Freelands
The Republic of Freelands, now known as Freelands Province, is a free state located in the +,+ quadrant of the map. Governor bushycraftbt99 established the state in Entranan territory in late July of 2018.
History
Early Days
Freelands traces its history back to bushycraftbt99, who traveled across the ocean to settle the area in hopes of establishing a free and democratic country. Problems soon arose when he stole a bed and broke into a factory in Fredericksland to gather materials and learn how they set up their industrial base. Hostilities grew when other nations in the region falsely believed he was responsible for a string of robberies that happened over the course of a month. After almost being pearled when returning some of the stolen goods, Prince Hroerek determined that bushycraftbt99 was not the serial robber and tensions eased over the following days.
Construction and Development
Although the retaining wall on the cliffs was being built during the hostilities, it wasn't until the hostilities eased that Fort Liberty built its first homes and government buildings. Afterwards, multiple terrace farms were constructed as well as the governor's house.
Freelands Province
After establishing contact with Rambete and shtim from the Republic of Entrana, an agreement was made between the two nations that made Freelands an official province of Entrana. Fort Liberty became a free city per the agreement; exempt from taxes but still subordinate to the Republic. Soon after, a road was built between the capital and Fort Liberty to establish a safe route between the two cities.
Military Build-up
Following increased regional tensions in mid-August of 2018, the citizens of Fort Liberty realized that war may be inevitable and that the province would be incapable of defending itself. To remedy this, three guard towers were constructed along with the Entrana Office of Naval Intelligence (ONI) to help identify threats to the province and the greater republic. Citizens also worked towards upgrading their personal weapons and armor.
Geography
Location and Claimed Land
Freelands is situated in the northeast section of Entranan territory near the city of Fredericksland in Pruthenia. The southern most border of Freelands lies along the Z: 4565 line and the northernmost border along the Z: 4250. The coast marks the eastern and western borders of the province. The islands off the coast of the province are also under its control.
Terrain
The province's territory is mountainous and hard to traverse. The frequent exposed caves and dense vegetation make the challenge worse.
Settlements
Fort Liberty is the only settlement in the province. It sits beside the ocean on a small plateau which is at the base of multiple large mountains. The sleepy town boasts multiple small homes, a town hall, a factory, a port, and a few other miscellaneous buildings.
Economy
Agriculture
The Republic of Freelands has a strong agricultural sector whose main products are apples, sugar, and wheat. The climate limits the growth of other crops and the lack of animals in the area has prevented the production of meat and other animal-related goods except for eggs and chicken.
Mining
Mining, as in all other civs, is the primary industry in the country. The mining sector of the economy is the backbone of Freelands' industrial base and produces the materials necessary for defense, construction, and economic growth.
Lumber/Energy
The hills of Freelands are dense with vegetation which provide a large amount of oak and birch lumber for the nation. This lumber can then be converted for use in construction/tools, or for making charcoal which powers the factories and smelters of Fort Liberty.
Political and Government Structure
Freelands has provincial a senate and a provincial governor who are responsible for governing the nation. The senators have various responsibilities and are appointed by the governor, who is elected by popular vote. Each senator is given a specific job, such as militia captain or minister of war. Citizens can call for a referendum should they be displeased with a law or seek to enact a new law.
The province is very friendly to business and capitalism, a rarity in the +,+ quadrant. The free status given to the province by Entrana has enabled capitalism to thrive there without the fear of aggression or invasion. Citizens are free to start their own businesses and sell whatever they please at whatever the price. These rules also apply to outsiders looking to use the territory as a place to sell goods on the free market.