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Chapter 29: The Palmer Presidency, 1937-1943
--- The Palmer Presidency (1937-1943) ---
PRUSSIANS CALL FOR CEASE FIRE!
LONDON - Just over a month after the Italian Empire signed a ceasefire agreement with the Allied Forces, the Kingdom of Prussia has done the same. King Karl Friedrich II contacted the government of Queen Victoria III in London to convey that the Prussians want to end hostilities immediately, and to begin negotiations with the Allied Powers as soon as possible to bring an end to the war in Europe. Impromptu celebrations have broken out across London once the news broke on the wireless. The Queen addressed her subject live via the British Wireless Service about an hour after the first word of the news got out, saying, “My dear Subjects here at home, Allies both across the Channel and across the sea, it is done. Prussia, our great enemy these past five or more years, has called for an immediate ceasefire, which my government has granted, as has that of Union of European Republics. And, just before I took to the wireless to address you all, I recieved a communique from King Alejandro I of Spain, saying that he too wished to end hostilities. We can all take a great sigh of relief, that the fighting here in Europe is over. I pray that it will soon end in Asia too, and that the whole world will once again enjoy peace.”
With Prussia and Spain calling to end the fighting, the war in Europe is now effectively over. Outgoing Secretary of State Elias Barnett told the press in Franklin that, “we have received word from both Prussia and Spain about their wish to end the fighting, and President King is in agreement with our allies that the time has come to lay down our arms in Europe and sort out a peace settlement.”
“Prussians Call for Cease Fire!” Franklin Observer, January 12, 1937.
--- PALMER TAKES OFFICE AS WAR IN EUROPE ENDS
FRANKLIN - Jubilant crowds packed Congress Square as Leon Palmer, who has served as Vice President since 1931, was sworn in as the nation’s 30th president. The euphoria of the crowd was in part due to Palmer’s hard fought victory, but also a public celebration of the victory in Europe. A formal ceasefire agreement was signed just days ago in Europe between the combined Allied Forces of Britain, the UER, and the United States and the so-called “Conservative Alliance of Prussia, Spain, and Italy, marking the end of nearly eight years of war. In his inaugural address, President Palmer stated that, “we have won the war, now we must win the peace. It is one thing to tear things down with violence, it is another thing entirely to help those who were your enemy pick up the pieces and begin anew. We must work with our allies and former enemies alike to ensure that there is never again a war that engulfs the whole globe.”
In addition to Palmer’s swearing in, history was also made when Alexander Gates was sworn in as Vice President, becoming the first member of the Communalist Party to hold that office. Gates was a controversial pick for a running mate by Palmer, but the gesture ensured CPUS support in the election, and swept Palmer to victory last November.
“Palmer Takes Office as War in Europe Ends,” Manhattan Gazette, January 21, 1937.
--- PATRICIA PERRY SWORN IN AS FIRST SECRETARY
FRANKLIN - In a surprising move, the Liberal Party has supported Communalist Representative Patricia Perry of Indiana as First Secretary, blocking the more hawkish Nationalist Louis Jenkins of Georgia from taking the position. Although the Nationalists enjoy the largest single bloc in the House, with 158 seats, the combined Liberal-Communalist bloc is 296 seats, well over the majority needed for control of the House. Some expected the Liberals to back one of their own representatives and try to get CPUS support, but it would appear that, since the communalists have more seats that the Liberals, senior Liberal Party leaders, possibly including President Palmer himself, signaled that it would be more appropriate to support the Communalist Party candidate, as their party is currently the second largest in the House, at 152 seats.
This marks both the first time that a woman has served as First Secretary, and the first time a Communalist has held that position. There are currently 176 women in the House (roughly 35%), many of them belonging to either the Liberal or Communalist parties, and many feel that it is well past time that a woman hold that high office. Many political commentators feel that the country is only an election or two away from seeing the first female elected to the Presidency. And with the way they have been doing lately in elections, a Communalist president might not be too far in the future, both of which were unfathomable only fifty years ago.
“Patricita Perry Sworn in as First Secretary,” New Orleans Star, January 25, 1937.
--- KING KARL FRIEDRICH FLEES BERLIN AMID RIOTS
BERLIN- Violence continues to worsen in several major Prussian cities including Berlin, which has prompted the Prussian Royal Family to flee to the eastern port city of Konigsberg. Rioters have attacked the Royal Palace in Berlin several times, and King Karl Friedrich II stated in an official press release that, “I cannot in good conscience continue to keep my family in harm's way. I will continue to conduct the affairs of state from Konigsberg and keep in regular communication with the government ministers here in Berlin, and also those representatives which will be heading to Geneva to discuss the peace agreement.”
There have been continuous reports of unrest across the Prussian Kingdom since last October, especially in the west where there was actual fighting between the Prussians and the Allies. Some of the unrest is believed to be general discontent with continuing the war. But there also seems to be a growing anti-monarchist sentiment among more recent rioters, and there has been growing speculation that there might be an actual attempt at revolution in Prussia if these demonstrations continue unchecked. Thus far, Prussian authorities have not attempted any real crackdowns on the rioters, other than trying to prevent damage to property or harm to people.
“King Karl Friedrich Flees Berlin Amid Riots,” Boston Eagle, February 4, 1937.
--- FATE OF BRITISH TAMPA STILL IN QUESTION
TAMPA BAY- Tampa Bay, on the Florida Penninsula, has been ruled by the British since 1863. It was a gift to the British for their aide in putting down the Slaver government of James Hawthorne, on a lease of 75 years. That lease ends next year. The State of Florida, which had no say in the original matter as it had been a Slaver state, wants its territory back. In the past 75 years, the so-called Tampa Bay Special Administrative Crown District has flourished, growing from a tiny collection of frontier settlements that existed in 1863 to two large cities, Fort Tampa and Victropolis, both home to approximately 80,000 people, not to mention all of the smaller outlying communities. It is estimated that Over 75% of the population are British-born subjects with no direct ties to the United States, and there is a growing movement to convince the United States to give Tampa Bay to the British permanently, something that Florida Governor Martin Pritchett has vowed to fight.
Secretary of State Peter Enns is expected to discuss the issue with his British counterpart while in Switzerland for the peace talks that are set to take place there to bring about the end of the Global War in Europe. As of yet, President Palmer has yet to make a public statement on the issue, so it is unclear just what Secretary Enns will be telling the British Foreign Secretary. Great Britain, for its part, has maintained that, while they would like to discuss a renegotiation of the Tampa Bay Lease, especially since the Royal Navy has invested a great deal in its base there, they intend to abide by the current terms if the United States is unwilling to make some sort of new agreement.
“FATE OF BRITISH TAMPA STILL IN QUESTION,” Manhattan Gazette, February 12, 1937.
--- PEACE TALKS OPEN IN SWITZERLAND
GENEVA- Crown Prince William Victor of Great Britain opened the first meeting of the European Peace Talks, being held in a lakeside palace outside of Geneva, Switzerland. Representatives from Britain, the Union of European Republics, the United States, the Italian People’s Republic, the Kingdom of Prussia, the United Empire of Italy, and the Kigndom of Spain have convereged on the Swiss city of Geneva to hammer out a peace agreement to bring a formal end to European Theater of the Global War. With the UER and its allies victorious over Prussia, Spain, and the Italian Empire, the big question is what will the UER want done to its enemies, chiefly Prussia. Prior to Prussian engagement in 1930, the conflict had been primarily a civil war in Italy, where the UER had backed the rebel People’s Republic in the north against the Italian Empire in the south. When Prussia entered the fray in September of 1930, the entire conflict changed to one of survival for the UER, especially after Spain jumped in as well in 1932. Many speculate that UER Chancellor Walther Hasselbach, who has been in office since 1926, will want part of Prussia’s territory annexed into the Union of European Republics, and some observers think that this may be blocked by Britain.
“Peace Talks Open in Switzerland,” Chicago Herald, February 20, 1937.
--- WAR DEPARTMENT TO SHIFT SOLDIERS TO ASIA
FRANKLIN - Secretary of War Thomas Newton has announced that, with hostilities in Europe over, nearly half of US Forces in Europe will be sent to the Asian Theater to try and halt the Chinese expansion in Choson and Japan. The War Department did not say exactly where the soldiers will be sent, but most experts believe that a bulk of the troops will end up on the Osaka Line on the main Japanese home island, where Allied Commanders are hoping to launch an assault on Chinese positions on the western portion of that island. Although China was stopped at Osaka last year, likely preventing the fall of Japan, the Asian Theater has been brutal. Choson seems likely to fall if the Allied Forces fail to properly defend Busan, now the last free city on the peninsula. There is also a fear that, with their ally defeated in Europe, the Chinese might try to negotiate a peace in their favor, keeping the lands they currently occupy, which would effectively be the end of Choson and cripple the Japanese Republic.
“War Department to Shift Soldiers to Asia,” Astoria Dispatch, March 19, 1937.
--- PRUSSIAN REBELS DECLARE NEW “GERMAN” REPUBLIC
FRANKFURT- As many observers predicted would happen, the riots in many western Prussian cities has grown into an outright revolution against the Hohenzollern Dynasty. Rebels gathered in the Allied-occupied city of Frankfurt, which nearly a century ago saw the birth of the first Germanic democracy, to declare the birth of a new German Republic, which they proclaimed would control all of what is now the Kingdom of Prussia. They unveiled a black-red-gold tri-color flag, and have sent representatives to the Allied Command to seek formal recognition. Their leader, self-styled President Christoph Heydrich, says that they hope to use the Allied military presence across western Prussia to help establish this new republic. So far, none of the major allied governments have come out with any sort of official statement in regards to this declaration.
“Prussian Rebels Declare New “German” Republic,” St. Louis Courier, May 1, 1937.
--- BRITAIN OBJECTS TO UER EXPANSION TO THE EAST
GENEVA - The British government has expressed official objection to a plan proposed by the Union of European Republics to annex most of the Prussian territory along and east of the Rhine River into the UER. British Foreign Minister David Churchill stated that, “while Britain was happy to lend a helping hand to the UER in their fight against the Kingdom of Prussia, we do not wish to see all of Europe gobbled up by a single entity. Already, it appears that the new republic in northern Italy will join the UER. We object to any more land annexation.” Chancellor Hasselbach of the UER has stated that, “Ideally, we believe the Germans living in Rhineland want to join our Union. But we will continue to negotiate with our other European neighbors to find a solution that will hopefully satisfy all parties.”
The territory in question has in recent weeks declared itself independent from Prussia, calling itself the Republic of Germany. Centered on the city of Frankfurt, the leaders of this new Republic have given some positive overtures to the idea of annexation into the UER, but there are others that have been outspoken against such a move, including the Republic’s finance minister, Emma Eichenwald. Asked by a local Frankfurt paper early this week, Eichenwald was quoted saying, “we wish to reestablish the German Republic snuffed out by the Hohenzollerns in the 1840s, not be consumed by the great Communalist juggernaut to our west. We have a place for communalist ideas in this Republic, but it is not the only school of thought respected by our new government.”
“Britain Objects to UER Expansion to the East,” Boston Eagle, June 7, 1937.
--- CHINA FAILS TO TAKE BUSAN!
TOKYO- In an unexpected triumph, the Allies in Asia have thwarted a major Chinese attempt to take Busan, the last major city in Choson still free of Chinese control. This was done by the combined effort of soldiers from the United States, California, Texas, Hawaii, and Japan, at great cost. It is estimated over 100,000 Allied soldiers lay dead now that the battle is over, and possibly as high as three times as many Chinese. This victory comes as Allied forces continue to battle Imperial China for the liberation of the western portion of Honshu Island, the primary home island of Japan, which Chinas has controlled for over a year. Officials in the War Department hope that, if a few more key victories can be won, China might agree to talks to end the war in Asia, not that their European ally Prussia has been defeated.
“China Fails to Take Busan!” Brooklyn Standard, July 19, 1937.
--- PRESIDENT PALMER SUPPORTS TAMPA REFERENDUM
FRANKLIN - The plan proposed by Secretary of State Peter Enns and British Foreign Secretary David Churchill to allow the people of British Tampa to vote on their future relationship with the United Kingdom and the United States has received the support of of President Palmer. “While the territory in question is by rights American, it has been settled and developed by people who claim allegiance to Great Britain. They should decide for themselves which flag flies above them.” The plan calls for four options: 1) remaining under British rule, but as a full-fledged colony; 2) returning to the United States and rejoining the State of Florida; 3) becoming a special district within the United States akin to Franklin and Manhattan; 4) becoming a fully independent city-state.
While Florida Governor Martin Pritchett has expressed outrage at the proposal, the agreement drafted between the two chief diplomats is expected to pass the Senate next week. Now that President Palmer has given his nod of approval, it appears likely that the referendum will happen.
“President Palmer Supports Tampa Referendum,” Franklin Observer, July 21, 1937.
--- AMIDST OBJECTIONS, PRUSSIAN REBELS GRANTED SEAT AT PEACE TALKS
GENEVA - Despite the threat of a possible walkout of the delegates representing the Kingdom of Prussia, the rest of the nations at the Geneva Peace Talks have agreed to allow a few representatives from the newly declared German Republic to join the talks. This new upstart republic has claimed the disputed “Rhineland” region in western Prussia, territory the UER would like to annex into their Union as retribution against Prussia. Great Britain has already objected to this proposed annexation, and allowing the German representatives to join the talks seems to signal that the other Allies are less inclined to support the UER’s request. In spite of this, Chancellor Hasselbach has publicly welcomed this addition, saying, “the people in this region need to be properly represented. The fate of their land is one of the many things being discussed in Geneva, and it would be improper to decide their future with no one present to properly represent their wishes.”
“Amidst Objections, Prussian Rebels Granted Seat at Peace Talks,” Franklin Observer, August 1, 1937.
--- OKAYAMA LIBERATED!
TOKYO - In yet another major blow to Imperial China, the Allied Forces in Asia have been able to liberate the Japanese city of Okayama, some 50 miles to the west of Allied Command in Osaka. As with the Battle of Busan two months ago on the Chosonese Peninsula, the fight for Okayama cost several hundred thousand lives. With the war in Europe over, there is an increasing level of war weariness beginning to seep in to public discourse. Many Americans continue to hold out hope that with these continued victories, China will be open to negotiations to end the war.
“Okayama Liberated!” Chicago Herald, September 13, 1937.
--- WOC: 1938 GAMES TO BE HELD IN MANHATTAN
AMSTERDAM - With Spain still under military occupation by the United States and no other European nation in a position to host the games, the World Olympic Committee announced today that the 1938 games, which had originally been scheduled to be in Madrid since the 1934 games had been cancelled, will instead be held in Manhattan. The city has new sports arenas, some of which had been built for the special “North American Games” held in 1935 after the 1934 Olympics had been cancelled, and those facilities can be quickly expanded to host the world for these games. Some had wondered whether or not the 1938 games would even take place with war still going on in Asia, but the Committee stated that, “with hostilities having ended in Europe, and looking likely to end in Asia soon, we feel it is important that the games continue.”
“WOC: 1938 Games to be Held in Manhattan,” ManhattanGazette, September 21, 1937.
---
By the Fall of 1937, it was clear that China had lost the momentum in the Asian Theater of the Global War. Most of their early gains had been reversed in Japan, and their advances had been stopped cold in Choson. That said, it was also clear to the Allied Forces that to fully liberate Japan and Choson would come with an astronomically high butcher’s bill. One more major push happened on the island of Honshu in October, resulting in the liberation of Takamatsu and Fukuyama. The Allies also tried to break out of the Busan pocket, but were unsuccessful.
That said, despite public statements to the contrary, the Chinese people were also growing tired of the war, and there was a growing faction in the Chinese Parliament to begin peace talks with the Allies as well. After the Treaty of Geneva was signed in December of 1937, and a renewed attempt to retake sections of Honshu Island failed in the early Spring of 1938, Chinese will to continue the war would finally falter.
Petersen, Dr. Kyle. The Asian War: The Fight Against Chinese Imperialism. Astoria: Oregonian Press, 2014.
--- PRESIDENT PALMER TO GO TO GENEVA FOR FINAL NEGOTIATIONS
GENEVA - Embarking onboard the USS Liberty’s Might, one of 6 ships in the US Army Airship Corps, President Palmer is headed to Geneva, Switzerland for the final round of negotiations that should hopefully wrap up the Geneva Peace Talks. This marks the first time that a sitting president has ever flown in any aircraft. The president’s ship will be escorted by three other airships from the USAAC, the USS Liberty’s Sword, the USS Freedom’s Glory, and the USS Soaring Eagle. The airborne flotilla is expected in Switzerland in less than four days.
Secretary of State Peter Enns told the press that treaty negotiations should by the first of December. Most crucial pieces of negotiations have already been completed, including territorial changes between Prussia, Italy, Spain, and the UER. The fate of American troops in Spain, and the future of the city of Rome still must be resolved among other more minor issues.
“President Palmer to go to Geneva for Final Negotiations,” Boston Eagle, November 12, 1937.
--- “REMAIN” WINS IN TAMPA VOTE - TERRITORY WILL STAY BRITISH
FORT TAMPA - The citizens of Tampa Bay, some 250,000 in total, have overwhelming rejected the idea of returning to the United States. Only 19% of those who voted chose one of the two options to return to the United States. In contrast, 52% votes to remain part of the British Empire (though now as a fully self governing and independent colony), and 29% voted for full independence as a free city-state. This is a huge defeat for Florida Governor Martin Pritchett, who campaigned hard to have the original 75 year lease honored and no new deal brokered. President Palmer called the vote a “victory for democracy” when reporters asked him about it in Geneva, where the President is attending the final negotiations for the treaty that will end the Global War.
“‘Remain’ Wins in Tampa Vote - Territory Will Stay British,” Brooklyn Standard, December 2, 1937.
---
On November 30th, 1937, the Treaty of Geneva was signed by the United Kingdom, the Kingdom of Spain, the Kingdom of Naples, the Italian People’s Republic, the Union of European Republics, the Kingdom of Prussia, and the United States, formally bringing an end to the European Theater of the Global War. The treaty contained 220 paragraphs, and touched every part of Central and Western Europe. The effects of this treaty are still being felt here in the dawn of the 21st Century. National boundaries were radically redrawn, and this treaty marked the end of some of the most powerful old empires on the continent.
This treaty marked the formal death of the United Empire of Italy. All of the northern half of the Italian Peninsula, which had been claimed by the communalist rebels in the Italian Civil War, was recognized as the Italian People’s Republic. This new independent republic was given permission in the treaty to join the Union of European Republics if it so chose. A vote would be held in mid-December that overwhelmingly supported joining the UER, which would become official on New Year’s Day 1938. The rest of the old Italian Empire became part of the Kingdom of Naples, except the city of Rome.
The debate over the fate of Rome remained highly contentious, and it nearly derailed the final stages of the treaty negotiations in Geneva. Naples wanted the city under their control. The Italian communalists wanted the city in their territory. And others argued that the city should be independent, placed back under the control of the Pope. In the end, the fate of the Eternal City was placed on hold until the next International Peace Council convened in 1940. In the meantime, the city would be placed under American occupation forces.
Of course, the biggest portion of the treaty was dedicated to the fate of Prussia, which was universally condemned as having made unprovoked and aggressive attacks against the UER. It had been understood that Prussia would loose a lot of territory in punishment for their aggression. And with the rebellion in the western provinces, the Allied Powers were given the perfect opportunity to shrink Prussia down drastically. In the final treaty, the Kingdom of Prussia would retain control of Saxony, Anhalt, Pomerania, Mecklenburg, Vorpommern, and Brandenburg. The rest of the Kingdom’s territories were to be placed under the temporary “German Republican Council” in Frankfurt, until a referendum on future status could be held. Citizens of those territories would vote ultimately to either remain an independent nation, or to join the UER like the Italian People’s Republic. The only exception to this was the City of Hamburg, which was placed under British rule.
In addition to territorial loss, Prussia also faced political and military restrictions as well. Under the treaty, King Karl Friedrich II, who was only 34 at the time and had been on the throne for just 4 years, would abdicate in favor of his ten-year-old son Prince Wilhelm. A regency would rule Prussia until the prince turned 21 in 1948, and during such time Prussia would be required to adopt a more democratic constitution. Prussia was further limited to only having 250,000 regular soldiers in their army, with no new tanks allowed to be built for fifteen years. The Prussian Navy was banned from having any new submarines builts for twenty-five years, and the country was also banned from having any sort of militarized aircraft until 1950.
The Treaty of Geneva also included punishment for Spanish aggression against both the United States and the Union of European Republics. Over half the country was under American occupation when the fighting ended at the beginning of 1937. That occupation would be extended to the whole country, and would be mandated to last until 1945, during which time, the Americans would oversee the adoption of a new constitution and other reforms aimed at neutralizing Spain as a threat in the eyes of the Allied Powers. Spain would also be limited to an army of 300,000 soldiers, with no military aircraft allowed until 1950. In addition, Spain would cede all overseas territories to the USA and the UER. Cuba, Puerto Rico, the Canary Islands, and the Philippines would be placed under American Control, while the Balearic Islands would be given to the UER, along with sole protector status over Andorra. The UER almost immediatley set about organizing these islands as a constituent republic of their Union, while the territories given to the United States would come to different fates. The Canaries became an important American outpost, especially for the military, and would be organized as a territory in 1939. The Philippines almost immediately petitioned for independence, something that would finally be achieved in the 1950s. Puerto Rico would become a territory in 1940, before gaining its independence in the 1970s. Cuba would be more complicated, having had heavy American investment and influence for decades. It would be organized as a territory in 1938, and eventually start to seek statehood in in the 1940s.
Walker, Dr. Melony. The Great Peace of ‘38: Treaty of Geneva and the Restructuring of Europe. Chicago: Chicago University Press, 2018.
--- SPANISH CONSTITUTIONAL CONVENTION BREAKS DOWN
MADRID - Under the watchful eye of American occupation authorities, Spanish politicians have been gathered in Madrid to draft a new, more democratic and liberal constitution since early January. However, after a heated debate yesterday, in which the communalist delegation stormed out of the assembly hall just around 6:00 p.m. local time, it appears that the convention is breaking down. Oscar Garcia, who has been serving as President of the Convention, said that the communalist bloc informed his office that they would not return to the convention until the other delegates agreed to revisit the issue of whether or not Spain would remain a monarchy. This issue had originally been settled back in mid February, but it appears that the communalist delegates received overwhelming feedback from their party that such a move was not acceptable. Neither Prime Minister Julian Abellan nor King Alejandro I would comment on the apparent break down at the convention.
“Spanish Constitutional Convention Breaks Down,” Franklin Observer, March 14, 1938.
--- CHINA BOWS TO PRESSURE: CEASEFIRE IN ASIA!
TOKYO - Chinese Prime Minister Ling Tao announced that Emperor Fùhuó II has called for a ceasefire with Pacific Allied Powers. The official statement released by the government in Xian reads, “War has raged in greater Asia since 1932, and has seen widespread destruction in many lands. Although the Emperor and his enlightened government believe this war could be continued and ultimately see banner of the Five People fly over all Choson and Japan and beyond, the human cost of such a war would ultimately prove too great. Therefore His Imperial Majesty’s government calls for a ceasefire with the United States and it’s North American and Pacific Allies, the Republic of Japan, and the Kingdom of Choson.”
Despite great gains in Choson and western Japan in the early years of the War, the tide has started to turn against the Chinese since last fall, which likely contributed to this decision. In addition, rumors are leaking out of China that major anti-war demonstrations were held in several cities in the past few months, due to clothing and food shortages as the government has been commandeering such supplies for the army.
“China Bows to Pressure: Ceasefire in Asia!” Astoria Dispatch, May 23, 1938.
---
The mood in Honolulu when Pacific Powers met to discuss the end of the Asian Theater of the Global War in the Summer and Fall of 1938 was far different from what had occured in Geneva the year before. Unlike in Europe, where Prussia and Spain and the Italian Empire had been soundly defeated, China was coming into the negotiations from a place of overall strength. Everyone knew that if the talks broke down, the Chinese army could reengage, and that they could win the numbers game in the end if the war dragged out. When Secretary of State Peter Enns left Franklin to attend the conference, President Palmer reportedly told him, “don’t give away the store, but be willing to empty it out if necessary to get this war over with.”
Chinese Foreign Minister Bao Xie was a fierce negotiator, and made China’s position clear: The old treaty ports of Shanghai and Hong Kong would be returned. Choson would be annexed. Japan would loose Kyushu. When these demands were read at Iolani Palace in Honolulu, the talks nearly fell apart there before they began. Japan refused to accept loosing any territory, and wanted compensation for the damages done to their country. The United States would not accept the total annexation of Choson. China was adamant that they would not pay any indemnity for the war. Luckly for all involved, Secretary Enns was able to calm everyone down and get the delegates to focus on one issue at a time. The negotiations would drag on through the rest of 1938, and the treaty of Honolulu would not actually be signed until January 4, 1939, but ultimately a resolution was found.
First, China was ultimately talked down from annexation of Kyushu Island. Japan’s full territorial claims from before the war would be honored. China had already withdrawn from Honshu Island before the talks, and the treaty called for all Chinese troops to be out of Japan by March 1st, 1939. However, in exchange for getting all of its territory restored, Japan had to drop the demand for monetary restitution, a bitter pill for Japanese President Tokitake Kagawa to have to swallow.
Second, China would annex most of the Chosonese Peninsula, north of the 37th Parallel. This was the most fought over provision of the treaty. China had nearly occupied the whole of Choson by 1937, but had been stopped at Busan and beaten back northwards before the talks began. America was adamant that Choson would not cease to exist as an independent country, but at the same time China refused to give all of the territory back. Secretary Enns had initially suggested the 38th Parallel as the dividing line as that was close to the middle of the country, but Foreign Minister Xie ultimately argued that most of that territory was still under Chinese occupation and that would be too great a concession. Furthermore, Choson’s current King would be required to abdicate in favor of his 4 year old nephew, and a pro-Chinese regency would rule until 1956, when the new King would be of age.
Both of the Treaty Ports were dealt with in this treaty. Shanghai, which had been controlled by the British since 1905, would be returned (a formality, since China had occupied Hong Kong since 1933). Hong Kong, a Prussian possession, had been occupied since 1937 (the Chinese stating that they were stepping in to protect Prussia’s territory), and was also given back to China.
Petersen, Dr. Kyle. The Asian War: The Fight Against Chinese Imperialism. Astoria: Oregonian Press, 2014.
--- MANHATTAN WELCOMES THE WORLD FOR OLYMPICS
MANHATTAN - After nearly a decade of war, the world is finally coming together to celebrate peace via the World Olympic Games. The last Olympics were held in Victoria in 1930, when few could have imagined that war would consume most of the Globe just months after those games concluded. President Palmer was on hand in the newly renovated Hamilton Stadium to welcome the nearly 5,000 athletes to the competition. “We now find ourselves emerging from years of terrible conflict and tragedy that has left much of the world changed forever. But today we show that the human spirit can rise above disaster and conflict, and come together in peace to take part in friendly competition.” Most nations across the globe have sent at least a few athletes, including China, Japan, and Choson. The war in Asia has only been over for a few months, and negotiations are still ongoing to formally end the hostilities, but the WOC said that in the spirit of world peace, these nations would be welcome to attend. The German Republic, which is set to vote next month on its future status as either an independent nation or a constituent republic of the UER, also sent a small delegation of athletes to compete.
“Manhattan Welcomes the World for Olympics,” St. Louis Courier, August 2, 1938.
--- GERMAN REPUBLIC VOTES FOR INDEPENDENCE
FRANKFURT - In a surprise upset, more Germans living in the territory sandwiched between the UER and the Kingdom of Prussia have voted to remain independent, rather than join the Union of European Republics. The campaign to either join or remain independent was hard fought, with placards covering every available space in Frankfurt, Bonn, Cologne, and towns large and small across the region veying for votes. The call for independence runs deep, echoing back to the first German Republic that was established 99 years ago in 1839 that was then crushed by Prussia and Austria in 1841. And while many identiyf with the communalist cause, they are not the largest political party in the new Republic.
According to the international council that oversaw the election, 54% of voters chose independence as a single nation, while 34% went with joining the UER, and the remaining 12% chose independence as separate nations. With this vote now passed, the German Republic is set to hold a constitutional convention in Frankfurt in October.
“German Republic Votes for Independence,” Franklin Observer, September 1, 1938.
--- ALEJANDRO I ABDICATES IN FAVOR OF SON
MADRID - The 67 year-old King Alejandro I of Spain has announced that he is abdicating the throne after 26 years on the throne. In a statement released by the Royal Palace in Madrid, the king said that, “with the new changes being made to Spain via the constitution that is expected to go into effect by the end of the year, it is time for newer blood to head this new government.” Alejandro’s son, 45 year-old Prince Ferdinand, will now take the throne as King Ferdinand IX.
Spain’s constitutional convention, which nearly fell apart in March when the communalist delegates withdrew, is set to be enacted on November 1st, after elections are held in October for the new Parliament. The new governing document has stripped the monarchy of most of its power, and many speculate this abdication is actually caused by the fact that Alejandro is not willing to rule under the new constitution.
“Alejandro I Abdicates in Favor of Son,” Chicago Herald, September 31, 1938.
--- WITH WAR OVER, PENDULUM SWINGS AWAY FROM NATIONALIST IN ELECTION
FRANKLIN - The Nationalist Party, which enjoyed a bump in support during the 1936 election, in the midst of the Global War, has suffered a fairly major loss at the polls now that the war is over. The Liberals have now secured their position as the largest party in the House at 188 seats (a 44-seat increase from two years ago). Nationalists went from 158 seats to 122. Communalists saw a small, 7 seat increase, bringing them to 159 seats. The Federalists, still out of favor, lost 15 seats, now at just 31 members in the House.
It is unclear what will happen with the First Secretary position now that the Liberals are firmly in the lead. It is expected that the Liberal-Communalist coalition that was started two years ago will continue, but it is anyone’s guess whether or not First Secretary Patricia Perry will remain in office, or if the Liberals will want to replace her with one of their own.
“With War Over, Pendulum Swings Away from Nationalists in Election,” Manhattan Gazette, November 9, 1938.
--- FORMER PRUSSIAN KING COMMITS SUICIDE
KONIGSBERG - In an unexpected and tragic turn of events, former Prussian King Karl Friedrich II has died at his own hand at the Royal Castle in Konigsberg. It appears that the former monarch of Prussia took a pistol to his head and fired late in the evening. Castle staff heard the gunfire and alerted the royal guards who found him dead. Karl Friedrich was forced to abdicate a year ago with the signing of the Geneva Treaty. The Regency Council currently ruling what remains of the Kingdom of Prussia until the 11 year-old King Wilhelm becomes of age has announced that the nation will have a 90-day period morning. It is unclear when the late King’s funeral will be held. It is likely to be a relatively low-key affair, and to be conducted in Konigsberg, not in Berlin.
“Former Prussian King Commits Suicide,” New Orleans Star, January 3, 1939.
--- PERRY KEEPS FIRST SECRETARYSHIP DESPITE CHALLENGE
FRANKLIN - In an unprecedented first, the Liberal Party has voted to keep First Secretary Perry, a Communalist, in office for another term instead of replacing her with one of their own. Despite this official line, which reportedly came down from President Palmer himself, Liberal Representative Joshua McCord of Jefferson attempted to challenge Perry for the position. In the vote, all but 38 of the Liberals in the House backed Perry, still leaving her with 50 votes more than required to keep her position. It has been reported by staff at Washington House that the President intends to call McCord and some of his supporters to his office in the coming weeks to “give them a talking-to” in regards to their breaking with the party line.
The First Secretary and President Palmer have maintained a productive working relationship, along with Vice President Alexander Gates, also a Communalist. Aides to the President said that he felt it would be better for the country, while we are still navigating the end of the Global War, not to change upper leadership.
“Perry Keeps First Secretaryship Despite Challenge,” Boston Eagle, January 25, 1939.
--- FIFTH NORTH AMERICAN CONFERENCE OPENS IN TEXAS
BENTONVILLE, TXF - Texan President Axel Moya welcomed the other leaders of North America to the Fifth North American Conference in the Texas Federation’s largest city, Bentonville. President Palmer is in attendance of course, along with Borealian Prime Minister Hiram Clinton, Californian Chancellor Angela Cabal and Mexican Prime Minister Enrique Montreal. With the signing of the Honolulu Treaty ending the war in Asia still fresh in everyone’s minds, this gathering seems to be much more upbeat than the conference three years ago in Montreal. President Moya opened the gathering with an enthusiastic address, saying, “North America remains united in peace, united in being a beacon of democracy and civility to the rest of the world. We have fought and bled for these ideals on foreign shores, and now, by the grace of God, we have secured them for the world. Now let us turn to the future and make sure that our Pax Americana remains intact and thriving for generations.”
One of the key points of this year’s negotiations will be the creation of a pan-American passport system, to allow citizens of the five conference nations to be able to travel freely across the continent, something that was first proposed back in 1936 when the North American Open Trade Agreement was signed that opened the continents borders to trade.
“Fifth North American Conference Opens in Texas,” Brooklyn Standard, March 15, 1939.
--- PAN-AMERICAN PASSPORT APPROVED WITH BENTONVILLE TREATY
BENTONVILLE, TXF - In yet another gesture of growing trust and cooperation amongst the so-called North American Conference Nations, the five nations that make up this group have signed the Treaty of Bentonville, which established the Pan-American Passport. The treaty establishes a common passport control zone for the whole continent of North America. Citizens of the signatory nations (The United States, Borealia, Texas, California, and Mexico) will all be given the same type of passport. In addition, all travel between the five nations will be open and unimpeded at the border. “Now, someone can get in an Auto in Franklin and drive all the way to San Francisco, Mexico City, or Victoria, and not have to stop for customs control. It will be just like driving across a state border here in the USA,” Secretary of State Peter Enns told reporters at a press conference a few days before the treaty signing.
The treaty is supposed to go into effect on January 1, 1940. This will give the foreign ministries of the five nations time to prepare a new passport system, and give time for customs and border checkpoints to be dismantled.
“Pan-American Passport Approved with Bentonville Treaty,” Franklin Observer, May 2, 1939.
--- WORLD OLYMPIC COMMITTEE SELECTS SAN FRANCISCO FOR ‘42 GAMES
AMSTERDAM - The World Olympic Committee has selected the Californian capital of San Francisco as the host for the 1942 Olympic Games, beating out bids from both London and Paris to have the games in those cities. This will be the fourth time that the World Olympic Games have been held in North American, and there was a lot of debate about trying not to repeat continents. However, with Europe still rebuilding from the Global War, the WOC felt that it would be better to allow European nations to focus on recovery and not spending money on building olympic-class sports facilities. This will also mark the first time that the Games have ever been held anywhere close to the Pacific Coast.
“World Olympic Committee Selects San Francisco for ‘42 Games,” Astoria Dispatch, September 2, 1939.
--- 7TH INTERNATIONAL PEACE COUNCIL SET FOR ROME - POPE WILL ATTEND
GENEVA - The British Foreign Minister David Churchill announced today that the 7th International Peace Council, which his nation has been charged with organizing, will be held in Rome next spring. This comes as a bit of a surprise, as most political observers had expected Britain to hold the meeting in London. Minister Churchill told reporters when asked about this that, “the fate of Rome is going to be at the center of this council’s discussions. Therefore it only seems appropriate that we meet in Rome.”
Churchill also announced that Pope James I will be attending the meeting. The Holy Father has been in exile in Brazil ever since 1932, when he evacuated Naples due to the ongoing conflict. There has been some speculation that Rome might be declared an independent city ruled by the Papacy, though no major power has yet to back such a proposal.
“7th International Peace Council Set for Rome - Pope Will Attend,” Manhattan Gazette, October 1, 1939.
---
Queen Victoria III officially opened the 7th International Peace Council on April 8th, 1940. Forty-three nations attended the meeting, the most for any Peace Council up to that point. Historic as a descriptor would be an understatement. In addition to discussing the fate of Rome, there was an even bigger proposal to be debated: the foundation of a permanent international peace organization that would try to bring the whole world together in peace, and prevent another Global War. The idea had been suggested both by American Secretary of State Peter Enns and the Union of European Republics Foreign Relations Minister Gustave Favre, and called for a permanent assembly of delegates that would meet and discuss global events as they happened and try to mediate non-violent solutions before war could break out. Though some had reservations, especially Prussia and China and Spain, who feared such a council would be a way for “the global Communalist conspiracy to control the world,” most nations were very open to the idea coming in to the conference.
What would ultimately come from this grand conference was the establishment of the Global Peace Council that we are all so familiar with today, with what was at the time an appointed Assembly of Delegates which would discuss issues facing the world and draft treaties that would then be sent to member nations to sign and enforce. The governing and structure of the GPC has of course changed a lot since its foundation fifty years ago, but that core mission has remained unchanged. The first GPC Assembly would meet the following year in 1941, and has meet continuously ever since.
Rome itself would also find itself in a new role after this meeting in April and May of 1940. It was decided that neither the Kingdom of Naples nor the Italian People’s Republic, now a part of the Union of European Republics, would control the city. Instead, Rome would be declared an international city, and be home to the new Global Peace Council. The citizens of the city would elect their own independent council to handle local affairs, and the city would be guarded by an special international force of troops that would come from all the member states. Pope James I, who attended the conference, also announced that the Holy See would return to Rome as well, but would not be involved in the governance of the city. “The days when the Holy Father also acts as a Prince here on Earth are over,” His Holiness told the Council when he made his announcement about returning to Rome.
Houston, Dr. Andrea. Global Peace: 1940 and the Establishment of the Global Peace Council. Franklin: UUS Press, 1990.
--- FEDERALIST CANDIDATES CALL FOR RETURN OF TROOPS
NEW ORLEANS - With peace now being the order of the day, the Federalist Party has adopted a strong message of bringing home the troops, and withdrawing from Spain and other occupation zones early. And this message seems to have struck a chord with many people. Mothers and fathers, wives and husbands, and countless others are calling for the return of their loved-ones-turned-soldiers who are still stationed in Europe and in Asia despite the end of the war. Henry Freeman, a popular state senator from Louisiana who is running for the House of Representatives told supporters gathered in Brandt Square here in New Orleans that, “President Palmer and his communalist allies have taken it upon themselves to have American soldiers, men and women who have pledged their lives to defend our freedoms, serve as global policemen. In Spain, Italy, Japan and Choson, our young men and women are still serving, but not as brave soldiers fighting for freedom, but as occupiers and policemen. And they are still dying over there. Just last week fifteen servicemen were killed near Madrid, fighting with Spanish rebels who are resisting the new government of King Ferdinand IX. It is time our soldiers came home, and stop fighting someone else’s fight.”
This message is gaining a lot of traction, especially since the Liberal and Communalist Parties have continued to maintain their support for the occupation of Spain and also what they’ve termed “peacekeeping duties” in Italy, Japan, and Choson. The Nationalists, still controlled by war hawks, also tend to back the continued US presence abroad as a sign of strength. The Federalists are staking their hopes of returning to power in Franklin on the notion that Americans are tired of seeing their soldiers deployed overseas.
“Federalists Candidates Call for Return of Troops,” New Orleans Star, September 12, 1940.
--- ANTI-OCCUPATION MESSAGE HELPS FEDS CARRY CONGRESS
FRANKLIN - In a truly unprecedented wave of support, voters across the nation have clearly shown that they are ready to end the occupation in Spain and elsewhere, and to bringe our brave men and women in uniform home from Europe and Asia. The Federalist Party was by far the smallest party in Congress after the 1938 election, with just 31 seats. After yesterday’s election, they have ballooned to 169 seats, stealing districts from all three other parties. The Communalists even lost a few seats in Indiana and Illinois, which have voted entirely for CPUS candidates for decades. The Nationalists dropped under 100 seats, now at just 82 (a loss of 30 seats). The Liberals are now at 132 seats (a loss of 56 seats). And the Communalists dropped to 117 seats (a loss of 42).
Now, the Federalists are still 82 seats shy of control in the House, so it is unclear just what will happen with the First Secretaryship. The Federalists’ three opponents could continue support for First Secretary Perry (though it would now require the Nationalists to join the Liberal-Communalist coalition), but it is unclear if such a deal could be arranged. The three parties could also rally behind a different candidate, perhaps a Liberal. In the past, the CPUS has been very attuned to “following the will of the people,” and it could be that they will support the party with the most seats and back whoever the Federalists try to put forward as First Secretary.
In the Senate, it is much the same story. The Federalists had a mere 4 seats after the previous election, but are now at 27 seats (the largest party). Liberals dropped from 28 seats to 24, the Nationalists going down from 33 seats to 21, and the Communalists going from 15 senators to 8.
“Anti-Occupation Message Helps Feds Carry Congress,” Boston Eagle, November 6, 1940.
--- CALIFORNIA TO HOST SIXTH NORTH AMERICAN CONFERENCE
SAN FRANCISCO - Next year, the Republic of California will host the Sixth North American Conference in their capital city of San Francisco, the so-called “City by the Bay.” There had been some debate between hosting the upcoming meeting in California or in Mexico, but it was ultimately decided to let California have this meeting, and Mexico will host the 1945 Conference. Californian Chancellor Angela Cabal told the press that, “It is high time that our country welcome the world stage. California is a growing, prosperous nation, a true power in the Pacific, and we are excited to host the leaders of the North American Conference in our beautiful capital next year.”
Unlike the 1939 conference in Texas, there is no clear agenda for next year’s meeting as of yet. It is likely that issues related to the new implementation of the Pan-American Passport will be discussed, along with some ideas about helping regulate rail and air traffic across the continent. However, these are just speculations that have been thrown out by political watchers and members of various industries. The State Department has not released any plans as of yet.
“California to Host Sixth North American Conference,” Astoria Dispatch, January 20, 1941.
--- HENRY FREEMAN SWORN IN AS FIRST SECRETARY
FRANKLIN - After weeks of wrangling both on the floor of the House of Representatives and more quietly behind closed doors, Federalist Representative from Louisiana Henry Freeman has emerged with enough support to be elected First Secretary, with the full backing of his own party, and a large number of votes also coming from the Liberals and the CPUS. It is reported that President Palmer met with out-going First Secretary Patricia Palmer of Indiana and Liberal Party Leader Virgil Maxwell of Ohio a few days ago and urged them to back Freeman and not hold up the proceedings of electing a First Secretary. Apparently this tactic worked. Half of the Liberal and CPUS representatives backed Freeman, giving him the votes he needed to win the office.
Mr. Freeman will be the first African American to hold this position, and only the sixth Federalist in since the position was first created in 1819. Mr. Freeman became an outspoken proponent of his party’s position on ending the deployment of American troops in Europe and Asia, a message that seems to have captured the support of a large number of Americans.
“Henry Freeman Sworn in as First Secretary,” Franklin Observer, January 27, 1941.
--- RAILWAY TRAGEDY IN ST. LOUIS
ST. LOUIS - In what is already being called one of the worst railway disasters in the nation’s history, two separate trains were plunged into the brown and swift-moving waters of the Mississippi River just after five o’clock yesterday afternoon when the St. Louis Railway Bridge collapsed while both trains crossed. The eastbound train, operated by the Federal Railway Company, was a passenger trained that had been rented by the army to carry soldiers to the eastern ports for deployment, and had just pulled out of the main train station in St. Louis. The westbound train, privately owned by the Missouri Southern Railway Company, which also owns the bridge that collapsed, was also a passenger train, and had been inbound from Franklin with a full load of passengers. It is not known at this time just how many people died, but the estimates are in the hundreds, as the bridge collapsed quite suddenly and the mangled ruins of the bridge have made rescue operations difficult. In addition, the sun set just over an hour after the accident, which made the search for survivors all the more difficult. It is likely that most on board these two trains were sent to a watery grave at the bottom of the river.
MoSo, as the company the company that owned the bridge is often called, has reportedly been given multiple citations by both the city and state governments for their lack of proper maintenance on the bridge. The state representative for St. Louis, Liberal Harrison Montgomery has actually been working on a bill that would strengthen his state’s oversight of bridges in Missouri, but current laws are extremely lax. Locals in the city are already blaming the company’s negligence as the culprit in this disaster.
“Railway Tragedy in St. Louis,” Chicago Herald, February 9, 1941.
--- CENSUS RESULTS: GROWTH BY EIGHT MILLION
FRANKLIN - The Census Bureau announced that, according to the results gathered in 1940, America is now home to over 158 million people. New York remains the most populous state with over 7.5 million people. There are now only five states, all in the West, that are still under one million people, but trends show that most of those will likely fill out by 1950. There will be slight adjustments to representation in the House for the 1942 election.
“Census Results: Growth by Eight Million,” Franklin Observer, February 20, 1941.
--- MULTI-PARTY CALL TO RE-NATIONALIZE RAILS
FRANKLIN - In the wake of last month’s deadly railway disaster in here St. Louis, which killed nearly 750 people, half of them fresh army recruits on their way to training and deployment centers on the East Coast, the leaders of the Liberal, Federalist, and Communalist Parties in Congress have called for a full re-nationalization of the railway network in the United States. Since the passage of the Federal Railway Act in May of 1932, nearly three-fourths of the nation’s rail passenger service has been placed under the control of the Federal Railway Company. MoSo, which owned both the bridge and one of the trains involved in the accident, is one of only two-dozen privately owned rail passenger service still in existence, and has primarily shifted to a freight service. Many, including First Secretary Freeman, are now calling on having the Federal Railway Administration assume full control over all aspects of the national railway network, from line maintenance, station operation, and freight and passenger service.
While Washington House has remained quiet on this new proposal specifically, President Palmer had strong remarks right after the disaster, blaming the 1919 dissolution of the old United States Railway Company as a direct cause of the recent disaster. Many expect that, if Congress drafts the sort of law currently being proposed, the president would sign it as soon as it reached his desk.
“Multi-Party Call to Re-Nationalize Rails,” St. Louis Courier, March 1, 1941.
--- FIRST EASTER MASS HELD IN VATICAN IN A DECADE
ROME - In a truly historic moment, Pope James held Easter Mass in St. Peter's Basilica in Rome for the first time since April of 1931, when he fled the Eternal City as the violence of the Global War increased and Rome turned into a battle ground between Italian Communalists and Imperialists. Several high ranking foreign dignitaries were in attendance, including US Secretary of State Peter Enns, UER Foreign Relations Minister Gustave Favre, Neopolitan Foreign Minister Emilio Brancato, and newly elected British Prime Minister David Churchill, who had served as Foreign Minister for the UK during the Global War and subsequent peace talks. The members of the GPC’s Assembly of Delegates were also in attendance.
The basilica itself is in good condition despite the heavy fighting that occured in Rome. Both sides avoided any direct attacks around the Vatican, though other areas of Rome are still heavily scarred. Plans were recently announced by the Global Peace Council’s Administrative Team and the Mayor of Rome for a series of new building projects to help revitalize the city and help it rebuild from the war. The new plan calls for a new complex for the GPC (with room to grow and expand), and a new city administrative center, in addition to new housing complexes and possibly even a proper subway system.
“First Easter Mass Held in Vatican in a Decade,” Boston Eagle, April 13, 1941.
--- DRAFT PROTESTS ACROSS THE NATION
MANHATTAN - After last week’s vote in Congress to extend the current draft until 1945, which was universally opposed by the Federalist party but had enough support from the Liberals, Nationalists, and Communalists to pass, dozens of anti-draft riots struck some of America’s biggest cities on Independence Day. Young men were seen burning their draft cards, and some even burned their draft summons letters. In Manhattan, thousands marched down the city’s central avenue from City Hall to the Freedom Triumphant statue, many carrying American flags upside down (the sign of distress), and many more carrying placards that said things like “Down with the Draft!”, “Tell Palmer He Can Go Fight!” and “Hell No We Won’t Go!”
Despite attempts by the Federalists in Congress, President Palmer and his political allies remain committed to keeping American troops in Spain and other places for the duration of treaty commitments, most of which continue for several more years. In a recent speech made in Chicago, the president told the crowd that, “Global peace is good for America. It is in our best interest. And one of the best ways to achieve this is to have our own men and women in uniform abroad to make sure future war does not occur. This recent war was bad. But war in the future, as technology continues to develop at a rapid pace, would be even more catastrophic.”
“Draft Protests Across the Nation,” Astoria Dispatch, July 5, 1941.
--- JAPANESE LEADERS WILL VISIT NORTH AMERICA ON GRATITUDE TOUR
TOKYO - Japan’s new President, Ukon Asari, and the wartime president Tokitake Kagawa have announced that they will embark on what President Asari is calling a “gratitude tour,” to say thank you in person for the aid given to Japan during the Global War. Asari and Kagawa will arrive in San Francisco, California, in mid-January, and will then go on to Mexico City, followed by Texopolis, Franklin, and ending the tour in Victoria, the capital of Borealia. This will be the first time any Japanese leader has gone abroad, and officials at Suko Palace in Tokyo are reportedly working furiously to make sure that everything is in place for this trip.
President Palmer told reporters that he looks forward to welcoming the Japanese delegation when it arrives in a few months. He has also reportedly instructed the chefs at Washington House to try and prepare some traditional Japanese dishes for the occasion, which is sure to be quite the novelty for the kitchen staff at the presidential residence.
“Japanese Leaders Will Visit North America on Gratitude Tour,” Franklin Observer, December 7, 1941.
--- TSARINA CHARLOTTE OF RUSSIA DEAD WITHOUT HEIR
ST. PETERSBURG - Officials at the Winter Palace, the official residence of the Russian Imperial Family, have announced that seventy-one year-old Tsarina Charlotte has died of complications from pneumonia. Russian Prime Minister Ivan Saitov has announced a period of 100 days of mourning, and that he will take charge of a regency council to determine who will take the throne, as the late tsarina has no children or heir-apparent. Queen Victoria III of Great Britain, who was Charlotte’s sister-in-law, had ordered a thirty-day state of mourning for the British Royal Family.
The late tsarina was briefly married prior to taking the throne in 1918 (she was married to Prince Nikolay from 1890 to 1892 when the prince died tragically in an accident). Her and her husband had no children. She claimed the late prince was her one true love and never married. Her younger sister Alexandra died in 1889, and her brother Nicholas married future Queen Victoria III in 1898 and died four years ago, leaving no one with a clear and easy claim on the throne.
“Tsarina Charlotte of Russia Dead Without Heir,” Manhattan Gazette, February 13, 1942.
---
The Russian Succession Crisis of 1942 no only marks the end of the Romanov Dynasty in Russia, it really signals the end of the monarchy as a whole. When Tsarina Charlotte died on February 13th of that year, she had no children, her siblings had already died, and her only nephews and nieces were the children of Queen Victoria III of Great Britain. Almost immediately after Victoria declared a season of mourning for her family, Whitehall Palace put out a statement that under no circumstances would Prince Victor William be allowed to become the next Tsar. The Russian Foreign Ministry, according to secret correspondence only recently discovered, put out feelers to the younger Prince George Albert, but he refused as well. By April of 1942, Prime Minister Ivan Saitov and the rest of the regency council gave up all hope of finding a solid blood relative to continue the Romanov line.
After several more months of searching, the council ultimately settled upon Eduard Suprunov, a successful Moscow banker who was a distant relative of the late tsarina on her mother’s side. Not everyone was thrilled with this choice, but on September 1st, this long-lost cousin became Tsar Eduard, the first and only member of the so-called Suprunov Dynasty that would come crashing down by 1944.
Harmon, Dr. Sharon. Twilight of the Tsars: Russia from 1900-1945. Cambridge, MA: Harvard University Press, 2015.
--- RAILROAD NATIONALIZATION BILL PASSES CONGRESS
FRANKLIN - Just over a year after the tragic St. Louis Bridge disaster claimed over 700 lives when the bridge collapsed with two full passenger trains on it, the Railway Nationalization Act has overwhelmingly passed both houses of Congress. The only resistance came from the Nationalist Party, but even nearly a third of those Congressmen voted for the bill. The new law places all aspects of the nation’s railway network in stages over the next five years. Immediately, all stations and traffic controls are being placed under the control of the Federal Railway Administration. All track and rolling-stock will be purchased from private companies over the next five years. The goal is to have all passenger service handled by the Federal Railway Company by the end of 1943, with freight taken care of by 1947. President Palmer is expected to sign the bill tomorrow at a special ceremony at Washington House.
“Railroad Nationalization Bill Passes Congress,” Chicago Herald, April 12, 1942.
--- COMMUNALISTS NOMINATE SENATOR CLAVELLE FOR PRESIDENT
PHILADELPHIA - At their biannual party congress, the Communalist Party of the United States has voted overwhelmingly in support of New York Senator Bernard Clavelle as their nominee for the presidency, with Governor Ashley Conrad of Illinois as his running mate. This breaks with the CPUS tradition of having the party chairman becoming the presidential nominee, but Chairman Peter Neumann said he did not believe the nation was ready to elect a Jewish president, so declined the nomination ahead of the congress.
“Communalists Nominate Senator Clavelle for President,” Boston Eagle, May 1, 1942.
--- NEW WORLD PICTURES’ MOSES WOWS AUDIENCES WITH COLOR
ST. AUGUSTINE, FL - In a major first for the cinematic industry, New World Pictures has premiered the first ever full-length film in color. The two hour and twenty-three minute “Moses,” depicting what most in the religious community are calling a “fairly accurate cinematic retelling” of the Biblical story of Moses and the Exodus, stunned audiences at the Jubilee Theater in St. Augustine with the vivid colors of the costumes and scenery, some of which was actually filmed on location in the Ottoman Province of Egypt. The new film, starring Oscar Reynolds in the titular role of Moses, is set to be released in theaters around the country later this month.
This of course is not the first time NWP has made a major cinematic first. The studio was the first to have a “Talkie” film, with the 1924 release of “Westward Ho!”, which cemented the company as a household name here in the United States. Of course it is too early to tell for sure, but many are already buzzing that this film could take home the trophy for Best Picture at the American Cinematic Society’s awards ceremony next year.
“New World Pictures’ Moses Wows Audiences with Color,” St. Louis Courier, June 12, 1942.
--- WILLIAM DANFORTH CONFIRMED AS NATIONALIST CANDIDATE
ASTORIA - Arkansas Governor William Danforth has secured the nomination of the Nationalist Party for the 1942 presidential election. Running alongside him for the vice presidency will be Oregonian Representative Samuel Lee. Both have been outspoken critics of the recent Railway Nationalization Act and have vowed to try and repeal it. The party also remains committed to having troops stationed in Spain and Japan, despite the growing unpopularity of such a stance.
“WIlliam Danforth Confirmed as Nationalist Candidate,” New Orleans Star, July 1, 1942.
--- OLYMPICS OPEN IN SAN FRANCISCO - FIRST TIME ON THE PACIFIC
SAN FRANCISCO - Recently sworn in California Chancellor Alberto Alvarez has been thrust into the international spotlight as his country hosts the World Olympic Games for the first time. Athletes from 43 nations and 15 independent colonial teams (a first for the Olympics) entered the newly built Estadio Pacifico, which can seat up to 120,000 spectators and sits right on the coast. The stadium, filled to capacity, cheered as each nation marched in behind their flag. Californians went wild as their 123 member team entered the arena. The host nation is not expected to win too many medals, so this was the big moment for many on their team, but few seem to care. Hosting the Olympics in their home country seems to be honor enough for plenty of locals. The United States is expected to do very well at the games, but it’s an open guess who will come in second or third, just like at the 1938 games in Manhattan. With Prussia so greatly diminished following the recent war, their powerhouse teams are no more. Some favor the UER, but others are betting on Imperial China to do quite well.
“Olympic Opens in San Francisco - First Time on the Pacific,” Franklin Observer, July 6, 1942.
--- FIRST SECRETARY FREEMAN GETS NOD FOR FEDERALIST NOMINATION
BOSTON - The rising star of First Secretary Henry Freeman continues to climb higher. Many were surprised when the popular representative from Louisiana announced that he was running for the presidency, a move few in his position have made for fear of losing the power they have as First Secretary. However, his popularity with party members and the American public in general have secured his nomination as the Federalist candidate for the presidency. His running mate will be Senator Sarah Sanders of Massachusetts.
The Federalists are doubling down on their message of ending the occupation duties abroad and bringing troops home from Spain and from Asia. This message has proven popular among voters and is the key reason their party took the most seats in the House of Representatives in the 1940 congressional elections.
“First Secretary Freeman Gets Nod for Federalist Nomination,” Brooklyn Standard, July 25, 1942.
--- SECRETARY OF STATE PETER ENNS NARROWLY WINS LIBERAL NOMINATION
BROOKLYN - Despite a strong primary campaign by Ohio Representative Virgil Maxwell, Secretary of State Peter Enns has secured the nomination of the Liberal Party as their candidate for the presidency. It took twelve ballots to achieve this victory, hinting at a party not totally unified behind their candidate. However, the argument that Enns, who oversaw the peace talks in Geneva, Honolulu, and Rome over the past six years, has far more experience than Representative Maxwell ultimately won out. Enns will have Governor Patrick Humphrey of Mississippi as his running mate in the upcoming election.
“Secretary of State Peter Enns Narrowly Wins Liberal Nomination,” Manhattan Gazette, August 3, 1942.
--- WOC SELECTS HOSTS FOR 1946 AND 1950: LONDON & BENTONVILLE
AMSTERDAM - Just over a month after the close of the San Francisco games, where the United States kept it’s first place position in the gold medal count but had a close and unexpected contender from the German Republic, the World Olympic Committee has announced the hosts of the 1946 and 1950 games. London beat out Paris and Moscow and will become the first city to host the games twice. And then in 1950 the games will return to North America and be hosted in the Texas Federation’s largest city, Bentonville. Bentonville beat out Tokyo, Sydney, and Peking in the bidding process. Many observers are now predicting that either the 1954 games or the 1958 games will end up in Asia, a true first for the Olympics.
“WOC Selects Hosts for 1946 and 1950: London & Bentonville,” Franklin Observer, September 15, 1942.
--- SPANISH OCCUPATION DOMINATES DEBATE
PHILADELPHIA - As expected, the ongoing occupation mission in Spain dominated the debate that was broadcast live from the National Theater in Philadelphia. As expected, Federalist Henry Freeman took a hard line on the issue, keeping up his party’s rhetoric that the mission in Spain needs to end and the soldiers need to come home. Both Communalist candidate Bernard Clavelle and Liberal candidate Peter Enns have called on keeping the mission as way to uphold America’s honor, since the nation pledged to keep troops in Spain until 1945. Nationalist candidate William Danforth kept up his rather unpopular stance that the troop levels should be increased, and that America should embrace more peacekeeping missions abroad and become what he calls, “the world policemen.”
The Federalist message of ending the Spanish Mission has resounded well with many potential voters in pre-election polls. However, Secretary Enns message about his experience and leadership skills has also resonated with many. It remains to be seen at this time just which message will carry the day, but it does seem clear now that the election will ultimately come down to those two candidates, with the Nationalists and Communalists candidates playing second fiddle.
“Spanish Occupation Dominates Debate,” Astoria Dispatch, October 12, 1942.
--- FREEMAN WINS!
NEW ORLEANS - First Secretary Henry Freeman’s campaign has declared victory after it was announced that Freeman won 238 electoral votes, a full eighty votes more than Secretary of State Enns’ 158 electoral votes. As many predicted, the Communalists and Nationalists trailed behind, with Senator Clavelle getting 66 electoral votes, and Governor Danforth received 118 votes. It would seem that Mr. Freeman’s message about bringing home the troops really connected with the voting public.
Freeman’s campaign has started reaching out to Senator Clavelle and to Secretary Enns about their final support to put Freeman at 291 seats and officially make him the next President. This support will likely come from either the Clavelle or Enns, as Governor Danforth has already stated that he will not give his votes to anyone.
“Freeman Wins!” Chicago Herald, November 4, 1942
So, I have the cultural supplemental outlined, and I am going to try and get this done by the end of the week. Past that it might be a little bit before I can get the next update done. My students are returning to class this week so things are going to be busy for me for a little bit.
As always, I look forward to your feedback to this update.