Geopolitics

The global balance of power in this alternate history is distinctly different from our own Earth's history. Here the major historical empires like Rome, China, and the Ottomans never rose, paving the way for new powers and empires. These new nations, empires, and powers have unique political, economic, and cultural systems that define their borders, beliefs, and interactions with each other.

1. Overview of the Nations/Empires/Powers

Some of the major nations and empires that have arisen in this alternate history timeline are:

• The United Dominions of Archana: a vast empire spanning two continents, led by a matriarchal monarchy with a highly centralized government. The nomadic Prendorians are one of Archana's major ethnic groups.

• The Thalassan Alliance: a maritime confederation of city-states, each with its own unique culture, laws, and political structure. The Great Reef of Thalassa is a famous cultural monument among these city-states.

• The Solar Union: a loose federation of tribes, united by their belief in solar worship and a shared spirituality. Solar Union societies are known for their craftsmanship and astronomy, with many of their writings focusing on the movements of the sun and stars.

• The Hippodamic Traders Alliance: a group of city-states on the Island of Hippodamas, connected by extensive trade and cultural links. These city-states have a complex network of trade agreements, languages, religious beliefs, and art forms.

2. Historical Context

The specific circumstances and conditions under which these powers emerged varied widely, reflecting the divergent historical trajectories of this alternate timeline. Some factors that influenced their formation include geography, climate, tribal and ethnic relations, natural resources, and conflicts.

3. Geopolitical History

The history of this world has been shaped by numerous key events, people, and movements. Vital alliances, wars, and economic interactions have all influenced the course of global politics, shaping the relationships between different powers and creating lasting legacies.

4. Tensions and Alliances

Conflicts, partnerships, and rivalries between these powers have shaped the course of their histories. The islands of the western seascape, for example, have long been a site of battles over fishing and strategic trade routes, while ongoing skirmishes between the Archana and Thalassa have become key to the economic and political landscape of the entire southeast continent.

5. Cultural Exchange

Cultural exchange has played a significant role in shaping the peoples, philosophies, and customs of this alternate world. Prominent trade routes allowed ideas, goods, and people to traverse vast distances, influencing each other and creating integrated histories.

6. Current State of Geopolitics

The world of this alternate timeline faces various pressing issues that may impact global politics today:

• Climate shifts and resource depletion cause tensions between the Thalassa and Hippodamic Alliance, threatening trade routes and livelihoods.

• The Prendorian Dynasty of the Archana, facing political instability after the death of its ruler, Abadazar II, considers whether to adopt a new form of government.

• Discoveries in the field of optics spark a scientific revolution in the distant Frozen Northland, hinting at the potential rise of a new technological power.

These and other evolving geopolitical situations present new opportunities and challenges for the powers of this alternate timeline.