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There are 12 playable factions in MTW -
England
France
Almohad
Spain
Italy
Holy Roman Empire
Poland
Russia
Byzantium
Turkey
Denmark
Egypt
There are also a few other, smaller, unplayable factions - these are:
- Papal States
- The Golden Horde (mongols)
- Aragon
- Swiss
- Hungary
- Sicily
- Novgorod
As well as "The Rebels" who are much like the ronin in STW - they dont have a leader, and do not
represent one faction, but many, smaller ones, these include the Scots and Irish (which i am disapointed in
because im Scottish and would have loved to see the Scots with their own faction)
Historical and Gameplay Information on the 12 Playable Factions is below.
England
France
Almohad
Spain
Italy
Holy Roman Empire
Poland
Russia
Byzantium
Turkey
Denmark
Egypt
ENGLAND
Rulers of a green and pleasant land, the Kings of England grew rich and powerful
in their island kingdom and their people were prosperous and merry.
The sea served as a moat and their ships as wooden walls, protecting
all from invasion. From their royal seat in London, they also ruled many
lands beyond the sea while their navies ranged far across the oceans,
bringing the rich bounty of the world to their doors.
In The Early Era:
By 1087 England is, for the most part, firmly in the control of
its Norman overlords. The King, his courtiers
and the great lords are all French-speaking Normans,
and most hold lands on both sides of the English Channel.
England is only one part of a larger, Norman domain but
increasingly wealthy due to the woollen trade. The King's
holdings in France, it has to be said, are far more valuable
than his English provinces.
This basic position on both a defensible island
and on the continent brings opportunities and
problems for an English King. The kingdom is sprawling
and not always easy to defend at every point. There are
also political considerations: thanks to ancient oaths of fealty,
the English King is nominally a vassal of the French King.
This status is ignored by English Kings as a matter of course,
but is a bone of contention with France. The English ambition
to gain land and power at the expense of France is another
issue in the two nations' intertwined histories. The English
kings are, of course, Catholic, but they are not above struggles
with Rome over who controls the Church in England, a struggle
that has still to be played out to a conclusion. That said,
the Kings of England are largely pious and god-fearing.
As always, when looking to expand, the English must
look both close to home and across the seas to France.
With holdings in France an attack there can look tempting,
but any English ruler who doesn't keep an eye on Scotland
at the same time is asking for trouble. Scotland, Wales
and Ireland can be subdued first, but it is likely to be
at a high cost in blood and treasure. In turn, this risks
an attack by the French. And once conquered, new lands will
need to be firmly occupied. All that said, the English have
Norman vigour and a growing sense of national identity to
bind them together under a strong war leader.
They have the potential to flower into a great western empire.
In The High Era - In 1205 England is a land with potential greatness,
but one that has suffered hard knocks in the previous
decades and seen its power diminished. The English still
have the potential to become a great continental power,
uniting the home islands and France beneath a single
crown. This almost came about under Henry II fifty
years ago, but since then his Angevin empire has been divided and lost.
England has become an island nation, but a
potentially wealthy one (English wealth is based
almost exclusively on its unglamorous but
profitable wool trade). The fearsome
Welsh longbow has begun to make its
contribution to English armies too.
The overseas holdings of the English
Kings are much reduced, lost to the French
in a series of disastrous bargains, wars
and acts of foolishness. At one point almost
masters in France, the English have been
on the defensive for generations,
holding on to the last valuable lands they own.
However, the English are now the master in their
island home. The Welsh have been subdued, if
not yet crushed; Wales still needs strong
garrisons. Ireland too is an English possession,
although this too needs a formidable garrison.
The Scots can be contained, probably, and permanent
conquest of Scotland (or dynastic chicanery
to achieve the same ends) remains an English
ambition, and one that could be fulfilled
with sufficient effort.
Looking abroad, there are the lost
French lands of the Angevin kings to
re-conquer. The kingdom of France may
now rule much of France, but any English
king could - and should - make a good claim
to rule on French soil. The few lands in France
that remain are valuable in themselves, but also
offer a toehold to launch an attack to retake what
is rightfully English! And once conquered, these
lands will need garrisons to protect them from inevitable
French reprisals. This struggle for dominance with the
French will need to be uppermost in any English ruler's
mind, and guide his choice of allies in both the short and long term.
Overall, the English still represent a credible force in the race to become a power in western Christendom.
Later Period :
Over the last century or so English kings have had mixed fortunes. The current ruler, Edward II, faces the hostility of the great nobles at every turn. Poorly considered disputes with the Papacy, fellow monarchs and great lords at home have all weakened the throne considerably. The English, for example, are a pious people and the Kings have suffered accordingly when going against papal authority. The Magna Carta has, in theory, made the King subject to the rule of law in the same way as his subjects, limiting his freedom to govern as he sees fit. England has also changed at the lower levels of society. A new class of petty landowners has come into being, the yeomen. There are still poor farmers, of course, but the yeomen have added greatly to the wealth of the country, and in parallel with their rising wealth they have greater expectations and pride in their new status. They are far less willing to submit meekly to their social betters, as once would have been the case. The loyalty of Englishmen and their willingness to pay taxes at the whim of the King can no longer be counted upon!
Even with these concerns, England is wealthy and relatively well governed. The Welsh and Irish are, for the most part, safely subdued. Scotland remains the thorn in English flesh, one that will always need careful attention. All English Kings still hope for the uniting of the English and French crowns - worn, of course, by an Englishman. These ambitions are not as hopeless as they might seem for, although the old Angevin lands are gone, England may still have strength enough to conquer what her Kings claim in France. In turn, the French extend their claim of feudal sovereignty beyond the old English holdings in France to English holdings in England! It is not so many years since French soldiers harried the south coast of England. This continuing struggle for dominance with the French will need to be uppermost in any English ruler's mind, and guide his choice of allies.
Overall, the English position has promise. The strengths of the country have been ill served, under-used and squandered, but the potential for greatness under a strong leader is very real.
The English are Catholic
UNIQUE ENGLISH UNITS
BILLMEN:
The billhook was a farming tool: an axe-and-hook with a long handle. After it had evolved into a weapon, it could hack, stab or drag a man to his death. English Billmen are well trained in fighting against armoured and mounted soldiers, pulling knights or men-at-arms to their deaths! Billmen get a +3 attack and defence bonus against cavalry. The billhook also fits in to the pole-arm class of weapon which provides additional bonuses when defending against a cavalry charge.
LONGBOWMEN:
Welsh and English Longbowmen are the finest archers in Europe, well able to create a storm of arrows against targets 300m away. Even knights are vulnerable thanks to the armour-piercing bodkin arrowheads they use. Longbowmen are often best when the enemy is forced to attack and then shot down!
ENGLANDS GLORIOUS ACHIEVEMENTS
Kingdom of England:
The heart of England must be defended against incursions. Points are counted at 1204, 1320 and 1453. The following provinces must be controlled:
- Wessex
- Mercia
- Northumbria
- Normandy
Wool Trade:
Control more than 2/3 rds of the wool trade. Points are counted at 1250, 1300, 1350, 1400, and 1450.
Plantagenet Lands:
Own Normandy and Aquitane 1453.
Crush the Scots:
The 'Auld Alliance' continues to help the Scots defy English sovereignty over Scotland. The defeat of these unruly highlanders will be a testament to your faction's greatness". Own Scotland in 1320.
Crusade:
Successfully launch a crusade.
EVENTS DIRECTLY EFFECTING THE ENGLISH:
The Constitutions of Clarendon:
The King of England has issued 16 articles, defining all the legal dealings between the Church and his servants. These articles limit the powers and rights of the clergy and the Pope when dealing with English matters. The English King gains +1 Influence and -1 Piety as a result.
Magna Carta:
The lords and barons of England have succeeded in limiting the King's powers over them and lesser men in the land. While the King's standing suffers a little (-1 Influence), this act binds the nobility closely to their monarch. +3 Loyalty to all English Generals.
Chivalry:
The code of knighthood binds men to behave in a brave and honourable manner, defend the weak, protect the virtuous, and give and receive every courtesy to friends and foes alike. Chivalry is an ideal that is not always achieved, but its emphasis on virtue helps to spread the Catholic faith more widely.
HISTORICAL CAMPAIGN : THE HUNDRED YEARS WAR
The 'Hundred Years War' was fought by England and France from 1337 to 1457, although warfare was by no means continuous during this period. English kings felt that they had good claims to much of France and even to the French throne. Most of the fighting took place on French soil, but there were occasional attacks on English coastal towns by French raiders. When there was fighting, it was bloody and often merciless. The French nobility regarded war as their vocation, and were horrified to be confronted and beaten by lesser - but more professional - English soldiers. The three battles in this campaign show the differences in war making between the English and the French. By 1420 the English, under their finest warrior-king, Henry V, had very nearly achieved their goals. But even victories at Crécy, Poitiers and Agincourt would not be quite enough. As an historical aside, the English owe their traditional two-fingered gesture of contempt to the Hundred Years' War. The French threatened to cut off the first two fingers of any longbowman they captured, thus crippling the man as a warrior. Waving two fingers at the French thus became a way of defying them and daring them to come and make good their threats of mutilation!
Crécy 1346:
Crécy was the opening battle of Edward the Black Prince's assault on Normandy, one of the early campaigns of the Hundred Years' War. The French had been careful to avoid battle with the tactically superior English, but at Crécy they had the advantage of numbers and, apparently, better morale too. Edward chose a defensive position for his army and waited for the French attack. After exchanges between the English longbowmen and the French crossbows, the French knights lost patience and charged forwards - they even managed to trample their own crossbowmen! With little discipline, the French were cut down in droves and French knighthood lost its bravest and best.
Poitiers 1356:
Ten years after his victory at Crécy, Edward the Black Prince was still campaigning in France. In 1356 an army under King Jean Le Bon of France caught up with an English raiding force near Bordeaux. Once again, the English proved themselves to be masters of selecting ground for a fight that suited them, not the French. The English longbows wreaked terrible damage, and the French 'battles' (or divisions) did not attack together. Surprised by an English counter attack, the French broke and fled, but their King was captured. Legend has it that after the battle the chivalrous Edward served dinner to his chief captive, King Jean, before sending him back to the Tower of London to await ransom.
Agincourt 1415:
Agincourt is, perhaps, the most famous English victory in the Hundred Years' War. Following a siege at Harfleur, Henry V led his small, tired army on a march towards Calais and safety. He was trapped by a larger French army - some say five times as many men - and most of the English expected to die. In the event, the French nobility were their own worst enemies. They charged forward in search of glory and easy victory and met only death as they were shot down by English longbowmen. With Agincourt, Henry V began a campaign that almost put him on the French throne, but his triumphs were squandered by his successors.
FRANCE
Heirs to Charlemagne, the Kings of France rival his ancient greatness. Ringed around by enemies and afflicted with disunity at home, they have overcome these difficulties, smashed their enemies on the field of battle and forged a new nation! A nation that once more can be the leader of Europe, the defender of Christendom and usher in a new age of progress and enlightenment.
Early Era:
At first glance, the position of the French King looks unenviable. His centre of power around Paris and the Ile-de-France looks small and vulnerable, and the great nobles often openly flout his authority. That these great nobles also nominally include the King of England is no comfort either. In French eyes, the English Kings may be vassals in France, but in fact they act like unwelcome masters in much of the land. The King of France has no real authority in what should be his own domains where the English are concerned. Sooner or later, this problem will have to be addressed and settled once and for all.
Until then, France must contend with a potentially aggressive neighbour to the north, the Holy Roman Empire to the east, the relatively weak Christian kingdoms of Spain to the south, and Italy. After the English, the Holy Roman Empire is the greatest rival, particularly if the Emperor harbours ambitions of conquering Italy. If possible, expansion into northern Italy represents a good way of securing French glory and thwarts Imperial ambitions. This is particularly true if relations with the Catholic Church become strained. A French army in Rome is a powerful argument when dealing with the Papacy, but provokes religious discontent by its presence.
If all this paints a bleak picture of French prospects, things are not quite as bad as they appear. France is a very rich country and can have more-than-ample resources to draw upon. Once the French king has spent wisely and secured his heartlands, an enemy could have a difficult time in taking them, especially against the flower of French knighthood. And when waging a war of aggression, France has the same advantages: in honour and nobility, those same French knights are the envy of the world! Above all, France must avoid expansion (and therefore warfare) in too many places at the same time. War against the English must not allow the Empire to nibble away at French possessions, and vice versa. France has the power to prosper mightily, but only when this power is used carefully.
High Era:
The star of French kings is definitely in the ascendant. They have done much in the last century to make France strong, and to secure her borders against foreign aggression. Thanks to English carelessness (and the power of French armies) some of the lands that had English overlords are now back in French hands. The French nobility are still intractable and wilful, of course, and flout the King's authority at every opportunity, but the King's position is strong, his treasury wealthy and his prospects better than they have ever been.
The English, of course, still see much of France as their property and still want to be masters of the realm. The French must contend with this aggressive neighbour to the north, but can counter the English by conducting invasions of their own - the English cannot be strong everywhere! To the east, the Holy Roman Empire is less of a threat than it used to be, perhaps, as opportunities exist for an Imperial move eastwards rather than into France. Expansion into northern Italy still represents a good way of securing French glory, and may also thwart Imperial ambitions in that direction - and damage the Italians too! To the south, the Spanish are likely to be pre-occupied with their wars against the Almohads. The French do have some of the finest knights in the world at their disposal, but more than great valour may be required to win new glory for the crown!
This all paints a rosy picture of French strengths and prospects, but a wise ruler knows to allow for contingencies. Spending wisely to secure what is already French is always a good strategy before mounting any expedition to take new lands. Religious differences can tear a realm apart as surely as any others, and the French need to be aware of this, as heresy is a cancer if not cut out. The Catholic Church, not always the easiest of allies, needs to be appeased or controlled, so the power and benefits of a Crusade are also things that a French monarch should bear in mind.
Late Era:
The last century has been kind to France. French Kings have become the masters in their own kingdom, put their government on a sound financial and administrative footing (something vital to the future health of the realm) and have developed a close relationship with the Papacy. Some would describe this as a domination of the Papacy, even though the Pope is not actually "imprisoned" on French soil. It was partly this influence that allowed the French monarchy to turn on the Knights Templar, accuse them of heresy, strip them of their accumulated wealth and lands and then destroy the crusading order, sending their Templars' Grand Master to the stake.
Rivalry with England is still central in all French policy, as it has to be to keep the English at bay and off-balance. Although related by marriage to the Kings of England, French rulers rightly have little love for their northern neighbours and treat them with suspicion and hostility, although this is sometimes cloaked beneath soft words! The English would still like to recover their former lands in France; the French cannot allow this, as they would be tenants in their own homes if such a disaster came to pass. To the south, there is the chance to meddle in the affairs of Italy and Spain: driving out the Muslims could easily allow new French possessions beyond the Pyrenees if the Spanish grow careless. To the east and in Italy the Holy Roman Empire is both a threat and an opportunity. A misstep by the Emperor may allow the French to expand their possessions; a strong Emperor bears careful watching.
In short then, France's position in the world is enviable: its farmlands are rich, its merchants wealthy, its monarchy secure and strong, its royal armies valorous and unmatched in honour. A wise ruler knows to allow for contingencies and secure his own lands before coveting new possessions, but the prospects for the future are excellent.
The French are Catholic
FRENCH GLORIOUS ACHIEVEMENTS
The Krak des Chevaliers
The Knights of St. John have called for a mighty citadel to be built in Tripoli
as a bastion for the Crusaders. Points are counted between 1100-1200. Build a Citadel
in Tripoli.
The Homelands
The Heart of Frances Homeland must be defended against Incursions, Points are counted
Every 25 years. The Following provinces must be controled:
- Flanders
- Britanny
- Ile De France
- Champagne
- Toulouse
- Edessa
- Palestine
- Antioch
HISTORICAL CAMPAIGN : THE HUNDRED YEARS WAR
With the death of Henry V of England in 1422, the French were spared the humiliation
of having an English king on the throne of France.
King Charles of France, although quite mad, did his country one last service
by just outliving Henry, and the French crown never passed to an English monarch.
The English, for their part, were too busy with political in-fighting over control of
the child king Henry VI to wage another effective campaign.
The tide of war was almost turning in favour of the English, that is until the appearance
of a Charismatic young woman - Jeanne D'Arc, who was to lead the French army to new victories,
and drive out the hated English.
Orleans 1429:
Once Jeanne D'Arc had convinced king Charles she was not mad or a heretic, it became
clear she was not only an inspirational leader, but she also had the practical military
skills of a general many years her senior. With Orleans surrounded by an English army, the french
needed a victory to lift the protracted seige, and with Jeanne as their living banner, they had
good chance of success
The Loire Valley 1429:
Even With Orleans saved from the English attackers, there were still problems for the French.
The Loire Valley was still full of English troops as the English had abanndoned thier old
strategy of Raiding and Despoiling the countryside to one of Occupation and Seige. Without
this valley being cleared of English soldiers, the victory at orleans would be a hollow one,
With the english gone the french would have new freedom of action... Jeanne led her men to the
attack.
THE ALMOHADS
On the western fringes of Africa and Europe, the Khalifah rules over
a pleasant and bountiful kingdom. Their citizens excel at
the arts and sciences. Its scholars keep great libraries;
its architects raise great palaces, and create pleasant gardens.
The leaders of the Kingdom follow the teachings of Islam, revealed
through the Quran and the Sunnah, as do many of their people. Even
the barbarous Christians of the north cannot but be awed by the
wealth and grandeur of this land.
Early Era:
Coming from a nomadic desert people, the Berber tribesmen of the Almoravid and Almohad dynasties conquered North Africa and then, at the request of the Iberian Muslim princes, came to Spain to protect Islam. In the process, they took Spain for themselves. When the Almoravids abandoned their simple lifestyle in favour of the comfort and luxury of sophisticated city life, the Almohads turned their backs on such lax and easy living, and in doing so sealed the fate of the Almoravids. They were overthrown.
The Almohad Caliphate now stretches along the North Africa and into Spain. The Khalifah's rule to date has been hard, uncompromising and very successful. The Almohads get little love from the Christians and Jews that they rule, as earlier liberal attitudes towards both groups have been abandoned, but this lack of loyalty has had little impact. The Almohads have some remarkable strength as rulers: their military prowess is superb, their religiously inspired troops have few equals, and they feel little fear of the resurgent Christian Spanish in Castile. They hold down an unenthusiastic population and still manage to mount major military expeditions. But this unpopularity could also be a weakness - constant vigilance in the face of disaffected people can be tiring for any regime.
The Caliphate's rulers are, however, better placed to carry their conquests further into Christian Europe than any other Islamic power. They stand ready to wear down Spain, if not crush it outright. A weakened France could then be their next target, swinging south into Italy or north towards the rich pickings of England's continental holdings. Holding off Spanish aggression, should it come, would also give them the chance to attack in the Mediterranean, towards Egypt and then the Holy Land.
The Almohad Provinces in the Early Era Are:
- Cordoba
- Granada
- Morocco
- Algeria
- Tunisia
- Cyrenicia
The Almohad Starting Units in the Early Era Are:
- 5 Desert Archers
- 3 Berber Camels
- 2 Almohad Urban Militia
- 3 Peasants
- 1 Saharan Cavalry
- 1 Ghulam Bodyguards
- 1 Emissary
High Era:
The Almohad Caliphate includes North African coastal lands and a large part of the Spanish peninsula. Coming from a desert people, the Berber tribesmen of the Almohad dynasty conquered North Africa and then took Spain from its Islamic princes while supposedly helping them. The Almohads never enjoyed lax morality and easy living, and so have ruled their lands with a rod of iron. The Khalifah's rule has kept his subject Christians and Jews under control, although this is now just as much a reflection of the intolerant attitudes shown by the Kings of Spain towards their Islamic and Jewish subjects.
Catholic strength in Spain is a problem that needs addressing by the Almohads. Their domain has always been the target for the Spanish who are intolerant of Islam, and they have been slowly driven south. As a consequence, Almohad policy must be concentration of effort against further Spanish attacks. Unless these Spanish are checked there can be no revival in Almohad fortunes, as the Iberian peninsular provinces are the richest in their empire. The Almohads still have considerable strength: their government is efficient; their military skills are formidable; and their troops have few equals in open battle when handled well, being as fanatical and brave as any Christian "crusader".
If the Almohads rise to meet the immediate challenges they face, then they can be a power in the Mediterranean world and beyond. The Spanish are not unbeatable (their own internal problems are great), and beyond them the French and English are still at each other's throats. Both the Christian provinces of Spain and the southern lands of France present rich pickings, and simply reaching the Pyrenees would give the Khalifah's armies a natural defensive line to hold. Across the sea, the southern Italian provinces could also be rich targets, although a direct threat to Rome could unite Catholic forces. Along the north African coast, Egyptian lands may also be vulnerable as the rulers of Egypt are likely to be distracted by Crusaders in the Holy Lands and the possibility of a resurgent Byzantine Empire.
The Almohad Provinces in the High Era Are:
- Cordoba
- Granada
- Morocco
- Algeria
- Tunisia
- Cyrenicia
- Valencia
The Almohad Starting Units in the Late Era Are:
- 1 Ballista
- 3 Desert Archers
- 1 CrossBowMen
- 1 Berber Camels
- 1 Ghazi Infantry
- 3 Militia Sergeants
- 2 Peasants
- 1 Ghulam Cavalry
- 1 Ghulam Bodygurads
- 3 Nubian Spearmen
- 2 Dhows
- 1 Baggalas
- 1 Emissary
The Almohads are a Muslim Faction
THE SPANISH
In the land between Europe and Africa, between the calmness of
the middle sea and the stormy ocean, was founded the Kingdom
of Spain. Reclaiming their land from the infidel invaders,
they forged a strong kingdom "that never again would be overrun.
Steadfast in religion, humble before God, they could be proud before
lesser men. Their great ships voyaged far, seeking out new lands
and trade, such that the wealth of the King of Spain became rightly legendary.
Early Era:
The Christian kings of Spain are not the only claimants of the lands south of the Pyrenees. The Islamic rulers of the Almohad Caliphate possess much of the peninsular, and are seen as blood enemies by the Spanish. Almost driven from their lands by the Almohads, the Spanish have clung grimly to their remaining provinces and fought back. The defence of Christian Spain has become a holy cause, as the Spanish see themselves as the defenders of Christendom in the west. Even so, they face a great and powerful enemy in the Almohads and one that is, by many standards, a good deal more advanced and civilized than they.
The defeat of the Almohad Caliphate must be the priority for any Spanish King. Unless and until the Almohads are driven from Spanish soil, they will always be a threat, just by their presence. Peaceful co-existence may be possible for a while, but long term it is an illusion. Catholic Spain and Islamic Spain want the same lands and the same souls, and the Catholic Kings of Spain should be in no mood for compromise. To date, they have not been able to afford the luxury of tolerance, and are unlikely to be able to do so in future. The Spanish can harness their vigorous faith in pursuit of victory, but the Almohads will have to be worn down on many battlefields to secure a Spanish homeland. If this is not done too many resources and men will have to be committed to defensive garrisons to allow new conquests to be made.
Bringing all of Spain back into the Catholic fold may be greatness enough for some but once it is done further expansion is possible. Any invasion into southern France is across rugged and inhospitable terrain, and this will require a Spanish King's undivided attention, but with experienced troops it could be done. It could also be advantageous for Spain if the French and English have already bled each other dry too.
The Spanish rarely have military power to spare for Crusades towards the east and the Holy Land unless they have defeated the Islamic princes closer to home. But Crusades can also be a powerful tool in this domestic struggle; a mighty weapon indeed, but the consequences of a Crusade can also be terrible and unpredictable.
High Era:
A century of warfare has not been enough to free all of Spain from its Almohad overlords and impose a new Catholic order on the country. The Kings of Spain still face a struggle to take all the lands south of the Pyrenees from their traditional blood enemies. It is true that there have been times of peace, but these have also been times of preparation for the next war and the next victory. The further expansion of Christian Spain rather than just its defence has taken on the air of a crusade for the Spanish, and the elimination of Islamic and non-Christian influences inside Spanish domains is now pursued with equal vigour.
Unless the infidels are driven from Spain, the Spanish will never feel entirely safe. Catholic Spain and Islamic Spain want the same land and the same souls, and Kings of Spain cannot and should not think of compromise. Intolerance is the policy of the state and the Church in Spanish lands, a means of securing loyalty through fear as well as faith.
Bringing Almohad lands into the Catholic fold may be greatness enough for some, but once it is done further expansion of the Spanish domain is possible. Any invasion into southern France is likely to be across rugged and inhospitable terrain, and this will require the nation's undivided attention. If the Almohads have not been defeated, too many men will be needed as garrisons to allow new conquests to be made, but successful warfare against the Almohads will also give the Spanish an experienced army, one that can be used for other conquests. With the French and English still locked in their long-running dispute and a rise in religiously inspired (and heretical) disloyalty in southern France, there is always the chance a Spanish kingdom with possessions to the north and south of the Pyrenees could be created, and perhaps even with lands in Italy as well.
There is, of course, always the chance to become involved in a Mediterranean struggle for new territory. Southern Italy can be vulnerable to invasion, especially if weakened by internal struggles, or if France or the Holy Roman Empire repeatedly invade the Italian peninsular from the north.
Late Era:
Centuries of warfare have not yet been enough to free all of Spain from its Moorish overlords and impose Catholic order on the country. In the far south, a few die-hard Muslims remain unconquered. In the other parts of the land, there is also much work to do in rooting out the vestiges of Islamic influence - not everyone who claims to love the Church does so with the right degree of fervour, and so the Christian Kings of Spain still fight to free their lands from their blood enemies. Times of peace have been the lull before the storm. Until the remaining Muslims are driven from the Iberian peninsular, the Spanish will never feel safe. Catholic Spain has what it considers to be a divine mission to save not just the land, but also the souls of the people, and there can be no rest until the final victory is won.
Bringing Muslim lands into the Catholic fold may be worthwhile enough for some lords, but once this has been done, there are new possessions to attract the eye of any King of Spain. There is always a chance to become involved in a Mediterranean policy for acquiring new territory. Southern Italy can be vulnerable to invasion, especially if weakened by internal struggles, or if France or the Empire have invaded repeatedly from the north.
An alliance with the Holy Roman Empire can leave France surrounded and vulnerable, especially if the French are preoccupied with English entanglements. Southern France is a very different country from the north, and may accept a Spanish monarch - if the invasion can be pulled off successfully! And, finally, no King of Spain should ever forget the dynastic possibilities of marriage as a way of forming ties with almost any kingdom. As well as giving Spain claims to new lands, such links can provide allies for all kinds of adventures!
The Spanish Are Catholic
THE ITALIANS
The new Italy is a shining example of modernity. Its once divided cities have united in
a mighty state for the common good. Under its protection people
enjoy their lives in peace. Their armies and navies bring security,
their trade brings wealth and luxury and their mastery of
art and literature brings them enjoyment. This is an oasis
of light in a dark world and it is here that civilization is reborn.
Early Era:
The Italians are blessed with rich lands, industry and wealth from trade besides. Much of Europe's wealth flows into Italy and the coffers of the Pope, and much of his wealth then flows out into the hands of Italian merchants. All of this gives Italy's rulers a chance to become great, for as the Roman writer Cicero put it: "nervos belli, pecuniam infinitam" (the sinews of war, unlimited money). They are also blessed with a warlike and adventurous nature, which can make them a difficult people to rule at times. There is also the ever-present problem of Rome and the papacy: religion and religious feeling can work both for and against rulers.
Opportunities come in many guises for a bold Italian ruler. To the northwest the French hold on their southern provinces is not always as secure as the northern French kings would wish; religious and secular differences can mean that France has problems with its own people even while it is struggling against English expansionism. To the north, Imperial power can slip or fail. To the east, the Balkans can be a tempting potential empire for Italy. And there is always the prospect of becoming a naval power. Perhaps, in the long term, domination of the Mediterranean offers the best chance of Italian supremacy. True, the great powers of the Byzantine Empire and the Islamic kingdoms will have to be challenged for naval and mercantile supremacy. With the wealth of Mediterranean trade at his disposal and his home provinces secured, any Italian ruler should be able to expand his holdings.
All of these strategies have their risks. The same wealth that helps Italy also makes it an attractive target to others. Both the French King and the Emperor may not be able to resist meddling in Italy, or even mounting a full-scale invasion. Competing at sea means taking power that the Byzantines may consider as rightfully theirs, or may weaken the Byzantines so that they no longer form a bulwark against future Islamic expansion. But if Italy benefits from all these machinations and from a Crusade or two...
High Era:
Italy is blessed with rich farmlands, skilled craftsmen and cunning merchants. It is also cursed by the presence of rich farmlands, skilled craftsmen and cunning merchants, or at least by the desire that this wealth provokes in others. Much of the wealth of western and northern Europe flows into and through Italy, into the coffers of the pope and the banking houses of the cities and money can be converted into both military and political clout. The Italians are also blessed with an adventurous and sometimes warlike nature, one that makes them difficult, even rebellious, subjects at times but worthwhile soldiers in times of war.
There are opportunities on all sides for a skilled and resolute Italian leader. To the northwest the French are likely to be concentrating on their rivalry with England, or looking to the east and more Crusades. To the north the Swiss are defiantly independent and good soldiers to boot. Beyond them the Empire can be a tempting target should it fall into disorder. To the east, the fading power of Byzantium is still something to be treated with respect, but that respect need not be as boundless as it was once. The Byzantines have many problems of their own and may not be able to hold what is currently theirs in the Balkans. To the far south lie the Islamic lands across the Mediterranean. Invasion there would be difficult, and it is a wise Italian prince who remembers that an invasion force can come from the most inconvenient direction. The seas also offer the chance of maritime greatness: profitable trade and warfare can go hand in hand at sea.
Papal authority may also not be as solid as it was once upon a time, but it's always worth remembering that Italy, the home of the Papacy, is a tempting target for a strong Emperor. Heretical thought has been growing for many years over some of the Church's more dubious practices, such as selling absolution for sins, not to mention the Church's ever-increasing wealth. In many cases, this heresy is no more than a desire to return to simpler, less worldly religious practices. But there are heretics in northern Italy and in France who represent more of a threat to the established order, the Cathars among them. Although it could be a terrible risk, carrying excommunication and damnation as the price of failure, an Italian ruler could exploit these religious differences to his own ends.
Late Era:
Italy is fortunate to have rich farmlands, skilled and industrious craftsmen and profit-hungry merchants. Much of Europe's wealth flows through Italian mercantile houses that are among the cleverest and most sophisticated in Europe. Italian cities are richer than almost any other Christian towns, rivalling Islamic cities (on a modest scale) with their culture and magnificence. In turn, this wealth is readily converted into political and military power. The Italians are an adventurous and occasionally warlike people: rebellious subjects at times but worthwhile soldiers in times of war.
There are opportunities and perils in unequal measure on all sides for a skilled and resolute Italian leader. To the northwest the French are likely to be concentrating on their rivalry with England. To the north the Swiss are defiantly independent, good soldiers and a valuable buffer against the Empire. Rome, of course, is the natural home of the Papacy, and this may make Italy a route for invasion by other powers intent on using military force for religious ends - Popes tend to be compliant when surrounded! To the east, Byzantium should still be treated with caution, but the days of automatic respect and awe are probably over, unless a strong Emperor emerges in Constantinople. The Byzantines have many problems of their own and may leave chances for an Italian domain to expand. To the south lie the Islamic domains on the far shore of the Mediterranean. Invasion in either direction would be difficult, but it is a wise Italian prince who remembers that an invasion force can come from the most inconvenient direction. But the seas also offer the chance of maritime greatness: profitable trade and warfare go hand in hand at sea.
Religion and politics also go hand in hand, and a resolute Italian leader may be able to exploit the confusion and problems in the Catholic Church. This could be a terrible risk, however, carrying excommunication and damnation as the price of failure!
The Italians Are Catholic
THE HOLY ROMAN EMPIRE
Claiming the heritage of Charlemagne and claiming the heritage of Rome,
the Holy Roman Empire dominates central Europe and its power is felt in
many lands beyond. Ruling a land of petty princes and prosperous cities,
the Kaiser defends the lands of his empire against heathen and heretic alike -
his power cows the infidel and no jealous Christian prince dares to challenge him.
Hail to the new Caesar!
Early Era:
Although apparently surrounded by rivals and subject to internal dissent, the Holy Roman Empire is not the weakling power it might seem. The Emperor is the overlord - for the most part - of vast tracts of Germany and beyond, but his need to keep dissent and disloyalty under control can be a limitation on his power. Few within the Empire feel loyalty to anything beyond their immediate locality, making effective Imperial government almost the same as Imperial military occupation. Added to this is a rivalry with the Pope over who holds the ultimate authority within the Empire: Emperors have created their own Popes and then been excommunicated by the same men!
If, however, the Emperor succeeds in keeping his provinces in line, his powers for further conquest are formidable indeed. Any new lands he takes only add to his power and can, with careful management, eventually be more loyal to the idea of 'the Empire' than the older Imperial provinces inside Germany.
A drive to the east against Poland can give easy pickings providing care is taken. The Poles can have problems of their own on their eastern frontiers, and judicious pressure from Germany can yield real gains. A move to the southeast is possible, into the Balkans and towards the Black Sea, brushing aside or absorbing the petty kingdoms there. To the south, the rich provinces of the Italian peninsular are a temptation with an additional bonus in controlling Rome and thus influencing the Papacy, although this has the risk of causing religious unrest. To the west, the French are often distracted by their wars with England. The Empire, however, needs to avoid war against more than one opponent at a time. A central position may allow the Emperor to strike out in any direction, but he can also be attacked anywhere along his borders.
Finally, no Emperor should overlook the possibilities for power presented by a Crusade when the Pope calls for one. Who is to say what lands might be available in the wake of such an endeavour?
High Era:
Surrounded by rivals and subject to internal dissent, the Holy Roman Empire sometimes appears weak, a realm held together only by the most fragile of bonds. No one within the Empire really thinks of themselves as Imperial subjects - their loyalties are to the principality, the duchy, the free city, or even the village where they live. The Holy Roman Empire seems an ideal in the minds of men more than a physical reality, and in the hands of a weak leader it is sometimes barely this much. But under a strong Emperor, Imperial power can be awesome. The magnates can be forced to bow to Imperial authority, and once dissent and disloyalty are controlled great things can be achieved. The Empire can be held together by force of will and force of arms, and it can be made greater still by both of these.
Above all other strategic considerations, the Emperor must avoid war against more than one opponent at a time. His central position in Europe may allow attacks in any direction, and the Empire can be strongly defended against counterattacks, but a surrounded man is still surrounded, no matter how great his strength. Imperial power needs to be used against one opponent at a time, and Imperial diplomacy should be aimed at making sure enemies do not act in concert.
A drive to the east against Poland or Hungary can be profitable, although the warlike nature of these peoples should not be underestimated. Beyond is the space to expand almost at will. To the west, the French may be distracted by war with England, a long running rivalry that can be exploited. In the north, the Danes will need careful watching, intent as they are on creating their own empire. To the south, the rich provinces of the Italian peninsular are a temptation, and the long-running dispute with the Pope as to the nature of Papal authority may require an army to occupy Rome, even if this results in a religious backlash.
Finally, no Emperor should overlook the possibilities for power presented by a Crusade. Nothing lasting may yet have been achieved in the Holy Lands by Crusaders, but who is to say what benefits might be available to a cunning ruler in the wake of such an adventure?
Late Era:
Over the last century the Holy Roman Emperors have been remarkable and insignificant in turn. One Emperor managed to get himself excommunicated no fewer than three times, was crowned King of Jerusalem (against the wishes of the Church), "forgot" his promises to go on Crusades, and even made an alliance with the Islamic Egypt! For nineteen years there were two Emperors, both so unimportant that the throne had to be considered empty. But most importantly of all, there has been an end to the Hohenstaufen dynasty and the Hapsburgs are the new Imperial family.
The Hapsburgs' holdings and family connections are what now give strength to the title of Emperor. The family are masters at the art of dynastic marriage: few opportunities to extend Hapsburg lands by treaty and marriage are ever ignored! And the lands they gain are held and rarely allowed to leave family control. The Holy Roman Empire may not have the power that it once possessed, but the Hapsburg Emperor is a powerful man in Europe. His lands, wealth and armies are the envy of other monarchs. Even the disapproval of the French-influenced Papacy has not been enough to cause him problems.
Disloyalty still plagues the Empire as its principalities, duchies and free cities all pursue their own policies, but a strong Emperor can overcome these obstacles. In central Europe there are lands to be secured against regional rebels. As long as the homelands of the Empire are secure, there are opportunities for war and diplomacy on all sides. French, Danish, Polish, Hungarian, and Italian lands can all be taken, provided that the other powers can be neutralised at least for the duration of a successful war. A sensible Emperor should always bear in mind that fighting on two borders at once means that Imperial power is, by definition, split. Imperial power, when it can be used against a single target, is crushing. And as long as Imperial diplomacy can keep enemies from uniting, military power can be used in just this fashion.
Finally, no Emperor should overlook opportunities for lasting alliances with kingdoms beyond his immediate neighbours. A counter-strategy of surrounding rivals by alliances or blood-relatives can be very successful in extending Hapsburg and Imperial influence.
The Germans Are Catholic
THE POLISH
In the centre only the strong survive. In a land with few defensible borders, beset by enemies, survival itself is victory. To survive and prosper, to have your enemies cower before you, to claim your place in the annals of history: this is victory indeed!
Early Era:
In the last century Poland has profited from the weakness of its neighbours and its strong relationship with the Empire and the Papacy, even though it is only a little over 100 years since Christianity became the religion of its rulers and the pagan ways were abandoned. Polish Grand Dukes swore fealty to the Empire and even made their country subordinate to the Pope in the recent past. Polish military strength has now brought about a break with the Empire, and the independent Polish kings rule in their own right. The borders of the kingdom of Poland are not, however, set in stone - both opportunity and danger wait on all sides.
There is opportunity all around in the petty principalities and dukedoms that owe allegiance to no strong central kingdom, and in the lands of the lesser kingdoms too. With no central authority, these smaller powers can easily fall before to an aggressive, organised attack, and a cunning Polish king can take advantage of his smaller neighbours' weakness. Even the sanction of Mother Church can be relied upon at times for these actions, as there are still many places where pagans can be found, their souls ripe for salvation through conquest. To the east and northeast the people are fierce, but not so organised as in the west. To the west, the pickings are richer but the risks are greater, especially as this is likely to bring Poland into direct competition with Imperial power in central Germany.
And Imperial power can be a problem, especially any Imperial plans for expansion if the Emperor is checked or chooses not to move south or westwards. A wise Polish ruler will realise that he may not be able to defeat the Empire, but he can certainly make it too expensive in blood and treasure for the Imperial army to advance into Poland or keep what it takes for very long.
High Era:
After a century of expansion profiting from the weakness of its neighbours and its strong relationship with the Empire and the Papacy, Poland remains potentially strong, at least for the moment. The Polish monarchy has managed to hold onto many of its relatively new possessions and Polish military strength has allowed resistance to the demands of the Empire as the power relationship changed.
The borders of the kingdom of Poland are not, however, set in stone: both opportunity and danger wait on all sides. Primogeniture - inheritance by the first-born - is not practiced in Poland, and the division of lands between children in every generation can make it hard to keep a kingdom intact; there is a tendency for the King to be the first among equals compared to the nobility. Even with these problems, the neighbouring petty principalities and dukedoms could fall before an aggressive, organised attack, and a cunning Polish King could take advantage of his smaller neighbours' weaknesses. All around are potentially rich pickings but all have risks, especially any expansionary move that will bring Poland into competition with Imperial power in Germany. The Russian princes to the east are less of a threat, but there are new threats beyond them. The steppe peoples are on the move once again, and a Polish ruler who does not keep an eye on Russian ambitions and the steppes is foolish indeed! Equally foolish is to ignore the intentions of the Holy Roman Emperor should his desire for land lead him to look at Polish territory.
The Catholic Church remains strong in Poland, and a useful tool for its kings to exploit, as there are pagans and Orthodox Christians to the east as rivals and (potential) enemies. The support of Mother Church can be relied upon, as there are still many places within reach of Polish arms where souls are ripe for salvation through conquest.
Late Era:
Poland has survived a century of terrible dangers, none more terrible than the attack of the Mongols in 1241. An army of Polish and Teutonic knights was crushed, and the land was spared only when the Mongols miraculously turned, thanks to the death of their ruler through over-indulgence. Fortunately, these ravening monsters from the steppes have not attacked again. Instead, the Poles have been faced with threats from a different direction, as the Teutonic Knights have continued to push against their borders, into lands that Poles have good cause to see as Polish.
The Catholic Church remains strong in Poland, a useful unifying force for any king to use. Heretics have a habit of arising in Bohemia and nearby lands, and there are Orthodox lands to the south and east, the homes of potential enemies. The support of Mother Church can generally be relied on in any attempts to bring these souls to true salvation via the sword.
Poland's borders have changed many times, as lands have been won and then allowed to slip away. Polish kings have lost few opportunities when taking advantage of their neighbours' weaknesses, even as the Teutonic Order has advanced from the west. Behind the Teutonic Order, of course, lie the ambitions of the Holy Roman Emperor. If these can be countered successfully, a warlike and resolute Polish king can still take advantage of his smaller neighbours' weaknesses. The Russian Princes are not, as yet, equals of Poland's Kings and a move to crush them could be successful, if costly. It is, however, foolish is to ignore the intentions of the Holy Roman Emperor. To the west, the Empire remains a structure rather than a royal state in many respects, and one that may be vulnerable. A wrongly timed attack will, naturally, bring down the full wrath of the Emperor.
The Polish Are Catholic
THE RUSSIANS
Theirs is a new land, a land of vast empty spaces, a land of the harshest kind, surrounded by many barbarous peoples. In a land that would have broken lesser men, the Russians not only survived but prospered. Their Tsars carved out a great state, mighty in military power and civilization. Conquerors and builders both, their names are feared and admired in equal measure.
The Russians Are Orthodox
THE BYZANTINES
Just as with their forefathers in Rome, the power and glory of the emperors of Byzantium shines forth like a beacon. Some lands are directly under their sway. In others their name is whispered with awe. For more than a thousand years, since Rome was lost to the barbarians, the city of Constantine and its empire has stood as an island of civilization in a cruel and barbarous world. Long may it endure!
The Byzantines Are Orthodox
THE TURKS
Their ancestors came from the centre of Asia, bringing with them their flocks of sheep. With their nomadic ferocity, they quickly overran the settled peoples in the lands they now own. Combining the crafts of the cities with their own traditions of warfare, the Turkish army became a formidable weapon - winning many victories and creating a great empire. The Sultan's rule now extends over many lands and spreads the glory of the religion of Islam throughout them.
The Turks Are Muslim
THE DANISH
With Viking blood, the people of the North have come to dominate the world.
Masters of the sea, invincible on land, indomitable in spirit,
favoured by God, how could they not create a mighty empire?
No corner of the world has not felt the force of their power.
Sometimes they went in search of plunder, sometimes for trade, sometimes
to settle, but always with the spirit of true Vikings. Not all pay
homage to the Kings of the Danes but their swords have remade the world.
The Are Catholic - But Cannot Start Crusades
THE EGYPTIANS
And so it came to pass that on the very banks of the Nile where civilization itself had begun so many years before, a new civilization arose. Its rulers were mighty and with the blessing of Allah's, their armies went forth and smote the infidels, keeping all their lands safe for the people of the Faith. And as in days of yore, all men were in awe of the wealth and glory of their kingdom.
The Egyptians Are Muslim
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