Thalassa

Thalassa

Area	3,850,000 km2 (1,490,000 sq mi)
Demonym	Thalassan
Countries	List of countries in Thalassa
Languages	List of languages
Time zones	UTC-8 to UTC-12
Largest cities	Sunset City Arkhavn Saipuo Vali Cronulla

Thalassa, often referred to as the 'Maritime Continent', holds a distinct position on the globe of Eurth. Nestled between the vast expanses of the Oriental Ocean, it is flanked by the continents of Argis, Alharu, and Aurelia to the east and Europa to the west, with Antargis defining its southern boundary. Thalassa's geographical location has played a significant role in its historical and cultural evolution, making it a land of myriad traditions and a fusion of ancient civilizations. The continent is a treasure trove of natural resources, which have been the backbone of its economic growth over centuries. The rich marine life, coupled with the fertile lands, has ensured a self-sufficient and prosperous way of life for its inhabitants. Thalassa's distinct cultural heritage, borne out of its maritime traditions, resonates through its modern-day ethos, making it a fascinating blend of the old and the new.

Etymology

In the traditions of Occidental mythology, Thalassa (/θəˈlæsə/; interpreted as “sea”) is revered as the primordial deity of the sea. This entity is analogous to Abzu from Azanian mythology and Aang from Oriental mythology, each representing respective sea deities in their cultures.

Geography

The continent of Thalassa is interspersed with numerous islands dispersed throughout the Oriental Ocean, contributing to its diverse and intricate geographical landscape. These islands are the cradle of distinct islander cultures, whose ancestors are believed to have navigated their way from ancient Europa, traversing Marenesia and eventually reaching the shores of Argis, Alharu, and Aurelia. The rich mixture of cultures in Thalassa is evidence of the ancient maritime expeditions and the intermingling of traditions and lifestyles across the islands, offering a multifaceted view of the societal and cultural developments within this continental region.

The Oriental Ocean, enveloping Thalassa, is one of Eurth's largest and most mysterious bodies of water. It plays a crucial role in shaping the climate and weather patterns of the surrounding continents. The Oriental Ocean is characterized by its deep blue waters, vast coral reefs, and underwater trenches. The ocean's currents, driven by the winds and the rotation of Eurth, facilitate the migration of marine species and influence the climate of the coastal regions.

Rich in biodiversity, the Oriental Ocean is home to a plethora of marine species, ranging from the smallest plankton to the majestic blue whales. Coral reefs, often referred to as the “rainforests of the sea,” provide habitats for thousands of marine species and are vital for the health of the ocean. For millennia, the Oriental Ocean has been a hub of human activity. Ancient sailors navigated its waters, establishing trade routes and cultural connections. Today, the ocean remains a vital route for global trade and commerce. However, human activities have also posed threats to the ocean's health, leading to initiatives like the UBPSSIF Protected Marine Reserve to ensure its conservation.

History

See also: Azano-Marenesian peoples and History of migration on Eurth

The history of Thalassa is steeped in maritime traditions, with evidence suggesting that the first inhabitants were seafarers from southern Europa. Archaeological findings indicate that these early settlers arrived around 10,000 BCE, navigating via Marenesia before reaching Thalassa. These settlers established the first known civilizations on the islands, developing advanced navigation and fishing techniques, and creating intricate art and pottery. Over millennia, the diverse environments of the islands shaped distinct cultures, each with its unique traditions, languages, and social structures. The islanders became adept at exploiting the rich marine resources and developed sustainable agricultural practices, allowing their societies to flourish. Trade and cultural exchanges between the islands fostered a shared identity, yet each island retained its unique characteristics. Around 2000 BCE, the first ‘Thalassans’ are said to embarked on a series of maritime expeditions, reaching the continents of Argis, Alharu, and Aurelia. These voyages led to the exchange of goods, ideas, and technologies between Thalassa and the newly discovered lands. These Thalassans introduced advanced navigation and shipbuilding techniques to these continents, significantly impacting their maritime practices. The prosperity brought by exploration and trade led to the rise of powerful kingdoms in Thalassa around 1500 BCE. These kingdoms engaged in territorial conflicts and alliances, shaping the political landscape of the continent.

Nations

The continent of Thalassa is home to several sovereign nations, each contributing to the rich mixture of cultures, traditions, and histories that define this continent. The nations include:

Country	Capital	Population
Andalla	Arkhavn	28,036,248
Burkini	Cronulla	55,786
Giokto	Saipuo	10,278,427
Konalani	Halawai	121,480
Little Flau	Aulon	423,567
Template:Country data Luminara	$capitalCity	$populationNumber
Rohini	Vali	1,691,876
Selayar	Wanaveraʻa	41,332,005
Sunset Sea Islands	Sunset City	164,627,827

Preservation

Additionally, Thalassa hosts the UBPSSIF Protected Marine Reserve, a sanctuary dedicated to the conservation of marine biodiversity and ecosystems. This reserve is a significant component of the continent's environmental preservation initiatives, reflecting the ecological richness and diversity inherent to Thalassa's marine environments.