogott only accept Diotian trains? The Grand Duke is only a decision away from making a great, well connected country, and make allies with Sweden, a liberal paradise from the north.

Die Wacht am Preßethäul
the Twenty-Fifth Day of June, 1960 A.D.

Imperialist Swedish advances rejected

There is uproar within Ebenholz Palace to-day as Diogott's good name has been trampled upon by the uncivilized Swedish barbarians! In a blatant attempt to subvert and undermine Diotian sovereignty, the Swedish Prime Minister- elected, it must be noted- first spat upon His Majesty the Grand Duke's dignity by using foreign technology to contact him, forcing his travel to Austria-Hungary, then added insult to injury by suggesting that Diogott adopt foreign technology itself!

This disgusting lack of respect for the rights and freedoms of a sovereign state is to be expected from a decadent, liberal society such as Sweden. In its people's greedy quest for individualism and democracy, they have thrown to the side the most important values that build character, both in nation and in person- industrialism, faith, loyalty. This is how our Grand Duchy marches ever forward- and in what direction do the Swedes march? Only backwards, for they only wish to save their own hides! There is no loyalty to the crown, to God and to the nation; there is no hard-working ethic, despite Sweden's protestant roots- and these roots are increasingly rotting away, as Swedes turn their backs on Christ and the Church!

Were it not for His Majesty's great statesmanship, there would almost certainly be war between Diogott and her allies! His Majesty needn't think twice about this subversion of sovereignty- for the answer, from His Majesty, Ebenholz Palace and the people of Diogott is a resounding "No!"

[The Swedish Coast]

(Image)
"Look," says Swedish Minister of Transport Charles Duchågen on the telephone to Grand Duke Georg of Diogott, "Here in Sweden we've plenty of Steam Locomotives, so we'd be more than willing to give you some of them. It's either that or they go to scrap, and I'd prefer to see them go to a worthy cause. How about it?"
The Grand Duke says he'll think it over.
He wishes good day to Mr. Duchågen, and they both put the phones down. Will Diogott have new, top quality trains from Sweden or will Diogott only accept Diotian trains? The Grand Duke is only a decision away from making a great, well connected country, and make allies with Sweden, a liberal paradise from the north.

Die Wacht am Preßethäul
the Twenty-Fifth Day of June, 1960 A.D.

Imperialist Swedish advances rejected

There is uproar within Ebenholz Palace to-day as Diogott's good name has been trampled upon by the uncivilized Swedish barbarians! In a blatant attempt to subvert and undermine Diotian sovereignty, the Swedish Prime Minister- elected, it must be noted- first spat upon His Majesty the Grand Duke's dignity by using foreign technology to contact him, forcing his travel to Austria-Hungary, then added insult to injury by suggesting that Diogott adopt foreign technology itself!

This disgusting lack of respect for the rights and freedoms of a sovereign state is to be expected from a decadent, liberal society such as Sweden. In its people's greedy quest for individualism and democracy, they have thrown to the side the most important values that build character, both in nation and in person- industrialism, faith, loyalty. This is how our Grand Duchy marches ever forward- and in what direction do the Swedes march? Only backwards, for they only wish to save their own hides! There is no loyalty to the crown, to God and to the nation; there is no hard-working ethic, despite Sweden's protestant roots- and these roots are increasingly rotting away, as Swedes turn their backs on Christ and the Church!

Were it not for His Majesty's great statesmanship, there would almost certainly be war between Diogott and her allies! His Majesty needn't think twice about this subversion of sovereignty- for the answer, from His Majesty, Ebenholz Palace and the people of Diogott is a resounding "No!"

Sager House, Stockholm, 25th June 1960
The Swedish Prime Minister William Årgen on behalf of the Riksdag today made a formal apology to both Grand Duke Georg and to the Grand Duchy of Diogott, after an offer from the Swedish Ministry of Transport was found disrespectful to Diotian Customs. This is an extract from William Ågren's speech:
"My King, Lord, Ladies and Gentlemen of the Kingdom of Sweden. On behalf of the Riksdag and Parliament, I apologise to the Grand Duke of the Grand Duchy of Diogott. My right honourable friend, the Minister of Transport and MP for Gottenberg South East, Mr. Charles Duchågen, has breached the customs of Diogott, however I believe this is the fault of no one. I do though quote on the Grand Duke's language, as he said in Sweden we have no respect for the monarchy or for God. I say, as all of Sweden including his majesty King Gustav VI Adolf do agree that the Monachy should not rule our nation, and we agree under Article VII that Sweden is an constitutional monarchy and the current King or Queen at that time will have nothing to do with the running of the nation. Also I quote on 'having no respect for God'. I say here in Sweden 74% of us are Christian, with 19% of another religion. I know and I prove that Sweden has respect for God, as it does for the God(s) of all other world religions." -William Årgen, June 25th, 1960.

[Yurizlansia]

The Daily Informant, June 1960
Jewish Community Wins Major Victory!

In a surprise decision, the Yurizlansian High Court has determined that Odessa’s “Religion Tax” violates the Constitution of 1898. The High Court determined that the Religious Statute of the Constitution which recognizes and protects all Abrahamic religions prevents the Odessa District from placing an extra tax on kosher goods. This comes as a surprise to many political analysts, who believed that the conservative judges would rule in favor of the religious Odessa Oblast. The Jewish community of Odessa celebrated the decision with a parade, and a moment of prayer for the wisdom of the judges who made this decision. Rabbi Moshe Clanzisky claimed that this was “the first victory of the Jewish community, and many more will come.”

The Jewish community in Odessa has existed since 800 A.D., occurring around the time of Greek colonies in the area. It was believed that the mercantile economy that centered around the area attracted the Jews who had been pushed out of the land of Israel by the Arabs who came into the area. Almost immediately, the lucrative wheat trade resulted in fierce hostility between the Jews and Greeks. By about 1400 A.D., the Jews owned about 65% of the wheat trade in the area, and their economic influence was only growing. However, when a Greek governor was elected, he immediately placed a tax on Jewish goods, limiting the influence of the Jewish community in the area. Ever since then, despite being a religious majority (Jews make up 64% of Odessa’s population), nothing has been done, until now. After the tax was repealed, it seems that the Jewish community has found a new life. There is a recall election for the current mayor of Odessa, who tried to increase the tax in 1955, and Mayor Kakos is expected to lose. It is also expected that soon the Jews may regain their economic influence which they have been struggling to achieve for hundreds of years.

In other news
-King Bohdan Khmelnytsky IV congratulated Diogott on their industrial progress
-Parliamentary elections temporarily delayed until after tax season for citizenship purposes

[Quintipoli]

Ignary Attaland Airus

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Swedish Train Surplus Sparks Debate Over Trade Protectionism
Poneldag, 9 Ruberuparo 1960

---

IGNARY-After Sweden offered to give surplus decommissioned steam trains to the Grand Duchy of Diogott, Quintipolese State Railroad Corporation Chairman Karel Hattena has initiated a national debate by suggesting that Quintipoli request trains from the Swedish government as well. "Our system is chronically overcrowded; we don't have enough engines or cars to meet the rising demand for train travel," he commented on Saturday.

Others have been more skeptical of the proposal. "There is no reason our domestic industry cannot meet the demand for locomotives in the rail system today. Importing from Sweden would be a lost opportunity for our own manufacturing industries," said Dengmatas Party Member of Parliament Janik Tsanhausen. Tsanhausen was a key sponsor of last years' bill raising tariffs on imports from European countries, including Sweden.

Donatu Bohamik, the chairman of Quintipoli's largest locomotive manufacturer, based in Forasi, told the Airus "We would be more than glad to increase our output of locomotives, if the State Railroad Corporation would order them."

The Corporation has cited underfunding as the reason they have not been able to meet the demand increase. "If the Ministry of Transportation would approve my request, we would save significant amounts of money. Unless the legislature raises our budget, we will have to request surplus Swedish trains due to the high cost of new locomotives." The legislature has cut the State Railroad Corporation's funding by 10% over the past two years.

Minister of Transportation Wilhelm Danchep has also raised questions about the issue, "Chairman Hattena's comments conflict with our plans to upgrade the national rail system to diesel over the next decade. Even if we were to convert the new trains to run on oil instead of coal, we would inevitably be forced to replace them at some point in the near future. Furthermore, it is not within the role of the Corporation to import equiptment from foreign nations without our approval. I suggest the Chairman retract his comments immediately or face consequences from my agency." he said. Concerns about the cost of the upgrades have been met with ridicule from the Ministry in the past.

Most commuters are relatively neutral about the issue: in a 1959 poll, 59% say they are in favor of any measures that would relive chronic overcrowding especially in urban area near Ignary and Swarzaga.

[Deutschenreiche]

The Berlin Report ~ Der Berliner Bericht

Largest German Nuclear Bomb Detonated at Eschscholtz Atoll

"The main thing is to make history, not to write it." - Otto von Bismarck

June 29, 1960 -- At precisely 13:30, military time, a nuclear bomb referred to as the "Eisenbombe", or "Iron Bomb" was detonated on the Eschscholtz Atoll. The scientist and military personnel tasked to oversee the detonation could feel the heat from from the blast miles away in their designated safe zones. The blast yield shocked observers of the blast, instead of the planned 5 MT, the blast yield was recorded at 10 MT making it one of largest man-made explosions in history and certainly the largest explosion Germans have ever conducted.

Although the Eisenbombe is regarded as a successful test by the Ministry of Defense, the Imperial Government faces fallout from those known as "anti-war activists". Benedickt Färber, a prominent member of the German Peace Society, has been most outspoken about the nuclear test. "The Second World War only ended 15 years ago, and our government wants to keep testing these weapons and antagonize the Reds? What will these weapons achieve but further increase the chance of our destruction. Nuclear testing needs to end, period."

The Ministry of Defense has stated the proliferation of nuclear arms will continue to build a deterrence against other nuclear arms states. With no end to proliferation in sight, German nuclear proweress will continue to expand. But, at what cost?

[The Swedish Coast]

The Berlin Report ~ Der Berliner Bericht

Largest German Nuclear Bomb Detonated at Eschscholtz Atoll

"The main thing is to make history, not to write it." - Otto von Bismarck

June 9, 1960 -- At precisely 13:30, military time, a nuclear bomb referred to as the "Eisenbombe", or "Iron Bomb" was detonated on the Eschscholtz Atoll. The scientist and military personnel tasked to oversee the detonation could feel the heat from from the blast miles away in their designated safe zones. The blast yield shocked observers of the blast, instead of the planned 5 MT, the blast yield was recorded at 10 MT making it one of largest man-made explosions in history and certainly the largest explosion Germans have ever conducted.

Although the Eisenbombe is regarded as a successful test by the Ministry of Defense, the Imperial Government faces fallout from those known as "anti-war activists". Benedickt Färber, a prominent member of the German Peace Society, has been most outspoken about the nuclear test. "The Second World War only ended 15 years ago, and our government wants to keep testing these weapons and antagonize the Reds? What will these weapons achieve but further increase the chance of our destruction. Nuclear testing needs to end, period."

The Ministry of Defense has stated the proliferation of nuclear arms will continue to build a deterrence against other nuclear arms states. With no end to proliferation in sight, German nuclear proweress will continue to expand. But, at what cost?

Riksdag, Stockholm, 2nd July 1960
Today in a speech in the Riksdag, the Swedish Deputy Prime Minister Gustav Cerrön on behalf of the Prime Minister said he was disgusted that the German Empire were making nuclear bombs. Here's the speech made by him today: "Fellow M.Ps, today on behalf of my honorable friend the Prime Minister, I have come to give the governments point of view after the testing of a nuclear bomb in Germany yesterday, the Prime Minister and I are disgusted. I could see why you'd have had a nuclear bomb 20 years ago, however this is the modern age. I do not agree at all with exploding innocent people. It is a crime in Sweden, as it should be in all nations. Germany has been our Allie in the last war, and now they plan to make another. The cabinet of ministers have agreed that Sweden shall not be involved in nuclear warfare under this government. Germany has threatened the world. Sweden will never threaten the world. War never wins, equality always has victory.

[Deutschenreiche]

Ministry of Defense of the German Empire

July 3, 1960 -- Franz Josef Strauss, the Defense Minister of the German Empire, released an official statement from the Ministry of Defnese regarding Swedish disdain of German nuclear tests. What concerned the Defense Minister was the Swedish government utter unintelligence when it came to the World's nuclear proliferation.

"Let it be known that the German Empire constructs nuclear weapons in the name of defense, not offensive, to render another Great War from ever occurring on German soil again. Yesterday, the Swedish government criticized our endeavors to better defend the Fatherland with petty arguments and baseless insults. 20 years ago was the year 1940, and Germany was embroiled in conflict with the USSR. Nuclear weapons did not exist in Germany until 1953 when the Imperial Military detonated its first nuclear weapon in an uninhabited islands in Deutsch-Neuguinea. As with this test, the test site remained uninhabited and no civilians were caught in the blast. The Swedish Government also declared Germany is threatning the world and planning to start the next Great War, well does that mean the USSR and other nuclear armed states are threatening the world and attempting to cause wars intentionally? Germany also maintains a no-First Use Policy when it comes to the nuclear arsenal and would only deliver retaliatory strikes if Germany was to be the target of a nuclear weapon. We find these criticisms and insults petty and baseless and if they persist the Swedish will successfully divide Rurope when it needs to be united." - Franz Josef Strauss on the Swedish Government.

[The Swedish Coast]

(Image)

Ministry of Defense of the German Empire

July 3, 1960 -- Franz Josef Strauss, the Defense Minister of the German Empire, released an official statement from the Ministry of Defnese regarding Swedish disdain of German nuclear tests. What concerned the Defense Minister was the Swedish government utter unintelligence when it came to the World's nuclear proliferation.

"Let it be known that the German Empire constructs nuclear weapons in the name of defense, not offensive, to render another Great War from ever occurring on German soil again. Yesterday, the Swedish government criticized our endeavors to better defend the Fatherland with petty arguments and baseless insults. 20 years ago was the year 1940, and Germany was embroiled in conflict with the USSR. Nuclear weapons did not exist in Germany until 1953 when the Imperial Military detonated its first nuclear weapon in an uninhabited islands in Deutsch-Neuguinea. As with this test, the test site remained uninhabited and no civilians were caught in the blast. The Swedish Government also declared Germany is threatning the world and planning to start the next Great War, well does that mean the USSR and other nuclear armed states are threatening the world and attempting to cause wars intentionally? Germany also maintains a no-First Use Policy when it comes to the nuclear arsenal and would only deliver retaliatory strikes if Germany was to be the target of a nuclear weapon. We find these criticisms and insults petty and baseless and if they persist the Swedish will successfully divide Rurope when it needs to be united." - Franz Josef Strauss on the Swedish Government.

Riksdag, Stockholm, 6th July 1960
"After the response to my right honourable friend, the Deputy Prime Ministers speech in the last few days from Germany," said William Årgen earlier today, "I must put out that 78% of this house rejects nuclear warfare. After Germany's actions in the last week, I must put forward that under no circumstances will this parliament ever use nuclear bombs. It is inhumane and generally mean. However, Germany has had many problems from the Soviet Union in the past, so these bombs could be used as a defence method. Either way, I hope Germany never uses it and I hope the Soviet Union will stop being a threat.

[Quintipoli]

Da Attaland Airus ~ The Fatherland Messenger

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President Sarnik Calls on Smaller Nations to Join Non-Aligned Movement
Tsoredag, 19 Ruberuparo 1960

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IGNARY- In the wake of Germany's recent nuclear bomb test, President Illan Sarnik called upon the nations of the world to join the non-aligned movement and lessen the risk of global thermonuclear war. "Since the end of the Second World War, Quintipoli has been commited to remaining neutral in the global power struggle between east and west. We hereby call upon the world's smaller nations to act sensibly and join together to resist the imperialism of the Europeans and Soviets," he said to a joint session of parliament on thursday

The speech was met with generally good reception from the assembled legislators. "What the world needs right now is a good dose of calm and sensibility," said Senator WIlhelm Frezin, afterwards.

A small minority have doubts about the president's approach, however. "The Soviets are really a much more critical threat to our security then the Americans or Europeans. We should ally ourselves with the side that has our national interests in mind," Fazen Tiuda MP Martin Duratov told the Airus. His party has repeatedly called for the nation to take more aggressive actions toward the Soviet Union, and restrict on the export of oil to the USSR. Sarnik and the rest of the Dengmatas party have argued that this would destabilize our relationship with the USSR and potentially lead to war. At the moment, the Dengmatas hold a plurality in both houses of parliament.

Other News
-Oil production up 2% last year
-Forasi beats Bonipan in cricket championships
-Light rain forecast for Swarzaga and west coast

[Zioniam]

The Jerusalem News
June 26, 1960

Zioniam left shocked by brutal terrorist attack on synagogue leaving five dead and 18 injured

The entire nation of Zioniam yesterday witnessed an unholy assault on our very soil, in our own place of worship, on the Sabbath. Words cannot describe the anger and sadness we feel today. The assault took place on June 25 during a typical Ma'ariv, or evening prayer, at the Hurva Synagogue. The perpetrator, whom the police still have no traces of, sneaked into the basement of the synagogue some time around Friday evening, planted a remotely-detonated bomb in, and activated it, killing 5 and injuring 18 more, authorities report. Police are still searching the entire nation and if you have any leads on the perpetrator contact the crime hotline immediately.

King Solomon II has condemned the tragedy, calling it "an attack against our culture, an attack against our state, and an attack against God's people. The murderer shall not just be tried by us and found guilty, he will be tried by the Lord and cast into Hell. The deaths of our brothers and sisters will be avenged!"

President Abramovich has not made a public comment on the tragedy as of yet, instead spending long meetings with his Cabinet to figure out how to deal with the crisis. Rumors fly that Abramovich will support legislation to build a nuclear arms program in case the attack was linked to one of the many neighbor states to Zioniam that have made threats to us.

In wake of the attack that appears to be only the beginning of conflict in Zioniam, many Zionians have began to consider moving back to Europe, citing recent reforms in Yurizlansia as evidence that anti-Semitism in Eastern Europe is fading. Senator Paul Ducker had reportedly said "Why have a unified Jewish state here where they're trying to kill us when we could have a nationally-divided Jewish community and live in peace?" These comments have provoked controversy.

More news will come in when leads have been followed. Please pray for an end to the violence in Zioniam.

[The Swedish Coast]

(Image)
Da Attaland Airus ~ The Fatherland Messenger

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President Sarnik Calls on Smaller Nations to Join Non-Aligned Movement
Tsoredag, 19 Ruberuparo 1960

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IGNARY- In the wake of Germany's recent nuclear bomb test, President Illan Sarnik called upon the nations of the world to join the non-aligned movement and lessen the risk of global thermonuclear war. "Since the end of the Second World War, Quintipoli has been commited to remaining neutral in the global power struggle between east and west. We hereby call upon the world's smaller nations to act sensibly and join together to resist the imperialism of the Europeans and Soviets," he said to a joint session of parliament on thursday

The speech was met with generally good reception from the assembled legislators. "What the world needs right now is a good dose of calm and sensibility," said Senator WIlhelm Frezin, afterwards.

A small minority have doubts about the president's approach, however. "The Soviets are really a much more critical threat to our security then the Americans or Europeans. We should ally ourselves with the side that has our national interests in mind," Fazen Tiuda MP Martin Duratov told the Airus. His party has repeatedly called for the nation to take more aggressive actions toward the Soviet Union, and restrict on the export of oil to the USSR. Sarnik and the rest of the Dengmatas party have argued that this would destabilize our relationship with the USSR and potentially lead to war. At the moment, the Dengmatas hold a plurality in both houses of parliament.

Other News
-Oil production up 2% last year
-Forasi beats Bonipan in cricket championships
-Light rain forecast for Swarzaga and west coast

Dear President Sarnik,
Both I and the cabinet of ministers have discussed whether Sweden should join this Union, and we agree it will benefit all of its member nations.

If you do agree that Sweden should join your union, I will call a referendum. Here's some reasons why Sweden should be a member:
•Although we're geographicly big, we have a population of only 8.9 Million.
•We stay neutral from America v Russia wars because we don't agree with capitalism or communism.
•We believe we are better United.
Please accept this application.
Yours Sincerely,
William Årgen, Swedish Prime Minister.

[Quintipoli]

This post has been deleted after it was voided by the RP powers at be. Quintipoli recommends that Sweden do the same.

[The Swedish Coast]

Dear President Sarnik,
Both I and the cabinet of ministers have discussed whether Sweden should join this Union, and we agree it will benefit all of its member nations.

If you do agree that Sweden should join your union, I will call a referendum. Here's some reasons why Sweden should be a member:
•Although we're geographicly big, we have a population of only 8.9 Million.
•We stay neutral from America v Russia wars because we don't agree with capitalism or communism.
•We believe we are better United.
Please accept this application.
Yours Sincerely,
William Årgen, Swedish Prime Minister.

Executive Hall, 10 Salmarastrand, Government City, Ignary

Esteemed Prime Minister Årgen,

We would be honored for your nation to join the Non-aligned movement and help fight Euro-American and Soviet imperialism. Let us first specify the the Non-Aligned movement is most definitively NOT a mutual defense pact or an economic union and intends to AVOID becoming a third bloc in the cold war. It is simply a loose international organization of nations that do not wish to be dragged into the current struggle between the West and the Soviet Union. With that in mind, let us propose a set of basic principles of the Movement.

1. Nations should avoid partaking in any war between the Western Powers and the Soviet Union, unless directly attacked by either side.
2. Nations should follow a policy of mutual non-interference in each others' internal affairs.
3. Nations should respect each others' territorial integrity and sovreignty.
4. Nations should follow a policy of mutual non-aggression towards one and other.
5. Nations should act to prevent the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction.
6. Nations are NOT strictly required to defend each other if attacked.

We also propose the holding of a regular Conference or Summit to address important issues facing our nations, especially those relating to the current Cold War.

Yours Sincerely,
Illan Ruberu Sarnik,
President of the Federation of Quintipoli

Sager House, Stockholm
Dear President Sarnick,
May I firstly thank you for your compromisation. Secondly, I do understand that it is not an economic union or anything like that. As you may be aware, Sweden is staying nuteral between the USSR and the USA, and the last conflict Sweden witnessed was World War II, over 15 years ago now. It would be a pleasure for Sweden to join this Union. I will call the Riksdag (if you don't know, the Riksdag is our parliament) to a vote on whether we should join, and we should have the result next week. I will then call a referendum if the Riksdag votes for, that should happen in the next two months.
Also, what do you plan calling this Union? (sorry I keep calling it that, it's the only word I can come up with to describe it) I suggest the Intenational Alligned Neutral Union (INAU).
I look forward to working with you soon.
Yours Sincerely,
William Årgen
Swedish Prime Minister

[Yurizlansia]

The Daily Informant, June 1960
Reactions Towards Zioniam Terror Attack

Zioniam, a peaceful Jewish nation situated in the Middle Eastern area of Asia recently was attacked when a terrorist detonated a remotely controlled bomb in the Hurva Synagogue during passover on June 26. Almost immediately as the news dispatches came in, the Jewish communities around Yurizlansia began to phone their relatives that attended the synagogue or lived in the area in order to ensure their well-being. Our offices were also being called nonstop by people demanding more information on the attack, yet little is known so far. We at the Daily Informant have been able to get in contact with the Office of Religious Affairs, and the Office of Foreign Affairs regarding the situation.

Moshe Horowitz, the head of the Jewish portion of the Office of Religious Affairs had this to say: ”As the spokesman of Jewish citizens throughout Yurizlansia, I can say with confidence that everyone in our Jewish community sends their prayers toward the government of Zioniam. My good friend, the Patriarch of Kyiv has declared that all Yurizlansian Orthodox citizens will have day of solemn prayer that will be observed by the King himself. Any help that the Jews of Zioniam need, they can certainly look to my office for the assistance they deserve.”

Borys Pavlovych, a spokesman for the Officer of Foreign Affairs said this: ”As soon as we heard the news of this terrible tragedy we immediately informed the King, who was in shock. He ordered us to do our duty as friends of the world. In future days, we will be attempting to open relations with Zioniam which has not yet occurred. If the government of Zioniam permits, Yurizlansia will be happy to allow any Jewish citizens who feel the need to take refuge in our nation. I can speak for all of Yurizlansia when I say that we hope that you will rise from the ashes and emerge stronger than ever.”

Pavlovych’s comments drew some controversy from the Yurizlansia Advance! Party, who say that taking in refugees, especially those of a different faith will destroy the culture of Yurizlansia. Many prominent politicians described these comments as “disgusting”, and “typically of the crazies who inhabit that party.”

[Diogott]

Die Wacht am Preßethäul
the Seven-teenth Day of July, 1960 A.D.

Ever closer ties with our Yurizlansian brothers!

Ebenholz Palace has received word that the good people of Yurizlansia have congratulated Diogott on its industrial progress. Let the King and his subjects know that Diotians greet these words of goodwill with unending gratitude!

Diogott and Yurizlansia have a history going back centuries- and the Yurizlansian government has honoured this old amity, as all good statesmen should. The great values that should define a land and her people- industry, loyalty, and faith- are ubiquitous within the borders of the Cossack Kingdom, and this shows in the nature and state of King Bohdan's realm. Only a week ago did the Yurizlansians condemn the brutal attacks on Zioniam's people (attacks which the Grand Duke and Herrensrat, of course, condemn with the utmost sincerity), the first and most rapid response from overseas. Certainly, good Christian morals (even if adhering to Orthodoxy) are instilled strongly in the people of Yurizlansia!

[Quintipoli]

Da Attaland Airus ~ The Fatherland Messenger

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S.S. Ilosha Launched in Swarzaga
Poneldag, 2 Chuliparo, 1960

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SWARZAGA—The SS Ilosha went sliding down the greased rails of Radanovik & Son. shipyard on Monday. At 40,000 gross tons and 290 meters in length, the Ilosha is the largest passenger vessel in the history of Quintipolese-Atlantic Ocean Lines. The new ship will feature three classes of state-of-the-art cabins, a swimming pool, two-deck dining halls, and a ballroom. She is expected to set sail in the summer of next year, running a route passing through Swarzaga, Constantinople, various Mediterranean ports, Gibraltar, and New York.

"We are extremely delighted to add this world-class ocean liner to our fleet. This proves beyond doubt that Quintipoli has finally joined the ranks of the modern, western nations," said Quintipolese-Atlantic Chairman Diorgo Piroske.

Others have expressed concern that ocean liners are in danger of becoming irrelevant due to competition from air travel. QA's own board only narrowly approved the Ilosha's construction, with members who voted against it citing concerns about excessive cost. Line officials have not released the cost of the project to the public but it is reported to be in excess of 200 million Marquas.

[Texas and the Southwest]

Austin Chronicle
President signs order restructuring military

Earlier this morning President Johnson signed an executive order focused on restructuring the military, and cooperation between military branches. The action orders the formal creation of an independent Air Force branch out of the previous Air Wing of the Army. The order also creates a new Joint Command Council, whose purpose is to organize cooperation between the military branches. The Joint Command Leader is the official title given to the chairman of the Joint Command Council, and is appointed by the president. Also created by the executive action is the position of Secretary of Special Operations which is to be in control of all Texas special forces, including the famed Texas Rangers.

[Mardasia]

Auckland International Times
Mardasian National Elections

It is currently July 20th, 1960 and the Mardasian National Elections are right around the corner in November. This year's elections are certainly going to be exciting as both the Mardasian Liberal Party and Mardasian National Party are looking for much needed seats in the Mardasian National Parliament. The two parties are both heavily concerned with international politics in Europe and have extensive plans on how to deal with various outside threats. However these aren't the only two parties in the nation looking for power. However newcomers to the political scene, the Mardasia First Party, are emphasizing a neutral foreign policy and focusing on improving the nation first and dealing with others second. Early polls show that it will be a close race between the three and that minor parties will get a combined 3% of the vote. We will continue to follow national politics close and keep you updated.

[Yurizlansia]

The Daily Informant, June 1960
Yurizlansian Mountain Folk In Extreme Poverty

Ignored since the end of Polish rule in the 16th century, the Carpathian mountains were once the face of Yurizlansia. The Khmelnytsky Dynasty originated from these mountains, and until recently, they were on par with the rest of the country. The farming industry, coal industry, and timber industry kept those in the Carpathians busy, while providing them with a livelihood.

However, after government subsidies to those industries dried up in 1950, many lost their jobs, and were forced to turn towards subsistence farming. While agriculture makes up a large portion of the Yurizlansian agriculture, they very rarely make enough to support themselves. According to the Minister of Agriculture, privately owned subsistence farms average around 5 acres, yielding little profit once taxes and basic expenses are considered.

“The farmers are the backbone of our nation. With their resources, we are able to feed the people of Yurizlansia, and they purchase machinery that keeps our industry going. Will the members of the Conservative and Nationalist Party sit there and allow the farmers to die off? What will happen then? I have tried to introduce bills into Parliament addressing the Carpathian Issue but those two damn parties keep striking them down! In the interests of Yurizlansia, we must take care of these farmers!”

The Carpathian farmers are also poorly educated, with the literacy rate at a depressing 45% in the poorest areas. This is due to the lack of roads in the Carpathians, as state employees cannot effectively establish bus routes so these children can go to school. The Socialist Party, who wish to gain support from these areas encourage an increase in the subsidies to the farmers with the area, by including 2 oxen, 4 goats (2 male, 2 female), 6 chickens, and vegetable seed. This would help increase the output, as well as the available food in the area for the farmers. The King also sent a bill to Parliament that would have the state set up wells, and try to begin a roads system in the area. King Bohdan IV’s position on this ties him ever closer to the socialist party, whose General-Secretary he met with three days ago prior to the upcoming elections. The Conservative, Centrist, and Nationalist Party have refused to comment on the issue.

In Other News
-Parliamentary Election shave begun
-King Bohdan Khmelnytsky IV congratulates the Republic of Texas for its restructuring of its armed forces
-Minister of Foreign Affairs would like to reach out to any nations that would like to enter in an economic agreement to visit Yurizlansia to discuss these terms

[Yurizlansia]

The Daily Informant, June 1960
Socialist Party Sweeps Election

For the first time since the founding of the Socialist Party in 1890, the party has won an absolute majority in Parliament. This is due to their merging with the Agriculture-Industrial Party that occurred earlier this year. They managed to gain a record number of 77 seats in Parliament, pushing their majority to 64%. Another reason for their success is the turnout among rural residents who usually hold sympathies with the Socialist Party. The King was also rumored to support the party for unknown reasons.

The Conservative and Centrist parties all conceded to defeat earlier today, but the Nationalist Party has not been so reasonable.They swore that they had seen socialist poll intimidation and even murders of Nationalist Party supporters as they went to the polls. They promised they would have their vengeance, and they tried but failed to do so. The Nationalist Party went to Odessa to attack the large Jewish population there, as they believe that the Jewish community was behind the overwhelming victory for the Socialists. The Nationalist Party did not expect that local civilians, and policemen would be guarding Jewish areas, and over 35 Nationalist Party members, including the leader, Viktor Kismirvich was arrested.

The first thing the socialist party did in Parliament was increase the farming subsidies to include farm animals, a money package, a well, and vegetable seeds. They have also begun to centralize the education of Yurizlansia, and plan to begin an infrastructure project, as they wish to take advantage of the absolute majority in Parliament.

[Yurizlansia]

The Daily Informant, June 1960
Landmark Legislation Passed By Socialist Party

The Socialist Party, after winning the election of 1960 by a landslide has begun to pass legislative reforms that have eased the burden on many minorities in the nation. The first bill, the Agricultural Adjustment Act, was passed so the states could regulate what farmers grew due to the falling crop prices. The newly formed Farmer’s Council tells farmers when to grow, and when to take the year off. When the farmers take a year off, they are compensated with the average profits that a farmer makes in a year.

This legislation has its opponents. The Conservative and Centrist parties have both formed a coalition to prevent the passage of constitutional amendments, which requires a 70% majority. The National Party believes that it is their job to attack supply shipments to the farmers, and has resulted in the arrest of 200 individuals, all of which are going to be tried next week. The police officers of each voivodeship have been nationalized to “prevent sectional conflicts that would affect the success of our nation.”

The tax on alcohol and cigarettes was also increased by 65%, the largest product-based tax increase in over 50 years. The Jewish peoples have also had civil rights extended to them, such as the right to be equals in business contracts, and the right to sue non-Jewish businesses. The Jewish community seems to be very happy with the new government, and due to this, many young Jewish people are registering as members of the Socialist Party.