1912: The World and a Powder Keg [AltHis|OOC|Open]

[Tracian Empire]

1912: The World and a Powder Keg OOC Thread IC - MAP - DISCORD OP Tracian Empire “If there is ever another war in Europe, it will come out of some damned silly thing in the Balkans.” –Otto von Bismarck Welcome to the World and a Powder Keg, an alternative history RP set in 1912. The balance of power which has protected peace in Europe and in the world at large is teetering ever closer towards total collapse, as tensions rise between the great powers and their alliances, as national states and peoples rise and fight for their freedom and their brethren, as rising powers seek their own place under the sun, and as revolutions are plotted in silence. Are you one of the great powers, seeking to maintain your control and might? Are you a rising power, fighting for a place at the table of the greatest nations? A decaying empire, fighting to hold on to the scraps of power that you still have? A small power, seeking to fight for the unification of your people? It will be your choice and your responsibility to guide your nation as the Belle Époque nears its end. General Rules 1. The OP reserves the right to be subjective and will have the final world in all matters. 2. The Co-OP will enjoy the same prerogatives in the absence of the OP. 3. All site-wide rules apply. 4. No OOC writing in the IC. 5. No godmodding, metagaming, or other similar actions 6. No flaming, trolling, or harassment in the OOC or in the IC Roleplay Rules 1. The PoD is the year 1885, with the end of the Berlin Conference and the Scramble for Africa. No changes to history before this year can be done, so history up to 1885 in real life is canon. 2. Historical changes after the year 1885 can be done, after all this is an alternative history RP, but they need to be realistic and well explained. 3. Precedence in terms of divergences will be granted based on who finishes their app first, but the OP reserves the right to be subjective if necessary in order to ensure that as many people as possible can get their ideas in the roleplay. 4. The great powers of Europe are still at each other's throats and militarism, revanchism and irredentism still rule the continent. Divergences can be made to change the political landscape of European countries, but overall the continent is still moving towards a general war and is divided into various systems of alliances. 5. Colonies can be applied for, particularly in the case of colonial governments which enjoyed a certain autonomy, however, realism will still be maintained - colonies can't rebel against their home countries on the second day of the IC. 6. Some nations can have multiple applicants if there are in a situation where the power of the central government is weakened. 7. Political and rebel groups and organizations can be applied for, however interested players should take into account the fact that such groups are most often in an inferior position and that they can not achieve their goals without foreign backing or government weakness. Players who wish to play such groups need to obtain the consent of the player controlling the nation in which their group would be operating. 8. The map is an estimation and may not be constantly updated, make sure to also check the list and do a cursory search of the OOC before reserving. Nation Application Code: Select all [align=center][size=150][u]Nation Application[/u][/size][/align] [b](You should read the OP completely prior to filling this out) (Fill it out as requested.) (Erase all words in rounded brackets before posting the app)[/b] [b]Full Nation Name:[/b] [b]Short Nation Name:[/b] [b]National Symbols:[/b] [b]Capital:[/b] [b]Territory:[/b] [b]Form of Government:[/b] [b]Head of State:[/b] [b]Head of Government:[/b] [b]Ideology:[/b] [b]Population:[/b] [b]Military Description:[/b] [b]Economic Description:[/b] [b]Goals:[/b] [b]Point of Divergence:[/b] [b]History:[/b] #ODQHVVF (do not delete this, it's for keeping track of the apps) Organization Application Code: Select all [align=center][size=150][u]Organization Application[/u][/size][/align] [b](You should read the OP completely prior to filling this out) (Fill it out as requested.) (Erase all words in rounded brackets before posting the app)[/b] [b]Full Name:[/b] [b]Short Name:[/b] [b]Symbols:[/b] [b]Base of Operations:[/b] [b]Territory:[/b] (if it controls any) [b]Form of Organization:[/b] [b]Leader:[/b] [b]Ideology:[/b] [b]Member Numbers:[/b] [b]Military Description:[/b] (if applicable) [b]Goals:[/b] [b]Point of Divergence:[/b] [b]History:[/b]   #ODQHVVF (do not delete this, it's for keeping track of the apps) Reservations Code: Select all [align=middle][size=140][u]Reservation[/u][/size][/align] [b]Nation Name:[/b] [b]Territory:[/b] #ODQHVVF (Do not delete this, it is used to keep track of the apps) *Note: Reservations will last for 48 hours. The OP reserves the right to be subjective in regards to accepting and removing reservations.

[Tracian Empire]

Accepted Nations Last Updated: 30.05.2023 The National Dominion of Hungary - Russian Empire Dragos Bee - Ethiopian Empire Tracian Empire – Ottoman Empire The Rio Grande River Basin - United States of America Turkducken - United Mexican States Cybernetic Socialist Republics - French Empire Great Confederacy of Commonwealth States - Kingdom of the Netherlands Empire of Techkotal - German Empire Reservations Last Updated: 30.05.2023 Remnants of Exilvania - Austro-Hungarian Empire Intermountain States - Korean Empire Sao Nova Europa - Empire of China Chia Dal - United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland

[The National Dominion of Hungary]

Reservation

Nation Name: The Empire of Russia
Territory: Largely same as historical Tzarist Russia at the time, but open to discuss some details with other players.
#ODQHVVF (Do not delete this, it is used to keep track of the apps)

*Note: Reservations will last for 48 hours. The OP reserves the right to be subjective in regards to accepting and removing reservations.

[Tracian Empire]

Reservation

Nation Name: The Empire of Russia
Territory: Largely same as historical Tzarist Russia at the time, but open to discuss some details with other players.
#ODQHVVF (Do not delete this, it is used to keep track of the apps)

*Note: Reservations will last for 48 hours. The OP reserves the right to be subjective in regards to accepting and removing reservations.

Reservation accepted!

[Greater Liverpool]

Reservation

Nation Name: The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland
Territory: all territory recognised under British Dominion. (Not claiming lands which are regarded as autonomous as per the statute of Westminster 1931)
#ODQHVVF (Do not delete this, it is used to keep track of the apps)

*Note: Reservations will last for 48 hours. The OP reserves the right to be subjective in regards to accepting and removing reservations.

[Tracian Empire]

Reservation

Nation Name: The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland
Territory: all territory recognised under British Dominion. (Not claiming lands which are regarded as autonomous as per the statute of Westminster 1931)
#ODQHVVF (Do not delete this, it is used to keep track of the apps)

*Note: Reservations will last for 48 hours. The OP reserves the right to be subjective in regards to accepting and removing reservations.

accepted!

[Cybernetic Socialist Republics]

Reservation

Nation Name: France
Territory: French Territory in 1912
#ODQHVVF (Do not delete this, it is used to keep track of the apps)

*Note: Reservations will last for 48 hours. The OP reserves the right to be subjective in regards to accepting and removing reservations.

[Great Confederacy of Commonwealth States]

Reservation

Nation Name: The Kingdom of the Netherlands
Territory: The Netherlands in 1912, including colonies
#ODQHVVF (Do not delete this, it is used to keep track of the apps)

*Note: Reservations will last for 48 hours. The OP reserves the right to be subjective in regards to accepting and removing reservations.

[Great Confederacy of Commonwealth States]

Nation Application

Full Nation Name: The Kingdom of the Netherlands

Short Nation Name: The Netherlands

National Symbols:

Crest of the House of Saxe-Weimar-Eisenach

Capital: Amsterdam (de iure), The Hague (de facto)

Territory: The Continental Netherlands, the Dutch Antilles, the Windward Islands, Suriname, Indonesia, various African ports

Form of Government: Constitutional monarchy

Head of State: King Wilhelm Ernst Karl Alexander Friedrich Heinrich Bernhard Albert Georg Hermann of Saxe-Weimar-Eisenach, Grand Duke of Saxe-Weimar-Eisenach (styled Willem IV)

Head of Government: Chair of the Council of Ministers; Abraham Kuyper, Minister of Foreign Affairs

Ideology: Liberalism/reactionairy conservatism, capitalism

Population: 6 million

Military Description: The Dutch military is divided between three branches:

Koninklijke Landmacht - Royal Ground Forces
The Royal Ground Forces constitute the army of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Due to Dutch European neutrality, these forces are maintained solely for the possible defence of the home front against sudden incursion, though European politics at the time leave little need for a strong and well-equipped army. During peacetime, the army consists mainly of some carreer soldiers and officers, serving in staff duty. During times of war, the army can be expanded twenty-fold through conscription and activation of the army reserves, but it is expected that only thirty divisions, 280.000 men, can be raised. Expansion of the Dutch army is a political debate, and one of the issues on which liberals and reactionaries clash; with reactionaries seeing army expansion as necessary for the defence of the homeland, and liberals seeking to limit non-economic expenditure by the government, though the arms industry favours such expansion.

Dutch strategic doctrine is based around defence. It's economic heartland, Holland, is protected by a ring of fortifications and natural defences. Most notable here are the polders, low-lying areas that naturally flood should pumps stop working. By flooding parts of the country, any invading army can be stopped dead in its tracks, with the relatively small army holding the fortified line until allied forces can intervene. This strategy hinges on the Netherlands being neutral, however, and being aded by whatever nation their invader is fighting against at the time.

Koninklijke Marine - Royal Navy
Dutch naval assets are deployed in three different theatres. The main force is stationed in the Dutch East Indies, or Indonesia, to protect colonial interests there. Dutch naval strength is as follows:

7 Coastal Battleships: De Zeven Provincien (1909), Kortenaer (1894-Evertsen class survivor), and five smaller Konigin Regentes (1900-06).
4 Cruisers: Classe Holland (1896-98).
8 Destroyers: Classe Fret (1910-13).
35 Topedo boats: 16 classe G (1904-14), 3 classe Draak (1906), 2 classe Ophir (1901), 5 classe Hydra (1900), Makjan, 4 classe Ardjoeno (1888). Seconde class XXI (1890) and 3 classe K (1905). 8 more in construction.
6 Submersibles: O1 (1905), 4 class O2, and K1 (1913). Two more on order.
35 Misc.: 3 armoured gunboats Brinio class (1912), 2 minelayers Hydra class (1911), gunboat Borneo (1892), 2 Nias (1897), 3 Koetei (1898), 8 Hydra (1873-76), 16 Wodan (1877-79).

Naval expansion is another issue on which the Dutch parliament is divided. Social democrats oppose fleet expansion, on the basis that Dutch neutrality would be harmed by expanding naval capacity. Liberal and reaciontiary politicians, however, are united in the issue, because protection of the Dutch East Indies is vital for Dutch business interests. Parliament recently approved the construction of nine new dreadnaught-class battleships to serve in the Dutch East Indies. However, these ships are under construction in German harbours, partially because of the personal intersession of the king, and this makes the Netherlands partially dependent on continued German peace for their fleet expansion and colonial defence.

Koninklijke Marechaussee - Royal Gendarmerie
The Dutch military police. While they officially serve as a police force within the army, they are often deployed as strike breakers. Especially their feared cavalry can often break up a striking crowd through sheer terror.

Koninklijk Nederlandsch-Indisch Leger - Royal Dutch-Indian Army
The Dutch land forces in the Dutch East Indies. This force protects colonial interests in the region, and is currently engaged in the conquest and pacification of Atjeh, to complete Dutch control over the Indonesian archipelago. Politically, the KNIL is a hotbed for reactionary politics, with many men joining the KNIL to seek glory and returning with both money in their pocket and racialist views in their heads. Especially middle class officers deployed in the region often find the experience 'enlightening', and many stay behind in order to make their fortune in plantations. The war in Atjeh is slowly drawing to a close, however.

Economic Description: The Dutch economy centers mainly on international trade, both shipping from its colonies in Asia and South America as well as international trade through its ports in Rotterdam and Amsterdam. Secondarily, local manufacturing plays a large role, with the industrial sector still expanding, especially in electrical engineering. More and more of the population works in factories, with the rural population slowly dwindling and subsistance farming disappearing as urbanisation increases. Lastly, the income of raw goods and investment capital into Suriname and Indonesia is a third major component of the Dutch economy. However, it is good to note that maintaining these colonies is actually a drain on the Dutch economy, as low venture capital taxes means more wealth flows into the hand of investors, without them paying much taxes to pay for the maintenance of these colonies. Especially the cost to maintain colonial infrastructure and management puts a strain on national coffers. The solution of various political groups differs here, from full decolonisation favoured by the communists up to cutting more costs by reintroducing slavery to the colonies.

Goals: Maintaining the strong economic position and control over the colonies, preventing the insurrection of left-wing elements nationally and internationally

Point of Divergence: The death of queen Wilhelmina in 1902, leading to the ascention of the German grand duke Wilhelm Ernst of Saxe-Weimar-Eisenach to the Dutch throne

History: In forty years, the Netherlands has seen monumental change in its economy, its politics, and its position in the world. Before the 1870s, the Netherlands was an industrial backwater, kept in a poor state by its economic reliance on trade capital and shipping companies rather than its own production. The holders of trade capital were disinclined to steer government policy towards constructing national railroads and other infrastructure when that money could be used to prop up foreign shipping, which represented only a benefit to the profits of those shipping companies and not the development of the economy in general.

This changed in 1871 with the unification of the German Empire. Almost overnight, German control of the Alsace meant that the Rhine became a major trade artery. The ports of Rotterdam and Amsterdam grew sixfold between 1871 and 1900, suddenly creating various national industries where none before had existed. In the port of Rotterdam alone, huge loads of coal, petrol, textiles, and all manner of other goods had to be transported, and their mere presence allowed for other industries to take shape, such as modernised textile production. The money gained from these ventures made possible the creation of Dutch venture capitalist firms, which invested their capital overseas in the exploitation of especially Indonesia. This, in turn, led to the creation of a new capitalist class in the Netherlands, with tremendous sway over national politics unlike anything seen before.

Dutch politics of the day divided the population into various 'pillars'; parts of the population that lived in practical isolation from one another. Catholics, protestants, social democrats, liberals, they all had their own radio stations, newspapers and political parties. The 1870s onward saw these groups struggle; because the franchise was limited to men paying a certain amount of capital gains taxes, the vote was factually limited to men of means, meaning that the pro-labour Social Democrats were relegated to a secondary role in parliamentary politics. As such, political power was shared between the liberals, protestants, and catholics, which differed on many inconsequential aspects and all represented business-friendly politics. Their opinions drifted in the realm of conservatism or progressivism, but even there, their opinions did not stray from the socially acceptable. As such, the Netherlands was very stable politically, albeit that this stability was achieved through the disenfranchisement of the working class.

This political stability was altered with the rise, from 1884 onward, of the first modern trade unions, meaning trade unions with substantial liquidity that could support their members through a strike. These modern trade unions representated a major counter force not only to business interests, which had previously subsisted through underpaying employees, but also to the business-friendly state policy. In 1903, this culminated in nation-wide railroad strikes, in solidarity with the mass firing of Amsterdam harbour labourers. In retaliation, the government of prime minister Abraham Kuyper, himself a conservative protestant from the anti-revolutionary party, managed to get laws through parliament banning strikes by all government employees, and by subsequently nationalising the railways he managed to ban the strikes outright. Socialists called these laws the 'strangulation laws'.

Where this history diverges with real life history is that not Wilhelmina, the young queen with no desire to partake directly in politics, was monarch at this time. Wilhelmina, herself inspired by the late queen Victoria, had passed away in early 1902 during her second miscarriage. She had no direct heir, and nothing remained of the Oranje-Nassau dynasty, which meant that constitutionally the crown fell to a distant cousin: Wilhelm Ernst, the Grand Duke of Saxe-Weimar-Eisenach, a German prince. Now, this came as quite the surprise to Wilhelm, now styling himself Willem IV. According to some, he would have to renounce his claim to the Grand Duchy, although because the Dutch king was immune from legal prosecution, this never actually had any effect, and the Grand Duke retained his German titles. He also retained his admiration for Wilhelm I, the German emperor, and had little love for the Victorian notions of his predecessor. Instead, he looked more towards Willem III, the Gorilla King as he had been called, for his active participation in politics.

So it was too that, in 1903, Wilhelm Ernst took notice of Abraham Kuypers and his anti-revolutionairy party. Both of them protestants, they shared misgivings of catholics, liberals, and especially the social democrats. While constitutionally powerless, the king did hold large amounts of influence over politics, able to sway the appointment of new ministers, for instance. This meant that, during the 1905 elections, where Abraham Kuypers and his party lost their majority, the king still managed to intercede to allow Kuypers to retain a ministerial post under a new prime minister, jonkheer Alexander Frederik de Savornin Lohman. Another protestant and rabid conservative, the power struggle between De Savornin Lohman and Kuypers would allow the king to play the umpire, allowing himself final say in many of the big political decisions of the day. And when the 1909 elections rolled around, and Kuypers swept back into power, the balance of the scales merely tipped slightly one way, the king happy to look from the sidelines.

Politically, this has had major repercussions. Wilhelm Ernst is a strong opponent of a universal franchise, and even more of an opponent of extending the franchise to women. To him, and his allies in the anti-revolutionary and the Christian-historical parties, such a change would be unacceptable, and he favours keeping the old system in place which has served him so well. This, and his foreign ancestry, have made him the sworn enemy of social democrats and socialists. While not outright calling for the establishment of a republic, mainly because of the repression this would surely guide their way, they do signal their opposition to Wilhelm Ernst being king. Trade unions too, closely allied to left-wing political parties, have intensified their opposition, with the most radical of trade unions foregoing parliamentarianism altogether for a more revolutionary strategy, including the anarchist National Labour Secretariat.

The most uncomforable issue at the moment is that of Dutch foreign policy. The Netherlands is officially neutral, having no military allies on the European continent outside of pacts for the mutual defence of colonies. Historically, it has close trade relations with Germany, although its political elite, especially the liberal elite, is closer to France and the UK. Socialists, on the other hand, are against any alliance with colonial powers, even opposing Dutch colonial ventures altogether. This makes the close personal relation the king has to the German emperor such an important point. While the official standpoint is that the ministers, not the king, decide foreign policy, it is obvious how much the king could sway his ministers, as he has done with national policy. With tensions brewing, the question remains whether Dutch neutrality will prevail through the future, or that some other force will steer the country into a certain direction.

#ODQHVVF (do not delete this, it's for keeping track of the apps)

[Tracian Empire]

Reservation

Nation Name: France
Territory: French Territory in 1912
#ODQHVVF (Do not delete this, it is used to keep track of the apps)

*Note: Reservations will last for 48 hours. The OP reserves the right to be subjective in regards to accepting and removing reservations.

Reservation

Nation Name: The Kingdom of the Netherlands
Territory: The Netherlands in 1912, including colonies
#ODQHVVF (Do not delete this, it is used to keep track of the apps)

*Note: Reservations will last for 48 hours. The OP reserves the right to be subjective in regards to accepting and removing reservations.

Accepted!

[The Rio Grande River Basin]

Reservation

Nation Name: The Rio Grande River Basin
Territory: United States of America
#ODQHVVF (Do not delete this, it is used to keep track of the apps)

*Note: Reservations will last for 48 hours. The OP reserves the right to be subjective in regards to accepting and removing reservations.

(Imagine imperialist USA, cuz Teddy Roosevelt ran for a second (and third) term.)

[Tracian Empire]

Reservation

Nation Name: The Rio Grande River Basin
Territory: United States of America
#ODQHVVF (Do not delete this, it is used to keep track of the apps)

*Note: Reservations will last for 48 hours. The OP reserves the right to be subjective in regards to accepting and removing reservations.

(Imagine imperialist USA, cuz Teddy Roosevelt ran for a second (and third) term.)

And also accepted, nice

[The Rio Grande River Basin]

Nation Application

Full Nation Name: The United States of America

Short Nation Name: America, American Empire (derogatory)

National Symbols: Eagle, Cannon, Big Stick.

Capital: Washington D. C.

Territory: America

Form of Government: Federal Republic

Head of State: Theodore Roosevelt

Head of Government: Theodore Roosevelt

Ideology: Progressivism, Environmentalism, Imperialism.

Population: 95,335,000

Military Description: Large, expanding, and spread around the world. Massive focus on the “Naval Power Doctrine”, focused around large fleets acting as the “Big Stick” in American “diplomacy”

United States Army:
The active-duty strength of the U.S. Army in 1912 is around 150,000 personnel.
The army is organized into several divisions, including infantry, cavalry, artillery, and support units. It is operated as an expeditionary force.

Battleships:
The United States had a total of 20 battleships.
This included ships such as the USS Connecticut, USS Mississippi, USS Idaho, and USS Kansas.
These battleships vary in size and armament, with displacement ranging from around 16,000 to 27,000 tons.
Cruisers:
The U.S. Navy has approximately 43 cruisers.
This included armored cruisers and protected cruisers. Their jobs currently are to act as support for
Destroyers:
The U.S. Navy possesses around 60 destroyers.
These ships were primarily used for escort duties, anti-submarine warfare, and scouting.

Economic Description: Policy of Fair Trade. Economic Progressivism. Slowly moving towards Roosevelt’s Square Deal. Obstructionism in congress. Trusts = busted.

Goals: Grow international power, and eventually impose a Pax Americana.

Point of Divergence: In this alternate version of 1908, Teddy Roosevelt decides to run for a third term as President of the United States. Despite the strong tradition of two-term presidencies established by George Washington, Roosevelt believes that the nation needs his leadership for another four years.

Roosevelt, having served as president from 1901 to 1909, had become a popular and dynamic figure in American politics. His progressive policies and energetic approach to governance had made a lasting impact on the nation. Seeing the need to continue his reforms, Roosevelt sets out to rally support for his candidacy.

Roosevelt's decision to run again shakes up the political landscape, leading to a split in the Republican Party. Many Republicans, loyal to the two-term tradition, oppose Roosevelt's bid, arguing that it would set a dangerous precedent. However, a significant portion of the party's base remains fiercely loyal to Roosevelt, seeing him as the best candidate to carry on his progressive agenda.

The Democratic Party, sensing an opportunity, nominates their own candidate, William Jennings Bryan. Bryan had previously run for president in 1896, 1900, and 1904 but had failed to secure victory. This time, Bryan hopes that the division within the Republican Party will give him a fighting chance.

The campaign is intense and marked by vigorous debates and impassioned speeches. Roosevelt emphasizes his achievements during his previous terms, highlighting his efforts to combat corporate power, protect the environment, and promote social justice. He presents himself as a candidate who can effectively address the challenges of a rapidly changing nation.

Bryan, on the other hand, emphasizes the need for change and criticizes Roosevelt's decision to run again, arguing that it undermines the democratic principles upon which the nation was founded. He promises to champion the cause of the common man and advocates for economic and social reforms.

As the election day approaches, the nation is divided. Many admire Roosevelt's accomplishments and view him as a strong leader who can navigate the complexities of the early 20th century. However, others are concerned about the potential erosion of democratic norms and the concentration of power in the hands of a single individual.

Ultimately, the election results are a close call. Despite the controversy surrounding his candidacy, Teddy Roosevelt manages to secure a narrow victory over Bryan, winning a third term as President of the United States. His supporters celebrate his triumph, viewing it as a testament to his enduring popularity and the belief in his ability to lead the nation forward.

Roosevelt's third term presidency is marked by continued progressivism. He tackles issues such as workers' rights, consumer protection, and expands his conservation efforts. His leadership during this period shapes the course of American history and leaves a lasting legacy.

History:

(From 1908, as not much else is changed.)

In 1908, President Roosevelt was expected to retire; that was until William Howard Taft made some comments, to him personally, which led to Roosevelt’s doubts about his dedication to the progressive cause. Despite the best efforts of party bosses, he cruises to renomination; for an unprecedented third term. In a hard fought election versus William Jennings Bryan he wins a narrow victory, with much focused upon his choice to pursue a third term. Immediately afterwards, he made the “Onwards” speech, reinvigorating his push for progressive policies.

"My fellow Americans, as we embark on this journey of my third term, let us remember that progress knows no bounds and our duty to the people knows no limits. Together, we shall forge an America that stands tall as a beacon of justice, equality, and opportunity for all. Let us march forward, unyielding in our pursuit of a better tomorrow, for we are the architects of our nation's destiny. Speak softly, but carry a relentless spirit of reform, for it is in our actions that we shape the course of history. Trust in the power of the people, for it is their voices that shall guide us through the challenges and triumphs that lie ahead. With unwavering resolve and a commitment to the ideals that define us, we shall leave a legacy of progress that echoes through the ages. Onward, my fellow Americans, onward towards a brighter future!"

One of the major issues Roosevelt tackles during this period is environmental conservation. Building on his previous efforts, he establishes new national parks, wildlife reserves, and monuments to protect America's natural treasures. Roosevelt's commitment to conservation becomes a defining aspect of his presidency, shaping the nation's environmental policies for decades to come.

The economy experiences both booms and challenges during this period. Roosevelt's regulatory measures aim to create a fairer playing field and prevent abuses of corporate power. However, some business interests feel stifled by these regulations, leading to occasional clashes and protests, and much of his legislation being stonewalled.

On the foreign policy front, Roosevelt maintains an active role in international affairs. He continues his "Big Stick" diplomacy, asserting American influence in the Western Hemisphere and working to maintain stability and promote democracy. Roosevelt's assertive approach is met with mixed reactions, as some nations appreciate his efforts while others view them as interference in their affairs.

As Roosevelt's third term progresses, tensions within the Republican Party increase. Many Republicans, who had initially supported his bid for a third term, begin to feel uneasy about the potential concentration of power and the erosion of democratic norms. Dissent within the party grows, and some prominent figures start to distance themselves from the Roosevelt administration. And as the election approaches, he feels trouble in Europe brewing. Perhaps, it is time to rejoin the rough-riders…

#ODQHVVF (do not delete this, it's for keeping track of the apps)

[Ostafrika]

Nation Application

Full Nation Name: German East Africa [Deutsch-Ostafrika]

Short Nation Name: N/A

National Symbols: https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/3/36/Flag_of_Deutsch-Ostafrika.svg/1280px-Flag_of_Deutsch-Ostafrika.svg.png

Capital: Dar es Salaam

Territory: Tanzania (excluding Zanzibar), Burundi, Rwanda, and parts of Northern Mozambique (Kionga Triangle). Map as of 1892: https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/c/c9/Deutsch_Ost-Afrika%2C1892.jpg/800px-Deutsch_Ost-Afrika%2C1892.jpg

Form of Government: Colonial administration

Head of State: The German Kaiser

Head of Government: Governor Heinrich Schnee

Ideology: Conservatism, Monarchism, Colonialism

Population: ~7,800,000 [45,300 Whites, of which 43,100 are German]

Military Description: Imperial Protection Troop for German-East Africa [Kaiserliche Schutztruppe für Deutsch-Ostafrika] consisting of 16 companies, 1 recruitment depot, and 1 signals detachment. Total troops: 500 officers and 7,682 Askari [native auxiliaries].

Economic Description: Exports include ivory, rubber, sesame, copra, resins, coconuts, mats, wood, coffee, spices, and hippopotamus teeth. German East Africa relies on imports of cotton products, rice, hardware, meats, petroleum, vegetables & fruits, flour, tobacco, alcohol, and a variety of other goods. The colony continues to operate on a trade deficit [approx. -6,000,000 Reichsmark in 1903].

Goals: One of the main objectives will be to resolve the colony's outstanding trade deficit by diversifying its output, prospecting for rare earth minerals, and constructing more rail infrastructure, thereby making it a more viable long-term posession. Another goal is to further promote [see PoD] German settlement in East Africa, given that the main motivation for colonization before 1885 was the settlement of Germany's excess population. Finally, in the event of war East Africa's borders should be expanded to encompass Kenya and Mozambique.

Point of Divergence: Heligoland–Zanzibar Treaty of 1890

History:

Following the conclusion of the Heligoland–Zanzibar Treaty between England and Germany in 1890, the German Colonial Society [Deutsche Kolonialgesellschaft] launched major efforts to attract investments that would go towards realizing a project for German colonization in Africa. These efforts bore fruit when, in the aftermath of the 1893 federal elections, sentiments favoring colonialism swelled. Several tens of thousands of Germans left the homeland with idealistic visions of life in Africa and the potential wealth that awaited them there. The majority of German colonists settled in Bagamoyo, just north of the capital Dar es Salaam, and the more northern city of Arusha, where Germans were able to constitute a majority of the population.

Around the same time, from 1891 to 1894, the revolting Hehe people led by Chief Mkwawa were decisively beaten by German colonial forces. Between 1905 and 1907, the Qadiriyya Brotherhood fought the Germans in what became known as the Maji Maji Rebellion. Governor Gustav Adolf von Götzen ordered measures to create a famine to crush the resistance, resulting in the loss of as many as 300,000 lives. Scandal followed with allegations of corruption and brutality. In 1907, the German Chancellor appointed Bernhard Dernburg to reform the colonial administration, however no major changes have been made.

In 1912, the economic situation is unraveling, though not to the point of collapse. The Germans who have lived in East Africa for one generation are fiercely defensive of their way of life. While generally nationalistic and loyal to the Kaiser, they have grown resentful of political parties in the homeland that continually question the colony's existence as well as the treatment of the indigenous population. While the Germans in Arusha have attempted to carve out an economy independent of the natives, most of the peoples in the south remain in quasi-servitude to German companies.

#ODQHVVF

[Dragos Bee]

Reservation

Nation Name: Philippines (Spanish or American Colony or Independent Republic; last one is preferred)
Territory: Philippine Archipelago.
#ODQHVVF (Do not delete this, it is used to keep track of the apps)

*Note: Reservations will last for 48 hours. The OP reserves the right to be subjective in regards to accepting and removing reservations.

[Tracian Empire]

Reservation

Nation Name: Philippines (Spanish or American Colony or Independent Republic; last one is preferred)
Territory: Philippine Archipelago.
#ODQHVVF (Do not delete this, it is used to keep track of the apps)

*Note: Reservations will last for 48 hours. The OP reserves the right to be subjective in regards to accepting and removing reservations.

It depends on whether the American player wanted to reserve the continental US or all American territories in 1912 - if the former was chosen, then an independent republic might work, if not the Philippines would be an American colony, we should wait for clarifications from the American player.

[The Rio Grande River Basin]

Reservation

Nation Name: Philippines (Spanish or American Colony or Independent Republic; last one is preferred)
Territory: Philippine Archipelago.
#ODQHVVF (Do not delete this, it is used to keep track of the apps)

*Note: Reservations will last for 48 hours. The OP reserves the right to be subjective in regards to accepting and removing reservations.

It depends on whether the American player wanted to reserve the continental US or all American territories in 1912 - if the former was chosen, then an independent republic might work, if not the Philippines would be an American colony, we should wait for clarifications from the American player.

I mean, it could be fun to RP out a rebellion? But this is Teddy Roosevelt we’re talking about, so I doubt any American territories are being let go of (without a fight). May I recommend Indonesia instead?

[Dragos Bee]

Reservation

Nation Name: Philippines (Spanish or American Colony or Independent Republic; last one is preferred)
Territory: Philippine Archipelago.
#ODQHVVF (Do not delete this, it is used to keep track of the apps)

*Note: Reservations will last for 48 hours. The OP reserves the right to be subjective in regards to accepting and removing reservations.

It depends on whether the American player wanted to reserve the continental US or all American territories in 1912 - if the former was chosen, then an independent republic might work, if not the Philippines would be an American colony, we should wait for clarifications from the American player.

Thanks; if Rio Grande wants the Philippines, I'll reserve the Republic of China, Ethiopia,or Japan.

[The Rio Grande River Basin]

It depends on whether the American player wanted to reserve the continental US or all American territories in 1912 - if the former was chosen, then an independent republic might work, if not the Philippines would be an American colony, we should wait for clarifications from the American player.

Thanks; if Rio Grande wants the Philippines, I'll reserve the Republic of China, Ethiopia,or Japan.

Sorry about that.

[Dragos Bee]

Thanks; if Rio Grande wants the Philippines, I'll reserve the Republic of China, Ethiopia,or Japan.

Sorry about that.

It's okay. And Indonesia is Dutch.

Reservation

Nation Name: Ethiopia
Territory: Ethiopia and Eritrea (as the Italians took it after the PoD).
#ODQHVVF (Do not delete this, it is used to keep track of the apps)

*Note: Reservations will last for 48 hours. The OP reserves the right to be subjective in regards to accepting and removing reservations.

[Based Illinois]

Id like to either reserve Bulgaria, or a Czechia which is apart of Austria, in the same capacity as Hungary was. Ill wait for either empire's slot to be filled before I drop q reserve tho, so that I can work with them before making my app.

Just putting this as a tentative tag

[Remnants of Exilvania]

Reservation

Nation Name: Austro-Hungarian Empire
Territory: The heccin Austro-Hungarian Empire
#ODQHVVF (Do not delete this, it is used to keep track of the apps)

*Note: Reservations will last for 48 hours. The OP reserves the right to be subjective in regards to accepting and removing reservations.

[Empire of Techkotal]

Reservation

Nation Name: German Empire
Territory: German Empire
#ODQHVVF (Do not delete this, it is used to keep track of the apps)

*Note: Reservations will last for 48 hours. The OP reserves the right to be subjective in regards to accepting and removing reservations.

[Tracian Empire]

Id like to either reserve Bulgaria, or a Czechia which is apart of Austria, in the same capacity as Hungary was. Ill wait for either empire's slot to be filled before I drop q reserve tho, so that I can work with them before making my app.

Just putting this as a tentative tag

Well, you could try to discuss it with the Austrian player, but a Czechia, even with the same status that Hungary had in the Dual Monarchy, would likely be limited in its approach.

Bulgaria on the other hand would be independent and would likely have the backing of the NPC's of the Balkan League if necessary.

[Tracian Empire]

Reservation

Nation Name: Austro-Hungarian Empire
Territory: The heccin Austro-Hungarian Empire
#ODQHVVF (Do not delete this, it is used to keep track of the apps)

*Note: Reservations will last for 48 hours. The OP reserves the right to be subjective in regards to accepting and removing reservations.

Reservation

Nation Name: German Empire
Territory: German Empire
#ODQHVVF (Do not delete this, it is used to keep track of the apps)

*Note: Reservations will last for 48 hours. The OP reserves the right to be subjective in regards to accepting and removing reservations.

Sorry about that.

It's okay. And Indonesia is Dutch.

Reservation

Nation Name: Ethiopia
Territory: Ethiopia and Eritrea (as the Italians took it after the PoD).
#ODQHVVF (Do not delete this, it is used to keep track of the apps)

*Note: Reservations will last for 48 hours. The OP reserves the right to be subjective in regards to accepting and removing reservations.

accepted