NationStates Jolt Archive

This thread is for events, specifically conflicts, involving the small nations of the Caribbean and Central America during the 20th Century.

Sea areas involved include the North American East Coast, Caribbean Sea, Gulf of Mexico, Gulf of Panama, and Central Atlantic

nations and territories include all of the islands of the Caribbean, all of the nations and territories that border the Caribbean, which include Dutch, French and British possessions at this point, as well as US possessions and various independent nations.

Complete list to be added

historical background, useful links and sources (in progress)
RL events as of 1906
1855 William Walker, an American, attempts to take over Nicaragua, and nearly does before the US Navy arrests him and hands him over to locals.. who shoot him
during the 1850s a number of Democrats urge American annexation of the region, and some want war with Spain to focus American attentions and hopefully prevent the US Civil War (this obviously failed)

1890s American power grows and so does American interest in the region
1898 Spanish American War.. US ends up controlling Cuba, Puerto Rico, and drives Spain out of Caribbean
1902 Cuba gains independence
1903 Panama gains independence with substantial assistance from US (stripping it from Colombia)
1904 construction of Panama Canal begins
1906 Cuban President Tomás Estrada Palma requests US intervention in the face of substantial civil disorder. The US effectively takes over Cuba


Useful link
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Banana_Wars

Excellent sources
http://www.amazon.com/Savage-Wars-Peace-American-Power/dp/046500721X
http://www.claremont.org/writings/crb/fall2002/garrityboot.html
www.smallwars.quantico.usmc.mil/search/Articles/SavageWarsofPeace.pdf
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cuba
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dominican_Republic
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Haiti
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mexico
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nicaragua
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Panama
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Banana_republic
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_Fruit
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Panama_Canal

US justification for involvement is the Roosevelt Corollary to the Monroe Doctrine
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roosevelt_Corollary_to_the_Monroe_Doctrine

1907 events
US Marines continue to occupy Cuba

Haiti 1907
Haiti: This troubled impoverished Caribbean nation is presently under the rule of the 85/86 year old President Pierre Nord Alexis, whose four year regime has been plagued by rebellion and frequent accusations of corruption. President Pierre Nord Alexis was declared President by a legislature held hostage in December 21, 1902 following a US backed coup. Alexis has cast himself as a supporter of American interests in the Caribbean (why they helped him to power) and he is very likely to die soon from old age, leaving a power vacuum. There are many people opposed to his regime that were or are loyal to the former rebel leader Antenor Firmin.

Ninety percent of the population is Creole-speaking blacks, the large majority of them illiterate. The remaining ten percent, the élite, are mixed race, Franco-black multattoes whose language is French; for the most part they have been educated in France and form the professional and governing class. The élite have grown fat and rich off government jobs, contracts, and enormous amounts of graft. The two classes, not surprisingly, have nothing but contempt for each other.

Added to this mix are the cacos (name derived from the "kaa-ko" call of a local bird of prey), the perpetual wild card in the deadly game of Haitian "politics". Descended from runaway slaves, the cacos live in quasi-military bands throughout the north and central mountains. In times of peace they exist by pure banditry: preying on farmers, extorting whole villages, and robbing travelers on Haiti's few miles of bad road. They take money from any revolutionary faction seeking the National Palace in Port-au-Prince, serving as an insurgent force until their "candidate" achieved the Presidency. If a rebellion fails they merely retreat back into their mountain forts, or slip over the border into the Dominican Republic. In the event of a successful revolution though the cacos demand their "fair share" of the national treasure. A president retained their support only so long as he paid. Once the money stops the cacos change sides and support the next contender.

A very unstable place, one would describe it as perpetually poised on the brink.
http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=11648642&postcount=10

A major new opponent to President Alexis is Dr. Rosalvo Bobo, an accomplished, highly educated (Universities of London and Paris) ambitious, popular (he treated the poor and sick for free), violent, and somewhat mentally unbalanced member of the Haitian élite who opposes American influence in Haiti and wishes to become ruler of Haiti and revitalize the country.

In March, the army and cacos suddenly launch a coup and President Alexis narrowly escapes to an American ship in the harbor. His family is less fortunate and is massacred. An American cruiser, the Brooklyn, happens to be visiting and manages to evacuate the US Embassy with its marines.

Haiti 1907
Haiti: A major new opponent to President Alexis is Dr. Rosalvo Bobo, an accomplished, highly educated (Universities of London and Paris) ambitious, popular (he treated the poor and sick for free), violent, and somewhat mentally unbalanced member of the Haitian élite who opposes American influence in Haiti and wishes to become ruler of Haiti and revitalize the country.

In March, the army and cacos suddenly launch a coup and President Alexis narrowly escapes to an American ship in the harbor. His family is less fortunate and is massacred. An American cruiser, the Brooklyn, happens to be visiting and manages to evacuate the US Embassy with its marines.

As soon as the dust settles the French Government recognizes Dr. Rosalvo Bobo as the Haitian "Chief of Executive Power" and lavishes great praise upon him, his education, his accomplishments, and his plans for "the Haitian Restoration."

The French Ambassador in Port-au-Prince meets personally with "Chief of Executive Power" Dr. Rosalvo Bobo to discuss how France can assist him in his plans to help the Haitian people and rebuild the economy.

OOC: ohhhh i get to be a bad guy.....

IC: News of the coup takes Washington by surprise, though the Roosevelt Administration is quick to take action. The USMC presently consists of 4 light infantry brigades, two of which have been activated for only a year. One veteran brigade is mostly tied down in Cuba.

The President goes before Congress, stressing the need to keep the Caribbean stable in such a dangerous time for the world. The disorder in Cuba, followed by actions of "this self-righteous mob" in Haiti are beginning to show a general trend which could end with the United States losing any say in events that happen just dozens of miles from its coast line. The speech is greated by thunderous applause by hardline Republicans and not a few Democrats whose states have interests in the Caribbean.

Roosevelt issues a demand to Bobo and his followers to step down and allow the return to power of the rightful President Alexis. USS Brooklyn is ordered to remain in Port-au-Prince on sentry duty. The protected cruisers USS Olympia and USS Albany are dispatched to the area as well. Haiti is warned that the failure to achieve restoration of order will result in direct American intervention.

Observant citizens in Cuba notice that elements of the veteran 1st Marine Brigade are being replaced with two regiments from the newly formed 3rd Brigade. That country is assured that the United States will withdraw as soon as order is assured as construction of infastructure continues. Both the 1st and 4th Marine Brigades are called up and begin assembling in South Florida.

As soon as the dust settles the French Government recognizes Dr. Rosalvo Bobo as the Haitian "Chief of Executive Power" and lavishes great praise upon him, his education, his accomplishments, and his plans for "the Haitian Restoration."

The French Ambassador in Port-au-Prince meets personally with "Chief of Executive Power" Dr. Rosalvo Bobo to discuss how France can assist him in his plans to help the Haitian people and rebuild the economy.

OOC: :-D Turnabout is only fairplay Amestria! I guess we both get to be thorns in each other's sides...

IC: France is 'politely' and quietly warned by Washington that it should consider backing the winning horse in Haiti...

France is 'politely' and quietly warned by Washington that it should consider backing the winning horse in Haiti...

The French Government informs Washington that it believes Dr. Bobo to be the legitimate President of Haiti and the countries "Chief of Executive Power."

The French Ambassador to the US informs the US Government that "any US intervention against the lawful government of the Haitian Republic would be an unacceptable violation of Haiti's sovereignty."

Secret IC: President Bobo is informed he may seek shelter/asylum in the French Embassy in Port-au-Prince should the US intervene.

The French Ambassador is coolly informed that likewise, any European meddling in the affairs of the Americas would not only be a violation of the nation in question's soveriegnty, but a direct violation of the Monroe Doctrine.

The United States declares a blockade of Haiti, deploying to the area (in addition to vessels already there) its newest destroyer flotilla, the cruisers USS North Carolina and USS Tennessee and battleship USS Alabama to command.

The remainder of the Atlantic Fleet is suddenly ordered on a "shakedown cruise" and begins patrolling the Atlantic Seaboard (with full ammo and fuel loads).

US Marines (2 Light Infantry Brigades) are sent ashore at Port-au-Prince ASAP (late march or early April) under orders to capture Bobo, establish control of the capital, and then slowly move into the countryside.

When hearing of the crisis in the Caribbean, the Brazilian President publicly supports the United States and declares that France “is trying to open the way for European colonization in the Americas.” No mobilization takes place but President Roosevelt is quietly informed that Brazil will be willing to support actions against French Guiana should France continue it’s disrespect for the Monroe Doctrine.

OOC: Come on Amestria, attack. Daddy needs a new Caribbean port.

The French Ambassador is coolly informed that likewise, any European meddling in the affairs of the Americas would not only be a violation of the nation in question's soveriegnty, but a direct violation of the Monroe Doctrine.

The French Ambassador is outraged by the accusation that France is meddling in Haiti in anyway, shape, or form. "It is the US that is supporting a corrupt incompetent tyrant and now trying to reinstall him to power, trampling Haiti's inherent right to choose its own leaders, the same rights that belong to any sovereign nation. Perhaps the US, instead of arresting a freedom seeking revolutionary, the moral equivalent of its founding fathers, and reinstalling a dictator, should hold an election and allow the Haitian people a free and fair choice."

The French Ambassador further reminds the Americans that under international law they cannot touch those who take shelter within the French embassies, consulates, or are granted political asylum by the French Republic.

The French Ambassador does take pains to point out that the American ships going to high alert along the Atlantic coast is "utterly ridiculous and over the top" given France has no military in the Caribbean and “no intent of physically or militarily obstructing the US's "lawless unilateral actions against the sovereign Republic of Haiti."

timeline
March 12 -- Coup occurs, President Alexis flees
March 13 -- US condemns the coup, evacuates its embassy and any Europeans and Latin Americans requesting evacuation. US and France exchange sharp words.
March 14 - 17 -- Sharp words between France and US continue. New President Bobo signs a treaty with France granting it a 200 year lease for a naval base. This doesn't immediately become known. Meanwhile, the US Navy transfers USMC units from the West Coast to the East Coast and embarks 3 Marine brigades aboard transports, even as US Navy warships take up station around Haiti.
March 18 -- President Roosevelt declares Haiti under blockade, France declares that it has a treaty granting it a naval base with the new Haitian government and recognizes it.
March 19 -- Brazil sides with the US even as US Marines land at Port-a-Prince and cross the border from the Dominican Republic as well, and secure the city and border areas after brief fighting with ill trained Haitian army and paramilitary forces.
March 20 - April 30 US Marine Corps units secure the rest of Haiti facing light and ill coordinated resistance. President Bobo flees to French Embassy, while President Alexis returns to his office.

Certain Portuguese diplomats comment on French hypocrisy, championing freedom only when it suits them. Morroco is given as an example when comapared to Haiti.

The Argentine ambassador in Washington meets with American officials, and lets them know that although President Alcorta hopes to avoid armed conflict, Argentina will support its American allies under the newly-signed treaty.

Hoping to find a peaceful resolution between the various involved parties before the peace and stability of the Caribbean are irreparably damaged, President Alcorta also offers to mediate talks between the United States, France, and the various Haitian factions if so desired.

March 20 - April 30 US Marine Corps units secure the rest of Haiti facing light and ill coordinated resistance. President Bobo flees to the French Embassy, while President Alexis returns to his office.

"President" Bobo and his close followers are welcomed into the French Embassy with open arms, presented fine wine, and informed they have nothing to fear, France will protect them from “the Yankees."

France meanwhile refuses to recognize “the tyrannical government of Pierre Nord Alexis” and calls on the US to hold fair and free elections.

OOC: What is the reaction of Caribbean/South American NCPs?

Certain Portuguese diplomats comment on French hypocrisy, championing freedom only when it suits them.

Certain France diplomats cynically (and privately) reply that "of course we only champion freedom when it suits us, do you think we are idiots?!"

France publicly explains that Morocco was an entirely different case and all of Europe recognized French actions a necessary, including Portugal (ooc: Portugal signed the treaty).

Hoping to find a peaceful resolution between the various involved parties before the peace and stability of the Caribbean are irreparably damaged, President Alcorta also offers to mediate talks between the United States, France, and the various Haitian factions if so desired.

The French Ambassador to Argentina informs President Alcorta that France accepts his offer to mediate talks between the various parties.

France publicly explains that Morocco was an entirely different case and all of Europe recognized French actions a necessary, including Portugal (ooc: Portugal signed the treaty).

OOC: Eh? Portugal didn't sign no treaty, unless this was before the Rp began...

OOC: Eh? Portugal didn't sign no treaty, unless this was before the Rp began...

OOC: Portugal was involved historically and would have been at the conference (which started at the very beginning). We operated under a system where if you did not object you signed. Portugal did not object.

IC: The French Government states for the record it has no intention of militarily intervening in the Caribbean what-so-ever, owing to the Monroe Doctrine, which it recognizes "when legitimately used," and the most France will be sending is a gunboat to pick up President Bobo and take him into exile should the US refuse to hold elections and continues to support the Alexis dictatorship. Furthermore the gunboat will only be sent once the blockade is lifted. "Whatever specter of war there is has been invented by America to draw attention away from the fact it is crushing a defenseless small country because it dared overthrow a US backed dictator."

"President" Bobo and his close followers are welcomed into the French Embassy with open arms, presented fine wine, and informed they have nothing to fear, France will protect them from “the Yankees."

France meanwhile refuses to recognize “the tyrannical government of Pierre Nord Alexis” and calls on the US to hold fair and free elections.

OOC: What is the reaction of Caribbean/South American NCPs?

ooc
muted for the moment as they figure out what the Yankees will do if they criticize the action, and they note the support of Argentina and Brazil. As Haiti isn't part of Spanish America, is definitely less a concern than the US intervention in Cuba. Since both the President of Cuba and the President of Haiti were alive and able to give legal cover to the Americans, it does a lot to reduce criticism in any case.

tag

Washington issues a formal protest regarding the guarding of Bobo in the French Embassy, demanding that the revolutionary be handed over to the United States and Haiti to be tried for treason.

The larger ships guarding Haiti are withdrawn, leaving a dozen destroyers and their escorts to watch over the island. The Atlantic Fleet however continues its patrol in a show of American power. (ooc: justification--this is the same year historically the great white fleet was launched. American naval bravado makes a great deal of sense, perhaps even more so under these circumstances than in real life). Roosevelt makes a series of stump speeches concerning the tyranny of certain nations in old Europe and the wisdom of Monroe and his doctrine keeping their evil away from American shores. The bravery of the Marines called into action for the 2nd time in 6 months is especially lauded.

Also, the US declares that the treaty signed by Bobo and the French is illegitimate as it was not signed by the formal government of Haiti. In no uncertain terms it is made clear that France will not have a naval base anywhere in the country.

In related news, Argentina and Brazil are warmly (but privately) thanked for their support during this time. President Alcorta in particular is applauded, though his offer of mediation is politely declined. The United States unfortunately can not deal with puppets and puppeteers as equals at the table of legitimate diplomacy the rest of the world so happily shares.

OOC: This is how it happened historically, with the exception of Haiti being a distracting factor. France has nothing to do with this btw, Zelaya is going it alone.

IC:

January 1st, 1907 to March 17th, 1907

President José Santos Zelaya encourages revolution in Honduras. The Revolution is crushed by Conservative Manuel Bonilla's government and the rebels are driven back into Nicaragua. Zelaya subsequently threatens war and obstructs all attempts at mediation.

March 18th, 1907

While the US is distracted by the situation in Cuba and Haiti, Zelaya orders an invasion of Honduras and the Nicaraguan army sweeps across the Honduran border. It is opposed by a Honduran-Salvadoran force.

OOC: References, http://www.onwar.com/aced/nation/hat/honduras/fnicahond1907.htm
http://www.country-data.com/cgi-bin/query/r-5620.html

OOC: This is how it happened historically, with the exception of Haiti being a distracting factor. France has nothing to do with this btw, Zelaya is going it alone.

IC:

January 1st, 1907 to March 17th, 1907

President José Santos Zelaya encourages revolution in Honduras. The Revolution is crushed by Conservative Manuel Bonilla's government and the rebels are driven back into Nicaragua. Zelaya subsequently threatens war and obstructs all attempts at mediation.

March 18th, 1907

While the US is distracted by the situation in Cuba and Haiti, Zelaya orders an invasion of Honduras and the Nicaraguan army sweeps across the Honduran border. It is opposed by a Honduran-Salvadoran force.

OOC: Not that I dont fully trust my good pal Amestria and the neutrality of a research position that apparently shares the powers of an NPC mod, but I would prefer this confirmed by GB or LR before acting. Just as a formality.

Thank you.

Washington issues a formal protest regarding the guarding of Bobo in the French Embassy, demanding that the revolutionary be handed over to the United States and Haiti to be tried for treason.

France refuses to hand "President Rosalvo Bobo" over to the United States as France feels he would not receive a fair trial, that his actions were a legitimate form of rebellion, and that he is Haiti's legitimate President.

Also, the US declares that the treaty signed by Bobo and the French is illegitimate as it was not signed by the formal government of Haiti. In no uncertain terms it is made clear that France will not have a naval base anywhere in the country.

French lawyers behind closed doors gleefully tear into the US's legal reasoning. They note the following:

1. President Alexis seized power in a military coup that forced the legislature at gun point to make him President. President Bobo also seized power in a coup that had the legislature confirm him as President at gun point.

2. Both Alexis and Florvil Hippolyte, the President Alexis overthrew, fled from Haiti after being deposed, they no longer had any de facto authority and the Haitian Legislature stripped them of their de jure authority (by dubious means, true, but when Alexis employed those same means the US recognized him, either they both are legitimate, or none of them are).

3. President Hippolyte did not resign upon being deposed but he was considered to no longer be Haiti's President afterwards and Alexis assumed control with the US's blessing.

4. Bobo had control of Haiti for six days, during which he was confirmed President by the Haitian Legislature and his authority was unchallenged domestically, and so during that time he was the formal government of Haiti.

5. New Governments are bound to carry out those agreements, debts, and treaties enacted by their predecessors, even if they disagreed with them.

Thus, the French lawyers continue, the treaty is legal. However, France has no intention on acting on it at this time, France after all does have 200 years to act upon it.

******

Haiti: From the balcony of the French Embassy Dr. Rosalvo Bobo gives numerous speeches to those supporters and Haitians who gather outside. His voice is strong and defiant.

"Haitians, today we mourn.

I am tired, ô my compatriots, when I took action it was out of my being tired of our stupidities, Haiti’s stagnation, and Alexis’ incompetence and his greed.

Alexis is so hated he had no choice but to flee the people’s wrath and we stood on the edge of our Haiti’s Restoration! But what has happened?! The Americans have felt it “necessary to intervene.”

Do they deliver us our freedom? No!

They bring us the slavery of Negro by Negro.

They feast upon our fraternal hatreds, our triple moral, social and political impotence.

Bring assassinations in our cities and savannas.

Exploit our defects, our political crimes.

They aid the most odious groupings of men.

They smile as our country falls into ruin by misery and dirtiness.

Will this be the humiliation and the perhaps final forfeiture of the black race, by the Haitian fraction?

NO!

This small remote place inhabited by Negros.

Between us, when I hear these words “Populates Haitian”, “Haitian Nation”, it occurs in me an overflow of irony. What sort of place calls itself a nation when ceaselessly occupied by a foreign power?!

No! My friends, we are not a nation but a group of isolated individuals ruled over by a stigmatized group called a Government…GOVERNMENT!? By what right does it claim that title, who selected Alexis to be President…WHO ELECTED HIM!? I will tell you who! Soldiers with bayonets paid with American dollars! TWICE!

Ah! The Evil of America!

Let us have courage, the hour came, to denounce them. On this day, March, if it is necessary nevertheless to do something, instead of sowing the bay-trees on the manes introuvés of our aïeux, let us make fun of their ‘heroism’; instead of the crimson and flames, we will hold a mourning from one end to another of the country, in testimony of our remorse and beat our chests in anger at what they have done. We will not give them a moment’s peace, we will make sure that everyone of them, everywhere, hears our cries until they leave and allow the choice of the Haitian people to stand!

No! I protest with all the force of my heart. We will not tolerate this, for Alexis will continue to keep the Haitian people miserable, weak, without the penny, stripping people of their last thin cow. He is a coward and a slave, a moronic kleptocrat, sick in mind and body, a walking corpse who will soon die.

We will not tolerate this! Let us work to defeat this indecent assault upon the whole of the country by Alexis and those who support him.

VICTORY AND GREAT FREEDOM TO THE HAITIAN PEOPLE! WE CANNOT BE DEFEATED!"

******

France dispatches a cruiser, the Jurien de la Graviere, to Port-au-Prince to pick up President Bobo and take him and his Government into exile.

OOC: This is how it happened historically, with the exception of Haiti being a distracting factor. France has nothing to do with this btw, Zelaya is going it alone.

IC:

January 1st, 1907 to March 17th, 1907

President José Santos Zelaya encourages revolution in Honduras. The Revolution is crushed by Conservative Manuel Bonilla's government and the rebels are driven back into Nicaragua. Zelaya subsequently threatens war and obstructs all attempts at mediation.

March 18th, 1907

While the US is distracted by the situation in Cuba and Haiti, Zelaya orders an invasion of Honduras and the Nicaraguan army sweeps across the Honduran border. It is opposed by a Honduran-Salvadoran force.

OOC: References, http://www.onwar.com/aced/nation/hat/honduras/fnicahond1907.htm
http://www.country-data.com/cgi-bin/query/r-5620.html

ooc
it won't be that quick, neither of these armies is much more then a semi organized mob. The US player gets to react, and note that the Americans have another brigade available (only 3 of 4 used so far). Otherwise, the historical references are correct and the US may chose to act or not.

France refuses to hand "President Rosalvo Bobo" over to the United States as France feels he would not receive a fair trial, that his actions were a legitimate form of rebellion, and that he is Haiti's legitimate President.



French lawyers behind closed doors gleefully tear into the US's legal reasoning. They note the following:

1. President Alexis seized power in a military coup that forced the legislature at gun point to make him President. President Bobo also seized power in a coup that had the legislature confirm him as President at gun point.

2. Both Alexis and Florvil Hippolyte, the President Alexis overthrew, fled from Haiti after being deposed, they no longer had any de facto authority and the Haitian Legislature stripped them of their de jure authority (by dubious means, true, but when Alexis employed those same means the US recognized him, either they both are legitimate, or none of them are).

3. President Hippolyte did not resign upon being deposed but he was considered to no longer be Haiti's President afterwards and Alexis assumed control with the US's blessing.

4. Bobo had control of Haiti for six days, during which he was confirmed President by the Haitian Legislature and his authority was unchallenged domestically, and so during that time he was the formal government of Haiti.

5. New Governments are bound to carry out those agreements, debts, and treaties enacted by their predecessors, even if they disagreed with them.

Thus, the French lawyers continue, the treaty is legal. However, France has no intention on acting on it at this time, France after all does have 200 years to act upon it.

******

Haiti: From the balcony of the French Embassy Dr. Rosalvo Bobo gives numerous speeches to those supporters and Haitians who gather outside. His voice is strong and defiant.

"Haitians, today we mourn.

I am tired, ô my compatriots, when I took action it was out of my being tired of our stupidities, Haiti’s stagnation, and Alexis’ incompetence and his greed.

Alexis is so hated he had no choice but to flee the people’s wrath and we stood on the edge of our Haiti’s Restoration! But what has happened?! The Americans have felt it “necessary to intervene.”

Do they deliver us our freedom? No!

They bring us the slavery of Negro by Negro.

They feast upon our fraternal hatreds, our triple moral, social and political impotence.

Bring assassinations in our cities and savannas.

Exploit our defects, our political crimes.

They aid the most odious groupings of men.

They smile as our country falls into ruin by misery and dirtiness.

Will this be the humiliation and the perhaps final forfeiture of the black race, by the Haitian fraction?

NO!

This small remote place inhabited by Negros.

Between us, when I hear these words “Populates Haitian”, “Haitian Nation”, it occurs in me an overflow of irony. What sort of place calls itself a nation when ceaselessly occupied by a foreign power?!

No! My friends, we are not a nation but a group of isolated individuals ruled over by a stigmatized group called a Government…GOVERNMENT!? By what right does it claim that title, who selected Alexis to be President…WHO ELECTED HIM!? I will tell you who! Soldiers with bayonets paid with American dollars! TWICE!

Ah! The Evil of America!

Let us have courage, the hour came, to denounce them. On this day, March, if it is necessary nevertheless to do something, instead of sowing the bay-trees on the manes introuvés of our aïeux, let us make fun of their ‘heroism’; instead of the crimson and flames, we will hold a mourning from one end to another of the country, in testimony of our remorse and beat our chests in anger at what they have done. We will not give them a moment’s peace, we will make sure that everyone of them, everywhere, hears our cries until they leave and allow the choice of the Haitian people to stand!

No! I protest of all the force of my heart. We will not tolerate this, for Alexis will continue to keep the Haitian people miserable, weak, without the penny, stripping people of their last thin cow. He is a coward and a slave, a moronic kleptocrat, sick in mind and body, a walking corpse who will soon die.

We will not tolerate this! Let us work to defeat this indecent assault upon the whole of the country by Alexis and those who support him.

VICTORY AND GREAT FREEDOM TO THE HAITIAN PEOPLE! WE CANNOT BE DEFEATED!"

******

France dispatches a gunship from its North African flotilla to Port-au-Prince to pick up President Bobo and take him and his Government into exile.


ooc
under international law the French are in a weaker position here then the Americans although both did pretty much grossly interfere in the internal affairs of Haiti. My guess is that the Marine commander isn't going to let any crowds assemble near the French Embassy. The Marines were remarkably good at this kind of thing at this time.

But written versions could get out fairly readily and get some of what you want in the way of propaganda out.

I am going to assume you are sending a cruiser to pick up the French Embassy, which at this point you can pretty much assume that President Alexis is going to boot the French out (which he can easily do under international law). Incidently, I don't know what you know about the Haitian Revolution, but the French are not at all liked in Haiti for a long time during the 19th Century. It was an exceptionally bloody affair and the French spilled almost as much blood as the Haitians did.

OOC: This is how it happened historically, with the exception of Haiti being a distracting factor. France has nothing to do with this btw, Zelaya is going it alone.

IC:

January 1st, 1907 to March 17th, 1907

President José Santos Zelaya encourages revolution in Honduras. The Revolution is crushed by Conservative Manuel Bonilla's government and the rebels are driven back into Nicaragua. Zelaya subsequently threatens war and obstructs all attempts at mediation.

March 18th, 1907

While the US is distracted by the situation in Cuba and Haiti, Zelaya orders an invasion of Honduras and the Nicaraguan army sweeps across the Honduran border. It is opposed by a Honduran-Salvadoran force.

OOC: References, http://www.onwar.com/aced/nation/hat/honduras/fnicahond1907.htm
http://www.country-data.com/cgi-bin/query/r-5620.html

The US is not so distracted that Roosevelt does not demand that Zelaya withdraw from Honduras immediately or face direct military intervention. The President goes before Congress and requests the use of army units to garrison Cuba--a hopefully noncombat role (one infantry brigade from a regular army infantry division). The brigade will be removed as soon as training of a Cuban garrison unit loyal to American interests is completed in fall. Stunned by the rapid turn of events in Central America and the Caribbean, and caught up in the spirit of the times, Congress approves the request. The marine brigade in Cuba begins training the locals.

The cruisers recently withdrawn from Haiti restock at Guantanimo Bay and head for Nicaragua with all haste. When Zelaya does not respond (assumption), the cruisers take up station in Puerto Cabezas, Nicaragua and Puerto Lampira, Honduras (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:CentAmerica.jpg) to protect American interests. Zelaya is given 48 hours to begin withdrawing from Honduras. In the meantime, a US Marine Corps brigade is on the way from New Orleans should the dictator not comply...

In reference to Haiti:

The United States allows the French cruiser through its blockade and makes sure the dock is very very clear of Haitian citizens as Bobo departs. The Haitian government, at the secret (though obvious) request of Washington, dismiss the French diplomats and their embassy staff from the country as well.

US Marines in Haiti begin work training a garrison unit of local citizens to maintain order and start setting up infastructure repairs. The United States also begins quietly looking for a possible successor to Alexis among politicians that is friendly to Washington.

The End of March, 1907…

In reference to Haiti:

The United States allows the French cruiser through its blockade and makes sure the dock is very very clear of Haitian citizens as Bobo departs. The Haitian government, at the secret (though obvious) request of Washington, dismiss the French diplomats and their embassy staff from the country as well.

Down onto the dock stepped Rosalvo Bobo in silk hat and Prince Albert coat, carrying a suitcase printed with large white letters, “Dr. Rosalvo Bobo, Chef de Pouvoir Exécutif.” At his heels where the members of his government, his Cabinet, his “military staff,” well known leading members of the Majority Party, the French Ambassador and his staff, and several dozen prominent élite who have come to see Dr. Bobo off (and who if pestered inform the Americans, with the backing of the French Ambassador, that they are under the French Embassies protection/part of its entourage until it officially departs).

Arrayed before him are the French Captain and crew in full dress uniform.

Dr. Bobo mounted the gangway with a rather slow stride, perhaps intended to be stately and majestic.

“The President of Haiti…" the Captain shouted out.

Upon reaching the quarter deck Dr. Bobo, with a grand air, removed his silk hat and held it extended, after the manner of potentates; and then he stood there and observed the salute of guns, the beating of drums, the blowing of bugles, the presenting of arms, the breaking out of the presidential flag at the masthead; all the honors always accorded to a visiting Head of State.

“Welcome aboard Mr. President…” the captain said aloud.

Rosalvo Bobo then turned to face those behind him.

“Let what I am about to say be written down…”

He waited for his stenographer to get pen and paper ready, then he began his farewell speech in earnest.

“Haiti, how I love thee, how I have work tirelessly towards the preservation of your freedom and the liberation of your people.

I alone have sufficient honor and patriotism and intelligence to lead our beloved land. And I alone of all Haitians enjoy the love and confidence of my people. There is no other! The Presidency has been stolen from me and Haiti’s sovereignty has been stolen from you! And now, cheated of my rights, I am forced to leave my country…poor Haiti, she can never survive without me! Which…which is why I shall be absent only as long as America keeps me out!

Neither the Revolution nor the Haitian People can remain suppressed and the Americans, they who call us Niggers, who lynch us, who burn us alive or cut us up in front of their children for amusement, they shall soon realize the inevitability of their defeat as they are bloodied by our blows and terrorized by our screams. All the attempts to re-conquer and re-subjugate our poor tiny country have failed owing to the Inner Greatness and Courage of the Haitian People! Haiti will not become an American plantation where Haitians live life face to the ground, the whip at their backs!

And as for that loathsome dog Alexis, that puppet; that slave…he soon shall die and Haitians will drink his blood. Alexis will be remembered as nothing more then a greedy feeble minded man who has utterly disgraced and sold out the land from which he came and those souls who raised him. He will be remembered as a particularly weak and disgusting follower of Judas. His ‘victory’ will be short lived…

People of Haiti, I promise you…I pledge to you, THAT I SHALL RETURN!"

The small group of Haitians explodes in clapping and cheers. Several enthusiastically shouted “Vive le President!”

Dr. Bobo was followed aboard by his Cabinet, his staff of twenty-six “Generals” (all decked out in shiny uniforms), and the most prominent leaders of Bobo’s Majority Party. The French Ambassador and his staff followed, their suitcases mostly full of clothes and other odds and ends, owing to the fact they had burned all the Embassies papers.

As the cruiser pulls away those followers who chose to remain turn and leave the harbor.

******

The Jurien de la Graviere proceeds to drop Dr. Bobo and his entourage off at French Guadeloupe (French Caribbean), where they immediately get to work forming a tight knit Government in Exile. One of “President” Bobo’s first actions is the creation of a special committee, “The Committee for the Liberation and Restoration of Haiti.”

Haiti:

The United States, upon the departure of Bobo and the French, immediately moves to show that actions are louder than words. Training of a new Haitian national guard accelerates to show that the US does not plan on staying permanently (1 garrison unit) and American funding pours into the country supporting infastructure (year one of three for improvements) and a social safety net beyond that the Haitians have ever seen (level 1 since 2 is illegal by the rules. Level 2 exists in areas with some more civilization or will as soon as infastructure reaches outlying zones). President Alexis declares Bobo a dangerous revolutionary--however, beyond this action the French puppet is not mentioned. He and his followers are simply rapidly becoming irrelevant from the national picture.

The US blockade is slowly removed over the course of the summer as destroyers are one by one assigned either to the massive Atlantic exercises ongoing or to Nicaragua. By late July only 2 destroyers and their escorts remain to guard Port-au-Prince. In addition, one marine regiment is recalled for training to the mainland. (Marines will cycle in and out of Haiti over the course of the year as they are upgraded into actual Marine Brigades. Assume a constant force of 1.5 brigades there please.)

OOC: speaking of which, could I have a report from GB on what happened in Nicaragua after the cruisers moved in? I'd like to know if I have to send in the marines, or if this guy Zelaya took the hint...

ooc
with the rather specific example of US intervention in Haiti, Cuba and Dominican Republic in recent memory, the US show of force and discussions on the Central American court, President Zelaya accepts US arbitration

in other words, history follows its RL path in this situation and peace breaks out.

A fairly major event in Haiti:

A prominent member of the Haitian élite, and secret supporter of Dr. Bobo, dressed in morning coat, striped trousers, silk topper and gloves with a cane and carrying a briefcase, walks towards the National Palace in Port-au-Prince to see President Alexis. He is there ostensibly to congratulate the President on his return to power, give the President his condolences on the deaths of the entire Alexis family, and talk to him about the safety of his own family (ask the President’s help in providing his family with security).

Upon arriving at the palace he notices several well dressed and American looking men standing outside the gate alongside a few members of the new Haitian army, he quickly steps into some nearby bushes unoticed and removes an item from his briefcase. He returns and presents himslef at the gate to see the President, having made an appointment he is quickly searched by the Americans and allowed to speak with the President in one of his private rooms. The president is flanked by two further men in suits who eye the visitor suspiciously.

The president and his visitor spend a quarter of an hour talking about the state of affairs in Haiti before the visitor makes his move. He pretends tofall, reaches for his cane, and pulls a concealed knife out of it before lunging for the president. Immediately the presidents security reach into their jackets and pull out their pistols, each fires three times into the assailant and he falls to the ground still clutching his knife. President Alexis is shaken but unharmed and the assailant is rushed to the sickbay of one of the destroyers in harbour which is currently the best medical facility in the area, however he dies before he even reaches the ship.

Security is immediately stepped up around the president, with further visits cancelled for the time being and US marines taking on more guard duties at the palace. The men in suits are CIA agents tasked with guarding the president and they begin an investigation. The man's cane is checked and the CIA concludes, due to its design that it was probably supplied to the man by a foreign intelligence service. A thorough search of the palace vicinity turns up the object deposited in the bushes, a small pistol with three rounds. It is of indeterminate origin but is likely to have also originated from an intelligence agency. The man's brefcase contains bundles of paperwork relating to his sugar plantation and no clue to his suppliers.

The assailants friends and family are taken in for questioning but they hold no clues to them either. All that is discovered is that the man was in his late 30's, a keen supporter of Dr. Bobo and a rich sugar merchant who held influence over a small portion of the island.


OOC: Luckily for Alexis I the US player specifically TGed me instructions for teh CIA to be in the area and ensure no harm comes to him.

April, 1907 to July, 1907

Dr. Rosalvo Bobo's Haitian Government in Exile (Gouvernement haïtien dans exil) and Committee for the Liberation and Restoration of Haiti (Le Comité pour la libération et la restauration du Haïti) issue numerous directives, edicts, and declarations.

******

From the Office of Dr. Rosalvo Bobo

Président du Haïti

Haitian Chef de Pouvoir Exécutif

Tête du Comité pour la libération et la restauration du Haïti

April 6th, 1907

All Haitians are to work against the illegal and heinous American occupation and are to aid the forces of Haitian National Resistance seeking to drive them out. All Haitians are to avoid cooperation with the Americans or their puppet government in Port-au-Prince.

[several paragraphs encouraging resistance in poetic language and denouncing the Americans for racism, greed, imperialism, theft, and countless other alleged crimes against the Haitian people]

[signed]

Docteur Rosalvo Bobo,
Président du Haïti,
Haitian Chef de Pouvoir Exécutif,
Tête du Comité pour la libération et la restauration du Haïti

[the signatures of the Cabinet and the other Committee members]

******

From the Office of Dr. Rosalvo Bobo

Président du Haïti

Haitian Chef de Pouvoir Exécutif

Tête du Comité pour la libération et la restauration du Haïti

June 15th, 1907

The individual by name of Pierre Nord Alexis who falsely claims to be Haiti's legitimate President and is cooperating with the illegal American occupation is hereby condemned to death for treason. It is the duty of every loyal patriotic Haitian to seek his death.

[several paragraphs denouncing Alexis]

[signed]

Docteur Rosalvo Bobo,
Président du Haïti,
Haitian Chef de Pouvoir Exécutif,
Tête du Comité pour la libération et la restauration du Haïti

[the signatures of the Cabinet and the other Committee members]

******

From the Office of Dr. Rosalvo Bobo

Président du Haïti

Haitian Chef de Pouvoir Exécutif

Tête du Comité pour la libération et la restauration du Haïti

July 26th, 1907

An official period of mourning is declared following the death of Pierre-Marie Métayer, a brave and noble Haitian patriot who died attempting the execution of the traitor Pierre Nord Alexis.

[Several paragraphs of praise for Métayer]

We can only hope that more Haitians bravely follow his example.

Docteur Rosalvo Bobo,
Président du Haïti,
Haitian Chef de Pouvoir Exécutif,
Tête du Comité pour la libération et la restauration du Haïti

[the signatures of the Cabinet and the other Committee members]

A fairly major event in Haiti:

A prominent member of the Haitian élite, and secret supporter of Dr. Bobo, dressed in morning coat, striped trousers, silk topper and gloves with a cane and carrying a briefcase, walks towards the National Palace in Port-au-Prince to see President Alexis. He is there ostensibly to congratulate the President on his return to power, give the President his condolences on the deaths of the entire Alexis family, and talk to him about the safety of his own family (ask the President’s help in providing his family with security).

Upon arriving at the palace he notices several well dressed and American looking men standing outside the gate alongside a few members of the new Haitian army, he quickly steps into some nearby bushes unoticed and removes an item from his briefcase. He returns and presents himslef at the gate to see the President, having made an appointment he is quickly searched by the Americans and allowed to speak with the President in one of his private rooms. The president is flanked by two further men in suits who eye the visitor suspiciously.

The president and his visitor spend a quarter of an hour talking about the state of affairs in Haiti before the visitor makes his move. He pretends tofall, reaches for his cane, and pulls a concealed knife out of it before lunging for the president. Immediately the presidents security reach into their jackets and pull out their pistols, each fires three times into the assailant and he falls to the ground still clutching his knife. President Alexis is shaken but unharmed and the assailant is rushed to the sickbay of one of the destroyers in harbour which is currently the best medical facility in the area, however he dies before he even reaches the ship.

Security is immediately stepped up around the president, with further visits cancelled for the time being and US marines taking on more guard duties at the palace. The men in suits are CIA agents tasked with guarding the president and they begin an investigation. The man's cane is checked and the CIA concludes, due to its design that it was probably supplied to the man by a foreign intelligence service. A thorough search of the palace vicinity turns up the object deposited in the bushes, a small pistol with three rounds. It is of indeterminate origin but is likely to have also originated from an intelligence agency. The man's brefcase contains bundles of paperwork relating to his sugar plantation and no clue to his suppliers.

The assailants friends and family are taken in for questioning but they hold no clues to them either. All that is discovered is that the man was in his late 30's, a keen supporter of Dr. Bobo and a rich sugar merchant who held influence over a small portion of the island.


OOC: Luckily for Alexis I the US player specifically TGed me instructions for teh CIA to be in the area and ensure no harm comes to him.


OOC: The CIA doesn't even exist yet. Sorry. Failure.

OOC: The CIA doesn't even exist yet. Sorry. Failure.

OOC: excuse me? The United States created an intel agency in the 1906 build. You can check it if you like. The justification for the historical departure was the close US involvement in the morocco incident and seeing how effective the French used their intel agency against the insurgents there. Washington was inspired.

The only issue with LR's post I have is that I made the mistake of not telling him that my organization likely will not be called the CIA yet. The name should be the National Security Agency (I know, different than the organization that should eventually get that name, but we have decades before that actually comes up.)

OOC: excuse me? The United States created an intel agency in the 1906 build. You can check it if you like. The justification for the historical departure was the close US involvement in the morocco incident and seeing how effective the French used their intel agency against the insurgents there. Washington was inspired.

The only issue with LR's post I have is that I made the mistake of not telling him that my organization likely will not be called the CIA yet. The name should be the National Security Agency (I know, different than the organization that should eventually get that name, but we have decades before that actually comes up.)

I've done a bit of quick research and the two most likely candidates seem to be the United States Secret Service or the US Marshals.
Another option would have been US Marine officers in plain clothes but I personally would have gone with either the Marshals or the Secret Service.

The United States also begins quietly looking for a possible successor to Alexis among politicians that is friendly to Washington.

News that the Americans are shopping around for possible successors to Pierre Nord Alexis, the Presidents age, and the specter of a power vacuum should he die (naturally or otherwise) results in numerous individuals stepping forward or otherwise making known their intent to be a candidate for President. Most are wealthy, some have armed followers, and the majority of them are more then willing to use their money or their violent followers for their own ends should the Presidency be denied to them.


Current President

Pierre Nord Alexis: Widely hated, old (86 years old), and corrupt, the recent coup in 1907 is just one of the latest rebellions against his inept rule (albeit the most successful). Having lost everything except his position he has made very clear of his intent to wait out the clock and is reportedly unnerved by all this talk of successors. Rumors circulate that he wants to declare himself President for Life.


Major Candidates

Ambassador Solon Mènos: Haiti’s Ambassador to the US, widely considered by many experts to be the most desirable and capable person for the position, but it is believed that he is too valuable in his present post to be recalled. At present Mènos is the only one not actually seeking the office.

Joseph Davilmar Théodore: A career solder who has been involved numerous coups, including the one against Alexis. Théodore has since distanced himself from Bobo and claims to be his own person. He promises to enact pro-American policies if selected. He is popular in the North and possibly has a large amount of gold for personal use.

General Jean Vilbrun Guillaume Sam: Also involved in the coup against Alexis and coco politics, Sam has since rejected Bobo and involvement with the cocos and is now courting the opinion of the US occupation authorities. Sam has promised to implement policies favorable to the US if selected as Chef de Pouvoir Exécutif. Also reportedly has a stockpile of gold for personal use and various armed followers.

General and President of the Senate Philippe Sudré Dartiguenave: Described by the American Commander on the ground as “a man of personal honor, patriotism, and ability.” He has no connection to the revolutionary movements, had never had a use for the cocos, and supports political and economic agreements with the US. He is the one truly pro-American candidate and subsequently the least popular, with the exception of President Alexis.

General François C. Antoine Simon: A wealthy Haitian élite and military leader involved in past power plays. He supported Bobo's coup and has an utter contempt for Alexis, whom he despises (and it’s mutual). It is rumored he celebrated the deaths of Alexis’ entire family. He has supporters among the south Haitian Army.

Dr. Rosalvo Bobo: Although currently in exile heading an alternative Government and his Revolutionary Committee, he enjoys widespread popular support in Haiti cutting across class lines, be they the élite, peasant, or coco. He has some support in the Haitian legislature pushing for this candidacy. He advocates revolution, the driving out of “the racist American occupiers”, and is opposed to US interests.


Minor Candidates

Cincinnatus Leconte: A wealthy Haitian élite and general opponent of Alexis seeking the Presidency.

Tancrède Auguste: A member of the Haitian élite who promises to enact pro-US policies.

Michel Oreste: A member of the Haitian élite and opponent of foreign influence.

Oreste Zamor: Another member of the Haitian élite who promises to enact pro-US policies.

OOC: The CIA doesn't even exist yet. Sorry. Failure.

OOC: My mistake, I guess i'm not quite up to scratch when it comes to early 20th century US security services. Still the result stands as the US has paid for an intel service and also paid for and specifically informed me that they were to ensure the safety of the current president of Haiti and his staff and to look after US personnel in Haiti. I researched the current (E20) events in Haiti and made a dice roll for the attempt, this was the result so the event stands.

In light of increasing European tensions France asks "President Bobo" to "shut up." He protests, but some "gentle arm twisting" (loss of financial support and threat of being turned over to the Americans) convinces him of the wisdom of France's request.

Meanwhile, Stéphen Pichon, an official from the French Foreign Ministry and associate of Clemenceau, arrives in Washington DC to resolve "the various differences of Haiti."

OOC: excuse me? The United States created an intel agency in the 1906 build. You can check it if you like. The justification for the historical departure was the close US involvement in the morocco incident and seeing how effective the French used their intel agency against the insurgents there. Washington was inspired.

The only issue with LR's post I have is that I made the mistake of not telling him that my organization likely will not be called the CIA yet. The name should be the National Security Agency (I know, different than the organization that should eventually get that name, but we have decades before that actually comes up.)

in addition, prior to the CIA and even the OSS, the US Navy was routinely reading codes from around the world, and the Office of Naval Intelligence existed (ONI). The US Government also made effective use of its military and naval attaches, and obtained intelligence from various corporations, who were already operating on a global and regional scale.

Which is why the US gets intell bonuses occasionally

In light of increasing European tensions France asks "President Bobo" to "shut up." He protests, but some "gentle arm twisting" (loss of financial support and threat of being turned over to the Americans) convinces him of the wisdom of France's request.

Meanwhile, Stéphen Pichon, an official from the French Foreign Ministry and associate of Clemenceau, arrives in Washington DC to resolve "the various differences of Haiti."

Rather relieved by the gesture from Paris, the United States designates Secretary of State Elihu Root and other officials to meet with Pichon for talks concerning Haiti and is given the authority to explore other opportunites to mend the rift between the French and Americans. Robert Bacon requests an assignment as part of the delegation and is flatly denied.

OOC: we can move actual discussion to the US thread if you prefer.

OOC: we can move actual discussion to the US thread if you prefer.

OOC: Here is fine, a summery of any agreement can be posted on the US thread.

IC:

Rather relieved by the gesture from Paris, the United States designates Secretary of State Elihu Root and other officials to meet with Pichon for talks concerning Haiti and is given the authority to explore other opportunites to mend the rift between the French and Americans.

Stéphen Pichon was an amiable, lazy, indecisive man who had received specific instructions from Clemenceau and did not even dream of disobeying them. His offer was simple, France would stay out of the Americas, Liberia, and get Dr. Bobo out of the Caribbean in exchange for the US staying out of areas of French interest in Asia and guaranteeing that French would always have us of the Panama Canal once completed.

OOC: Here is fine, a summery of any agreement can be posted on the US thread.

IC:



Stéphen Pichon was an amiable, lazy, indecisive man who had received specific instructions from Clemenceau and did not even dream of disobeying them. His offer was simple, France would stay out of the Americas, Liberia, and get Dr. Bobo out of the Caribbean in exchange for the US staying out of areas of French interest in Asia and guaranteeing that French would always have us of the Panama Canal once completed.

The talks begin just as news of the dissolution of order in Europe begins to reach American shores. Sec State Root casually brings up the issue of the rumored French withdrawal from the colonial business. Perhaps an offer can be made that will bring both nations closer together?

Spain offers some of it's more skilled ambassador's in future problems in South America. Perhaps with the old tensions having died after 100 years of independence and with eyes towards the Mother country, those nations that have caused the US problems, may be willing to listen to diplomats from Spain. It's an offer for the future.

Updates through End of 1908:
US Actions in the Caribbean.

Cuba:
--Marines begin withdrawal at end of year and should be gone from Cuba by end of January 1909. A US trained garrison unit of Cubans remains to keep some stability and US funding for infastructure improvements will be finished at the end of 1909.

Haiti:
--A US trained Haitian garrison unit patrols the country side with the support of the 2nd US Marine Brigade. Other US marine units are withdrawn from the nation.
--US funding for infastructure and industry pours into the country (production center and infastructure). Additional money to grease the hands of relevant persons who could stand in the way of stability is included (15 points a year for 4 years to build a production center comes out to 12 points of grease money).
--President Alexis is convinced of the wisdom of stepping down in December of 1908 "for the good of the country." Tapped to replace him is Joseph Davilmar Théodore (who is warned privately in the most clear terms possible that any moves on his part to reduce American influence in the area will be met with a very strong response. Philippe Sudré Dartiguenave maintains his position as General and President of the Senate and is assured by Washington that he will have a prominent role in Haiti's future.

OOC: Should any more instablity or European interference occur I hope to have some sort of warning--GB got an email about budgets for the NSA and such not. Of the recommendations given to build production centers, Cuba and the DR do not get one for now. Let me know if that causes any instablility...

By the end of 1909, the United States has completed infastructure improvements to Haiti and Cuba. Needless to say the fact that this project was funded by Washington is made perfectly clear to the natives of both countries. I believe this makes both nations level 3 Tech level. In addition, starting in 1910 both nations will have level 2 social services. Haiti will have a production center starting in 1912. There are no plans to build production centers in Cuba at this time.

By the end of 1909, the United States has completed infastructure improvements to Haiti and Cuba. Needless to say the fact that this project was funded by Washington is made perfectly clear to the natives of both countries. I believe this makes both nations level 3 Tech level. In addition, starting in 1910 both nations will have level 2 social services. Haiti will have a production center starting in 1912. There are no plans to build production centers in Cuba at this time.

ooc
both reach tech level 3, and each gains a resource point as well. (better infrastructure, more exports)

ooc
both reach tech level 3, and each gains a resource point as well. (better infrastructure, more exports)

OOC: the question is does the US get those resources like it does the other 6 from Cuba?

OOC: the question is does the US get those resources like it does the other 6 from Cuba?

yes

On December 1st 1909, President Roosevelt orders US Marines to secure Nicaragua against "destabilizing forces toward American interests in the region" of Central America and the Caribbean. The action is in reaction to the execution of two Americans by José Santos Zelaya a few weeks prior. Two American warships have already been forced to take up station in Nicaraguan ports for the second time in just three years and are to be joined by three more destroyers for the duration of the invasion.

This will be the first operation for a recently expanded Marine Corps and a possible first test of their Marine Doctrine that was declared in 1907.

OOC: 1 Marine Brigade to Nicaragua to secure the country and depose Zelaya. As of January 1910 there should be one US marine brigade in Haiti, one in Nicaragua, two in Virginia, two in California and one more beginning training to be operational in 1911.

Map of the Caribbean as of the end of 1909:

http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d3/cylea/E20Caribbean1909-1.jpg

Dark green is US possessions, light green is defacto US, red is British and Orange (above Venezuela) is Dutch.

Anything else should be in gray and is controlled by local powers.

The Mexican Revolution
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mexican_Revolution

ooc
coming soon .. no pc action yet

IC
January 1910
Francisco I. Madero announces he will run against Porfiro Diaz, who has been essentially President for Life since Juarez died in 1872.

Mexican Revolution
1911 Madero leads a popular revolution calling for land reform, democracy and voting rights that results in the ouster of Diaz and the end of his rule as President for Life. However, Madero is forced to balance forces calling for land reform and social equity with the forces of entrenched oligarchy. He tries but

in 1912 it comes to a head

February 8, 1912 - Mexican Revolution - Military rebellion against the rule of Francisco Madero begins in Mexico City. Battles last for 10 days.
February 18 - Francisco Madero is forced to resign - battle ends. All members of Madero's government are arrested.
February 22 - Francisco Madero and Pino Suarez are shot, allegedly when they "tried to escape"

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mexican_Revolution

The United States (which had recognized and offered aid to the Madero government) forcefully condemns what it views as the assassination of the rightful government of Mexico. President Roosevelt makes his personal displeasure well known and the issue becomes a fairly hot topic on the campaign trail, especially in the Southwestern States.

Mexico 1912
Opponents of the new Huerta regime either fleet the country (mostly to the US and Cuba) or go underground.

The first steps toward renewed civil war are underway.

As a Moderator

Dominican Republic prior to 1912 (1906-1911)

For roughly five years the Dominican Republic was stable under President Ramón Cáceres. After suppressing a rebellion in the northwest by Jiemnista caudillo General Desiderio Arías (there are presently to main factions fighting over control of the Dominican Republic, the Horacistas and Jiemnista), his government brought political stability and renewed economic growth, aided by new American investment in sugar industry.

However, his assassination in 1911, for which former President Carlos Morales (a Horacista) and General Arías (a Jiemnista) are at least indirectly responsible, once again plunged the republic into chaos. For two months, executive power was held by a civilian junta dominated by the chief of the army, General Alfredo Victoria, who then proceeded to force the Dominican Congress to elect his uncle, Eladio Victoria, as President.


Situation in the Dominican Republic, 1912

The fiscal stability that resulted from the 1905 US receivership has eroded under Eladio Victoria; the surplus of more than 4 million pesos left by the late President Cáceres having been squandered on military campaigns against rebellious partisans, mainly in the Cibao, and to suppress a series of insurrections. In addition, Haitian cocos, having been bribed by the US backed Haitian Government to keep quiet on the Haitian side of Hispanola, start raiding across the poorly defined Haitian-Dominican border, contributing to the Dominican Republics instability and further draining the treasury (as additional military forces have to be raised to protect areas along the otherwise lawless Haitian border).

Meanwhile, exiled General and former President Horacio Vásquez (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Horacio_V%C3%A1squez) sits in Puerto Rico, waiting for the right moment to launch another rebellion.

OOC: At present Roosevelt and certain officials in the State Department are undoubtedly irritated that the Dominican government has managed to undo all the good financial work the United States did for them when it took over the Dominican Republic's customs (which have since been relinquished). However, as there is no crisis and larger and more pressing concerns to deal with elsewhere (Mexico, the war between Brazil and Argentina, and the ongoing occupations of several other Latin/Caribbean countries), no one really cares about what is going on in the Dominican Republic at this point...but once things start to heat up, they will start to care.

March 1913
Vasquez returns to the Dominican Republic and soon after, civil war breaks out.

Meanwhile, in Mexico, rebellion breaks out in both the northen and southern states against the Huerta regime.

In both the Dominican Republic and Mexico, US economic investments are threated

At the start of 1913, the US Marine contingent in Nicaragua is reduced to a half-brigade of troops, as that nation has calmed down considerably in the past year. The United States is providing domestic services to that country and is scheduled to begin training a garrison division to maintain order.

The move is part of a slow disengagement of US troops from the Caribbean to gain more flexiblity in the event of an expansion of hostilities across the Atlantic or Pacific. As part of this plan, the Marine brigade in Haiti is to be reduced as well.

At which point civil war breaks out in the Dominican Republic, derailing the entire concept.

President Roosevelt issues an ultimatum to the Dominican Republic, demanding an end to hostilities and the agreement on a new President that can restore order. The alternative option is to have the United States "appoint" a President instead. Rather ominously, the 1500 Marines to be withdrawn from Haiti mass on the border with the DR instead and another 1500 are assembled in South Florida with fleet elements to steam for Santo Domingo. The Dominicans have until the end of March to respond.

And then there was Mexico...

The US government, still hostile to the Huerta regime, quietly contacts the rebels in Mexico, especially those in the northern states, about their ideology with respect to the United States. A positive response will earn aid in the summer. An enthusiastic response could even earn US military protection...

One Heavy Corps and Cavalry Division of the US Army are moved to Santa Fe. One Heavy Corps from the National Guard is mobilized and deployed to Corpus Christi. Congress is informed that the Roosevelt Administration would prefer to intervene in Mexico should instability there continue--it is pointed out that leaving one's neighbor in distress invites all sorts of problems for the future.

OOC: I was wondering; aren't the fate of US investments are with the Huerta Regime?

OOC: I was wondering; aren't the fate of US investments are with the Huerta Regime?

OOC: I dont think so, as the US has been fairly consistantly against Huerta since he took power a year ago (since it was pro-Madero). It has been a goal for sometime to remove him from power and replace him with someone that Washington approves of.

I could of course be wrong, which would throw a nasty wrench into all sorts of things. Perhaps some clarification from GB?

OOC: Sorry, I just realized I had Huerta confused with Porfirio Diaz.

OOC: I dont think so, as the US has been fairly consistantly against Huerta since he took power a year ago (since it was pro-Madero). It has been a goal for sometime to remove him from power and replace him with someone that Washington approves of.

I could of course be wrong, which would throw a nasty wrench into all sorts of things. Perhaps some clarification from GB?

ooc
US investments are tied into the oil industry (which is about to take off soon), the mines etc. In other words, where the resources are located, and also in Mexican industry. Not with the government... unless the Mexican government acts on them

And then there was Mexico...

The US government, still hostile to the Huerta regime, quietly contacts the rebels in Mexico, especially those in the northern states, about their ideology with respect to the United States. A positive response will earn aid in the summer. An enthusiastic response could even earn US military protection...

One Heavy Corps and Cavalry Division of the US Army are moved to Santa Fe. One Heavy Corps from the National Guard is mobilized and deployed to Corpus Christi. Congress is informed that the Roosevelt Administration would prefer to intervene in Mexico should instability there continue--it is pointed out that leaving one's neighbor in distress invites all sorts of problems for the future.

Congress asks hard questions as to exactly why the President is federalizing the National Guard when the US isn't at war (ooc think real world events and how risky this can be politically)

Congress asks hard questions as to exactly why the President is federalizing the National Guard when the US isn't at war (ooc think real world events and how risky this can be politically)

OOC: sorry, wasnt thinking about the climate of peace

IC: the orders for the National Guard quietly disappear on their way from Washington to their respective posts. (or as close as I can get without metagaming). The Texas government is asked what it thinks of the mess down in Mexico instead.

The US waits to hear the results of its requests to the Dominican Republic and the Mexican rebels.

Just to clarify, without a response for the Dominicans, the US Marines are ordered into the Domincan Republic to restore order.

Marines currently occupy Haiti, Nicaragua, and the DR with a close eye on Cuba (which is free of US troops excepting Guantanamo right now)

The US Marine Corps quickly and easily assumes control in the Dominican Republicin 1913 as both factions in the civil war are hopelessly outclassed and avoid a fight. Vasquez, leader of the rebel side, goes into the bush, along with a couple of thousand followers and attempts to wage a guerilla war which is actually little more then banditry.

ooc
they aren't very good guerillas and have limited support from the populace. Some murders and robberies basically

IC
Meanwhile, in Mexico
March 13 - Mexican Revolution - Pancho Villa returns to Mexico from his self-imposed exile in USA
March 25 - Venustiano Carranza announces his Plan of Guadaloupe and begins his rebellion against Victoriano Huerta's government as the head of "Constitutionals"
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plan_of_Guadalupe
September 29 - Pancho Villa is elected commander of the "Northern Division" of the Constitutionals
October 1 - Villa's troops take Torreon after a three-day battle when government troops retreat

timeline
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Template:Timeline_of_the_Mexican_Revolution

OOC: ooh ooh! is it time for the Tampico Affair yet?

not that I am overeager or anything....

OOC: ooh ooh! is it time for the Tampico Affair yet?

not that I am overeager or anything....

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tampico_Affair
May 9 (change date, otherwise as historical)

Tensions with Mexico boil over in early May when US sailors are accosted at Tampico. On May 15th President Teddy Roosevelt speaks to Congress about the pressing danger of allowing Mexico to continue in its instability without guidance. The Huerta regime, long opposed by Washington is blamed for the crisis and action should be taken to insure that it is removed.

As such, President Roosevelt asks permission of Congress to send US troops into Mexico to ensure the safety of American interests. Mexico is too important of a neighbor for any other lesser action to do.

Two US Marine Brigades are to land at Tampico and Veracruz respectively and one Army motorized infantry corps and one cavalry division are to cross the border (moving from Santa Fe to Ciudad Juarez and then to Chihuahua) to directly support the Constitutional Army under Pancho Villa and Venustiano Carranza in its campaign against the Huerta government. The rest of the army is put on a slightly higher alert and motorized infantry corps are moved to Phoenix and Brownsville. 1 HQ unit is to move to the Mexican border and prepare to cross over as well. The Army Reserve is informed that its service will hopefully not prove necessary.

The Roosevelt Administration makes it known that the United States intends to ensure a stable government for the Mexican people once peace can be restored, by any means necessary.

Tensions with Mexico boil over in early May when US sailors are accosted at Tampico. On May 15th President Teddy Roosevelt speaks to Congress about the pressing danger of allowing Mexico to continue in its instability without guidance. The Huerta regime, long opposed by Washington is blamed for the crisis and action should be taken to insure that it is removed.

As such, President Roosevelt asks permission of Congress to send US troops into Mexico to ensure the safety of American interests. Mexico is too important of a neighbor for any other lesser action to do.

Two US Marine Brigades are to land at Tampico and Veracruz respectively and one Army motorized infantry corps and one cavalry division are to cross the border (moving from Santa Fe to Ciudad Juarez and then to Chihuahua) to directly support the Constitutional Army under Pancho Villa and Venustiano Carranza in its campaign against the Huerta government. The rest of the army is put on a slightly higher alert and motorized infantry corps are moved to Phoenix and Brownsville. 1 HQ unit is to move to the Mexican border and prepare to cross over as well. The Army Reserve is informed that its service will hopefully not prove necessary.

The Roosevelt Administration makes it known that the United States intends to ensure a stable government for the Mexican people once peace can be restored, by any means necessary.

In the north, Rebels forces hold the country side and most of the cities in any event, while in Tampico, the Huerta forces take one look at the massive US fleet and pull back avoiding contact with the Americans

for the remainder of 1914, forces loyal to Huerta fight small actions against US Marines around Tampico, resulting in 5,000 Mexican casaulties and 200 American casualties.

The US Navy uses seaplanes for the first time, launched from a flying off deck from the USS Michigan.

Further north, Rebel and Huerta forces fight more serious actions. The death toll in Mexico, including civilians, reaches 200,000 since the start of the fighting a year ago.

ooc
plus nearly 400,000 dead from the flu

After successful landings at Veracruz and Tampico, the United States Marines are ordered ashore at Acapulco and La Paz on the Pacific coast in November to cut off the trade of the Huerta regime. (one brigade to each location, with a total of 4 involved in Mexico at this time).

The Army is directed to undertake a comprehensive effort to cross into Mexico from the North and depose the Huerta regime by force. Thrusts aimed at Monterrey, Chihuahua, Guyamas, and the Baja Peninsula are launched during the summer and fall of 1914.

American and rebel pressure forces Huerta to flee Mexico, and his armies dissolve or surrender in late April 1915. On May 2, Venustiano Carranza leads his army into Mexico City, with Pancho Villa and Zapata at his side, and declares himself provesional President of Mexico.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Venustiano_Carranza

1915 - 1916 Mexico
US and forces of the new government under Carranza secure Mexico. The US garrisons Baja (1st Cavalry Division), Hermisillo, Chihuahua, Monterrey (1 garrison unit each), Vera Cruz, Tampico (1 garrison unit each), San Luis Potosi (3rd Cavalry brigade, motorized infantry, 1 light bomber), Saltillo (2nd Cavalry Division, 2nd Cavalry brigade motorized infantry, 1 light bomber, and Campeche (1 garrison unit)

The Mexican Federal Army now consists of 8 garrison units, holding Mexico City, Acupolco, Puebla, Durango, Mazatlan, San Cristobol, Cancun, and and Tepec, and 2 cavalry divisions (Torreon, Puerto Vallerta)

However, Zapata still has an army of 6 guerilla brigades, Pancho Villa has 2 guerilla brigades, and and various other factions field 6 more guerilla brigades.

1915 remains calm, but increasingly the more radical demands of the Reds and Socialists, seperatist plans by Zapata, and plans by Pancho Villa to take power bring strain.

By July 1916, open fighting breaks out, and the Americans and Federales find themselves fighting a guerilla war, with the worst fighting occuring in the heavily Indian areas in the South and in the mountains of Durango and Zacatecas, and increasing urban violence in Mexico City itself and the other large Mexican cities.

ooc
1916 Mexican income is reduced by 66% because of civil war.

1915-16 Mexican Civil War continues, with initially sporadic and then frequent fighting between US and US backed forces against a variety of rebel forces.

The US Army suffers 2,000 casualties, the Mexican Federales suffer 10,000 casualties (plus another 20,000 deserters) and the Rebels lose 10,000 as well, but Red forces in the cities are finally crushed or driven into the rural areas.

Meanwhile, the US Marine Corps continues its occupation duties elsewhere.

The Roosevelt Administration begins an aid program to all of Central America and the independent nations in the Caribbean to head off problems, and begins a serious effort to get the new Mexican government to promote land reform to undercut the Rebels.

1917 Mexican Civil War
Budgets 1916 - 17

1916
Mexico has income of 12 points, event at National Effort, due to inefficiencies and wartime disruptions. This pays for the war (5 points), and the rest is used to pay for land reform efforts (buying out landlords and peasant debts). The US is paying for level 2 social services in Mexico.

1917
Mexico is able to get economy up to 14 points at wartime effort, but is still plagued by inefficiencies and wartime problems. Army is now 8 garrison units, 10 police units, 2 cavalry divisions, costing 9 points, and remainder is spent on land reform. The US is still paying for level 2 social services.

This year, the Mexican Army has 400,000 men under arms, plus another 210,000 American troops serve or are supporting US efforts in Mexico and another 200,000 Mexican troops are raised this year. Meanwhile, the various rebel factions have shrunk to 50,000 guerillas.

The Federales have managed to secure the cities and major towns, and in 1917 manage to kill Zapata, a deadly blow to the southern Rebels. American and Federale forces drive Villa and his allies into the mountains of northern Mexico, while in the south, Federale forces have secured the oil fields.

It is a dirty war at times, and the American Press reports a number of alleged atrocities by Federale and Rebel forces alike, as well as a handful of American atrocities.

20,000 Federale troops and 3,000 American troops are casualties this year, along with 20,000 Guerillas, and as seriously, 100,000 Mexican civilians.

However, by the end of July, the Rebels are reduced to 3 guerilla brigades in the south, 2 in the north, and scattered insurgents driven into hiding. Desperate, the Indians set up a Peoples Republic of Yucatan that exists in name only, a quasi Communist government that exists mostly in the minds of its creators.

1918 Mexico
Production centers Mexico City 2, Leon 1, Monterrey 1, Saltillo 1, Juarez 1, Vera Cruz 1, resources: Chihuahua 4, Leon 4, Oil: 2 (Yucatan)population 16 million, food production 35

1918 Army:
garrison units, 10 police units, 12 cavalry divisions, costing 14 points

US is paying level 2 social services (plus some corruption penalties)

Mexico is able to go to normal peacetime spending 26 points
- Army costs (14 points)
remainder spent on buying out landlords for land reform (50% corruption penalty).

along with the Mexican Army, the Americans have 3 light bombers, 8 garrison units, 2 cavalry divisions and 2 motorized infantry brigades in Mexico.

Between the Mexican Federal and US Army troops, the Federales have overwhelming superiority, and the Civil War is finally brought to an end over the course of 1918 as rebel guerilla units are increasingly loosing men to desertion and unable to replace them. The hard core survivors are then hunted down by Federale and American troops and captured or killed.

1917- 1918 losses
Rebels: 10,000 killed, 20,000 captured
Federales 5,000 killed
US casualties: 1,000 (including 100 killed)
This year, civilian casualties are minimal, a mere 30,000 in all (including 5,000 dead)

The Mexican Revolution finally ends on May 5 when Pancho Villa surrenders with the remaining 50 troops under his control at Torreon.

Situation in Central America 1919

In spite of American military involvement and economic power, populist nationalism continues throughout the region. The Indians continue to be oppressed and marginalized, as do many of the Mestizos in rural areas, and a growing proletariat in the cities is becoming politically powerful.

However, the Mexican Civil War and destruction of the rebel movements not only in Mexico but also in Nicaragua by American and American backed military and police forces has shattered for now the dreams of revolution by the radical Left, and in spite of serious problems with corruption, the societies in Latin America have become more effective and better governed and most importantly, the corruption is now only serious instead of crippling.

The power elites of Central America are still running the show and grow richer. But the improvements in government, basic infrastructure and vast amounts of American capital are also seeing to it that the middle class, and more importantly, the rural and urban working classes are getting richer too.

Overall, this has undermined the appeal of socialist and communist revolution among the working classes, limiting it to the underclasses only. How this will play out in the long term remains to be seen.

One thing has changed however. The US has spent nearly 2 decades intervening in Central America, including a 3 year full scale counterinsurgency campaign in Mexico involving most of the US Army. American policy makers are not interested in making this a permanent American role, and will be unhappy about having to intervene again.