San Ba

Republic of San Ba 三八
Flag National seal
Motto: Juéqiào!
Anthem: The Silver Star
Map of San Ba
Status	Independent State
Capital	Xiàmian
Demonym(s)	Sanbanese
Government	Unitary semi-presidential constitutional republic
• President	Thelonious D'Ran
• Premier	Sophie Elsby
Legislature	Legislative Yuan
Area
• Total	182,292 km2 (70,383 sq mi)
Population
• 2005 census	17,660,000
Currency	Sanbanese Yuan (SBY)
Date format	dd/mm/yyyy
Driving side	right
Internet TLD	.sb

San Ba (“三八”), officially the Republic of San Ba, is an independent state in Europa on Eurth. Because the country is on an island, San Ba shares a no land borders. Nearby neighbours include Ide Jima and Koku to the north across the Paraia Bay, Orioni to the southeast across the Rosario Sea, Tamurin and Rekamgil to the southwest. The climate in San Ba is mostly defined as a Mediterranean climate (Csa in the east; Csb in the west, across from Koku). San Ba has a hard-working, intelligent population of approximately 17.66 million, and an area of 182,292 square kilometres (70,383 sq mi). Xiàmian is the capital city of the country.

San Ba is a presidential republic The country is first mentioned as (2nd paragraph. Short history in 1 sentence. Link with present in 1 sentence.) The current head of state is President Thelonious D'Ran.

In the late 1950s, after the Long War ended, San Ba experienced a period of strong economic growth. The Sanbanese economy is very export-oriented, with a major focus on innovation, research and development, making significant contributions to machinery and electronics. San Ba was an active member of the Europan Commercial Alliance since its inception in 1954, but declined to join its successor organisation the Entente of Oriental States.

Geography

The Republic of San Ba is located on an island in Europa, a continent on the planet Eurth. The country's total area is 182,292 km² (70,383 sq mi). The country does not share any land borders due to its insular nature. Its nearby neighbours include Ide Jima and Koku to the north across the Paraia Bay, Orioni to the southeast across the Rosario Sea, Tamurin and Kotowari to the southwest.

Climate

San Ba's Mediterranean climate results in long, hot, and dry summers, and mild, wet winters. In the eastern region of the country, classified as a Hot-summer Mediterranean climate (Köppen climate classification: Csa), summer temperatures frequently rise above 30 °C (86 °F) and winters are mild, with temperatures rarely falling below 10 °C (50 °F). This region experiences less rainfall than the western region, with the majority of rain falling during the winter months.

In contrast, the western region, classified as a Warm-summer Mediterranean climate (Köppen climate classification: Csb), has slightly cooler summers with temperatures typically ranging between 25 °C (77 °F) and 28 °C (82 °F). Winters are also milder, and the rainfall is more evenly distributed throughout the year, contributing to the lush vegetation of this region.

Fauna and flora

Hunting caracal in $PersonName National Park.

Three palm trees during the sunset.

San Ba's fauna is rich and diverse, owing to its varying climates and habitats. The country's national animal, the hunting caracal, is a species of wild cat known for its agility and high jumps. The caracal's natural habitat is the grasslands and lightly forested areas in the country's interior, but deforestation and human activities have pushed the species towards extinction. The coastal regions of San Ba are home to various marine species, including the Sanbanese striped dolphin and the golden sea turtle, which are key attractions for eco-tourism. The northern regions, characterized by hilly terrains and cooler climate, are home to the Oriental bear and the spotted mountain deer.

San Ba's flora is heavily influenced by its climate. The eastern region, with its hot-summer climate, is dominated by hardy shrubs and grasses that are adapted to prolonged dry seasons. The iconic Sanbanese Olive tree, from which the country's famous olive oil is produced, is a common sight in this region. The western region, with its more evenly distributed rainfall, supports a diverse range of plant life. Here, one can find forests of evergreen oak and cork trees. The undergrowth is rich with various species of ferns, mosses, and lichen. This region is also known for the vibrant Sanbanese lavender, which paints the landscape in hues of purple during the blooming season.

Despite the rich flora, San Ba faces environmental challenges, particularly deforestation, which has led to the loss of habitats for many species, including the hunting caracal. Efforts are being made to mitigate these impacts and to conserve and restore the country's unique biodiversity.

Human geography

Xiàmian, the capital city of the Republic of San Ba, is situated in the northern region of the island. Named after the Sanbanese word for "under the sky," Xiàmian is renowned for its skyline that harmoniously blends modern architectural marvels with traditional Sanbanese structures. The city is a bustling metropolis of around 3 million inhabitants and serves as the political, economic, and cultural heart of the nation. Xiàmian is home to the Presidential Palace, the seat of government, and the Legislative Yuan, where laws are debated and passed. The city's central district, called the Pearl District, is the main commercial hub, housing major corporations' headquarters and the San Ba Stock Exchange. The city is also known for its extensive public parks and green spaces, a testament to its commitment to urban sustainability. Xiàmian's historic quarter is a ANESCO World Heritage Site, featuring well-preserved buildings from the Shō Dynasty and ancient Penglai period. The renowned Pah-Tay Castle, once the seat of the Shō Dynasty, is now a major tourist attraction.

Located on the northwestern coast of San Ba, Port Zayton is the country's primary port city and gateway to the Paraia Bay. With a population of around 1.5 million people, Port Zayton is known for its vibrant maritime culture, historical landmarks, and seafood cuisine. Port Zayton's harbour is one of the largest and busiest in the Orient, handling a significant percentage of San Ba's exports and imports. The city's economy is heavily based on trade, shipbuilding, and fishing industries. The Zayton Fish Market, held daily at dawn, is a popular destination for both locals and tourists who seek the freshest catch of the day. The city is also home to the San Ba Maritime Museum, which showcases the country's naval history, and the iconic Lighthouse of Zayton, a symbol of the city's maritime heritage. The lighthouse provides a stunning view of the cityscape against the backdrop of the Paraia Bay. Despite its modern amenities, Port Zayton retains much of its historical charm with cobbled streets, ancient sailor taverns, and the well-preserved Old Town district, a reminder of its storied past.

History

Prehistory

Before being known as Penglai, the region now known as San Ba was inhabited by a variety of tribal societies that engaged in primitive agriculture, fishing, and hunting. Archaeological findings suggest that these tribes had already developed basic tools, pottery, and weaving techniques.

Around 2000 BCE, these tribes began to settle along the Golden River, which flows into the nearby Paraia Bay. This river provided fertile land for agriculture and became a major route for trade and communication, leading to the formation of small city-states along its banks. This period is now referred to as the Golden River Civilisation era. These city-states traded with each other and with the distant cultures of Koku, Ide Jima, and Jaihu.

Ancient Period

Around 500 BCE, evidence of ironworking appears in the archaeological record, indicating the start of what historians refer to as the Iron Age of San Ba. This period saw an increase in the complexity and scale of the city-states along the Golden River, with some city-states growing into small kingdoms. The increased productivity of agriculture, thanks to the iron tools, led to population growth and the creation of more complex social structures. The region continued to be a complex tapestry of independent city-states and small kingdoms until the 7th century.

Penglai Period (600-1200)

San Ba's history can be traced back to the 7th century when it was first mentioned as Penglai. During this period, it was a significant part of the Pearl Road network, a bustling trade route across the Eurth. Influenced by the Golden River civilisation and the nearby Three Kingdoms of Koku, Ide Jima, and Jaihu, Penglai developed its distinct culture and institutions.

Shō Dynasty

King Fo Shō.

Izmine-general $name.

Remains of Pah-Tay Castle.

The 15th century saw the rise of Duke Fo Shō, who succeeded in unifying the island under his rule. He became the first king of the Shō Dynasty and established his capital at Pah-Tay Castle, near present-day Xiàmian. Fo Shō's reign was a time of peace and prosperity, attracting many immigrants from the Three Kingdoms who came to do business or serve in the government. Fo Shō's son, Yuo Shō, further advanced the kingdom's technological and diplomatic relations, laying the groundwork for much of the kingdom's administration.

Izmine Invasion

In the 17th century, King Yae Shō's reign was interrupted by an invasion from the Izmine clan of Ide Jima. In April 1623, a fleet of one hundred war-junks carrying 2,000 soldiers crossed the Paraia Bay and landed on the northern peninsula near Xiàmian. The invaders defeated King Yae Shō's forces at Nakit Castle, marched on Xiàmian, and captured Pah-Tay Castle and King Yae Shō himself. Priceless cultural treasures were looted and taken back to Ide Jima, marking the beginning of Izmine rule over San Ba.

Ide Jiman Era

In the 18th century, San Ba was reorganised under the new Ide Jiman imperial system, which brought significant changes to the country's political, social, and cultural fabric.

The 19th century saw San Ba regain a degree of autonomy, thanks in part to internal reforms and shifting power dynamics on the Eurth. Despite being under the nominal control of Ide Jima, San Ba managed to carve out a semi-independent status for itself.

Long War and Independence

(Something to do with the Long War.)

The 20th century was defined by the Long War, which had profound impacts on San Ba. When the war ended, Emperor Mitsuhiran III of Ide Jima fled to San Ba. In 1982, Artakai I departed from San Ba to reclaim the Ide Jiman imperial throne. In recognition of their support, San Ba was granted full independence. The same year, the neighbouring region of Thubani voted to join San Ba, further solidifying its new status.

Era of Neutrality

To maintain its independence amidst resurgent neighbours, the government of San Ba enshrined a clause of "Eternal Neutrality" into its constitution in 1985. This decision, reflecting the country's desire to avoid entanglements in regional conflicts, was also the primary reason San Ba voted not to join the Entente of Oriental States in 2006. The country has since focused on economic development and maintaining its unique cultural heritage.

Politics

Government

President D'Ran meets Chairman Ping of the SSI.

Premier Elsby.

San Ba is a unitary semi-presidential constitutional republic. The head of state is President Thelonious D'Ran, who serves as the primary executive authority and commander-in-chief of the armed forces. The head of government is Premier Sophie Elsby, who is responsible for the day-to-day administration of the state.

The government of San Ba has long maintained a pro-business stance, recognising the vital role of private enterprise in driving economic growth and innovation. Key policies have been aimed at promoting an environment conducive to business, including low corporate tax rates, minimal bureaucratic red tape, and strong protections for intellectual property.

The Legislative Yuan, San Ba's legislative body, plays a vital role in shaping and implementing these policies. As a unicameral parliament, the Legislative Yuan is responsible for creating laws, approving the budget, and overseeing the government's work. The legislative process is transparent and participatory, with opportunities for public input and scrutiny.

Military

The Sanbanese military, known as the San Ba Defence Forces (SBDF), is a professional and technologically advanced force. Given the country's island geography, the navy and the air force are particularly important components of the SBDF. Each branch has been equipped to deal with the unique challenges posed by San Ba's island geography and potential threats to its sovereignty.

• The Sanbanese Army is responsible for land-based military operations and maintains a high state of readiness. The army is equipped with modern infantry weapons and vehicles and places a significant emphasis on mobility and rapid response, given the country's geography.

• The Sanbanese Navy is a key part of the country's defence strategy, given San Ba's status as an island nation. The Navy is tasked with protecting the nation's territorial waters and maintaining open and secure sea lines of communication. It operates a diverse fleet of vessels, including frigates, patrol boats, and submarines, as well as auxiliary vessels for logistical support and rescue operations. The Navy also operates several amphibious units for land-sea operations.

• The Sanbanese Air Force plays a crucial role in both the country's defence and its projection of power. It is equipped with a range of aircraft, including fighter jets, transport planes, and helicopters. The Air Force is responsible for protecting the country's airspace, providing air support to ground forces, conducting reconnaissance, and carrying out search and rescue operations.

The SBDF maintains a robust training program to ensure that its personnel are capable of operating the modern and sophisticated equipment that forms the backbone of the country's military. It also places a strong emphasis on the professional development of its personnel, with a focus on leadership, ethics, and the law of armed conflict.

Despite the country's policy of neutrality, the SBDF has been known to participate in international Assembled Nations peacekeeping missions and has earned a reputation for its professionalism and discipline. It is seen as a significant component of San Ba's contribution to global security and stability.

Foreign relations

San Ba follows a policy of “Eternal Neutrality,” which is enshrined in its constitution. This policy has shaped its foreign relations, with the country often serving as a mediator in regional disputes. The country is known for its diplomatic efforts to maintain peace and stability in the region. San Ba maintains cordial relations with its neighbours, including Ide Jima and Koku to the north, Orioni to the southeast, and Tamurin and Kotowari to the southwest. The country also has a special relationship with Thubani, which chose to merge with San Ba in 1982, further expanding its territory and influence.

Historically, San Ba was an active member of the Europan Commercial Alliance, contributing significantly to the regional economy. However, it decided not to join its successor organization, the Entente of Oriental States, in 2006, sticking to its policy of neutrality. Despite its neutrality, San Ba does not shy away from international issues and is an active participant in various global platforms where it advocates for peace, environmental protection, and free trade.

Economy

(WIP. A powerhouse of a private sector is led by the Information Technology industry, followed by Uranium Mining and Gambling. Income tax is unheard of. Its currency is the Sanbanese Yuan.)

In the early years of the Republic, the economy remained unstable. The government experienced constant changes in leadership, and this political instability led to stagnation in economic development. However, the rural economy was recovering and the overproduction of agricultural goods lead to an increase in foreign exports. This was reflected by the trends in GDP. Industrial output also recovered, leading to increased foreign investment in San Ba. Development of industrial goods was strongly encouraged after the end of the Long War.

Culture

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(WIP. San Ba is a socially progressive nation. Students are known to arrive at school in their pyjamas, citizens are enjoying a recent large cut in taxes, all tariffs have been abolished, and corporations are either above the law or corrupting it.)