[t]https://i.imgur.com/uKpEZt9.png[/t]
[quote]
[b][u]The year is 1923[/u][/b]
Only a few months have passed since Vladimir Lenin and his Bolsheviks lead a successful rebellion against the Tsar, and a brutal 5 year struggle against the anti-communist White Movement.
Meanwhile, the rest of Europe stumbles awkwardly into the first half of the new decade, still reeling from the shock of the Great War. The victorious powers of Britain, France and Italy are wounded, and the marks are beginning to show as political and social division deepens and worsens with the passing days.
The defeated nation of Germany, taking the brunt of the punishment from the Entente in the cruel Treaty of Versailles, is shackled by both skyrocketing unemployment and debt, and plummeting wages. Extremists on both sides of the aisle are gaining traction, and many suspect a radical change in Germany’s identity at home, and abroad.
North Africa and the Middle East, once playgrounds for the empires of Europe, are now turning into resource drains. Local rebellions play havoc with infrastructure plans, and the mismanagement of captured territories has led to stagnation in colonial possessions.
Asia, though largely untouched by the Great War, sits on a knife’s edge. Sun Yat-Sen’s attempted republic has shattered as power-hungry warlords carve out their own holdings and foster their own armies, prepared to strike at the ailing Republic of China, and make a new empire.
Japan, on the other hand, is the one that wields the knife. Seizing dozens of islands and Chinese cities from Germany in the Versailles treaty, Japan seeks nothing less than total domination of Asia, and possibly the Pacific as a whole. Japan no longer wishes to play second fiddle to the powers of Europe, and feel that it is time for an Asian nation to sit at the table of greats.
In the Americas, the United States revels in an economic boom. Victorious after the Great War, the United States has one of the few economies not entirely ravaged by the conflict, and enjoys immense wealth. However, credit payments backed by nothing more than words are handed out like candy, and the so-called Land of the Free’s occupations of overseas lands are growing weaker by the day.
The world, as a whole, continues to spin. In which way it will tilt, however, is left to those who wish to push hard enough. And many, it seems, are going to push back, just as hard.[/quote]
[quote]
[b][u]TURN FORMAT[/u][/b]
[b]Diplomacy[/b] - This is for deals with PLAYERS. Please use quotes/screenshots of these deals to show that you are both agreeing to whatever it is you’re doing.
[b]External[/b] - This is for deals with NPC NATIONS. This includes treaties/trade deals, but understand that every nation will act differently and may refuse your proposals.
[b]Domestic[/b] - Everything that you are doing for your nation at home. This includes everything from politics to economics to religion. This is where fun things happen
[b]Military[/b] - Maneuvers, training and other military actions are written here. War declarations are to be in Diplomacy/External
[b]Research[/b] - Choose 3 techs, I will pick 2 at random. Please stay within the timeframe, and please don’t be vague.
[b]Espionage[/b] - Collecting information and committing nefarious acts towards both players and NPCs. The bigger the plan, the weaker it will be.
[b]You may write up to 12 lines per turn, not including research[/b][/quote]
[quote]
[b][u]Current Players[/u][/b] - [b]FULL[/b]
[b]Euskalduna[/b] - Union of Soviet Socialist Republics
[b]Griffster26[/b] - Kingdom of Italy
[b]Amfleet[/b] - Republic of France
[b]Mallow234[/b] - Empire of Japan
[b]Joshuadim[/b] - United States of America
[b]Native Hunter[/b] - United Kingdom
[b]Snipercomzero[/b] - Weimar Republic
[b]Trebgarta[/b] - Republic of Turkey
[/quote]
[highlight]First turns are due Saturday, January 6th[/highlight]
Taking the Empire of Japan
I shall take United States of America
I will be important for once
[video=youtube;jZr_T1dn6xI]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jZr_T1dn6xI[/video]
[b]I Have[/b]
Germany
Italy
Turkey
US
USSR
UK
Japan
I need Franse
Is done
[video=youtube;HTqUj7gSzBg]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HTqUj7gSzBg[/video]
[B]Turns Complete. There will not be a "War/Rebellions" section or political alignment map. These will be uploaded tomorrow/late this night due to time constraints[/B]
[quote]
[img]https://i.imgur.com/nZxJtfH.png[/img]
[b]January-December, 1923[/b]
[/quote]
[quote]
[b]World Events[/b]
[b]World Tension is LOW[/b]
[b]World Economy is STABLE[/b][/quote]
[quote]
- European powers consolidate their holdings in North Africa and the Middle East as the Rif War comes to a close, the Kurdish Rebellion is crushed, and the Italians chase the Libyans deep into the Sahara. In Asia, European colonial possessions remain relatively stable, and nothing of interest happens
- The Chinese warlords continue to dig in and point guns at one another. Currently, communist guerillas strike at kuomintang posts in Nanjing, Beijing, Harbin and Nanning. Otherwise, the fragile state that China is in has not changed for the better or worse, and is largely stable
- Trade continues as normal as the economies of Africa and Asia are opened up to the world once again. Nations recovering from the Great War are finding themselves on stable footing, and nations like the United States revel in immense wealth
- Nationalist and communist movements creep out of the shadows in eastern Europe and central America. Most of these groups are relegated to protests and posters, but some are apparently arming themselves and could prove to be a nuisance in the future
[/quote]
[quote][img]https://i.imgur.com/IlDQNTz.png[/img]
- After intense deliberation in Paris and London, the French and British create the Inter-European Trade Zone. Coal, timber, steel and oil will be sold at a controlled, low-tariff price between the member nations, which include Britain, France, Belgium, Luxembourg, Spain and Portugal. These important goods flow freely within this zone, further isolating nations like Italy and Germany
- The Azosou strip of Northern Chad is sold to Italy for 655 million Francs. This massive cash injection does cause some concerns for the French economy. However, the government acts quickly and moves to intentionally devalue the Franc, cutting production of the currency drastically to escape inflation. Nonetheless, the French are happy to no longer be administering a chunk of desert
- In a move that unsettles some, the French announce demands that Germany keep their promise of timber export quotas, lest “Invasion be a necessity”. However, the French are somewhat lenient, and reduce the unsustainable coal quotas that were placed on Germany after the Great War
- In North Africa, five Senegalese and two Tunisian divisions are sent to assist the Spanish in their struggles against the Republic of the Rif. Swift justice is dealt, and the Rif militants are pushed back rapidly. By November, the Republic of the Rif is dissolved, and North Africa pacified. Some are concerned by France’s boisterous use of its military, but others claim that it is simply France’s right to do so as victor in the Great War
- After meeting with Czechoslovak and Romanian diplomats in Bucharest, France officially enters the “Little Entente”. After short deliberation, it is retitled as the “Entente”, and two French divisions are stationed in Transylvania. Fears of Hungarian revanchism are quelled, as even the most inflamed nationalist Hungarian recognizes the might of the French
- Quick to ensure that Germany is continually enraged, the French occupation of Memelland ends, and the territory is transferred to Lithuania. Hundreds of German families flee the region, hoping to escape possible retribution at the hands of the Lithuanians. This further raises concerns over the collective psyche of Germany’s population
- The French National Rail System sees a massive overhaul. As 400 miles of rail are prepared to be laid, linking Lyons and Bordeaux, the existing railways are dug up and replaced to meet the British Standard Gauge of 1433mm. Though this infuriates French nationalists, it is understood to be the introduction of a “European” standard for rail lines, further tying the economies of the continent together
- The [i]Béarn[/i], France’s first major seaplane carrier, is pulled back into port and expanded upon. Two existing cruisers are also taken into port to be reformatted as new [i]Béarn[/i] class seaplane carriers. This comes as the French navy undergoes a massive overhaul, seeing that battleships and ships of the line are on their way out, and the new capitals come in the form of pure force projection: Seaplane carriers
- The existing cavalry divisions mounted on horseback are cut in half and disbanded. The existing half are refitted with a massive number of FT-17 tanks and Renault Modèle 1914 armored cars. Much smaller in terms of manpower, and more foot infantry than most cavalry divisions, these newly organized troops will give France a massive boost in breakthrough capability come the next war. No more will French men be thrown into a meat grinder
- A large number of fortifications begin construction in Alsace and Saarland. Concrete bunkers, deep, concrete-lined trenches, and enormous forts are built facing Germany. Though France doesn’t want to send its men into a meat grinder, it doesn’t mean that the French will welcome others to do the same
- At Manufacture Nationale d'Armes de Tulle (MAT), captured MP-18 submachine guns are copied, redesigned, and reproduced. Thus, the MAT-23 is born. A side-loading submachine gun chambered in .32 ACP with a 750 RPM cyclic rate, the MAT-23 is soon to be introduced to the light infantry divisions in the French army and navy
- A new tank is created at Renault. Nicknamed “Le Cloporte” (the Woodlouse), the newly created FT-23 is a slow moving, squat vehicle with a center-mounted 75mm sponson gun. On the top, a fully rotating turret holds two Darne M1918 machine guns. The FT-23 gets its crude nickname thanks to the overlapping pieces of armor on the front, which reduce spalling and protect the crew from repetitive hits[/quote]
[quote][img]https://i.imgur.com/pe1uq88.png[/img]
- In a move that unsettles some, the French announce demands that Germany keep their promise of timber export quotas, lest “Invasion be a necessity”. However, the French are somewhat lenient, and reduce the unsustainable coal quotas that were placed on Germany after the Great War
- Quick to ensure that Germany is continually enraged, the French occupation of Memelland ends, and the territory is transferred to Lithuania. Hundreds of German families flee the region, hoping to escape possible retribution at the hands of the Lithuanians. This further raises concerns over the collective psyche of Germany’s population
- In a desperate attempt to keep their end of the bargain, the German government promises that it will attempt to reach upwards of 25% of their payments by the end of 1935. To do so, the German government directly intervenes in the production of its currency, and reverses the hideous decisions of the previous years to go to a non-backed currency. The new [i]Rentenmark[/i] is introduced, and despite the lack of gold bullion, is produced at a sluggish pace to stop hyperinflation. This causes many individuals to go bankrupt, again, but for a whole keeps the nation afloat for just a bit longer
- Coinciding with the introduction of the [i]Rentenmark[/i], the German government creates the [i]Volks Arbeitsprogramme[/i], in which unemployed citizens are given the opportunity to rebuild damaged areas of Germany. These people will be paid only a miniscule amount of money, but will also be sent home with a loaf of bread and half a sausage every day they work. This puts significant strain on German farms, but for those in the cities it is a godsend
- A series of violent demonstrations by the NSDAP and KPD forces the German government’s hand for the first, and hopefully last, time. Dozens of leaders of both parties are arrested and imprisoned, and the Reichstag introduces a total ban on “Fringe elements” of the KPD and NSDAP. In essence, those that do anything more than hang posters for these parties are considered “violent extremists” and are at risk of being imprisoned, or depending on their actions, put to death
- In response to this, Germany’s tiny military gets to work on rapid-response drills to future uprisings. This raises the eyebrows of French and British observers, but the small-scale exercises and their focuses draw little attention
- At Audi, under request from the German government, a new, easily-produced car is designed. Known as the Audi Volksauto 1, this small car follows a “pontoon” design. Slimming unnecessary, more stylistic assets of the bumpers, running boards, doors and hood, as well as reducing the number of passengers to only one, the Volksauto is popular amongst those who can afford one, and do not put any significant strain on Germany’s industry
- Rheinmetall, Germany’s only existing defense company worth its salt, produces a powerful tractor with multiple uses. The [i]Schnellefahrender Schwererlastkraftwagen[/i] 1923, or SFS-LKW-1923 for short, uses tank-like treads in combination with front tires to drag the multi-ton vehicle to and from its destinations. It can haul grain, crates, barrels, or even men, as the first SFS-LKW-1923 is used in the Berlin fire department to transport fire crews[/quote]
[quote][img]https://i.imgur.com/vJHMimq.png[/img]
- Italian troops spill into northern Libya as the rebellious natives are forced back day by day. The Tripolitanian leader Omar Mukhtar flees south, as does most of his troops. The entire northern half of the country has been conquered by Italy, and all that remains is to wipe out the last of the resistance that has fled to the southern deserts
- The Azosou strip of Northern Chad is sold to Italy for 655 million Francs. This massive cash injection does cause some concerns for the French economy. This purchase puts a massive strain on the Italian economy, but further cements Italian control in North Africa. However, due to the lack of troops in the region, the Azosou strip is seized by Libyan rebels
- In an attempt to exert Italian influence in the Balkans, the Albanian princess Marie Eleonore marries prince Amedeo III of Italy. The marriage is celebrated in Tirana and the honeymoon hosted in Rome. This comes as Italy recognizes Albania’s southern border, as well as giving two Italian infantry divisions being stationed to protect those claims
- Italy’s further pushes into the Balkans cause some major issues. Greece, despite being vehemently against Turkey, is unwilling to further continue war against the Turks, at least at the current moment. This also comes as Italy and Greece swap control over the Dodecanese, and Italy officially annexes the island of Rhodes. Many Greeks see it as blatant imperialism, and argue “why help Italy when they take our land?”
- The Italian government officially declares itself “racially blind”. Citizens of other races and religions are given equal rights and protections as other Italian citizens. This is implemented alongside a settlement program in Italian Africa, where hundreds of schools are founded in major towns
- The settlement program coincides with demands to “westernize” Africa by introducing schools, churches, roads and Italian migrants. Every few months, a handful of exceptional workers or students from Libya and Eritrea are given the opportunity to study in Italy proper. Despite some minor friction between Italians and Africans, these [i]Viaggiatori[i] (Travelers) are seen as Italian victories in the “war on ignorance”
- Following the Fascist Manifesto to almost every point possible, the Italian government begins introducing work programs and further protections for workers unions. A minimum wage is also introduced, which inadvertently sends many Italian businesses for a loop. The wage is not enough to support even an apartment, but it gives a much-needed cash injection for large families with multiple jobs
- J. Walter Christie, an engineer from the United States, is invited to work with Fiat on the creation of a new tank for the Italian army. With Christie’s unique suspension, the Fiat 4000 [i]Lombrico[/i] is born. Carrying a 37mm gun with a coaxial 8mm machine gun, the F-4000 is a squat yet intimidating armored vehicle that will give Italy an advantage in whatever war comes next
- With Italo Balbo given total control of the [i]Regia Aeronautica[/i], he and a large number of engineers begin hammering out new designs for aircraft. The S.55, a massive twin-hulled flying boat, is born. Militarily, it has little application other than transport, but it does that job amazingly well moving troops and supplies from Italy to Libya and back, as well as serving to be a comfortable way for government officials and diplomats to travel[/quote]
[quote][img]https://i.imgur.com/x8qmbao.png[/img]
- In February, a gigantic earthquake rips through the Kanto region. Measuring at 9.0 on the richter scale, huge swathes of heavily populated areas are shaken into dust. The resulting aftershocks, some nearly as powerful as the earthquake, continue for up to two days. By the end of the quakes, nearly 125,000 are dead, and a million displaced
- Despite the disaster, the Japanese government is quick to respond. Prime Minister
Katō Tomosaburō puts through emergency legislation, creating the 国家救援組織 (Kokka Kyūen Soshiki) [National Relief Organization]. The KKS moves in to clear rubble, treat wounded, and resettle survivors. Over the next few months, the KKS introduces a bill to parliament demanding a new set of standards for Japanese buildings to prevent future earthquake damage. Not a single voice opposes it
- The Japanese merchant fleet grows wildly as the government begins purchasing dozens of ships from private companies around the world, most of them outdated or in disrepair. However, once these ships arrive in Japan, they are quickly retooled to current standards. Most importantly, their designs are copied, and ordered to be massed produced. Export-dependent Zaibatsus are more than happy to buy/build these new moneymakers
- Zaibatsus concerning electronics and automobiles, such as Hitachi and Mitsubishi respectively, are given massive government subsidies. The Japanese government hopes that, in time, these companies will be able to produce worthwhile results that will benefit Japan’s economy and prestige
- A bill is introduced and passed through parliament, increasing the funding for roads and railway construction by 4%. Though seeming small, this is a massive investment, and the 日本の鉄道計画 (Nihon No Tetsudō Keikaku) [Japanese Railway Plan] is created, hoping to link the major cities of Japan with a criss-crossing series of rails
- Mitsubishi’s tiny aviation division is tasked with observing overseas developments in nations such as France and Italy, and trying to create planes for the Japanese military. This is slow going, even with the advancements in aeronautics in Italy, as Japanese industries have difficulty mimicking the designs, which sometimes ends in disaster. Nonetheless, Japan doesn’t appear to be ready to fall behind in the realm of aircraft
- The 平和保存法 (Heiwa Hozon-Hō) [Peace Preservation Law] is passed. Sweeping changes are made to Japan’s political sphere, as the Socialist and Communist parties of Japan are outlawed and banned from taking part in elections. However, an olive branch is given to students, and the voting age is lowered to 21. In the coming years, this will affect Japan’s political future in many ways
- The battleship [i]Akagi[/i], currently under construction, has its production halted and drawn back. Seeing the growth of aviation in militaries during the Great War, and its use in the various African conflicts, the Imperial Japanese Navy redesigns the Akagi to be a “Seaplane Carrier”. By the end of 1924, the Akagi will be able to hold several planes on its deck. This is a gigantic leap forward for the Japanese navy, as it will allow Japan to project its power almost limitlessly
- Two of the four [i]Kongō[/i] class battlecruisers are brought back to port and refitted. These battlecruisers receive a massive belt of armor and improved protection from armor piercing shells. Their engines are also upgraded, with more modern designs proving to be both energy efficient and more powerful, as well as the implementation of six 40mm Type 9 anti-aircraft guns, similar to the British QF 2-Pounder “Pom Pom” gun
- The first 電動部門 (Dendō Bumon) [Motorized Division] are created. Consisting of 8,000 men each, these two divisions are radically different from standard infantry. Having requisitioned hundreds of trucks from civilians, and producing more of their own every day, these divisions use vehicles to transport troops to, from and on the battlefield, greatly increasing their mobility. Alongside them are armored cars, mobile ambulances and radio trucks. A newly designed 60mm Type 1 “Pack” artillery is towed behind the rear, allowing the troops to have minor artillery support. Despite being expensive to maintain and produce, these two divisions alone pose a gigantic advantage for Japan in this changing world
- The Imperial Japanese Navy introduces the first of the newly designed and built [i]Fubuki[/i] class destroyer. These ships are faster, more maneuverable, and pack a bigger punch than their outdated counterparts, and the IJN hopes to see a dozen of them by the end of 1925
- Workers at Hitachi unveil their newest invention known as the 雉 (Kiji) [Pheasant] system. A radio, roughly the size of an apple crate, can be carried in the back of a moving vehicle or cart. Though somewhat cumbersome at first sight, this invention has massive potential in long-range communication, as it is mobile, dependable and resistant to most elements. The Japanese army requisitions the design and designates it as the Type 1 Radio System[/quote]
[quote][img]https://i.imgur.com/tWwS8U0.png[/img]
- The Lausanne Treaty is officially recognized by Britain, France and Greece, whilst being outright ignored by Italy. The Treaty of Sevres is ignored, and many punishing restrictions on the former Ottoman Empire are disbanded. Turkey recognizes the autonomy of Imbros and Tenedos, two Greek majority areas, the occupation of which infuriates the Greeks
- Mustafa Kemal officially declares the new Republic of Turkey. In doing so, the Independence Tribunal cracks down hard on fascists, nationalists, royalists and those guilty of the Armenian genocide. Those that are found guilty are given either a life sentence in prison, or dragged outside and summarily executed by firing squad
- With the new republic formed, the Turkish government includes Imbros and Tenedos as voting bodies for the nation, and allows all “applicable individuals” to participate as members of the CHP. The government prepares to introduce semi-socialist reforms, alongside a more progressive stance on culture, industry and society
- Religiously, the nation is entirely secular. The Caliphate is disbanded, his family exiled, and the Ministry of Religious Affairs is founded to oversee the corruption in the Sunni community. Officially, the government only recognizes Sunni and Shia Islam, Christianity, Judaism and Alevism. All other religions, cults and even Sufi sects are banned, and their houses of worship seized by the government
- The state takes total control of education, and introduces reforms in regards to how schools are run. Madrasas and other religious schools are shuttered and converted to secular academies. Minority schools are still allowed to use their local language, but are required to teach Turkish and encourage bilingual students
- An economic congress is held, and the Turkish government prepares to institute a 5 year plan, focusing on a mixed economy and electrification. Meanwhile, to ensure that investments in the country stay strong, the Türkiye İş Bankası is formed. Here, currency fluctuations and economic trends are more easily tracked, as well as having a stable bank that can be accessed by the public
- Sweeping reforms take place for the Turkish military. Nearly a third of troops are disbanded and simply kept as reservists. The existing troops are moved towards “hot zones”, such as the Aegean coast and the border with Mosul. Meanwhile, the War Taxes that were raised since 1914 are officially disbanded. Conscription is still in place, and all men are to serve 2 years in the Turkish army after their 20th birthday. These conscripts will make the bulk of Turkey’s military
- At the University of Ankara, a handful of giddy engineers begin experimenting with a new service handgun. Chambered in .40 S&W, with a 9 round magazine, the T-1A is similar to the Colt M1911, with a handful of changes. Firstly, the hammer is internal, and the safeties are far less sensitive
- Mimicking the French 75, the Turkish military introduces a new artillery piece specifically meant to destroy the armor of tanks. The Tanksavar Tüfek Model 1923, or TT-23 for short, is chambered in 75x200, and uses a powerful shell that can tear through armor with ease[/quote]
[quote][img]https://i.imgur.com/7B6ynng.png[/img]
- After intense deliberation in Paris and London, the French and British create the Inter-European Trade Zone. Coal, timber, steel and oil will be sold at a controlled, low-tariff price between the member nations, which include Britain, France, Belgium, Luxembourg, Spain and Portugal. These important goods flow freely within this zone, further isolating nations like Italy and Germany
- Treaties of friendship are signed with the kings of Nepal and Afghanistan. In order to continue blocking the spread of Bolshevism into British possessions in Asia, these two nations are invaluable in slowing down possible Soviet incursions. Tibet is proposed this deal, but turns it down, seeing that British troops present in their territory would “ensure further subjugation of our sovereignty”
- In Ireland, British and Irish troops put down the last Anti-Treaty rebels in the south, officially ending the Irish civil war. These British soldiers are immediately evicted from Ireland and are warned not to entire Irish territory. This cold send off is expected, and the British troops return home unscathed
- British troops, mobilized from India and Africa, enter the northern territories of Iraq and southwestern Khuzestan. Within weeks, the uppity Kurdish and Khuzestani rebels are suppressed by the sheer number of British troops, and order to the region is restored. Britain is proving once again that they rule the waves, be they wet or sandy
- The British military officially reorganizes colonial regiments. No longer treated as militias, men of serviceable age are given the chance to join the Royal army and navy. In order to dissuade rebelliousness, one in three troops is sent to a Anglo-majority regiment. Those that choose to join up are given further opportunities for citizenship and economic freedoms. Existing troops are currently disbarred from these benefits and must re-apply
- 15,000 Pashtun and Sudanese troops are mobilized and sent to the Muslim holy cities of Mecca and Medina. In a brazen show of power, the British government, after noting "Saudi threats", has affirmed their willingness to protect the sovereignty of the Kingdom of Hejaz, with the King seemingly concluding a treaty of friendship with them. These troops, all Sunni Muslims, are present in the cities as to deter these "Saudi threats". The Kingdom of Nejd is infuriated, as the British had indirectly promised them control over Arabia during the Great War
- At home, the British government pushes through the “Anti-Famine Act”. All plantations and commercial crop producing regions of the empire in Africa and India are required to produce food on at least 15% of their property. Though this initially upsets some, many switch to crops such as dates, apples and corn, which are simple to harvest and maintain. These foods are then sent as tax to local constabularies, and stored to prevent possible food shortages
- Britain reorganizes its holdings in Yemen and Socotra, and officially creates the “Union of Southern Arabia”. British delegates press the Sultan of Oman, Taimur bin Feisal, to submit to British authority and be made “Sultan of Southern Arabia”. After some deliberation, Feisal accepts, under the conditions that the British “leave only a token number of Christian troops in the region”. The Imamate of Oman remains independent, but is explicitly protected by the British
- In the Raj, Rufus Isaacs, 1st Marquess of Reading, agrees to institute a new policy of education throughout the territory. In cities containing more than 15,000, British scholars and pastors are encouraged to construct public schools and begin teaching there, in which they will receive decent pay and public housing. These schools are available to the general population, and in time, will be used to spread the English language, Anglo-European culture, the humanities, science and to a small extent, Christianity. There is a minor push against these schools in the Muslim majority areas of the west, but more liberal individuals are willing to give it a go
- The British government introduces a program to encourage the growth of factories and places of business in the larger cities of the Empire, such as Baghdad, Bombay, Calcutta and Lagos. These businesses will use natives as a work force, and will be beneficial to the empire’s economic stability
- The “United Pantry System” is introduced. In Glasgow, London, Cardiff, Leeds, Belfast and Manchester, massive food pantries are opened, funded by taxpayers. Here, simple foodstuffs are stored and distributed to the poor, 24/7. These prove to be expensive to run, difficult to maintain, and even harder to keep from getting swindled by cheeky “poor” individuals. Nonetheless, it is considered a great benefit, and the Church of England is ecstatic to send volunteers
- Despite its use at creating synthetic explosives for the German military during the Great War, scientists at Oxford University begin putting the Haber Process to good use. Massive stockpiles of synthetically created, nitrogen-rich fertilizers are rapidly created, and distributed to areas in dire need of fixation for crop growth
- Keeping with the times, the seaplane carrier HMS [i]Argus[/i] is given a shorter window for production, but further funding. By December, the [i]Argus[/i] is three months ahead of schedule, and is put on display for the people of Britain to see
- A new engine design is created at Bentley motors. Using much shorter strokes for the pistons, this new engine can produce higher RPMs at a much lower fuel cost. Its weight is similar to existing designs, but its use for aircraft is obvious, and some mockup designs show immense gains in speed and lift when outfitted with the "New Model Engine", as it is dubbed by the British military[/quote]
[quote][img]https://i.imgur.com/CNaNzHR.png[/img]
- 1923 begins with American troops finally being withdrawn from their stations in Germany and Hispaniola. Tens of thousands of soldiers return home to their families after many years overseas. As American troops leave Europe, the situation in the Rhineland grows to be more interesting, as the only remaining troops are Belgian and French
- In Hispaniola, the American government officially exits the island and creates the Republic of Hispaniola. Despite the bitter resentment between Dominicans and Haitians, this new state answers to the United States, and like Cuba, has surrendered the ports of Barahona to be directly administered by the United States
- As American troops return, President Harding announces a 30% cut to spending on the US military, stating that the days of “Overseas adventuring” have come to an end for America, and that the money is much better spent at home. This comes as, once again, America slips into a sense of isolation, now more interested with prodding at smaller nations in its neighborhood
- In D.C, the Office of Financial Exchanges and Security is formed. The American economy is booming, and expanding rapidly. The OFES is simply a measure to ensure that trades, bonds and investments don’t get too out of hand. The OFES’ power is largely nonexistent, as its abilities are confined to simply gathering data and relaying information to the Secretary of the Treasury, Andrew Mellon
- With radio becoming ever more popular, Congress approves a bill allowing for the creation of the National Public Radio Service, or NPRS. This service would be given its own channel, and be directly funded by taxes. To ensure that the NPRS is “free from the grips of propaganda”, it is relegated mainly to important announcements, interesting scientific discoveries, and general checkups on the nation as a whole
- Massive tax cuts are seen on the middle and lower classes, as their income tax is reduced by up to 35%. The government feels the pain of this, and the deficit begins to bubble worryingly. However, the sustained economic growth of large cities is more than enough to offset possible financial lunacy
- Tax cuts are granted to new corporations less than 5 years old. While the main corporate tax rate stays the same, these young companies can skirt it by ensuring that they continue to hire workers, and that their profits are at a sustainable level for the next 5 fiscal years
- Working in tandem with the Department of Agriculture and the OFES, the American Soil Institute, or ASI, is founded. The ASI is tasked with monitoring arability and nutrient content of soils in the midwest and great plains. American farmers are producing more and more food with each passing year, and some speculate that the topsoil can only take so much punishment
- In Rosewood, Florida, upwards of 100 Black Americans are slaughtered in what is considered to be one of the worst mass killings in America. Many of the victims were targeted due to their race, and police are accused of everything from allowing the massacre to take place, or outright assisting in the atrocities. The town has since been abandoned
- Harding, responding to the massacre, begins drafting the “American Civil Rights Act”. This act would see the protection of individual’s basic rights in regards to their sex, age, religion and race. When presented to a handful of congressman, Harding’s plan backfires. Despite the somewhat more liberal Republican majority in the house and senate, the more conservative elements are outraged
- Word quickly gets out about the Civil Rights Act, and massive protests ensue in cities like Charleston and Birmingham. In response, African-Americans rally counter-protests, pushing for their own rights. These get out of hand, and fast. Spurred on by unconfirmed reports of African-Americans looting a jewelry store, a large number of armed Klansman ignite what is known as the “Three Days of Mayhem” in Birmingham. The city descends into chaos as Klansmen, Anti-Civil Rights and Pro-Civil Rights clash in a vicious three way. At least 300 are killed, over 1000 wounded, hundreds more arrested, and three city blocks torched before a division of US Marines arrives to quell the violence
- Harding’s reputation is tarnished after the news in Birmingham, and the hardcore conservative elements of the Democrats begin rallying in response to this. The Republican Party is in tatters, as those that seek to support the Civil Rights Act are pushed out by the less-inclined. However, a handful of Democratic congressman and senators feel that, despite being against the bill, supporting the violence in the south is the worst way to go about it. American politics is ready for a massive change come the next year’s elections
- A major technological breakthrough takes place in Chicago, Illinois. Using a series of projections and high powered transmissions, a handful of electronic engineers send the first “Television” broadcast in the United States. Though only visible on a tiny screen powered by a massive gaggle of cords and wires, the three minute broadcast had the engineers stating their names, and showing their faces on a 4 inch, blurry screen. The age of television has begun
- Elsewhere, Samuel Shlafrock, a camera enthusiast, produces what is known as an “Instant Camera”. With a small compartment in the bottom of the device, pictures are ‘dropped’ into a reservoir of developing liquids, and within just a few minutes, a fully developed picture is produced. Though somewhat awkward, Shlafrock hopes to work out the kinks in his design[/quote]
[quote][img]https://i.imgur.com/UkrZfTD.png[/img]
- At a meeting between the highest members of the Soviet government at the 12th Party Congress, an ailing Vladimir Lenin is joined by his wife, Nadezhda Kurpskaya. The two, alongside a handful of other party members, decree that Leon Trotsky is the standing successor to Lenin until “a peaceful change of power can take place in the future”. Joseph Stalin and his affiliates are enraged. A shouting match begins, ending with Stalin and a handful of those loyal to him storming out of the congress
- Ignoring the tomfoolery of Stalin, Lenin continues the implementation of the GOELRO plan. Using thousands of conscripted peasants and unemployed urbanites, a huge series of coal plants are constructed throughout the countryside, and hundreds of miles of electrical wire begin to criss-cross the outer reaches of Russia. Much of this labor comes from White Movement prisoners, who have “donated” their time to assist in the Motherland’s development
- Mikhail Frunze, hero of the civil war and able-bodied leader of the Soviet army and navy, is given an ultimatum. Seek surgery, or seek a new job. Unwilling to let his reputation be tarnished, Frunze begrudgingly undergoes surgery at a hospital in Moscow. After 14 long hours under the knife, Frunze’s condition improves significantly. However, his usual bombastic energy and stubborness is gone, and due to the painkillers he is prescribed, Frunze has become incredibly calculating and reserved
- Collectivisation continues, but after the 12th Congress, has been significantly changed. Now, surpluses are still required to be sold off to the Soviet government, but are priced relative to their size as opposed to a flat rate. This encourages the collectivised farms to produce larger and larger amounts of food, and some in the incredibly fertile areas in Ukraine and Kuban produce huge harvests, quelling fears of famine
- To continue the process of collectivisation, the Soviet government recruits unemployed individuals to begin working at the Национальные Pабочие Mеста (Natsional'nyye Rabochiye Mesta) [National Work Facilities], in which they are tasked with producing tractors and combine harvesters. Though the price and distribution of petrol amongst Soviet citizens ranges wildly, these will no doubt be of great use in the coming years
- At these factories, the first Soviet versions of the 3-Point Hitch are introduced. Though incredibly simple in hindsight, the 3-Point Hitch allows for a variety of towed equipment and machinery behind a tractor, meaning that a farming collective could swap out a harvester with a tiller to a cart if need be
- The first national census takes place. Now that the war is over, it is within the Soviet government’s best interests to gather all information about its populace in order to best oversee future developments and legislation. Unsurprisingly, a majority of the nation is poor Russians and Ukrainians, with a number of smaller ethnic groups in areas like the Caucasus and Steppe
- The Министерство Oбразования (Ministerstvo Obrazovaniya) [Ministry of Education] is formed in Moscow. Here, a number of Russian intellectuals are tasked with three main objectives. First, the elimination of illiteracy amongst all peoples possible. Two, the unification of the Soviet Union with Russian as the official language. Three, introduce all populaces to the modern system of Communism. The decision to make Russian the official language causes severe outrage in areas such as Ukraine, the Caucasus and the Steppe. In order to avoid chaos, the Soviet government has allowed these groups to preserve their languages, but all legal documents will be printed henceforth in Russian
- The giant beast that is the Soviet Army is tallied, reorganized, and slashed significantly. Many of the standing troops are peasant militias which, though fitting for the communist ideal, do not make for a proper army. Thousands are outright disbanded, while many others sent to organized training facilities. This comes as manpower is needed for the fields, as well as strain on supplies. The days of the “human wave” are coming to an end, and the Soviet army prepares itself to be professional for once
- To deal with the modernization of the Soviet army, the Комиссия Bоенной Tехники ( Komissiya Voyennoy Tekhniki) [Comission of Military Technology] is formed. Focusing on all three branches, the KVT is tasked with identifying problems within the ranks, fixing them, and as well as introducing the latest technology to ensure the Soviet Union has an edge over its enemies
- A breakthrough at the KVT introduces a tank extremely similar to the French FT-17. The T-23 is a two-man crewed light tank with a rotating turret. In the driver’s hatch lies a PM-1910 machine gun, and the turret a copy of the British QF 2-pounder 40mm gun. The T-23’s armor leaves much to be desired, but its ease of use and production could give the Soviets a significant edge in the field[/quote]
[highlight]TURNS ARE DUE SATURDAY, JANUARY 13TH[/HIGHLIGHT]
berge mreak
[b]The Death and Rebirth of the American Political System[/b]
[quote]
After the insanity that was the introduction of the Civil Rights Bill in 1923, the two mainstay political parties of the US -- the Democrats and Republicans -- were thoroughly divided on the bill, both outwardly and inwardly.
Harding’s party informed him that he would be disbarred from running as a Republican for re-election in the 1924 general election, essentially murdering his campaign from the get-go. Harding’s vice president, Calvin Coolidge, has pledged his allegiance to the Republican party, and will run for the seat of President come the following year. However, a large number of Republicans, some of whom are carryovers from the Progressive Party, stand with Harding and his decision to extend civil rights to all Americans.
Meanwhile, the Democrats are fracturing. More centrist elements of the Democratic party are vehemently opposed to the violent reprisals that took place in cities like Birmingham, and though they are no fans of the bill, they are unwilling to let their cities slip into anarchy every time blacks are mentioned in the media. On the other side are the staunchly conservative/leaning reactionary “Southern Democrats”. Unsurprisingly, this divide is made apparent and essentially destroys the Democrats.
Now, what was once two is now four. On the left are the Progressives, joined by current president Warren G. Harding. Center left are the Republicans, who lose their grip on liberal states in the northeast. Center right are the Democrats, who hold on desperately to their southern strongholds. Finally, on the far right, is the National Party, who is opposed to anything left of center, and are willing to drag the nation to its knees to prove their point.
[/quote]
[img]https://i.imgur.com/N9ufrG2.png[/img]
[t]https://i.imgur.com/az0zWu0.png[/t]
[quote]Pictured: Party popularity as of January 1st, 1924. Not representative of voting bases or future developments.[/quote]
[IMG]https://i.imgur.com/XA3oNGM.png[/IMG]
[b]I have[/b]
USSR
Japan
France
UK
[b]I Need[/b]
Italy
USA
Turkey
Germany
Thanks to Warren G Hardings civil rights bill I get Monday off. Tomorrow I’ll be doubling down on the turn and it should be out Monday morning
geez I sure hope nothing bad happens this turn!
[QUOTE=Mallow234;53054468]geez I sure hope nothing bad happens this turn![/QUOTE]
Too late
[b]The 1924 Presidential Elections[/b]
[quote]
[img]https://i.imgur.com/APEuSxk.png[/img]
Despite the pro-worker and pro-farmer efforts of Harding and the Progressive Party, the Republicans had managed to keep their hold on many states including California. Because of this, the Republican Party defeated the Progressive Party in regards to the electoral college. The Progressives came in close second, and Harding conceded to his former vice president Coolidge after the results came out.
In the south, the conservative vote was split between the Democratic and National parties, which caused both to lose out on a huge number of electoral votes. The FBI quickly began to investigate reports of intimidation and fraud, and found over 2,000 votes for the National party coming from dead individuals. Graves had no comment on the matter.
[img]https://i.imgur.com/sBgrYF8.png[/img]
The senate race is different. The Progressives sweep the floor with a clear majority in the senate, as pro-Republican workers come out in support of Progressive senators. Immediately, the Progressives and Republicans enter talks to cooperate in regards to workers rights declarations, and continuing the antitrust and anti-big banker traditions of Roosevelt.
The Democrats are isolated as the National party considers them “Conservative in name only”, and many National senators pledge to filibuster any “socialist, anti-American bills” presented by the Republicans and Progressives.
Even though the FBI cracked down hard on the Klan and arrested many leaders, the Three Days of Mayhem in Alabama the previous year had bolstered their ranks, and the Klan had begun to spread northward into conservative areas of Indiana, Ohio and West Virginia.
The future of America hangs in the balance.[/quote]
Burge murge
[quote]
[img]https://i.imgur.com/LIM19zU.png[/img]
[img]https://i.imgur.com/K98eGz5.png[/img]
[b]January-December, 1924[/b][/quote]
[quote]
[img]https://i.imgur.com/y6iXdDs.png[/img]
[/quote]
[quote]
[b]World Events[/b]
[b]World Tension is LOW[/b]
[b]World Economy is STABLE[/b]
- Europe begins to stabilize as the economies of both the victors and the defeated steady themselves. Germany, Austria, Hungary and Bulgaria see some growth in their GDP for the first time since 1914, and the total unemployment rate of Europe starts to fall at a slow pace
- Africa sees some border changes as France and Britain trade colonies, meanwhile Italy secures its position in North Africa by destroying the Libyan resistance. Egypt is formally annexed by the United Kingdom, and now only three independent entities exist in Africa
- China remains stable as the warlords continue to stay in a Mexican standoff. A number of rogue military elements calling themselves the 流浪的劍 (Liúlàng De Jiàn) [Wandering Swords] are wreaking havoc in the countryside. These are largely made up of disloyal soldiers who proceed to plunder undefended villages
- The Entente expands as Britain and Poland enter the alliance, as well as nations like Italy acting as an observer. The alliance acts as both a protection against Hungarian revanchism, as well as Soviet expansionism
[/quote]
--
[quote][img]https://i.imgur.com/mPUxxWI.png[/img]
- A deal is struck between the British and the French. French forces leave their menagerie of colonies in western Africa in exchange for an expanded ownership of Somaliland. Alongside this, French and British naval forces are allowed to dock within one another’s ports as deemed fit. This does cut the French out of some resources in the west, but as the French and British grow closer together, it worries few. With this, the French formally welcome the British into the Entente
- A number of pre-and Great War era ships are purchased from the Soviet Union in exchange for gold bullion. Most of these ships are destroyers and mine layers, alongside a couple of leaky submarines. A handful of destroyers that are in presentable condition are put on display for the public to see and ogle, while the rest are sent to the scrapyards
- After some diplomatic finagling, the Siamese government officially recognizes the French occupation of Laos, in return for a “treaty of Friendship”, in which France guarantees the continued independence of Siam
- Feeling threatened by the Soviet Union, Poland moves to join the Entente. Though France is the leader of the alliance, Yugoslavia, Czechoslovakia and Romania vote to allow Poland into the fold. Due to the guarantee of Polish and Romanian independence, Italy is now considered an observer to the alliance
- In early February, noticing the change in stability, Alexandre Millerand calls for a snap election to take place in May. Most parties are unable to formulate a proper campaign, and are thus disorganized until the 11th hour. Unfortunately for them, [i]Parti Radical[/i] manages to stomp the competition, and their candidate, Gaston Doumergue, is elected President of France
- Doumergue introduces a large number of sweeping reforms that upset the aristocratic conservatives and gladden the socialist and liberal lower classes. The first is to push through a bill fully legalizing the use of contraceptives, and no longer considering them abortions. This does not, of course, legalize abortion, nor does it condone “rampant sexual hooliganism”, but it does reduce the number of unwanted children by a massive amount
- Paris undergoes what is known as “[i]Reconstruction Radicale[/i]”, in which huge sections of slums are bulldozed and old cobbled roads ripped up and paved over with asphalt. The process is slow and incredibly disruptive, and a huge number of poor Parisians are left homeless. To counteract the homelessness problem, the French government orders the construction of hundreds of tenements and orphanages, all of which are held to a federal standard. The change, despite being disruptive and loud and dirty, will pay off in the future
- Reforms are also introduced to the French territories in Indochina. No longer is there a massive quota of French goods required to be purchased, but there are also benefits for the large number of Indochinese nationals serving as conscripts in the French military. Those that willingly join, or ask to remain in service longer than their conscription, can be entered in a lottery to be recognized as a French citizen, and can move to France as they see fit
- The French government opens up a “raffle” for airline companies to begin creating domestic passenger aircraft. Those that put in better and more efficient designs will be given a massive government grant. Much of the money is already being spent on the construction of airports in Paris, Brest, Caen, Lyon and Marseilles, but as well as Tunis, Algers, Djibouti and even Saigon. Many of these aircraft are float planes, as that happens to be the fad at this point in time
- As Tunis gets a face lift in terms of its airport, both it and the Algerian port of Mers El Kébir undergo massive changes. A number of dockyards, drydocks and submarine pens are constructed facing the Mediterranean, as France pushes to secure its holdings in northern Africa, and shows that it is willing to project its power far outside of Europe, much like the British. This worries some in Spain and Yugoslavia, as they are currently tied to the French only economically
- The French army begins to adopt “infiltration” tactics. Rather than the massed waves of infantry used during the Great War, which led to the deaths of millions and a 2 year stalemate on the French border, the military is now seeking small, cohesive movements of units to both take and defend territory
- The Fusil Automatique Modèle 1917 is ordered to continue its production under a new designation. Now reduced to a carbine length, the rifle is re-designated as the M-1918. This lighter, more reliable rifle is distributed to troops currently in the Rhineland, replacing the older full-length rifles of the Great War
- Following the school of thought of the British and Italians, the French air force and navy begin going over the creation of a “torpedo bomber”. After a few weeks of designing, testing small scale, and finally testing full scale, the French unveil the Cuadron C.50. This triplane has two wing mounted engines, and is enormous for having only two crewmen. However, strapped to its belly, it can carry up to a 800kg torpedo, which has enough range for the plane to drop the torpedo and get out of harm's way before it strikes the target. This is a massive advantage in the changing world of naval warfare
- An insane design put towards the French navy is accepted. Two massive hulls are laid down in port in mid June, to begin construction of the newest ship in the French arsenal, the [i]Surcouf[/i] class “cruiser submarine”. This submersible vessel carries 12 torpedoes, much like its smaller cousins, but is also armed with a multitude of anti-aircraft guns, and boasts a pair of 8 inch guns. Many consider the design to be ludicrous, but its detractors fail to bring up a better point beyond “it looks stupid”
[/quote]
[quote][img]https://i.imgur.com/b8utx3y.png[/img]
- As the Soviets continue to sell off their mothballed and outdated ships, Europe is shocked to see another deal signed to none other than Germany. For every ship, the Germans promise to send 15 SFS-LKW-1923s. After some calculations, it turns out the Germans are getting a far better deal, and are able to use the scrapped ships for their ailing metal industry
- Italian motor company Fiat, alongside Walter Christie, offer to assist in the creation of new vehicles in Germany. Christie’s suspension idea is applied to the SFS-LKW-1923, as it makes the movement of the tractor much more stable. In return, Germany offers to use what few factories it can to enter a “Joint production treaty” with Italy
- The German government offers small subsidies to companies and individuals that are able to produce and export the Volksauto 1 to other countries. The car isn’t very popular in France or Britain largely due to its origin, while it proves to be the talk of the town in Hungary and Spain. For now, the German auto industry breathes a sigh of relief
- At least 500 SFS-LKW-1923s are produced for civilian consumption, re-designated as “Volkstraktor”. For a 365 day period, farmers can deposit a couple hundred Rentenmarks in exchange for ownership of a [i]Volkstraktor[/i]. Almost immediately, German farms begin producing much higher quantities of food, though these farmers are also forced to spend more money on petrol purchases to keep the vehicles running
- The Rentenmark continues printing, and the mints are producing more than the previous year, but are still staying under the ceilings that could lead to inflation. Meanwhile, the [i]Volks Arbeitsprogramme[/i] continues, and mobilized individuals begin forming small [i]Arbeitsgruppen[/i], or “work parties”, that petition the German government for contracts in return for higher wages. The competition is fierce, but it inadvertently creates dozens of small businesses in otherwise economically starved regions of Germany
- In December, the general elections conclude for the Reichstag. The SPD, the President’s party, sweeps the elections with 246 seats out of the 472, officially cementing the SPD as the majority party. However, Ebert’s health is failing, and he himself has declared that by the start of 1925, he will leave office on the eve of a snap presidential election
- The German army begins phasing out its cavalry units. Two thirds of them are disbanded entirely, and the remaining third retires its horses in exchange for trucks and SFS-LKW-1923s. The military application of these vehicles is revealed, and redesignated as the [i]Sonderkraftfahrzeug 25[/i] (Special Purpose Vehicle). These are up-armored variants of the SFS-LKW-1923, and are used to transport troops around the battlefield. They remain unarmed, and open topped, and skirt the restrictions of Versailles
- The army continues its exercises, and expands them to include more than one division at a time. These troops move from region to region in their drills, from the alps to the shoreline, as the German army attempts to understand how modern warfare works on different terrains. This raises the hocks of French observers, but is otherwise within bounds of the treaty
- At Krupp, a small 75mm mortar is designed. Designated the [i]Leichter Mörtel Modell 1924[/i], or LMM24, this mortar can fire a 3.5kg explosive up to 700m onto its target. Though nowhere near as powerful as existing mortars in the German army, it benefits from being incredibly lightweight for its purpose
- Though somewhat against the regulations on the creation of German firearms, Mauser uses a handful of the Mexican Mondragón rifles and shortens them to a carbine length. The [i]Gewehr 25 Kurz[/i] or G-25k, is a semi-automatic rifle that feeds from 5 round stripper clips chambered in 7.92x57mm Mauser. The G-25k has its issues, however, as its small size increases its recoil, and that current German industrial capacity can only produce a few rifles every day
[/quote]
[quote][img]https://i.imgur.com/Ba5p69X.png[/img]
- Italian motor company Fiat, alongside Walter Christie, offer to assist in the creation of new vehicles in Germany. Christie’s suspension idea is applied to the SFS-LKW-1923, as it makes the movement of the tractor much more stable. In return, Germany offers to use what few factories it can to enter a “Joint production treaty” with Italy
- Despite his boasting of Italian greatness and the glory of his nation, Benito Mussolini humbles himself and invites Empress Zewditu I to Rome to discuss future diplomatic ties. Mussolini formally apologizes for “Italian atrocities and cruelty” during the Italo-Ethiopian war. Zewditu accepts Mussolini’s apology, and signs the “Italo-Ethiopian Treaty of Friendship”. Italy recognizes Ethiopia’s independence, and promises to defend its sovereignty from this point forward
- Italy moves to corner the Soviet Union and contain them to their position in the east. Romanian and Polish diplomats meet in Rome, and Italy officially declares a guarantee of Polish and Romanian independence in the event of a war with the Soviet Union. This comes as Poland officially joins the Entente, which in turn makes Italy an observer of the alliance
- The war in Libya comes to an end as Italian forces reach the border with French Chad. The fighters lay down their arms and are imprisoned by Italian authorities, shipped back north to Tripoli. Omar Mukhtar is among the captured, and to both his relief and humiliation, is exiled to Egypt with his friends and family, and is considered [i]persona non grata[/i] in all Italian territories
- A new emir is chosen. Idris al-Senussi is placed in power as a puppet in Libya, though he dances to Mussolini’s tune. This comes as a surprise to many, as some thought the Italians would introduce an Italian governor to the region. Regardless, Libya is secured, and the armies of Italy march in Rome in a triumph
- Oil drilling expeditions take place in southern Libya, and some success is made. A number of fields crop up near the Libyan-Chadian border, and thousands of barrels are produced. The biggest issue is the lack of mobility for this oil, and so the gains take a long time to reach refineries
- A full-scale crackdown begins on the mafia as the Italian government springs a trap. Dozens of leaders are arrested and summarily executed without trial, and hundreds of enforcers are brought to justice. However, some leaders have anticipated this, and escape into the shadows, leading the Italian army into a bloody guerilla war in Sicily for weeks, killing hundreds of soldiers and civilians. However, after the last noose is tied, it is declared that the mafia is essentially dead, as it has been weakened into a pathetic group of street gangs
- The Italian government begins the creation of hundreds of Italian language schools across the nation. This comes as Mussolini pushes for not only a higher literacy rate, but “uniformity” amongst the Italian dialects. Those in Sicily are infuriated, after the mafia crackdown has shaken up the population, and some consider the introduction of “uniform Italian” to be a spit in the face of Sicilian culture
- In Eritrea, the Italian military forms two regiments of “Askari” (Native) troops. These soldiers are armed with modern equipment and trained by Italian officers, and are used to guard Italy’s assets in Eritrea and Somalia. These troops are granted citizenship in Italy if they serve the full 4 years of their conscription
- A full-on purge of corrupt officers and generals in the Italian military takes place. A number of old generals are discharged, but most importantly, former Chief of Staff of the Military Luigi Cadorna is stripped of all honors and brought before a military tribunal, accused of allowing for the deaths of thousands of Italian soldiers. Despite the evidence against him, there is not enough evidence to convict him of nothing more than sheer incompetence. Cadorna is then exiled to Romania and never allowed to return
- At the [i]Regia Aeronautica[/i], a handful of S.55s are cut down into single-bodied aircraft. The new Savoia-Marchetti S.60 is designated as a “torpedo bomber”, capable of carrying a massive torpedo that can be dropped from the air to strike at surface targets
- Copying their use in the Great War, and seeing how brutally effective they are at ratting out those in bunkers, the Italian military officially begins the production of the F.1 flamethrower. The F.1 has the ability to cast a white hot jet of flame up to 15m away. The F.1 is considered to be a last resort weapon by Mussolini, however, as he feels its use is “too cruel” for modern war[/quote]
[quote][img]https://i.imgur.com/EkoZfV1.png[/img]
- In order to secure at least one friend, Japan officially renews its treaty of friendship with the British, and announces its continuation of the Anglo-Japanese alliance. Though Japan is not a member of the new Entente, the British and Japanese understand the importance of having someone they can rely on in the Pacific
- With the Japanese moving towards warm relations with Britain, the British then push Australia, New Zealand and even Canada to partake in naval exercises with Japan. However, this proves to be somewhat uncomfortable for the dominions, as even their combined navies are quickly becoming dwarfed by the Japanese
- Japanese automobile companies quietly begin setting up shop in California and Hawaii. Though American sentiment towards Asian migrants is nothing short of hostile, people gladly spend their money on “exotic” cars. In return, some American companies sell a number of televisions and cameras in return for rights to sell Mitsubishi cars
- At home, the Japanese government begins introducing legislation requiring the implementation of newer, American-styled assembly lines. Though this slows production of goods for some time as companies take time to adjust, this will eventually allow for much smoother, more reliable industry in the future
- The Japanese government begins to consolidate the various banking authorities into larger conglomerated holdings. This comes as the 経済不安防止行為 (Keizai Fuan Bōshi Kōi) [Economic Instability Prevention Act] is introduced to parliament. A cap is placed on the amount of loans that a bank can give out, as well as forcing banks to allow government monitoring of spending and interest rates
- Japanese nationals are encouraged to migrate to Korea in return for a small government subsidy. Thousands move to the peninsula as the government grants massive subsidies for Zaibatsus. Most of those that move are aristocrats or businessmen, hoping to use the cheap and affordable Korean labor to bolster their ranks. However, the Japanese government reduces restrictions on Koreans, such as lower prison sentences and, for some, freedom of movement as deemed fit by the Japanese government
- Katō Tomosaburō falls ill during a trip to Sapporo, and is hospitalized. After a few hours, he is declared dead of a heart attack. In order to avoid a succession crisis, the navy places Yamamoto Gonnohyōe in his place. Elections are postponed until 1925 for “security reasons”
- The Emperor intervenes in the rivalry between the army and navy. This riles up some in the military, but the sheer magnitude of the Emperor’s presence causes them to shut up and sit down. The army and navy officially recognize the total authority of the Imperial, and thus civilian, government, and are barred from introducing their own candidates come 1925 and onwards. This inadvertently creates unity among the military leaders, as they can now only focus on what they were originally supposed to do
- As the [i]Kaga[/i] aircraft carrier lumbers out of port under a massive celebration, the Imperial Japanese Navy declares that it desires the production of up to 40 [i]Fubuki[/i] class destroyers by the end of 1927. Japanese dockyards are buzzing with mobilized workers as the demands are put to the test. The Japanese navy is growing, and fast
- A new doctrine is introduced to the IJN. Rather than have small “teams” for controlling damages and fires on ships, it is now the responsibility of all available sailors to drop what they are doing and save their vessel. Due to Japan’s smaller production capabilities, every ship is considered precious, and it cannot be stressed enough that having only a handful of people to stop flooding/fires is a bad idea
- The Japanese navy begins large scale exercises in the pacific, testing the navy’s rapid response capabilities from the captured territories of Germany, all the way to Sakhalin. Few are bothered by the exercise, as its too far away to care about, and nobody really believes the Japanese to have any major imperial plans in the future
- The Type 1 radio system undergoes mass production and is introduced to the military in droves. The army moves to place these radios in the artillery divisions, allowing for more cohesive and accurate bombardments. These radios are introduced alongside the new Type 91 100mm field gun, which can be towed either by horse or truck
- Two major advances in electronics are made by the Japanese navy. First, using a series of radio transceivers, microphones and recording devices, Japanese ships can “ping” the ocean around them. The sound waves “bounce” off of objects in the water, and are picked up by microphones. A listener trained to count the time between bounces can triangulate the presence of everything from reefs to submarines
- The second advancement is the use of a civilian design, nicknamed the “Uda Antenna”. Using a series of rods that lead to a single transceiver, this antenna can pick up waves from a much farther distance and with more varied frequencies. These are placed upon the [i]Kaga[/i] and [i]Akagi[/i], allowing them to receive orders from the shoreline[/quote]
[quote][img]https://i.imgur.com/FPIvDkd.png[/img]
- Turkey and Britain strike a deal to reorganize the ownership of northern Iraq. For 6 months, the people living in these reorganized territories are free to move to where they feel is appropriate. A large number of Kurds move south to Iraq, while the Turkish population scattered throughout Iraq and Jordan rapidly hauls northward to this new territory. A semi-autonomous governorate of Erbil is introduced to ensure that no flashpoints occur amongst the population
- A handful of Turkish and Soviet state industry advisors swap nations for a year to observe their neighbor and provide advice. Though Turkey does not have state control of its agriculture, the Soviets help in the creation of organized, state-owned factories. However, the Bolsheviks are a little put off by the massive private sector in Turkey
- Reza Khan, Prime Minister of Iran and leader of the Coup D’etat in 1921, visits Ankara and Istanbul. In Turkey, he learns the importance of republicanism, and even visits Moscow for a short period of time. Upon his return to Iran, now knowing he has two friends as neighbors, Reza Khan declares a total dissolution of the Iranian monarchy and the creation of the Iranian Republic. Diplomatically, this is considered a great success for Turkey
- Religious clothing like the Fez and Şalvar are banned outright. The only ones allowed to wear such clothing are registered religious leaders such as Imams, Rabbis and Priests. Civil servants are instructed to follow a strict dress code, and men are encouraged to wear western hats such as fedoras or bowler caps
- The Turkish government introduces more “European” styles of punishment and sentences. Smaller misdemeanor crimes are met with monetary fines rather than jail time, and only the most heinous of crimes receive excessively long sentences. However, those that are charged with supporting Islamists, Monarchists or Communists, or otherwise being “seditious individuals”, are slapped with sentences ranging from 15-40 years in prison. Civil disobedience is applicable for such charges, though the definition is vague
- Under a new law introduced by the Turkish government, all are seen as equal under the law. Women are no longer barred from serving in working positions of any kind, and polygamy is officially outlawed. This decision is rejoiced in the liberal urban areas of Turkey, and causes outrage in the rural areas of the east
- The Türk Dili Vakfı (Turkish Language Foundation) is formed to begin the arduous process of first unifying the Turkish dialects into one, and “latinizing” them. This is just another step Mustafa Kemal and his affiliates have taken to distance Turkey from the Islamic world and drag Turkey into a position being a European power once again
- At the TDV, a number of positions are open to latinizing other languages. Zazaki and Kurmanji, two languages native to Turkey’s southeast, are treated with the same latinization, as the Turkish government does not want to risk having multiple scripts floating around their country. Assyrian and Armenian, though tiny minorities within Turkey, also petition to have a latinization project
- The disorganized and rotting railways of Adana are dug up and laid back down via the use of both new industrial equipment and mobilized labor of the poor/unemployed. This is paired with a rail project stretching around the coast of the Sea of Marmara, where the city of Istanbul begs to be joined with the rest of the nation via the use of railways
- Mines across the nation are expanded as exploration projects receive major funding from the Turkish government. This is unsurprising as Turkey moves to have an incredibly powerful private sector that is relatively untouched by the government outside of regulations and safety
- A large number of German expats, mainly officers, are invited to Turkey to oversee the management of the recently reorganized military. A push for the modernization of tactics begins as the Germans begin discussing moving from massed armies to “infiltration” tactics, or using smaller, more cohesive units to take and hold positions, rather than just a massed wave of humanity
- Using designs from the Cei-Rigotti, an Italian rifle designed in 1900, the Turkish arms industry brainstorms a new service rifle. This version of the Cei-Rigotti drops the select fire capability in exchange for lighter weight and a smaller bolt travel. Chambered in 7.92x57mm Mauser, the Turkish army unveils the Kendi Yükleme Tüfeği Model 1924, or TM-24 for short
- Mimicking the British, Ottoman engineers begin toying with the idea of making an engine that requires shorter piston strokes. A design is decided upon, and the İngiliz Stil Motoru (British Style Engine) is born. The first handful of engines leave the factories to be placed in tractors and large trucks, rather than airplanes
[/quote]
[quote][img]https://i.imgur.com/9xkjhJb.png[/img]
- A deal is struck between the British and the French. French forces leave their menagerie of colonies in western Africa in exchange for an expanded ownership of Somaliland. Alongside this, French and British naval forces are allowed to dock within one another’s ports as deemed fit. More imperialist individuals in British society rejoice at the “securing of British dominance in the dark continent”. With this, Britain formally joins the Entente with the French
- In order to secure at least one friend, Japan officially renews its treaty of friendship with the British, and announces its continuation of the Anglo-Japanese alliance. Though Japan is not a member of the new Entente, the British and Japanese understand the importance of having someone they can rely on in the Pacific
- With the Japanese moving towards warm relations with Britain, the British then push Australia, New Zealand and even Canada to partake in naval exercises with Japan. However, this proves to be somewhat uncomfortable for the dominions, as even their combined navies are quickly becoming dwarfed by the Japanese
- The British, by hook or by crook, officially place and recognize Ali bin Hussein as the Sultan of Hejaz, in a desperate attempt to avoid the creation of a “false caliphate”, which would only lead to further lunacy within the newly acquired Muslim areas of the British colonies
- After significant pressure from the British, the Imam of Yemen folds and allows himself to be pulled into Southern Arabia. However, the Yemeni territories in the south are transferred away from the Sultan of Oman. The Imamate of Oman gives up the ghost, and agrees to be a part of the territory, as an autonomous religious center. In essence, the heart of the Muslim world, the Arabian peninsula, is under total dominance by the British
- The Sultan of Egypt is forced to back down at the table of diplomacy, and surrenders his nation to become a “protectorate” of the British. In essence, the Sultan becomes a weak puppet with a British boot on his neck. Many wonder how much more territory of Arab-majority areas Britain can take
- Municipal councils, very similar to constabularies and city halls in Britain, are introduced to the highly populated areas of the Raj, such as Delhi, Karachi and Bombay. With this, the British hope to “westernize” the Raj, and bring them up to the standards of Canada and Australia, making them a full dominion rather than a backwater resource pool
- Bankers and industries are encouraged to move to these regions, on the condition that they hire locals. These locals, especially in Bombay and Calcutta, are English speakers, thanks to the presence of British schools, and reap the benefits of such an education
- The Anglo-Persian Oil Company strikes black gold in southwestern Iraq. Similar to the oil fields of Khuzestan, southwestern Iraq is rife with oil, and a refinery is hastily constructed to begin fueling the growing thirst for oil within Britain and its colonies
- After a short declaration in parliament, 2 “observers” can be appointed from each dominion (including parts of Africa and India) to oversee and report on decisions made in Britain. However, some worry that this will lead to outside influences, and could “taint” the sanctity of parliament
- The 1924 general elections finish, and Ramsay MacDonald manages to eek out a 2% lead over his Conservative opponent Stanley Baldwin. MacDonald’s first reform, almost immediately out of the gate, is to introduce the Local Housing Act. A large chunk of the British GDP, .4%, is set aside to create housing for the homeless, as well as subsidise basic housing for the poor. This is decried by the Tories, but their voice is silenced by the Labor majority in parliament
- The British army continues centralization, but the most important reform is the introduction of the Colonial Army Order. Five Nigerian, Ten Egyptian, Five Arab, Twelve Pashtun, Twelve Bengali, Five Burmese and Fifteen Indian divisions are to be raised by the end of 1925. These will be recruited troops, all of which will receive a quick schooling in English, and then be given rigorous training to bring them up to the standards of the British army. Introducing 64 divisions means raising over 768,000 men. Due to the massive population pool of the British territories, this is a somewhat easy task, but Britain’s opponents are frightened by the sudden explosion of manpower
- Copying the SFS-LKW-1923, the Royal Army introduces a mimic. Weighing but a ton more, the Standard Carrier Mk. I can hold 12 troops, and mounts a machine gun in the front. This “half-track” vehicle can withstand repeated small arms fire, and can be used to carry troops, equipment, wounded and even tow artillery to the front
- Aston Martin, though usually in the industry for the creation of consumer cars, is tasked with making a “faster and more efficient way to harvest grain”. The Aston Martin Badger is born. Using a tractor-like front, and a small engine in the rear, this four meter wide combination of blade and bucket is Britain’s first motorized combine harvester, and can do the work of five horse-driven harvesters in a single day. Aston Martin has difficulty filling orders as Indian and African elites order them by the boatload[/quote]
[quote][img]https://i.imgur.com/JSAhm6m.png[/img]
- Japanese automobile companies quietly begin setting up shop in California and Hawaii. Though American sentiment towards Asian migrants is nothing short of hostile, people gladly spend their money on “exotic” cars. In return, some American companies sell a number of televisions and cameras in return for rights to sell Mitsubishi cars
- The United States enters a large, multinational trade deal with the Caribbean states. The American Trade and Economic Security Agreement, or ATESA for short, is essentially a free-trade block very similar to the one in Europe. America hopes to expand it to South America, and even include Canada in the agreement, but for now America is experimenting with its small banana republic friends
- Before the 1924 elections take place, Warren G. Harding signs through an executive order reforming the Bureau of Investigation to become the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The FBI has authority over any and all local police, and can intervene in crimes that take place over state lines. J. Edgar Hoover is put in place as director of the FBI, and promises to “root out sedition by any and all means”
- A crackdown on the Klan takes place. Hundreds are arrested in southern states as the FBI swoops in unannounced, and some of those guilty in the Three Days of Mayhem are brought to justice. As a response, the Klan organizes a riot to take place in Indianapolis, but the FBI catches wind, and the riot peters out as US Marines are once again mobilized. During the fighting, two Klansmen and one policeman are killed, and over 70 Klansmen are arrested
- The FBI is crucial in cracking down on alcohol as prohibition is in full swing. Thousands of barrels of illegal liquor are seized and destroyed, and the FBI moves in on mafia connections in New York, Atlantic City and Chicago as hundreds of Mafiosos flee the Italian government back home
- Sixteen FBI agents are ambushed and killed by mobsters at the ports of New York City as a false report of alcohol shipment tips off the FBI. It is believed that the mafia worked with corrupt members of the NYPD. These officers deaths spark a new discussion about the illegality of alcohol, and anti-prohibition marches take place in New York, shouting a slogan “Why Be Dry If Men Must Die!?”
- Warren G. Harding tries desperately to keep his image alive, as well as push for the Progressive party in the coming election. In cities like Pittsburgh and Los Angeles, Harding puts forward a message of social and worker equality, and leaves out the rights for African Americans in most of his speeches, but implies it time and time again. The election is incredibly contentious as the parties scramble to get some sort of footing
- Despite the push from Harding, the Progressives fail to motivate voters in key states like Pennsylvania and California, causing the Progressive party to only gather 192 electoral votes, while the Republicans scurry away with 203. The Democrats come in third with 69 electoral votes, only a 2 point lead over the National party. Calvin Coolidge is declared the victor after a short count of votes, and America holds its breath
- The House of Representatives is changed significantly as governors, senators and congressmen change their allegiance. The Progressives make a major victory in many states that they did not win during the presidential election, giving them a slim majority, but a majority nonetheless in the senate. A number of congressmen are elected under the Progressive ticket, as are many National members
- It surprises few that some in the Republican and Progressive parties, recently elected as representatives, move to create the “Social Coalition”, in which deals regarding workers rights are bilateral, and bills that are pro-worker will be pushed by both parties
- The United States Navy is organized into two massive wings, the Atlantic and Pacific fleet. Both fleets will have one main base, the former receiving Norfolk and the latter Pearl Harbor. These bases are rapidly expanded using the unemployed as a mobilized workforce, and the navies begin their reorganization. Several new ships are slated for production in order to fill the quotas. Many of the brown water ships are brought to port and scrapped, as the US feels its coasts are well defended enough
- At the United States Co., a handful of fashion-oriented designers decide to create a set of non-magnifying spectacles that use a staining process similar to church glass. Using a combination of dark purples and blues, these glasses bring comfort to the wearer on bright days, and thus “sunglasses” become a popular item in the summer of 1924
- Using a mechanical arm that moves a gramophone record onto a plate, a new model of record player is born. This “jukebox” can hold multiple records, and via the use of just a couple pennies and the press of a button, the machine slowly moves one record out of the way and places a new one down, and begins to play. These quickly become popular in restaurants and diners across the country[/quote]
[quote][img]https://i.imgur.com/1S846ib.png[/img]
- A number of pre-and Great War era ships are purchased from the Soviet Union in exchange for gold bullion. Most of these ships are destroyers and mine layers, alongside a couple of leaky submarines. A handful of destroyers that are in presentable condition are put on display for the public to see and ogle, while the rest are sent to the scrapyards
- As the Soviets continue to sell off their mothballed and outdated ships, Europe is shocked to see another deal signed to none other than Germany. For every ship, the Germans promise to send 15 SFS-LKW-1923s. After some calculations, it turns out the Germans are getting a far better deal, and are able to use the scrapped ships for their ailing metal industry
- A handful of Turkish and Soviet state industry advisors swap nations for a year to observe their neighbor and provide advice. Though Turkey does not have state control of its agriculture, the Soviets help in the creation of organized, state-owned factories. However, the Bolsheviks are a little put off by the massive private sector in Turkey
- On the first of March, 1924, Vladimir Lenin, the father of the Revolution and director of the Soviet Union since its inception, is found dead in his home of a stroke at the age of 53. A massive state funeral is held, and the entire nation is in a period of mourning for a week after the news is heard. Lenin’s body is embalmed and preserved in a massive tomb constructed in Red Square in Moscow, where he is laid in state. Forever. His body will remain on display as a reminder of how the man who lead Russia into a new age was that, a man, like all peoples of the USSR
- After short deliberation, the Party Congress moves to place Leon Trotsky in charge as premier of the USSR. Trotsky moves to have the flag changed to be more “simplistic and proletarian”, as the current flag is deemed too complex and militaristic. After a short deliberation, the new flag is chosen, and is raised over the Kremlin. A crimson red banner with no added imagery, a beacon for the workers of the world
- The Soviet military is on high alert as the party moves to put Trotsky in charge of the Soviet Union. Many are concerned over Stalin’s anti-Trotsky attitudes, and many members of the Supreme Soviet have moved to join Stalin, nearly splitting the party in two
- Trotsky begins to phase out the New Economic Policy, and introduces the new Five Year Plan. By 1929, Trotsky hopes to see the completion of a number of reforms regarding Soviet industry, agriculture and infrastructure. The Five Year Plan is ratified, even by the Stalinists, and is put into place
- The first major reform is to tackle the ailing Soviet industry and build it back from the ground up. Old factories built during the Great War that were left untouched until 1923 are bulldozed and their equipment either scrapped or repurposed. Existing factories are expanded and brought up to the new Soviet standard, with any old, outdated equipment immediately broken down and either scrapped or updated
- The second reform is in regards to Soviet infrastructure. The Soviet Union is the world’s largest nation, and spans two continents. However, the Motherland straddles the world on weak legs, those legs being the criss-crossing mess of railways that stretch from Vladivostok to Leningrad. A gigantic project is underway to rip those old railways out and replace them, meeting the new European standard set by France and Britain. Much of the labor to replace and refit these rails are mobilized peasants no longer able to tend the fields, or those simply without work in the cities
- A land survey takes place throughout the Soviet Union. In areas outside of western Russia, the Soviet Government knows little of how the land is put together and what resources can be exploited. This project will take at least a year to complete, as every square kilometer of the Soviet Union must be observed and recorded to discover what industries can be set up. Trotsky’s dream of a self-sufficient USSR may, if the winds blow right, be a reality within a few decades
- A huge number of orphanages are constructed by Soviet workers. These gigantic state-run orphanages are known as Народные Дома (Narodnyye Doma) [People’s Houses] are monitored by state employees, and act as houses and schools for orphans of the Soviet Union. Within these schools, which have a near perfect ratio of 25:1 pupil/teacher, children are educated daily with mathematics, science, language and engineering. Most importantly, once students reach the age of 12, they are introduced to members of the military. Both boys and girls are given weekly training sessions in which they practice rifle drills and maneuvers, and have the ideals of the revolution pounded into their head at any and all times
- Though a simplistic design at first glance, Soviet engineers dabble in the creation of a “blind” rivet, or rivets that are specifically built to hold areas that are under intense stress to prevent them from being disconnected or buckling under pressure. Everything from houses to tanks benefits from these simplistic, single-threaded rivets
- Vasily Degtyaryov, a prolific weapons designer, is tasked with the creation of a “mobile machine gun”. Mimicking the Lewis and the Masden, Degtyaryov creates a “pan-magazine” fed machine gun chambered in 7.62x54r, the standard Russian cartridge. Dubbed the DP-24, this machine gun has 550 RPM rate of fire, and weighs 11kg. It is by no means “light”, but it needs only a single man to carry it rather than the 2-3 to operate a Maxim or Lewis gun[/quote]
[highlight]Turns Due Saturday, January 20th[/highlight]
We Gastonposting now?
[IMG]https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/208609244772040704/400479161321521152/8o9AWiX.png[/IMG]
[B][U]I have sent espionage. If you currently have a turn in, and want to change it, I will allow for one edit so long as it is done before Saturday[/U][/B]
[B]I Have[/B]
Japan
USA
USSR
France
[B]I Need[/B]
Germany
Italy
Turkey
UK
[B][U]I have extended the due date to 12:00 AM CST on Sunday, as I understand this is a busy time for some people.[/U][/B]
[B]I Have[/B]
USSR
Germany
Turkey
[B]I Need[/B]
Italy
[B]Turns Done[/B]
France
Japan
USA
UK
[img]https://i.imgur.com/yLK9hQZ.png[/img]
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