San Ba
Republic of San Ba 三八 | |
|---|---|
 Flag
 National seal
| |
| Motto: Juéqiào! | |
| Anthem: The Silver Star | |
 Location of San Ba | |
 Map of San Ba | |
| Status | Independent State |
| Capital | Xiàmian |
| Official languages | Sanbanese |
| Recognised regional languages | Oharic |
| Demonym(s) | Sanbanese |
| Government | Unitary semi-presidential constitutional republic |
| 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 Penglai in 7th century historical records, as a flourishing port on the Pearl Road network. In the 15th century, Duke Fo Shō unified the island, creating the foundation for the modern nation of San Ba. Today, with its rich history and vibrant culture, San Ba stands as an independent, prosperous nation, recognised globally for its economic strength and social progress. 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
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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.[1] 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, characterised 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, proof of 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 mixture 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
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
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.[a] 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
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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 organisation, 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
The economy of San Ba is characterised by a strong private sector, led by key industries in information technology, uranium mining, and gambling. This robust private sector has been the engine of San Ba's economic growth since the late 20th century.
The Information Technology (IT) sector has been a significant driver of economic growth since the 1980s. Following the end of the Long War in 1956, the country needed new industries to drive its recovery and growth. By the 1980s, firms like Quantum Tech, led by innovator CEO Richard Chen, began to emerge as global leaders in areas like artificial intelligence, software development, and cybersecurity. By 2025, the IT sector will account for around 25% of San Ba's GDP, with further growth expected in the coming years.
Uranium mining has also proven to be a lucrative industry for San Ba, leveraging the country's rich natural uranium deposits. The industry, dominated by companies such as San Ba Uranium Ltd, led by industry veteran Joseph Tan, saw a boom in the late 20th century, bolstered by increasing global demand for nuclear power.
The gambling industry has become a significant part of San Ba's economy, with large casino resorts like The Silver Lotus in Port Zayton drawing visitors from around the world. This sector has been bolstered by the government's liberal approach to gambling, leading to a flourishing industry that contributes significantly to the country's tourism revenue.
San Ba's unique approach to taxation has also played a role in its economic development. The country has opted not to levy income tax on its citizens or corporations. Instead, the government funds its expenditures primarily through indirect taxes such as a goods and services tax and import duties. This tax policy has further stimulated economic activity by leaving more money in the hands of consumers and businesses.
The currency of San Ba is the Sanbanese Yuan (SBY), which has remained relatively stable against major currencies thanks to prudent monetary policy by the country's central bank, led by Governor Maria Lau.
In the early years of the Republic, following the end of the Long War in 1956, the economy faced instability due to frequent changes in government leadership. However, the rural economy began to recover by the 1960s, with agricultural overproduction leading to a surge in foreign exports. This agricultural boom was spearheaded by Minister of Agriculture Liu Wei in the 1970s, who implemented reforms to modernise farming practices and improve yields.
Industrial output also began to recover around this time, attracting foreign investment and sparking a period of industrialisation. This industrial growth was strongly encouraged by the government, particularly after the end of the Long War, leading to a boom in manufacturing, particularly in the electronics sector.
Today, the economy of San Ba continues to thrive, propelled by its strong private sector and supportive government policies. While challenges remain, the country's economic future looks promising.
Demographics
As of the latest census in 2023, the population of San Ba stands at approximately 18.4 million people, marking a steady increase from the 17.66 million recorded in 2005. The capital city, Xiàmian, is the most populous city, with over 3 million residents. Other major cities include Port Zayton and Thubani, each home to over a million residents.
The Sanbanese people are known for their ethnic diversity, with a mix of different ethnic groups cohabiting harmoniously. The majority ethnic group are the Sanbanese !Han, accounting for 60% of the population, while the rest is made up of smaller ethnic groups such as the Ide Jiman (15%), Kokuan (10%), and others (15%) including the small but vibrant community of expatriates from across the globe.
The official language is Sanbanese, a language closely related to the Oriental language family. Oharic is also widely spoken, taught in schools from a young age, and is often used in business and government.
San Ba has a high literacy rate, with over 98% of the population above the age of 15 able to read and write, thanks to the comprehensive education system implemented by Minister of Education Lee Hye-jin in 2010. The country operates a compulsory education system, with children required to attend school from the age of 6 to 16.
Culture
San Ba is a socially progressive nation, a characteristic that is strongly reflected in its culture. The country has a vibrant arts scene, with renowned artists such as painter Li Mei and musician Zhang Wei gaining international recognition for their work. The national museum in Xiàmian, established in 1990, houses some of the most significant artworks and historical artefacts of San Ba, drawing tourists from around the wurld.
In terms of cuisine, San Ba boasts a rich food culture with influences from its diverse ethnic groups. The national dish is the Sanbanese noodle soup, a delicious concoction of noodles, vegetables, and meat in a rich broth. The annual San Ba Food Festival in Xiàmian, started by renowned chef Chen Liang in 2005, is a major event that showcases the country's culinary diversity and attracts food enthusiasts from around the wurld.
Notes
References
- ↑ The Research Center of San Ba (15 February 2005)
