Exploration

During this alternate timeline's Age of Exploration, the dominant maritime forces originated from Africa rather than Europe. Beginning in the early 15th century, cultures along the Afroasian continent embarked on ambitious journeys of exploration, driven by curiosity, the quest for resources, trade, and territorial expansion.

Discovery of the Americas and Oceania

The most notable among the African explorers hailed from the Azanian Empire, located along the Indian Ocean coastline. Masterful seafarers and navigators, Azanian explorers ventured westward across the Atlantic, discovering vast lands now known as the Americas, which they incorporated into their growing empire. This feat was achieved roughly a century before the corresponding event in our timeline, propelling the Azanians into a position of global prominence. In time, they also expanded eastward, leading to the discovery and colonization of various Pacific islands in Oceania.

Afroasia and the Azanian Empire

Most of the southern hemisphere was dominated by a massive landmass known as Afroasia. This continent, formed by the collision of Africa and Eurasia, featured a striking geographical diversity, including extensive coastal regions and imposing mountain ranges, enabling various distinct cultures and civilizations to flourish. As a result, the Azanian Empire controlled vast territories along the eastern coastline of Afroasia, becoming one of the era's major political powers.

The 1st Alasian War and Kushite Intervention

Although the Azanians initially harnessed the benefits of their colonial empire, the balance of power in the region eventually shifted, leading to the 1st Alasian War. This war broke out in the 17th century, pitting the Azanian Empire against neighboring expansionist powers vying for territory and resources.

With the global balance of power at stake, the Kushite Empire, a major military power from the north, saw an opportunity to gain influence and alliances in the region. The Kushites intervened in the conflict, effectively transforming it into a theater of the much larger, continent-spanning 1st Alasian War.

The war lasted for more than a decade, devastating much of Afroasia. Nevertheless, it played a crucial role in shaping the region's history, ultimately leading to the formation of new alliances and superpowers in this alternate timeline.