Drambenburg

Holy Empire of Drambenburg Heilige Reich Drambenburg
Flag
Motto: "One People, One Empire, One Leader" or "Suum cuique"
Anthem: Heil dir im Siegerkranz
Capital	Lerbin
Official languages	Drambenburgian
Recognised national languages	Algonquian
Ethnic groups	Drambenburgian, Indigenous
Demonym(s)	Drambenburgian
Government	Federal parliamentary semi-constitutional monarchy
• Kaiser	Interregnum
• Chancellor	Giorg Auster-Brautstadt
• Vice-Chancellor	Heinrich Stauffenberg
• Prime Minister	Matz Krahl von Babenburg
De Jure
Area
• Total	2,504,226 km2 (966,887 sq mi)
• Water (%)	8.4
Population
• 2022 census	187,682,000
GDP (PPP)	2022 estimate
• Total	9.9 Trillion (3rd)
• Per capita	46,700
Gini (2018)	31.1 medium
HDI (2018)	0.987 very high
Currency	Drambenburgian Rupee (ΔΡ)
Time zone	UTC+5
Date format	mm-dd-yyyy
Driving side	right
Calling code	+23
Internet TLD	.hed
Drambenburg uses the Nationales Einheitensystem measurements

The Holy Empire of Drambenburg, most commonly known as Drambenburg is a nation located on the continent of Euronia. It is bordered to the north by Avergnon, Shoassau, Montemera, Lutharia, Angouburg, Auraine, and Trevivona, with shores along Titania Bay, Siena Bay, the Brau Sea, and the Alutia Sea. Drambenburg also holds dependency over the Achtun Islands in the Gulf of Bastam in Southern Adula. Drambenburg is a federal parliamentary monarchy led by a Kaiser, currently Peter XXI Wettin, and a Chancellor, currently Giorg Auster-Brautstadt. The nation's capital is Lerbin, and its most populous city is Durenurbergering, with other major cities including Essen, Sainte Marie, Wein, Viari, Eidberg, and Den Haag.

Drambenburg is known for its significance in global history, specifically in the 14th century with the Fifty Years War, its subsequent imperial expansion which included parts of modern-day Mayotte, Auraine, Avergnon, and Zamastan. During the the World War (1949-54), a frail alliance with the Sanguine Empire resulted in Drambenburg's near collapse, and much of its territory was shrunken away and formed into independent states like Shoassau and Lutharia. In the post-World War years, a series of reforms were undertaken by the government to seek lasting foreign relations and restore its prominence. It was one of the founding members of the TTPA in 1966, and in 1975 helped found the Coalition of Crown Albatross. In 2022, Drambenburg annexed Chaesia and Blaoria, with the latter in an invasion.

Drambenburg is a global power with a strong economy; it has one of the largest investment and industrial economies in the world and is a leader in several technological sectors. A highly developed country with a very high standard of living, it is known for its long and rich cultural history. With a population of 179 million, it is the sixth-most populous country in the world, and with a GDP around 9.5 trillion, it is the third-largest economy in the world, only after Zamastan and Yuan. Likewise, it currently boasts the world's third-largest military. Drambenburg is a member of many international organizations, such as the TTPA, the C21, and the Coalition Trade Organization.

Etymology

Drambenburg is a combination of three words from three different languages. Dram is from the Latin draco (dragon). Ben is from the Indiginous word for iron, Biiwaabik. Burg is the Drambenburgian word for castle or fortified town. The original castle built at the cite of present-day Lerbin was named Dracerre palisidium, or Iron Dragon Palisades in English. Over time, the Latin name was replaced by the Drambenburgian name, Dracheneisenburg, which is still used in part to refer to the still-standing keep from the medieval castle, Eisenhoch. The substantial indiginous population on the island continued to use their name for it into the late middle ages, Gichi-Biiwaabik, or Great Iron. Sometime in the late 1300s, the first reference to a "Dracowaabburg" appeared in a recording of "The Histories of the Men of Dracerre Palisidium" as a "common name for the area, created as a bastardization of the three names for the island by the locals." By the end of the Fifty Year's War, the name for the island was being used to refer to the whole country.

History

Hominidae have been present on the Drambenburgian peninsula for at least 500,000 years. The oldest musical instrument ever found was a 42,000 year old flute in a cave near the Rhine at the base of the Drambenburgian Alps. Late stone-age age Indiginous Peoples began to settle in the northern parts of the country, with that settling many northern peoples began to shift from hunter-gatherer lifestyles to pastoralism and horticulture. In the central and southern portions of the country, the Indiginous people continued to live the hunter-gatherer lifestyle throughout the bronze age. The southern peoples often mixed fishing in with their hunting of Aurochs, various deer species, doves, Euronian pheasants, boar, and others.

Drambenburgian Tribes and the Avergnonese Empire

The earliest Drambenburgian tribes came from the north into central and south Drambenburg sometime in the early bronze age. Their bronze weapons, horses, and chariots allowed them to swiftly conquer and subjugate the indigenous peoples who dwelled their, most of whom still used stone age weapons. Ancient Drambenburgians wore heavy bronze armor on their legs and heads, and foot soldiers fought with large, square shields designed to protect the body. The indigenous peoples and Drambenburgian tribes often clashed, but because there was little to no coordination between the familial groups of Drambenburgians, rarely was any headway made between the two warring groups.

The first king to unify Drambenburg was Octavian I of Bradenburg. Sailing from his island to the mainland, he united the tribes and began a vicious war against the indigenous peoples which left thousands dead on both sides. After the war, his son Tertulian I was unable to keep the kingdom together, and it crumbled into a disorganized mess of tribes and villages.

In 603, Avergnon invaded Drambenburg from the north, conquering most of the peninsula, and subjugating her people under their feudal system. After two decades, a king arose in the south named Otto von der Silbernen Hand. According to legend, he lost his right hand as a youth after breaking the nose of a young Avergnonese noble. His hand was replaced with a silver cast. Otto I, king of Saxonie, as he was titled, united the tribes and implimented a modified feudal system. They fought for years against the Avergnonese nobles, finally defeating them at the battle of Helms Bridge near the modern-day city of Den Haag.

Mayotte and the Holy Drambenburgian Empire

In 891, two monks from Mayotte traveled south on a missionary journey, spreading Catholocism to every village they entered. Initially, the Drambenburgian tribes fought back against the Christianization. However, after several decades, in 923, king Rudolf IV von Rhineland became the first Christian king in Drambenburg, making Catholocism the state religion of the Palatinate.

King Rudolf IV traveled from the capitol in Wein to the Pope in _____. Upon ariving, the Pope granted him the ancient title of Caesar, and Rudolf declared Drambenburg to be the Holy Empire of Drambenburg and set out to unite the individual states under his crown.

Kaiser Rudolf I married his son Heinrich to the only daughter of the king of Mayotte. Following the deaths of both the Kaiser and Mayotte's king, the newly crowned Kaiser Heinrich I immediately went to war with Mayotte, declaring his son Friedrich to be the rightful king as Casus Belli. The war, due to poor timing with the cycle of farming, lasted only three months, and was a resounding defeat for Drambenburg. Kaiser Heinrich, along with most of the Drambenburgian army, was slaughtered at the Battle of Montebard.

Wars for Mayottan Crown

From 900 to 1300 a series of wars were faught between Drambenburg and Mayotte. Most of the fighting was done on Aunistrian land, and Aunistria itself exchanged hands between Mayotte and Drambenburg several times. Often, it was split into several pieces. During these 400 years most of the Great Families of Drambenburg were established.

Charter of Rights (1215)

In 1215, the various lords and marks of Drambenburg conviened a conference at Anhalruit Castle, where they discussed the powers of the Drambenburgian Crown. The lords forced the Kaiser to sign the Charter of Rights, which established the House of Lords, which all royal men in Drambenburg were thenceforth members of.

18th and 19th Centuries

Along with most countries in Euronia, Drambenburg experienced unprecedented industrial growth beginning in the mid-18th centruy. This period was marked with internal political and social strife as the new "working" class sprung up in cities very rapidly. The growth of cities attracted serfs from the countryside who had previously been employed on subsistance farms under the Drambenburgian feudal system.

The 1720s saw the rise of the first Drambenburgian Constitution after widespread civil unrest in response to harsh actions on part of the Magnates and other members of the ruling class attempted to fight the mass exodus from the countryside as Serfs moved to the cities to work in the new manufactories.

In the 1740s, tensions between the Drambenburgian Empire and Avergnon rose as Avergnon began asserting control over Drambenburgian teritories on the border between the two countries; namely the lands surrounding the city of Den Haag.

By the 1810s Drambenburg's northern states had largely recovered from the prolonged Avergnon-Indiginous war, where Avergnon funded Indiginous people groups in Drambenburg to wage war on Drambenburg, in order to draw the Empire's attention away from the borderlands.

The 1840s in Drambenburg were marked by unprecedented financial growth with the expansion of the railroad and oil industries. Crude oil was discovered in the desert of Eastern Drambenburg leading to "company towns" being erected overnight near many oil fields.

Drambenburgian Confederation and Empire

The unification of the Drambenburgian Confederation marked a pivotal period in the nation's history, transforming a loosely aligned collection of states into a more centralized and cohesive entity. This process culminated in the establishment of the Holy Empire of Drambenburg, solidified through the signing of the nation's first constitution.

Before the 18th century, the region of Drambenburg was characterized by a patchwork of semi-autonomous states, each ruled by its own prince or noble house. This decentralized political landscape, known as the Drambenburgian Confederation, often led to internal rivalries, shifting alliances, and a lack of unified governance.

Amidst growing regional and international challenges, calls for greater unity and stability within the Drambenburgian territories intensified. External threats and conflicts emphasized the need for a more cohesive defense and diplomatic strategy, prompting key stakeholders to consider a unified approach.

In the early 18th century, influential statesmen and visionary rulers emerged, advocating for the unification of the Drambenburgian Confederation under a central authority. Their vision was to create a stronger, more secure, and prosperous nation that could effectively navigate the changing geopolitical landscape.

The process of unification began with diplomatic negotiations between the various states and noble houses. Discussions were often complex and fraught with challenges, as each entity sought to protect its interests and privileges. However, shared concerns and aspirations for the future of Drambenburg fostered a willingness to find common ground.

In 1712, after several years of negotiations and compromises, the leaders of the Drambenburgian states gathered to sign the nation's first constitution. This historic document officially united the Drambenburgian Confederation into the Holy Empire of Drambenburg. The new empire retained some features of the previous confederation, such as an elective monarchy and a parliament. The elective monarchy allowed for the selection of the emperor through a process of electoral voting by the nobility, while the parliament served as a representative body, giving voice to the concerns and aspirations of the landed gentry.

The Holy Empire of Drambenburg saw a gradual centralization of power under the authority of the emperor. While individual states still retained certain rights and autonomy, the empire as a whole now had a more unified foreign policy, a common defense strategy, and a more structured legal system.

The unification of the Drambenburgian Confederation into the Holy Empire of Drambenburg brought about a new era of stability and coherence. The centralized governance enabled the nation to respond more effectively to external challenges and internal developments. With a strengthened sense of unity, the Holy Empire of Drambenburg embarked on a period of economic growth, cultural flourishing, and scientific advancements. The shared identity of Drambenburgians fostered a sense of pride and common purpose, transcending regional divisions.

Avergnon-Indiginous War (1750-1757)

The Avergnon-Indigenous War, also known as the Borderland Conflict, was a significant armed conflict that occurred between the budding empires of Drambenburg and Avergnon in the 1750s, during a time of political strife in Euronia. The war was primarily centered around disputed lands situated on the border between the two nations.

In the 1740s, both Drambenburg and Avergnon asserted their claims to the contested borderlands, which had been a subject of occasional contention due to historical marriages between nobility and differing succession laws in the two countries. This led to legal uncertainty over the ownership of the land, with gentry from both sides petitioning their rulers for support in pressing their respective claims. As diplomatic efforts to resolve the dispute failed, tensions between the two empires escalated steadily. By the 1750s, the situation reached a boiling point as both sides sought to assert their dominance in the region.

Frustrated by the prolonged stalemate, the Crown of Avergnon devised a daring strategy to tip the balance in their favor. They covertly supplied indigenous tribes residing in Drambenburg, who had enjoyed a degree of autonomy, with financial aid, weapons, and promises of greater recognition of their traditional rights and autonomy. The goal was to incite the tribes to challenge Drambenburgian authority and support Avergnon's cause.

As the indigenous tribes grew more emboldened and their clashes with Drambenburgian forces intensified, the situation spiraled into a full-scale war. This conflict came to be known as the Avergnon-Indigenous War. Territorial Incursions and Drambenburgian Response Taking advantage of the chaos and the indigenous uprisings, Avergnonese forces launched incursions deep into Drambenburg territory, catching the Drambenburgian military off-guard and gaining initial territorial gains. In response, the Empire of Drambenburg rallied its standing army and called upon feudal levies to protect its interests in the disputed borderlands. The war efforts were also supported by loyal nobles who were deeply invested in the outcome of the conflict.

The Avergnon-Indigenous War dragged on for seven years, marked by brutal battles, territorial gains and losses, and atrocities committed by both sides. The conflict had far-reaching consequences for the local population, causing significant disruptions to trade, widespread displacement, and straining diplomatic relations with neighboring nations.

In 1757, recognizing the futility of prolonged hostilities, both empires initiated negotiations. The war finally came to an inconclusive end with the signing of the Treaty of Borderbrook. The treaty established a new border between Drambenburg and Avergnon, incorporating historical claims and geographic features while agreeing upon territorial exchanges.

While the Treaty of Borderbrook brought an end to active hostilities, it left underlying issues largely unresolved. The territorial disputes and cultural tensions between the two empires continued to simmer beneath the surface, setting the stage for future conflicts. Acknowledging the precariousness of the situation, the peace treaty stipulated a relatively long truce period, spanning several decades. During this time, both empires committed to a ceasefire and refrained from direct military engagements along the border. However, underlying distrust and occasional border incidents kept the situation tense and unresolved, ultimately leading to the outbreak of the "Avergonco-Dramben War" in 1868-1873. The Avergnon-Indigenous War's legacy remained a prominent part of the histories of both empires, shaping their future interactions and regional dynamics for years to come.

Drambenburgian Civil Crises

The Drambenburgian Civil Crises of the late 18th century was a tumultuous period marked by widespread civil unrest and socio-political upheaval in the aftermath of the Avergnon-Indigenous War. The nation's resources were severely depleted due to the costly war, compelling the government to implement heavy taxes to rebuild and maintain its administrative apparatus. This decision triggered significant discontent among the populace, leading to a small-scale civil war that threatened the stability of the young empire.

Following the conclusion of the Avergnon-Indigenous War in 1757, the Empire of Drambenburg faced the daunting task of recovering from the protracted conflict. The war had drained the nation's coffers, and its economy was strained by the disruptions caused by the prolonged hostilities. Additionally, the war had left a trail of destruction in the border regions, further exacerbating the economic challenges.

To rebuild its military capabilities and re-establish administrative control, the Drambenburgian government introduced a series of heavy taxes on both the nobility and commoners. These measures, aimed at re-funding the government, were met with strong opposition from the population, who were already grappling with the socio-economic repercussions of the war.

The burden of increased taxation fell disproportionately on the commoners and lower classes, exacerbating existing inequalities within the empire. Public dissatisfaction grew as citizens struggled to make ends meet, while the nobility faced challenges in adjusting to the new economic realities. Civil unrest began to spread across the country, with protests, strikes, and demonstrations becoming more frequent and widespread. The discontent was further fueled by perceived corruption within the government, as some officials were accused of embezzlement and mishandling of funds meant for reconstruction and relief efforts.

In response to the escalating civil unrest, various opposition movements emerged, demanding greater representation and accountability from the ruling elite. These movements were driven by a desire for social and political reforms, as well as a call for fairer taxation policies.

As tensions reached a boiling point, isolated incidents of violence escalated into a small-scale civil war in several regions of Drambenburg. Local militias and disaffected groups began to challenge the authority of the central government and its representatives. The civil war was characterized by sporadic clashes between government forces and rebel factions, leading to further instability and loss of life. The conflict also highlighted the deep divisions within Drambenburgian society, with regional, ethnic, and class-based grievances coming to the fore.

The Drambenburgian Civil Crises of 1770-1790, while challenging and tumultuous, ultimately catalyzed a transformative period in the nation's history. The social and political reforms forced upon the government in response to widespread civil unrest set the stage for unprecedented economic growth and prosperity in the years that followed. The policy changes implemented in the wake of the civil unrest aimed to address the root causes of discontent and promote greater social cohesion. By alleviating the tax burden on the commoners and granting them increased representation in governance, the government took significant steps toward fostering a more inclusive and equitable society. With corruption curtailed and transparency enhanced, public trust in the government began to slowly rebuild. The renewed sense of stability and optimism encouraged investment and entrepreneurship, creating an environment conducive to economic growth. The nation's newfound focus on infrastructure development, education, and innovation played a crucial role in driving economic progress. Roads, bridges, and other critical infrastructure projects were constructed, facilitating trade and connectivity between different regions of Drambenburg. Education and research were prioritized, leading to a more skilled and competitive workforce. As economic reforms gained traction, foreign trade flourished, and Drambenburg began to establish itself as a major player in regional and global markets. The nation's rich natural resources, combined with the newfound stability, attracted foreign investors and traders, further boosting economic activity. The unprecedented economic growth during this period saw the emergence of new industries, the expansion of existing ones, and a surge in technological advancements. Drambenburg experienced an industrial revolution of sorts, with manufacturing, textiles, and machinery sectors flourishing. The development of a robust banking and financial sector facilitated investment and credit, driving further economic expansion. The period of economic prosperity also led to improved living standards for many citizens, with reduced poverty rates and increased access to basic services. The middle class expanded, bolstering consumer spending and contributing to sustained economic growth. As the nation's economic might grew, so did its influence on the global stage. Drambenburg's increased economic power provided the resources needed to further strengthen its military and political influence, solidifying its position as a regional powerhouse. The legacy of the Drambenburgian Civil Crises was not only one of overcoming internal strife but also one of resilience and progress. The nation emerged from the challenges of the past with a more inclusive and dynamic society, laying the foundation for a period of unparalleled economic growth that would shape its destiny for generations to come. In the aftermath of the civil unrest and the reforms it compelled, Drambenburg stood poised to take on new opportunities and face future challenges with confidence and determination. The lessons learned from the crises served as a reminder of the importance of responsive governance, social justice, and the pursuit of economic prosperity for the greater good of the nation and its people.

Twentieth Century

Second Avergnco-Drambenburgian War

The period from 1934 to 1939 marked a tumultuous phase in the relationship between the neighboring empires of Drambenburg and Avergnon, characterized by a series of protracted border wars. The Drambenburgian war doctrine, under Emperor von Wettin's close supervision, prioritized the expansion of Drambenburg's territorial holdings into Avergnonese territory, leading to prolonged hostilities and significant advancements in military tactics and technology.

With Emperor von Wettin's endorsement, the Drambenburgian military focused its efforts on pushing the trench lines further into Avergnon. Their strategy involved employing innovative military technologies, such as the newly developed Panther tank, which proved highly effective in armored warfare. Additionally, Drambenburg deployed airships for reconnaissance, stealth troop delivery behind enemy lines, and targeted bombing of key enemy assets, giving them a tactical advantage.

Initially, Drambenburg's military doctrine and technological superiority yielded significant success on the battlefield. Their forces advanced into Avergnonese territory, seizing valuable lands and gaining strategic advantages. The Panther tank, in particular, played a pivotal role in Drambenburg's initial gains, enabling them to swiftly overpower Avergnonese defenses.

The tide of the war began to shift in late November 1938, when Avergnonese troops, backed by their mechanized artillery, executed a daring breakthrough that created a 1.5-mile deep bulge in the Drambenburgian defensive line. This decisive maneuver caught the Drambenburgian forces off-guard, forcing them to retreat to the outskirts of the Avergnonese city of Povaleux. The Battle of Povaleux raged through the winter into the early spring of 1939. Both sides fiercely contested the city, resulting in intense urban warfare and heavy casualties. Despite valiant efforts, Drambenburgian troops faced defeat at Povaleux, which marked a significant setback in their territorial ambitions.

Following the defeat at Povaleux in 1939, Drambenburg's forces were compelled to fall back to the original border, relinquishing their territorial gains. In the aftermath of the hard-fought conflict, the realities of war and the exhaustion of both nations led to the signing of the Pact of Neutrality in January 1940. Under the terms of the Pact of Neutrality, both Drambenburg and Avergnon committed to maintaining a neutral stance towards each other for the next nine years. This period of relative peace allowed both nations to regroup, rebuild their economies, and strengthen their military capabilities in preparation for future conflicts.

The Drambenburg-Avergnon Border Wars of 1934-1939 left a lasting impact on both empires, shaping their subsequent military strategies and foreign policies. While the Pact of Neutrality provided a temporary respite from direct conflict, it merely delayed the inevitable. In 1949, the outbreak of the World War shook the entire region, drawing Drambenburg and Avergnon into a larger global conflict with far-reaching consequences. The experiences and lessons learned from the earlier border wars would once again influence their actions during this tumultuous time, as both empires navigated the complexities of a new and devastating conflict on a world stage.

Twenty-First Century

Chaesian Cession and war with Blaoria

On September 2nd, 2022 Chaesia ceded to Drambenburg with the signing of the Treaty of Den Haag on the steps of the Palace of Nordlicheslandhaus by then-Chaesian president Till Schultze and the Kaiser, Peter von Wettin. The following day, at the invitation of Johannes Schnabel, Drambenburgian forces invaded and occupied Blaoria to put down protests and install a friendly government.

Geography and Climate

A satellite image of Drambenburg

Topography and Geology

The majority of Drambenburg's topography is a ancient mountains. The vast floodplains of the Rhine River lend to large portions of Drambenburg being rich farmland with soil that is naturally fertilized by silt from the river. Millions of acres of the Drambenburgian mountains are devoted to cow and sheep pastures. Many more acres of the Rhine River's floodplains are devoted to rye and vinyards.

Climate

Drambenburg's climate varies throughout due to several factors. The nation's peninsular placement near the equator results in a generally mild to hot climate, with high humidity in and around Lerbin. The mountains to the north tend to be snow covered year-round and create a rain shadow that keeps the eastern half of the country dry. The west is generally wet seeing high yearly rainfall and ocassional tropical storms that come in off of the Titania Bay. In the south, the climate milds, maintaining moderate temperatures and humidity year-round.

Flora and Fauna

See: Flora and Fauna

Drambenburg is an incredibly biodiverse nation, with its incredibly diverse topography and climate. Flowering flora includes plants such as the national flower, the cornflower and Edelweiss. Comon trees range from massive coniferous trees in the mountains, to small palm trees along the beaches to the south. Vast oak, beech, and evergreen forrests cover the non-cultivated parts of western Drambenburg. In the south west, the region with the most rainfall and lowest average altitude, many swamps full of cypress trees draped with Quetanan Moss cast long shadows over the murky waters of the Bayou. To the east, the semi-arid land in the Alpine rain shadow often grows various cactuses, mesquite, and creosote bushes. Fauna in Drambenburg is as diverse as the flora. The mountains are filled with elk, kodiak, goats, and mountain lions. The forrests to the west contain various species of deer, the Aurochs, many types of birds, including, but not limited to the Golden Eagle, Doves, and Euronian Pheasant. To the southwest in the Bayou, many deer also roam, as well as the fearsome Drambenburgian Alligator. To the east on the semi-arid plains live the bison and pronghorn. Other creatures, such as squirrels, rabbits, and coyotes can be found throughout the entire country, from the highest mountain to the banks of the Rhine.

States, Provinces, and Territories

Drambenburg consists of eight states, four provinces, and several Territories (including oversees territories). States, provinces, and teritories differ in several ways. First, a teritory is not an autonomous zone, and thus has no local government, but instead is ruled directly by the federal government. Provinces differ from states in their form of governance, while a state has a bicameral legistlator and a governor, a province is ruled by a Count and a localized parliment. In adition to the various states, provinces, and teritories, there are several dozen (large and small) Indiginous people reservations, each is their own sovereign federal government, but under the protection of the Drambenburgian Empire. (See also: Bureau of Indiginous Affairs).

States

Bradenburg

Bradenburg is the smallest state and home to the nation's capitol of Lerbin. The majority of the state is water, with the main segment of land, Romcastle Isle, being the home to Lerbin and its suburbs.

Territories

Achtundachtzig Islands

The Achtundachtzig Islands (English: Eight-Eight) are a small archipelago in the Gulf of Semalia, South Adula.

Deyshoe Isle

Deyshoe Isle is a tiny atoll in Kasuum Sea, north of Horseshoe Bay and Zamastan's Northern Archipelago.

Den Haag

Den Haag is a city and independent territory of Drambenburg. It is surrounded by Avergnon to the northeast, Chaesia to the northwest, and the Siena Bay to the south.

Chaesia

Chaesia is an independent territory/dependency on the northeastern edge of Drambemburg, bordering Avergnon. It was a province from the middle ages until the end of the World War, when it became an independent nation. In September of 2022, Chaesia again became a territory of Drambenburg.

Politics

Main Page: Government of Drambenburg

Government

There are seven branches in the federal government of Drambenburg: the Monarchical, the Executive, the Legislative, the House of Lords, the High Judicial, the Low Judicial, and the Khakus branches.

Monarchy

The Holy Empire of Drambenburg is based around an elected monarch known as the "Obergruppenkaiser." The Obergruppenkaiser (Emperor) is elected upon the death of the previous emperor from one of the seven Oberfamilien, or "upper families." The seven families are the Wettins, Podzbrads, von Lerbins, von Welfs, Stauffens, Hennebergs, and Julich-Henegbachs. The Emperor is elected by the members of the House of Lords. After the monarch's death, a King's Moot is convened where the House of Lords meets behind closed doors and hears from the heirs of each of the royal families to be persuaded to vote for one of them to be the next Emperor.

The Duties of the Monarch: The monarchy is restricted by the constitution of Drambenburg, as are all branches of the government. Several roles fall directly to the monarchy, however. The monarch has oversight of the Low Judicial branch, meaning that the monarch has the final say in any civil cases. Any citizen may "appeal to Caesar" and have their case heard by the emperor if they feel they have been judged unjustly. The monarch also has the final say in declarations of war, all of which must both be signed by the Obergruppenkaiser and the Obergeneralfeldmarschall (cf.: Khakus). The monarch is the head of state, and all driver's licenses, passports, and other official documentation are issued from their office. The monarch is also a ceremonial figurehead of the government, acting as the primary representative of Drambenburg's federal government to foreign nations and dignitaries. Other duties of the monarch include, but are not limited to, hosting galas and dinner parties for representatives of foreign countries visiting Drambenburg, military service in the Royal Navy, oversight of agriculture, and conservation. The monarch also has his police and protection service, which also deals with counterfeiting cases and counter-terrorism. This police force is known as the Geheime Staatspolizei

Executive branch

The Oberkanzlerin heads the executive branch of Drambenburg's government. The Oberkanzerlin is elected by the upper and lower houses of the Legislative branch. The Oberkanzerlin's term lasts three years, and they have a four-term limit.

The Duties of the Executive: The Oberkanzerlin (chancellor) has many duties, mostly involving interacting with foreign nations on their soil. The chancellor has their military force called the Stormtrumpen, which functions both as their police and as a special force soldiers. It is the duty of the chancellor to travel to other nations, build good relations, and carry out covert special operations. The office of the chancellor consists not only of the elected chancellor, who is elected from the general population, meaning anyone can run for office; but also of a cabinet whom the chancellor appoints upon election. The executive branch also oversees manufacturing, working closely with the private corporations of Drambenburg. The purpose of this is to keep the corporations from "buying" legislators since they have the chancellor to intercede for them in the legislative branch. In conjunction with appointing cabinet members to advise them, they chancellor chooses a Kanzerlin who acts as their second-in-command and acts as the administrator of the Senate. The executive branch also signs bills into law after they pass through the legislative branch, finalize ratification in the House of Lords, and are deemed constitutional by the High Judicial branch’s supreme court.

Legislative branch

The legislative branch is divided into two houses: the Senate and the House of Representatives.

Senators are elected by the people of Drambenburg in a direct runoff vote, allowing citizens to rank the senators running in their states. These elections are held every six years to allow senators to be professional politicians, and there is no term limit. There are three senators per state. The Senate is overseen by the Vice-Chancellor, who judges the final votes on all issues brought to the floor of the Senate. Votes are cast by senators verbally saying "aye" and "nay."

The Representatives in the House of Representatives are elected by direct first-past-the-post vote. The Representatives are proportional to the population of the state, with one representative for every 100,000 people in a state. Representatives serve for two years and have a term limit of three. The purpose of the HR is that normal citizens would serve in the federal government and not be professional politicians. The HR is overseen by the President Pro-Tempore, whose job is to keep order in the HR during debates and break any tied votes. The PPT also assigns Representatives to House Committees, who draft new bills to be voted on before being passed on to the Senate.

The Duties of the Legislative Branch: The Legislative Branch oversees the creation of new legislation. House committees draft bills, which are then brought to the HR and voted on in a silent, anonymous vote. After being ratified by the HR, a bill is sent to the Senate, where it is voted on in a vocal and public vote. In order to pass either house, the bills must receive a majority of at least 55%. After passing both houses, the bills are sent to the House of Lords. The Senate may also propose and vote on Constitutional amendments, which require a vote of at least 2/3 of the Senate and then are passed on to the House of Lords.

House of Lords

The House of Lords is also known as Parliament and members are titled Members of Parliament. The House of Lords is led by the Prime Minister of Drambenburg. Members of Parliament are non-elected officials, it is instead a hereditary position held by landed nobility, inhereted by male-preference primogeniture.

The Duties of the House of Lords: The HL functions as a third legislative branch, ratifying bills after they pass both houses. Unlike in the Legislative branch, however, the HL only needs a vote of 40% from two of the three parts to pass a bill. After the HL votes on a bill, it is sent to the High Judicial branch. The HL also ratifies constitutional amendments, requiring a total vote of at least 50% from all three member types. The other duties of the HL are setting the budget and declarations of war.

Judicial branch

High Judicial branch

The High Judicial branch consists of one Supreme Court. The Supreme Court is made up of six elected judges and the emperor. The Oberkanzerlin appoints three of the Judges, and the Low Judicial Branch appoints three judges. The Senate Committee on the Judiciary tries all of the judges before being confirmed by the House Committee on the Judiciary (cf. 14 Amendment).

The Duties of the High Judicial Branch: The High Judicial Branch has one duty, and that is to study congressional interpretation to determine whether a proposed bill is constitutional. Once a bill is deemed constitutional by the Supreme Court, it becomes an official federal law. They also review state laws if sovereign citizens of a state ask for the intervention of the High Judges on a state law that may violate the rights of that state’s citizens. Also, the emperor may request the help of the judges in making rulings when a citizen Appeals to Caesar. Finally, the High Judges are responsible for fulfilling the duties of the Monarchical branch in the event that the emperor cannot perform his duties and do so until a new emperor is appointed.

Low Judicial branch

The Low Judicial Branch consists of ten circuit courts. Each court has one federal judge who is appointed by the emperor.

The Duties of the Low Judicial Branch: The duties of the courts are to hear civil cases of citizens who appeal to the decisions of their state courts. Other responsibilities of the Low Judicial branch include holding impeachment hearings for the Oberkanzerlin, Senators, and Representatives; furthermore, the judges ratify the federal budget every year. The judges also oversee the federal Board of Education.

Khakus

Due to the nature of the government in Drambenburg, the military has its branch, the Khakus. The main political component of the Khakus is the Obergeneralfeldmarschall, which is a triumvirate of Field Marshalls elected by the Drambenburgian Special Operations Command (DSOCOM). The DSOCOM is made up of the two highest-ranking officers in each of the three branches of the Drambenburgian military. The Obergeneralfeldmarschall is a lifetime position. The three branches are the Drambenburg Heer, the Kriegsmarine (also known as the Royal Navy, or the Imperial Fleet), and the Luftwaffe.

The Duties of the Khakus: The Khakus oversees military operations and declarations of war alongside the Monarchy, as well as the Federal Board of Transportation, the Ministry of Infrastructure, the Transit Authority, the Port Authority, Immigration, and Border Patrol.

Foreign Relations

Drambenburg is a member of the Coalition of Crown Albatross, with it holding routine spots on the Security Council and a very influencial role with Katherine von Wettin serving as the Secretary-General of the C.C.A.. Drambenburg is also a member of the Trans-Toyana Prosper Alliance, giving it significant military and economic ties across Euronia, Ausiana, and Adula, specifically with the nations of Beleroskov, Qolaysia, Zalluabed, Styrae, and Buckingla.

Military

Wehrmacht

A Drambenburg Lerbin-class frigate

The Wehrmacht is the combined armed forces of Drambenburg, consisting of over two million active duty conscripts, volunteers, reservist, and militia members.

In addition to the Drambenburgian armed forces, the Empire also enlists the help of several PMCs, both domestic and foreign.

Cities

See also: Cities in Drambenburg

Metropolitan areas in Drambenburg
No.	CMA City	Population
1	Durenurbergering	9,398,000
2	Lerbin	6,523,000
3	Wein	5,298,000
4	Essen	3,128,000
5	Eidberg	1,787,000
6	Einborn	1,433,000
7	Den Haag	982,000
8	Hengeburg	923,000
9	Pilsenburg	889,000
10	Erswil	863,000
11	Donehal	771,000
12	Altenbruck	702,000

• 

  Durenurbergering

• 

  Lerbin

• 

  Wein

• 

  Essen

• 

  Eidburg

• 

  Einborn

• 

  Den Haag

• 

  Hengeburg

• 

  Pilsenburg

• 

  Erswil

• 

  Donehal

• 

  Altenbruck

Economy

With an annual GDP averaging 9.5 trillion, Drambenburg is the third largest economy in the CCA following Zamastan and Yuan, and is a member state of the C21. Drambenburg consistently ranks high in terms of GDP per capita, due to its highly industrialized economy, and well-developed social market economy. Until the mid 1950s, many of Drambenburg's largest industrial firms were nationalized; in recent years, however, privatization has reduced state holdings to a level comparable to other Euronian and Adulan economies, which has helped spur its huge economic standing. Labor movements are particularly influential, exercising large influence on labor politics and decisions related to the expansion of the economy. Next to a highly developed industry based around manufacturing exports, international tourism is the most important part of the economy of Drambenburg. Drambenburg is known for many major exports, chiefly including aerospace technology, cars, pharmaceuticals, grains, coal, lumber, and firearms. In addition to the primary productions, Drambenburg also has produces a number of electronics, ranging from cameras to speakers, olive oil, textiles, machinery, plastics, metals, chiefly iron and steel, and other luxury comodities, especially clocks and watches. In addition to the agriculture, Drambenburgian highlands are know for vast fields reserved for pastoralism, and has a large fishing industry.

Due to controversial standings before, during, and after the World War, Drambenburg has needed to revitalize its international trading network, which has largely come with investing and contracting with foreign governments for construction and manufacturing projects. The Trans-Toyana Prosper Alliance has helped legitimize Drambenburg's economy on the international stage, and Southern Adula is one of Drambenburg's most influential regions of investment. While still largely viewed as a "stagnant exporter", international sanctions on Drambenburg's economy have largely dropped in the 21st century which has led to a massive surge in its worldwide interconnection. In 2002, it was the second-largest growing economy after Yuan as a result of normalized international relations, increasing from the fifth-largest economy to the third, passing Durnstaal and Besmenia respectively. While the rate of growth has largely subsided, Drambenburg's economy is consistently ranked among the most stable, with it having not been effected as severely as other nations during the 2019-21 recession thanks to revitalized domestic manufacturing and resource exploitation.

Internationally, Drambenburg has a fast-growing network of nations with which it trades. Along with the nations in the Trans-Toyana Prosper Alliance, Drambenburg also trades extensively with Zamastan, primarily her dependencies Mayotte and Auraine, as well as Vitosium.

Demographics

Language

German is the official and most widely spoken language in Drambenburg. It is one of just over a dozen official languages in the Trans-Toyana Prosper Alliance, and one of three procedural languages of the TTPA. German is one of the most widely spoken languages in the Coalition of Crown Albatross. The most used immigrant languages are English, Italian, and Russian. Minority languages in the country include Yavapai, Teton Sioux, Algonquian, and Romani, which are protected by the Euronian charter for Regional or Minority Languages. Drambenburgians are typically multilingual, with two-thirds of Drambenburgian citizens claiming to be able to speak at least one non-native language, and one-quarter able to speak at least two non-native languages.

Religion

The Pilsenburg Cathedral is a renowned symbol of Drambenburgian religion

Christianity is the largest religion in Drambenburg, with 66.8% identified themselves as Christian, with 3.8% of those not being church members. 31.7% declared themselves as Protestants, including members of the Evangelical Church in Drambenburg (which encompasses Lutheran, Reformed and administrative or confessional unions of both traditions) and the free churches; 31.2% declared themselves as Verdusan Catholics, and Orthodox believers constituted 1.3%. According to data from 2016, the Catholic Church and the Evangelical Church claimed 28.5% and 27.5%, respectively, of the population. Islam is the second largest religion in the country. 1.9% of the census population gave their religion as Islam, but this figure is deemed unreliable because a disproportionate number of adherents of this religion (and other religions, such as Judaism) are likely to have made use of their right not to answer the question. Most of the Muslims are Sunnis and Alevites from Zalluabed, Qolaysia, and Emmiria, but there are a small number of Shi'ites, Ahmadiyyas and other denominations. About 8% of religions are among the indigenous population of Drambenburg, while other global religions comprise less than one percent of Drambenburg's population.

A study in 2018 estimated that 30% of the population are not members of any religious organization or denomination, though up to a third may still consider themselves religious. Irreligion in Drambenburg is strongest in the northwest, which used to be predominantly Protestant before the World War, and in major metropolitan areas.

Other Ethnicities

Non-Drambenburgian native people groups include the Galicjans, the Etruscans, the Ojibwe, and the Celjeans.

Ethnicities Table (WIP)

Ethnicity	% of Population	Header text	Header text
Drambenburgian	50.5%	Example	Example
Galicjan	23.15%	Example	Example
Etruscan	9.5%	Example	Example
Ojibwe	2.4%	Example	Example
Caljean	10.45%	Example	Example
Dwarfs	2.25%	Example	Example
Other	1.75%	Example	Example

Culture

Over the centuries, Drambenburg has developed and maintained a strong national identity through its strong regional cultures, which often are seen in Drambenburgian diasporas across central Euronia and the influences of other cultures within its own territory, prominently that of Shoassau, Zitasso, and the Eastern Zamastanian Provinces of Mayotte and Auraine. Individual states in Drambenburg host prominent cultures of their own, which creates a unique diversity in the national culture.

Music

Drambenburg's past as a Euronian power and its cultural environment generated a broad contribution to various forms of art, most notably among them music. Drambenburg was the birthplace of many famous composers such as Aaron Ettlinger, Tim Behm, and Ulrich Engelberg. Lerbin and Wein for a long time served as important centers of musical innovation. 18th- and 19th-century composers were drawn to the city due to the patronage of powerful classical age families, and made Wein the Euronian capital of classical music.

Art

Lutharian Alps (1831-33) by Christian Happel, known as the father of Drambenburgian Impressionism

Drambenburgian painters have influenced western art. Raphael Seidler, Gregor Schmuck, Ben Amstutz, and Jonas Horenberger were important Drambenburgian artists of the 15th and 16th centuries, and later inspired Christoph Meusburger of Romanticism, Christian Happel of Impressionism and Richard Gellner of Surrealism. Several Drambenburg art groups formed in the 20th century and influenced the development of expressionism in Lerbin. The New Objectivity arose in response to expressionism during the pre-World War age, but after the war broad trends in Drambenburgian art included neo-expressionism.

Cuisine

Drambenburgian cuisine is an amalgamation of many regional foods. It is known for pastries, sausages, seafood, pasta dishes, and cheeses. While cuisine varies greatly across the nation, regional distinctives are well known in the international community. Colder regions in the mountains are known for pickled cabage, also called saur kraut, and spiced pork sausages known as bratwurst. Other popular suasages are braunschweiger, blutwurst, and kielbasa. Often, different families have different sausage recipes, so no two sausages are identical. In adition to kraut and bratwursts, the region is known for the invention of the pretzel. Sausage is also common in the south-eastern swamps and bayous, where it is often served in conjunction with seafood, such as shrimp, and pasta or rice. In this region, the food is often heavily flavored with exotic herbs and spices, stemming from the regions rich history in the trans-oceanic spice trade. South-central Drambenburg is known for lamb and chicken based cuisines, often also employing the use of exotic spices, such as tumeric. Some other common flavorings found in these foods are oregano, marjoram, parsely, and dill. Often, south-central Drambenburgian food is served with olives and dates, and the acompanying starch is typically in the form of pita bread. Western Drambenburgian cuisine is often built around beef, flour tortillas, and rice. Other common accoutrements include jalapeno, poblano, and bell peppers; raw onions; and tomatoes.

Sports

Association football (soccer) is the most popular sport in Drambenburg. With more than 7 million official members, the Drambenburg Football Federation is the one of the largest soccer clubs internationally. The Drambenburgian National Soccer Team is a two-time title champion of the World Cup, having won in 1976 and 2014. Drambenburg also has hosted the World Cup twice, including the first ever tournament in the 1973 Lerbin World Cup and the 2001 Lerbin World Cup.

Historically, Drambenburgian athletes have been successful contenders in the Olympic Games, ranking fifth in an all-time Olympic Games medal count.

-hockey- baseball -

Further Reading

Prison in Drambenburg

Media in Drambenburg