Difference between revisions of "Tavast-Carelia"

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{{Infobox_Nation |
 
{{Infobox_Nation |
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flag=http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v13/Sysiyo/Tavast-CareliaFlagV2small.jpg |
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flag=http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v13/Sysiyo/2005flagavatar.png |
 
region=[[Anticapitalist Alliance]] |
 
region=[[Anticapitalist Alliance]] |
 
motto=From the People, by the People, for the People |
 
motto=From the People, by the People, for the People |
 
map=[http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v13/Sysiyo/TCmap.jpg Tavast-Carelia] |
 
map=[http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v13/Sysiyo/TCmap.jpg Tavast-Carelia] |
 
language=[[Tavast]], [[Carelian]], [[Rigan]] |
 
language=[[Tavast]], [[Carelian]], [[Rigan]] |
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capital=Porvoo |
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capital=[[Porvoo]] |
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population=71 million |
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population=71 million ([[RP]] cap) |
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currency=Thennat |
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currency=[[Daler]] |
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leader=Grand Duke Daniel II
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leader=Grand Duke [[Daniel II (of Tavast-Carelia)|Daniel II]]
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}}
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}} [[Category:Alçaera]] [[Category:Tavast-Carelia|*Tavast-Carelia]]
  
 
==Overview==
 
==Overview==
  
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Tavast-Carelia, located on the eastern coast of [[Alçaera]] is considered to be one of the leading countries in it's continent, at least economically. The nation is bordered by oceans in the south and east (although the island nation of [[Ecopoeia]] lies near on the east), in the North it's neighbours are [[New Paristan]] and [[CADs]], in the east [[Arcnow]] and [[Tankerton]]. Although largely inactive in world-wide international politics, Tavast-Carelia provides a notable voice in the politics of it's native continent, as well as various international organizations the nation belongs to.
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'''Tavast-Carelia''', located on the eastern coast of [[Alçaera]] is considered to be one of the leading countries in it's continent. The nation is bordered the Alçaeran Ocean in the south and east (although the island nation of [[Ecopoeia]] lies near on the east), in the North it's neighbours are [[New Paristan]] and [[CADs]], in the west [[Arcnow]], and [[Tankerton]] in the south-west. Although largely inactive in world-wide international politics, Tavast-Carelia provides a notable voice in the politics of it's native continent, as well as various international organizations the nation belongs to.
  
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==History==
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==Geography==
  
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===Arrival of the Tavastian and Carelian tribes===
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Tavast-Carelia is largely surrounded by various bodies of water: in the east the Alçaeran Ocean, south the Alçaeran Ocean and Tankerton, in the west by lake Ladoga and Arcnow, and in the north by the CADs, New Paristan and Lake Spiffing. In the inner parts the nation is mostly defined by it's large forests. Most inhabitation is still grouped around the coast, although during the latter 20th century the inland cities started experiencing notable growth. In general, Tavast-Carelia can be divided into three basic geographical areas: coastal, inland and highlands.
  
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It is unknown what the original inhabitants of the land today known as Tavast-Carelia were like. What is known is what around the sixth century a more advanced tribe, Tavastians, arrived from the western parts of the continent to the east coast of Alçaera, settled there and opressed and drove away the original inhabitants of the area. During the following century Carelians, a tribe of similar racial and linguistical traits, followed the Tavastians and settled in the inland areas west of the lands inhabitet by Tavastians. Coexistance between the two tribes was not always entirely peaceful, but there were no notable conflicts between the two tribes nor with their neighbours. At this time no centralized ruling system was formed by either tribe. Each village ruled autonomously, although there often were alliances between various villages.
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===Coastal Areas===
  
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===Colonialists from the north===
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The coast could really be called the 'heartland' of Tavast-Carelia. Most Tavast-Carelians live here on the fertile lands in about a 100-kilometer radius from the coastline. The largest cities can also be found here, including the capital Porvoo. Traditionally these areas have been the major agricultural area of Alçaera. During the 20th century drastic growth of cities has taken over much of the farmland, but fortunately farmers have been able to relocate deeper inland.
  
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The first notable change after the arrival of the two tribes took place around the 11th century. A group of exlorers from [[Svea Riga]], a nation on the continent of [[Aperin]], 'discovered' the Alçaeran continent. The Rigans first made landfall on the northern parts of the continent, but as the years progressed more expoditions were sent southwards, resulting in contact between the Tavastian tribe and the Rigans. The new arrivals found the mild climate of the area more pleasant than the tropical heat of northern Alçaera. Combined with the growing population numbers in Svea Riga this resulted in the first colonial expedition being sent from Svea Riga to Tavastland in 1174.
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===Inland Areas===
  
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The story of the Rigas arriving in Tavastland is short and unpleasant. Earlier contact between Rigans and Tavastians had been peaceful, but now the Rigans arrived in large numbers, and armed with superior weaponry. Within a few decades the Rigans had set themselves as the ruling class of Tavastland. The Tavastians themselves were forced to pay heavy taxes to their new overlords, and forced to adopt the religion of their new overlords.
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The interiors of Tavast-Carelia are still mostly covered with forests, which proves a steady source of paper for the nation's book publishing industry. During the 20th century the woodlands increasingly opened up to farming (the century also saw notably growth of the inland cities), despite this Tavast-Carelia still has forested areas her citizens can be proud of.
  
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In the early times of Rigan colonialism the Carelians were still free from Rigan rule, but although some unification of the fragmented people took place, the Carelians did not have enough might to oppose the Rigan rule and by the mid-13th century Carelia was also a Rigan province. However, the Rigans did not have enough forces to fully control the further-away areas of Carelia and hence many traits and customs that disappeared from the knowledge of the Tavastians still survived amongst the Carelians, including the worship of old Carelian gods.
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===Highlands===
  
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===War of the brothers===
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In the northern part of the nation, near Paristani border, are the Fennevid Highlands, which are a notable source of valuable minerals. To protect the eco-system of the highlands the goverment has imposed an increasing number of restrictions to mining on this area during the last decades.
  
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In 1556 Gustav Wasa, king of Svea Riga, made his son Johan (somes referred to as John in documents written in [[Celdonian]]) the Duke of both Tavastland and Carelia. Four years later king Gustav died. His son Erik inherited the throne as Erik XIV. However his power was not as complete as his fathers, as his brother Johan ruled the Alçaera colonies like a king. After three years of political conflict between the King and the Duke the situation escalated into civil war in 1563 when Erik sentenced Johan to lose his duchies.
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In the west land rises to form the Carelid Mountains, which range from Tavast-Carelia through Arcnow and [[Detome]] into [[Rehochipe]]. This area forms the province of ''Savonia,'' a little-developed part of the nation. These parts of the Carelids are not as rich in minerals as the Fennevid Highlands, although some mines exist here as well. In general Savonia is Tavast-Carelia's true wilderness area, where can be found the last existing pockets of old Carelian cultural tradition.
  
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Erik was not a popular king, and many Rigans would have rather seen Johan as their ruler. For several years was raged in both the Rigan homeland and the Alçaeran colonies, until the war reached a standstill with Erik controlling the Rigan homeland and Johan controlling Tavastland and Carelia. The vast expanses of Narangath Ocean were too large to send large armies across, and both parties had such a firm grip of their territories that trying to attack with something else than a full force would have been foolishness. In 1559 a peace was signed in Stock Holm in Svea Riga: Johan gave up his claim to the Rigan crown and promised not to interfere with the Rigan politics, and in return Erik granted independence to Johans territories. Hence the Grand Duchy of Tavastland and Carelia was born, and Johan assumend the throne as Juhana I (Juhana being the Tavastian translitteration of Johan).
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==History==
  
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===Between colonial forces===
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Below is a short review of Tavast-Carelia's history. For more detailed information, please read the article [[History of Tavast-Carelia]].
  
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During the following centuries as crossing the seas became easier more and more powers from the Aperin continent took interest in acquiring colonies in Alçaera. The areas controlled by Tavastland and Carelia were diminished in conflicts between the larger foreign powers, but the descendants of Juhana I I managed to keep their lands independent through the centuries.
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Until the 14th century, the lands currently known as Tavast-Carelia were inhabited by various small tribes, and no state-level organisation existed. This changed when explorers from [[Riga]] (a part of modern-day [[Svea Riga]]) arrived from the continent of [[Aperin]] and decided to colonise the areas inhabited by Tavast and Carelian tribes approximately a century later. In 1563 a civil war erupted in Riga which resulted in Tavastland and Carelia becoming an independent state, ruled by [[Juhana I]], brother of Erik XIV of Riga.
  
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===Democrary and the Civil War===
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In the year 1600 [[Juhana II]] lost the crown of Tavastland to Carl IX of Riga, and Tavastland again became a Rigan colony. Carelia however retained it's independence. Curing the 17th century Carelian Grand Dukes expanded their area towards the west, the state becoming more powerful, leading to Tavastland being re-united with Carelia in 1719. This also led to the creation of the name Tavast-Carelia. The 19th century was an era of danger, when various new colonial powers from Aperin threathered the nation's sovereignity. However, a military alliance with New Paristan and skillful diplomacy with the foreign powers managed to keep the state independent, although it's territories were diminished.
  
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Throughout the centuries after Tavastland and Carelia gained independence the same representative system was operated in national politics. Every four years (or sometimes less often, depending on the balance of power) the Duke would call together the parliament, consisting of representatives of the nobility, clergy and pheasantry (from the latter group, only those who owned land were allowed to send representatives). In decision-making, each of the three groups had one vote, and often the decision of the parliament was not binding. This all changed in 1892 when Daniel I was crowned the Duke of Tavastland and Carelia (by this time in common language the nation was referred to simply as Tavast-Carelia). Daniel I's reign marked many important reform in politics, culminating in 1896 in the first free elections in Tavast-Carelia. The new political system gave the right to vote to all males (in 1906 women also recieved the right to vote and stand as candidates).
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The last years of the 19th century were a time of democratic re-form after the new duke [[Daniel I (Tavast-Carelia)|Daniel I]] was crowned. Friction between socialist forces and supporters of the old regime led to a civil war after Daniel I's death in 1918. Reactionary forces led by Daniel I's son [[Juhana VII]] emerged victorious from the war, which led to a dictatorial regime that lasted until the end of the century.
  
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During later times the era of Daniel I's rule was remembered as a golden age of Tavast-Carelia. Unfortunately it lasted on 22 years.
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After the year 1999 and [[Daniel II (Tavast-Carelia)|Daniel II]]'s rige to power several progressive re-forms were carried out, resulting in formation of the modern-day leftist-oriented Tavast-Carelia.
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In the elections of 1916 the Worker's Party had taken a notable victory, recieving a majority in the parliament. Two years later, in spring 1918, Daniel I died. Eve in the democratic system the Duke's charisma had been instrumental in keeping the parties wth different ideologies off each other's throats. A mere moth after Daniel I's death representatives of the rightist Old National Party, and more importantly the new Duke Juhana VII, stormed out of the parliament when the Worker's Party called for a vote on a new constitution that would have made Tavast-Carelia a People's Republic. A few days later civil war between the Red Forces (who considered themselves forces of the legal parliament) and the White Forces (who considered themselves the forces of the legal Duke) began. At the early stages of the war the Reds controlled the more densely southern parts of the nation, while the Whites controlled the northern parts. Unfortunately for the Reds, most of the soldiers of the nation's army chose to side with the Whites. Duke Juhana VII gave control of the army to War Marshal Mannerheim, who decades later was remembered as 'the White Butcher' amongst the socialist-minded elements of Tavast-Carelia.
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To make the long story short, The People's Republic of Tavast-Carelia, formed in May 1918 in Porvoo, fell in December the same year in Aboa. Using the 'rebellion' of the Worker's Party as an excuse Juhana VII forbade all leftist parties in Tavast-Carelia, authorised Mannerheim to execute all surviving red soldiers, along with their wiwes and children, and had a new constitution approved by what was left of the 1916 parliament. This constitution gave the Duke power equal to the parliament, and started a dictatorial regime that lasted through the 20th century.
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===Decades in isolation===
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After the 1918 civil war Tavast-Carelia shut itself from much of the outside world. During Urho I's reign, between 1954 and 1982, there was some Tavast-Carelian involvement in Alçaeran politics, and even some trade with nations in Aperin (all under the watchful eye of the goverment, of course), but this all ended when Juhana IX took the throne from his demented father in 1982. Juhana IX had inherited a notable fortune from his predecessors, and he used the funds to gain personal control of industries of his nation. Juhana IX's reign could very well be called an era of Oligarchy in Tavast-Carelia, as he and his closest industry baron allies controlled the parliament. Contact with most foreign nations was cut again, except for exports carried out by companies owned by the Duke or his supporters. Especially arms trade with Tankerton flourished at this time.
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===Recent times===
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In fall 1999, after a somewhat troubled period in internal politics, Juhana IX was found dead in the Ducal Palace in Porvoo. Mystery surrounds the precise circumstances of his death, rumours persist his son Juhana, who took the throne as Daniel II, actually murdered his father. No thurth has been discovered on the subject.
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Whatever the cause of Juhana IX's death, his son's ascend to throne proved to be a streak of luck to the people of Tavast-Carelia. Daniel II was adamant in bringing down the opression of his father's reign. Leftist parties were allowed again, and after a period of being ruled by a socialist-minded ruling council led by the Duke Tavast-Carelians were again allowed to vote in free elections in 2000. The Leftist Union took a mass victory in the elections, and the new goverment led by Leftist Union's Suvi-Anne Siimes led the nation to economic growth while creating a high standard of civil rights and political freedoms.
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==People==
 
==People==
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As with many languages, various names are written in a different way in Tavast than they are in other languages. This article has chosen to use the Tavast spelling for names when they refer to Tavast-Carelian rulers, but the Rigan when they are referred as rulers of Svea Riga.
 
As with many languages, various names are written in a different way in Tavast than they are in other languages. This article has chosen to use the Tavast spelling for names when they refer to Tavast-Carelian rulers, but the Rigan when they are referred as rulers of Svea Riga.
  
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A notable thing on names is the name Tavast-Carelia itself. Because it is the established internation form, it is used through-out this article. However, Tavast-Carelia comes from the ''Rigan'' language. In native Tavast Tavast-Carelia is called ''Häme-Karjala.''
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A notable thing on names is the name Tavast-Carelia itself. Because it is the established international form, it is used through-out this article. However, the names Tavastland and Carelia both come from the ''Rigan'' language. In native Tavast, Tavast-Carelia is called ''Häme-Karjala.''
  
 
===Religion===
 
===Religion===
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Christianity, more precisely Catholism, was brought into Tavast-Carelia by the Rigans. In the 16th century Protestant re-forms were carried out in Svea Riga, but after Tavast-Carelia gained independence Juhana I passed laws allowing freedom of choice between different forms of christianity. Other belief systems were not allowed, but in spite of that the native beliefs of Carelians survived until modern times.
 
Christianity, more precisely Catholism, was brought into Tavast-Carelia by the Rigans. In the 16th century Protestant re-forms were carried out in Svea Riga, but after Tavast-Carelia gained independence Juhana I passed laws allowing freedom of choice between different forms of christianity. Other belief systems were not allowed, but in spite of that the native beliefs of Carelians survived until modern times.
  
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Today, a majority of Tavast-Carelians are lutheran, but there is also notable catholic communities, and a growing number of worshippers of the old gods, their religion officially referred to as Kaikism. In addtition to these a large number of smaller religious groups exist.
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Today, a majority of Tavast-Carelians are lutheran, but there is also notable catholic communities, and a growing number of worshippers of the old gods, their religion officially referred to as Fennism. In addtition to these a large number of smaller religious groups exist.
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==Symbols of the State==
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[[Modern and Historical Flags of Tavast-Carelia]]
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==Internal politics==
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Parliamentary elections are held every four years, when 250 parliamentary representatives are elected. Leader of the party with the most votes forms the Cabinet, the composition of which must be approved by the parliament.
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In modern politics the Duke has no political power. The last decision made by the Ruling Council in the year 2000 was the removal of the Duke's political rights, on Daniel II's own insistance. Currently the Duke as a representative of Tavast-Carelia in internation politics, although many feel the position of the Duke should be removed completely as the last reminder of the dictatorial rule of the previous decades.
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===Political parties===
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Democratic process is still a very young institution in Tavast-Carelia, with free elections held only since 2000. As a result, the political map is constantly shifting, with new parties forming and older parties realigning themselves. However, four large parties have established themselves as permanent figures in the national politics.
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====Leftist Union====
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The Leftist Union was formed in 1999, when most of the nation's socialist and communist parties decided to run in the upcoming elections as a unified party. As a result the LU was undisputably the largest party after the 2000 elections. Generally the party has been keen to involve Tavast-Carelia in various leftist-minded international organisations, and has concentrated in improving the economy under state control in the field of internal politics.
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In the elections of 2008, the LU got 25% support, dropped into position of the ''second'' largest party in the nation and was for the first time left outside the cabinet.
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====Socialist People's Party====
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The Socialist People's Party was formed in 2004, when a group of representatives split from the Leftist Union to form a new party that took a more critical approach into international alliances and economical growth, arguing that the LU compromised the well-being of the people with their concentration of growth. The LU also compaigned strongly for resigning from the CACE.
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In the elections of 2008 the SPP became the nation's largest party with 38% support, and are the leading party in the current cabinet.
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====Green Party====
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Previously known as the ''Green Left,'' the Green Party has been driving for politics paying more attention to the environment. In 2000 they briefly formed a cabinet with the LU but later left when the LU made a decision to build a new nuclear power plant.
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In the elections of 2008 the GP gained 23% support, nearly rivaling the LU, and formed the cabinet with the SPP and Anarchists.
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====Anarchists====
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The ''Anarchists'' were originally a minor party, calling for direct democracy and apposed memberships in most international organisations. Their support has risen during the years however, and they now rank as one of the "big four" parties, although their support is clearly lesser than that of other large parties.
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In the elections of 2008 the Anarchists gained 11% support, and formed the cabinet with the SPP and GP.
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====Other Parties====
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'''Happiness from Capitalism''' was a notable party in the elections of 2000, gaining 14% support nationwide. Since then their popularity has notably lessened, as they had no representatives in the parliament of 2004. In 2008 they did gather 5% nationwide support. The HFC drives for a return to market economy and privatization of most of the industries nationalized after Duke Daniel II's rise to power.
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Other minor parties include the religious ''Catholicism Wow!,'' and the rightist ''Pure Tavastian, National Capitalist Consensus'' and ''Better Folk'' parties. Of these the Better Folk Party, which acts as the voice of the former nobility of the nations, gained 4% support in the 2008 elections, while Catholicism Wow! gained 1% of the votes.
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===The Goverment===
  
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==Politics==
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After an election the leader of the largest party begins negotations for the new goverment. If he/she cannot find suitable partners, members of the parliament are free to suggest candidates for a new negotiator, and the parliament itself votes on which candiate will become the next negotiator. This is also applicable if a goverment is formed but later recieves a vote of non-confidence.
  
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===Internal politics===
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The goverment consists of several ministers; ''Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Minister of Economics, Minister of Welfare, Minister of Education and Culture, Minister of Infrastuctures, Minister of Defence, Minister of Environmental Issues, Minister of Transportations'' and ''Minister of Trade and Industry.'' Corresponding ministries also exist for all other except the Prime Minister.
  
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Parliamentary elections are held every four years, when 250 parliamentary representatives are elected. Leader of the party with the most votes forms the Goverment, the form of which must be approved by the parliament.
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Following is a list of the most important ministries and their duties.
  
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In modern politics the Duke has no political power. The last decision made by the Ruling Council in the year 2000 because decing power to the goverment of Suvi-Anne Siimes was the removal of the Duke's political rights. Currently the Duke as a representative of Tavast-Carelia in internation politics, although many feel the position of the Duke should be removed completely as the last reminder of the dictatorial rule of the previous decades.
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* The '''Ministry of Foreign Affairs''' is, together with the Prime Minister and the Duke, responsible for all international dealings of the state, be they with allies like ACA, IFTA and CACE nations or non-allies.
  
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====Political parties====
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* The '''Ministery of Economics''' is responsible for coordinating the production of resources, and coordinating their spreading to various ministries.
  
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In the 2000 election the largest party of Tavast-Carelia was undisputably the '''Leftist Union''', which gathered no less than 53% of the votes given. As the nation prepares for the next elections however it seems that the differences in opinion inside the party are so large that several representatives of the party will form a new party for the next elections.
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* The Ministries of '''Welfare''' & '''Education and Culture''' often work  in close cooperation to bring the best possible services to the people.
  
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The ecologically-minded '''Green Left''' is another important party in T-C politics, in the 2000 elctions they recieved nearly 20% of the votes. The party drives for more attention to environmental issues that have been left on the sidelines as the current goverment has concentrated oneconomical issues.
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* The '''Ministry of Infrastructures''' is responsible for most large-scale construction efforts in the nation, often working in close cooperation with the Ministry of Transportations.
  
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'''Happiness from Capitalism''' is the most important right-wing party, with 14% support in the 2000 elections. they drive for a return to market economy and privatization of most of the industries nationalized after Duke Daniel II's rise to power.
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* The '''Ministry of Transportations''' is responsible for the large public transportation systems of the nation, most notably the State Railways (Valtionrautatiet, VR) and the [[Tavast-Carelian Shipping Company]] (TCSC). Tavast-Carelia's participation in the [[Train Rapide Internationale]] program naturally also fall under the jurisdiction of the MoT.
  
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Minor parties of Tavast-Carelian politics include ''Anarchists,'' the religious ''Catholicism Wow!,'' and the rightist ''Pure Tavastian, National Capitalist Consensus'' and ''Better Folk'' parties.
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==International politics==
  
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===International politics===
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Tavast-Carelia is an active member of the [[Anticapitalist Alliance]], and currently functions as the region's UN Delegate. The nation is also a member of the [[International Fair Trade Agreement]], a founding member (and the first chairman) of the [[International Development Co-operative]], a member of the [[Alçaeran Union]] and of course a member of the [[United Nations]].
  
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Tavast-Carelia is an active member of [[Coalition of Anti-Capitalist Economies]] (CACE), [[International Fair Trade Agreement]] (IFTA) and [[Anticapitalist Alliance]] (ACA). Recently Tavast-Carelia joined the [[Aperin Central Economic Planning Board]] and adopted the Thennat as it's monetary unit.
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The Nation resigned from membership of the [[Coalition of Anti-Capitalist Economies]] in 2008 after a state of war was declared between CACE member nations of [[Svea Riga]] and [[Watfordshire]] and the Coalition failed to act in the matter.
  
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In general Tavast-Carelia is moderately active in the forementioned orgnizations, including the 'UN Think Tank' of the CACE.
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Shortly after resigning from the CACE, Tavast-Carelia and Ecopoeia signed a mutual defence treaty, the [[Friendship and Mutual Aid Agreement]].

Latest revision as of 12:51, 22 January 2006

Tavast-Carelia
2005flagavatar.png
Flag of Tavast-Carelia
Motto: From the People, by the People, for the People
Tavast-Carelia
Region Anticapitalist Alliance
Capital Porvoo
Official Language(s) Tavast, Carelian, Rigan
Leader Grand Duke Daniel II
Population 71 million (RP cap)
Currency Daler 
NS Sunset XML

Overview

Tavast-Carelia, located on the eastern coast of Alçaera is considered to be one of the leading countries in it's continent. The nation is bordered the Alçaeran Ocean in the south and east (although the island nation of Ecopoeia lies near on the east), in the North it's neighbours are New Paristan and CADs, in the west Arcnow, and Tankerton in the south-west. Although largely inactive in world-wide international politics, Tavast-Carelia provides a notable voice in the politics of it's native continent, as well as various international organizations the nation belongs to.

Geography

Tavast-Carelia is largely surrounded by various bodies of water: in the east the Alçaeran Ocean, south the Alçaeran Ocean and Tankerton, in the west by lake Ladoga and Arcnow, and in the north by the CADs, New Paristan and Lake Spiffing. In the inner parts the nation is mostly defined by it's large forests. Most inhabitation is still grouped around the coast, although during the latter 20th century the inland cities started experiencing notable growth. In general, Tavast-Carelia can be divided into three basic geographical areas: coastal, inland and highlands.

Coastal Areas

The coast could really be called the 'heartland' of Tavast-Carelia. Most Tavast-Carelians live here on the fertile lands in about a 100-kilometer radius from the coastline. The largest cities can also be found here, including the capital Porvoo. Traditionally these areas have been the major agricultural area of Alçaera. During the 20th century drastic growth of cities has taken over much of the farmland, but fortunately farmers have been able to relocate deeper inland.

Inland Areas

The interiors of Tavast-Carelia are still mostly covered with forests, which proves a steady source of paper for the nation's book publishing industry. During the 20th century the woodlands increasingly opened up to farming (the century also saw notably growth of the inland cities), despite this Tavast-Carelia still has forested areas her citizens can be proud of.

Highlands

In the northern part of the nation, near Paristani border, are the Fennevid Highlands, which are a notable source of valuable minerals. To protect the eco-system of the highlands the goverment has imposed an increasing number of restrictions to mining on this area during the last decades.

In the west land rises to form the Carelid Mountains, which range from Tavast-Carelia through Arcnow and Detome into Rehochipe. This area forms the province of Savonia, a little-developed part of the nation. These parts of the Carelids are not as rich in minerals as the Fennevid Highlands, although some mines exist here as well. In general Savonia is Tavast-Carelia's true wilderness area, where can be found the last existing pockets of old Carelian cultural tradition.

History

Below is a short review of Tavast-Carelia's history. For more detailed information, please read the article History of Tavast-Carelia.

Until the 14th century, the lands currently known as Tavast-Carelia were inhabited by various small tribes, and no state-level organisation existed. This changed when explorers from Riga (a part of modern-day Svea Riga) arrived from the continent of Aperin and decided to colonise the areas inhabited by Tavast and Carelian tribes approximately a century later. In 1563 a civil war erupted in Riga which resulted in Tavastland and Carelia becoming an independent state, ruled by Juhana I, brother of Erik XIV of Riga.

In the year 1600 Juhana II lost the crown of Tavastland to Carl IX of Riga, and Tavastland again became a Rigan colony. Carelia however retained it's independence. Curing the 17th century Carelian Grand Dukes expanded their area towards the west, the state becoming more powerful, leading to Tavastland being re-united with Carelia in 1719. This also led to the creation of the name Tavast-Carelia. The 19th century was an era of danger, when various new colonial powers from Aperin threathered the nation's sovereignity. However, a military alliance with New Paristan and skillful diplomacy with the foreign powers managed to keep the state independent, although it's territories were diminished.

The last years of the 19th century were a time of democratic re-form after the new duke Daniel I was crowned. Friction between socialist forces and supporters of the old regime led to a civil war after Daniel I's death in 1918. Reactionary forces led by Daniel I's son Juhana VII emerged victorious from the war, which led to a dictatorial regime that lasted until the end of the century.

After the year 1999 and Daniel II's rige to power several progressive re-forms were carried out, resulting in formation of the modern-day leftist-oriented Tavast-Carelia.

People

The majority of Tavast-Carelians are either Tavastian, Carelian or Rigan by origin. The distinction between these three ethnical groups has blurred greatly during the last century, and by modern times all three groups consider themselves predominantly Tavast-Carelian. Various smaller ethnical groups also exist, created by refugees from the less socially progressed nations of the continent, or simply as people from neighbouring nations who have desired to move into Tavast-Carelia for reason other than opression.

Languages

Although Tavast and Carelian are officially still listed as separate languages, in reality it is nearly impossible to make distinction between the two languages, and quite often the predominant language of Tavast-Carelia is referred to simply as Tavast. Rigan is still spoken in some families descending from Rigan colonists, but as these are being assimilated into the general populace Rigan as a native language in Tavast-Carelia is disappearing. The more recently arrived ethnical groups have brought with them their own languages, but these still lack official recognition.

Translitteration of Tavast names

As with many languages, various names are written in a different way in Tavast than they are in other languages. This article has chosen to use the Tavast spelling for names when they refer to Tavast-Carelian rulers, but the Rigan when they are referred as rulers of Svea Riga.

A notable thing on names is the name Tavast-Carelia itself. Because it is the established international form, it is used through-out this article. However, the names Tavastland and Carelia both come from the Rigan language. In native Tavast, Tavast-Carelia is called Häme-Karjala.

Religion

Christianity, more precisely Catholism, was brought into Tavast-Carelia by the Rigans. In the 16th century Protestant re-forms were carried out in Svea Riga, but after Tavast-Carelia gained independence Juhana I passed laws allowing freedom of choice between different forms of christianity. Other belief systems were not allowed, but in spite of that the native beliefs of Carelians survived until modern times.

Today, a majority of Tavast-Carelians are lutheran, but there is also notable catholic communities, and a growing number of worshippers of the old gods, their religion officially referred to as Fennism. In addtition to these a large number of smaller religious groups exist.

Symbols of the State

Modern and Historical Flags of Tavast-Carelia

Internal politics

Parliamentary elections are held every four years, when 250 parliamentary representatives are elected. Leader of the party with the most votes forms the Cabinet, the composition of which must be approved by the parliament.

In modern politics the Duke has no political power. The last decision made by the Ruling Council in the year 2000 was the removal of the Duke's political rights, on Daniel II's own insistance. Currently the Duke as a representative of Tavast-Carelia in internation politics, although many feel the position of the Duke should be removed completely as the last reminder of the dictatorial rule of the previous decades.

Political parties

Democratic process is still a very young institution in Tavast-Carelia, with free elections held only since 2000. As a result, the political map is constantly shifting, with new parties forming and older parties realigning themselves. However, four large parties have established themselves as permanent figures in the national politics.

Leftist Union

The Leftist Union was formed in 1999, when most of the nation's socialist and communist parties decided to run in the upcoming elections as a unified party. As a result the LU was undisputably the largest party after the 2000 elections. Generally the party has been keen to involve Tavast-Carelia in various leftist-minded international organisations, and has concentrated in improving the economy under state control in the field of internal politics.

In the elections of 2008, the LU got 25% support, dropped into position of the second largest party in the nation and was for the first time left outside the cabinet.

Socialist People's Party

The Socialist People's Party was formed in 2004, when a group of representatives split from the Leftist Union to form a new party that took a more critical approach into international alliances and economical growth, arguing that the LU compromised the well-being of the people with their concentration of growth. The LU also compaigned strongly for resigning from the CACE.

In the elections of 2008 the SPP became the nation's largest party with 38% support, and are the leading party in the current cabinet.

Green Party

Previously known as the Green Left, the Green Party has been driving for politics paying more attention to the environment. In 2000 they briefly formed a cabinet with the LU but later left when the LU made a decision to build a new nuclear power plant.

In the elections of 2008 the GP gained 23% support, nearly rivaling the LU, and formed the cabinet with the SPP and Anarchists.

Anarchists

The Anarchists were originally a minor party, calling for direct democracy and apposed memberships in most international organisations. Their support has risen during the years however, and they now rank as one of the "big four" parties, although their support is clearly lesser than that of other large parties.

In the elections of 2008 the Anarchists gained 11% support, and formed the cabinet with the SPP and GP.

Other Parties

Happiness from Capitalism was a notable party in the elections of 2000, gaining 14% support nationwide. Since then their popularity has notably lessened, as they had no representatives in the parliament of 2004. In 2008 they did gather 5% nationwide support. The HFC drives for a return to market economy and privatization of most of the industries nationalized after Duke Daniel II's rise to power.

Other minor parties include the religious Catholicism Wow!, and the rightist Pure Tavastian, National Capitalist Consensus and Better Folk parties. Of these the Better Folk Party, which acts as the voice of the former nobility of the nations, gained 4% support in the 2008 elections, while Catholicism Wow! gained 1% of the votes.

The Goverment

After an election the leader of the largest party begins negotations for the new goverment. If he/she cannot find suitable partners, members of the parliament are free to suggest candidates for a new negotiator, and the parliament itself votes on which candiate will become the next negotiator. This is also applicable if a goverment is formed but later recieves a vote of non-confidence.

The goverment consists of several ministers; Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Minister of Economics, Minister of Welfare, Minister of Education and Culture, Minister of Infrastuctures, Minister of Defence, Minister of Environmental Issues, Minister of Transportations and Minister of Trade and Industry. Corresponding ministries also exist for all other except the Prime Minister.

Following is a list of the most important ministries and their duties.

  • The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is, together with the Prime Minister and the Duke, responsible for all international dealings of the state, be they with allies like ACA, IFTA and CACE nations or non-allies.
  • The Ministery of Economics is responsible for coordinating the production of resources, and coordinating their spreading to various ministries.
  • The Ministries of Welfare & Education and Culture often work in close cooperation to bring the best possible services to the people.
  • The Ministry of Infrastructures is responsible for most large-scale construction efforts in the nation, often working in close cooperation with the Ministry of Transportations.
  • The Ministry of Transportations is responsible for the large public transportation systems of the nation, most notably the State Railways (Valtionrautatiet, VR) and the Tavast-Carelian Shipping Company (TCSC). Tavast-Carelia's participation in the Train Rapide Internationale program naturally also fall under the jurisdiction of the MoT.

International politics

Tavast-Carelia is an active member of the Anticapitalist Alliance, and currently functions as the region's UN Delegate. The nation is also a member of the International Fair Trade Agreement, a founding member (and the first chairman) of the International Development Co-operative, a member of the Alçaeran Union and of course a member of the United Nations.

The Nation resigned from membership of the Coalition of Anti-Capitalist Economies in 2008 after a state of war was declared between CACE member nations of Svea Riga and Watfordshire and the Coalition failed to act in the matter.

Shortly after resigning from the CACE, Tavast-Carelia and Ecopoeia signed a mutual defence treaty, the Friendship and Mutual Aid Agreement.

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