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So I'm still working on my War of the Two Commonwealths thread but I was wondering what the readers of these forums think the most likely course of action would be for this AH.

1. Anglo-American War
PRO: Fighting already occurring. Many Southern fire-eaters want war to weaken the North. Disputes over Northwest, Alaska boundary and other places. Anti-free trade advocates see it as a way to crush US competition.

CON: Could be very costly for both sides. Growing unrest in Canada between Liberals and Conservatives. France and the situation in Europe worries UK. Trade and cultural ties are very strong. Cass has submitted a compromise to Lyons. Prince Albert wants to avoid war.

2. Anglo-French War
PRO: Tension between France and Britain already elevated. French forces are active in Italy. UK is supporting Garibaldi in Sicily. French agents in India have run guns to Indian rebels.

CON: The two nations were recently allied. Neither nation is really prepared for a large war. France may be willing to compromise to have a free hand in north Italy and west of the Rhine.

3. European War
PRO: Prussia and the Italian states are not at all happy with France and Austria. France and Austria wish to crush the growing nationalist movement in Italy, Hungary and the German states. France, Austria and Spain's triple alliance have made these nations a bit cocky.

CON: Prussia and the Italian states seem ill prepared to face the French led alliance. Spain is becoming preoccupied in Morocco and elsewhere. France is fearful of British intervention. Russia is a major wildcard that frightens Austria.

4. Spanish-American War
PRO: Nearly a decade of antagonism between the two nations, aimed primarily at Cuba. Quitman's survival makes further filibuster efforts a given. Pres. Buchanan sees the acquisition of Cuba as vital to American security and is generally beholden to the Slave Power. Differing opinions regarding Mexico are causing tension. What's William Walker up to now a days?

CON: Unless the Spanish do something stupid the North would not support such a war. With a US-UK conflict brewing, America is not looking for further trouble. Any foreign war as the nation is falling apart would be a bad idea.

5. Give Peace a chance!
PRO: Nations generally prosper during times of peace. No nation really wants to risk a major war at this time. Tens of thousands of fictional people will be spared.

CON: Most national leaders know that war is brewing and now may be the best time to strike. Both Italy and Prussia know that to achieve their dreams of unification that war is almost certainty. War makes for a better story.

6. What is this War of the Two Commonwealths timeline of which you speak?
PRO: You now have a chance to go read my TL.

CON: I am saddened by your choice.

Comments would be appreciated.
Thank you in advance.
Benjamin
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