Mephras
11-04-2008, 21:36
The Empire of Mephras
http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff76/Kevets13/Coat_of_arms_of_Grenada.png
L'Empire Mephrasien
Official Factbook
This factbook/newsthread is a work in progress, all comments and ideas are welcome
Basic Information
Official Name: The Empire of Mephras
Common Name: Mephras
Demonym: Mephrasian; Mephrasi
Population: Approximately 3 billion; 2.62 billion in metropolitan Mephras; 380 million in colonial holdings
Land Area: Total: Approximately 14,830,000 km2, Metropolitan Mephras: 9,836,000 km2, Colonial Holdings: 4,994,000 km2
Capital: Euphova
Official Language: English
Important Minorities Languages: French, Mandarin
National Bird: Peafowl
National Anthem: Hail Mephrasia!
Racial Makeup: 30% Caucasian, 40% Mixed Race, 15% African, 15% East Asian
Religious Affiliation: 50% Athiest/Agnostic, 20% Christian, 5% Jewish, 5% Hindu, 10% Buddhist, 10% various other religious traditions
Government
http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff76/Kevets13/H0043453-P-1.jpg
The Imperial Senate, Central Euphova
Government Type: Constitutional Monarchy (Empire)
Head of State: Her Royal Highness Mei Mian
In the Mephrasian government, the Empress, while severely restricted in her roles as sovereign, still holds many crucial powers, and serves in a role that would be considered similar to many nation’s presidents or prime ministers. Many of her powers have not been revoked by law, but rather given up by the Empress, meaning they can be taken up again in a time of crisis if needed. There exist two national assemblies, consisting of delegates of the various cities and provinces. The National Forum is elected by national suffrage, and there is approximately one delegate for each 300 thousand citizens. Each delegate serves a two year term, and there is a 4 term limit. The Imperial Senate is elected on the basis of three delegates for each province, and is considered by many to be the less democratic of the two houses. Terms are set at 8 years, and there is no term limit. The Empress opens the sessions of both houses. The government also holds national high court, simply named The High Court, which reviews cases of the lower courts and assures the constitutionality of laws. Justices of the High Court are elected by universal suffrage, and serve for life, unless they are found guilty of serious crimes. This national level government based largely in the capital is supplemented by levels of provincial, district, and local governments, with assemblies present at the provincial level. The right to vote is granted to all who register at the age of 18, and it is possible for one to vote as early as 16, if one passes a special citizenship test.
Economy
http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff76/Kevets13/MBK_Bangkok_2-1.jpg
A bustling mall, Central Avedon
GDP (2004 est.): 112.5 billion universal standard dollars (USD)
GDP per capita (2004 est.): $38,120
National Currency: Phran
Exchange Rate: roughly 1 Phran = 1.81 USD
Economic Sectors: Agriculture (3%), Industry (24%), Services (73%)
Predicted Annual Growth Rate: 3%
Unemployment Rate: 3.1%
Key Industries: Tourism, Pharmaceuticals, Clothing, Consumer Electronics
Major Exports: textiles, especially silk; wine; lentils; cellphones; pharmaceuticals
Major Imports: machine tools, appliances, lumber, oil
Major Trading Partners: Damirez, Weccanfeld, Etoile Arcture
The Mephrasian economy is one which has recently remerged from years of low production and corruption under a centrally planned system. It is quickly making a transition towards a more open market, signing various free trade pacts, although business still suffers from high taxes in many areas, and increasing competition from trading partners. Overall, high employment and high salaries provide for Mephrasian a rather high quality of life. There have been recent fears of inflation, although the Royal Bank has been trying to help the situation.
History
http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff76/Kevets13/Campaniforme_Ciempozuelos_28MAN_-1.jpg
An example of early Mephrasian pottery, unearthed 100 kilometers from Prorsum
People have inhabited the area known today as Mephras for thousands of years. Early people were generally hunters and gatherers who lived in tribal communities. Around 2000 BCE, more complex civilization began to develop, centered in the central river valleys. This civilization grew slowly, as it was rather isolated, although trade existed between these peoples and various other continental tribes and civilizations. Unfortunately, this civilization lacked a writing system, so there is little documentation of their activities. Recent archeological digs have unearthed beautiful pottery and stoneware, along with various ceremonial pieces that show a strong development of culture and art among these groups, who continue to be a source of pride for the nation. These peoples, while not widely visible, have been assimilated into the current peoples, such that an estimated 80% of the population has at least some Native Mephrasian ancestry.
A major turning point in Mephrasian history came around 1500, when a group of English explorers and exiles ventured out and landed in Mephras near the present day city of Avedon. This first group, numbering in the few hundreds, set up a small settlement, enticed by the seemingly fertile land, and opportunities for trade and development. This settlement grew quickly, and soon more ships were landing in the area, and multiple settlements were constructed. Even though people continued to flock to the newly discovered land, communication between Mephras and England was difficult due to the far distance between them. Sometime in the early 1600s, the route to the Novan region was lost by English navigators, and the settlements fell into a period of isolation from Europe that would last for almost 300 years. This separation caused Mephrasian English to develop in a different way than British English, and also explains the amount of archaisms which exist within the language.
http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff76/Kevets13/Thomas_Lawrence_Master_Lambton-1.jpg
A Portrait of the Young Duke Wilberforce I
During this early settlement period, the Bailey family was given title over the new territory, gaining the title, Dukes of Avedon and Mephras. When the route to England was lost, the Baileys set themselves up as sovereigns over what had become in many ways a new nation. They kept many of the institutions brought from England, and ruled generally in a benevolent, if not disinterested fashion. The nation continued to develop, and in 1797, Duke Wilberforce II officially proclaimed the nation sovereign, calling it the Grand Duchy of Mephras. During this time, French settlers appeared on the islands off the coast, which is the origin of the French minority that continues to persist on these islands, and within the nation. As the 19th century progressed, Mephras encouraged immigration to boost the population, leading to a nation of extreme ethnic diversity, a fact that has continued and is a point of national pride for most Mephrasians. In the 20th century, the nation reentered the world stage, and to an increasing extent, the regional scene.
Dealing with pressures brought on by regional wars in the mid 20th century, the Dukes were deposed in 1953, and a Communist dicatatorship seized control of the nation. In this period, heavy industry was developed, albeit with heavy costs for the environment and liberty of the people. This continued until the early years of the 21st century, when the current empress took power during an economic crisis. Despite some setbacks, her reign has seen improvements in quality of life throughout the country, and a liberalization of many institutions.
Geography and Climate
http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff76/Kevets13/Mephraspolitical.png
Mephras is situated on the western side of a continent in western Nova. It is bordered on the West by the Delosian Sea, the south by the Sea of Mephras, the north by the Principality of Damirez, and to the east by what is currently unclaimed wilderness. The coastal areas are largely filled by fertile plains, on which a large portion of the nations food supply is grown. A portion of this area, which extends into the center, is forested, although at a lower rate than at pre-settlement areas. The central areas are generally rolling hills, which turn into medium elevation mountains in the far east of the country. There is also a small mountain range to the west of the capital, although generally of low elevation.
The climate of Mephras is as diverse as one would expect for a nation of its size. The northern coastal areas generally have a Mediterranean climate, which turns to a humid subtropical climate as one moves inland. Many of the northern islands would be classified humid tropical. The climate becomes more temperate as one moves southerly, although the climate is generally warmer in coastal areas and on the island. Cooler climates area experienced in the mountainous east, and at generally higher elevations. Rainfall is generally plentiful, although it is generally dry and sunny in the Mediterranean areas.
Colonial Lands
http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff76/Kevets13/ColonialMap-1.png
Map displaying the various colonial holdings of the Empire. Not visible are the island colonies of Bahrain and Grenada.
After emerging from isolation in the 19th century, through various exploratory expeditions and deals, the Empire was able to acquire colonies on four continents. These lands are diverse and numerous. Home to about 380 million subjects of the Empire, ethnicities vary from native to metropolitan stock. There also exist an extreme diversity of climates and resources, allowing each of these realms to provide a key service to the greater whole of the Empire.
Cities of Note
Euphova; Population: 29.4 million
http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff76/Kevets13/Paris-immeuble-avenue-opera-1.jpg
A typical Euphova street corner
Euphova, the capital of the nation, is for many, the most important city. It is the political and cultural capital of the entire nation, as well as a fashion capital, and home to more museums than any other city in the country. Known throughout the nation’s history as a bastion of aristocratic elitism, it is also the wealthiest city per capita, and main home to the Empress and her court. It is also well known for its abundance of theatre, and is home to the Royal Opera Company, considered one of the best in the region. It is filled with many architectural wonders in the form of palaces and public buildings, which has given rise to the nickname “Jewel of Mephras.”
Avedon; Population: 88.6 million
http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff76/Kevets13/Odaiba_night.jpg
Night falls on a small area of the Docks District, Avedon
Avedon, the largest city in the country, is also the largest financial center, a massive center of commerce, home to both the largest stock exchange and container port in the nation, it has always been at the forefront of Mephrasian society. Known for its high density of skyscrapers along with the most ethnically and linguistically diverse populations in the country, this is one of the most exciting and dynamic metropolises in the nation. Referred to by many as "The Neon City" or simply "The City", it has long been a center of the Mephrasian music industry. Renowned for its avant garde art scene, it boasts more galleries per capita than any other city in the country.
Beausoliel; Population: 23.9 million
http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff76/Kevets13/Chevron_Renaissance_Retail_Shopps_i.jpg
An empty street awakens to another sunny day in Beausoleil
Beausoliel, a sun drenched metropolis which spreads for miles along the northern coast, is a haven for tourists and sun worshippers from around the region. A massive party town known for its large casions, beautiful bodies, and loose morals, it has been drawing people from around the world found many years. Cruise ships from around the region dock here, making it the largest cruise ship port in the nation. The city is also the home of the Mephrasian film industry, and many famous actors have their homes in the city. Known for its many Mediterranean style beachfront villas and gorgeous fountain plazas, it is sometimes called “Sun City,” a reference to the average 340 days of sun each year experienced by the city.
Other Important Cities
Balenciago; Population: 24.3 million
Newsom; Population: 19.2 million
Prorsum; Population: 21.1 million
Ashford; Population: 28.5 million
Meranda; Population: 23.3 million
Overbrook; Population: 27.9 million
http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff76/Kevets13/Coat_of_arms_of_Grenada.png
L'Empire Mephrasien
Official Factbook
This factbook/newsthread is a work in progress, all comments and ideas are welcome
Basic Information
Official Name: The Empire of Mephras
Common Name: Mephras
Demonym: Mephrasian; Mephrasi
Population: Approximately 3 billion; 2.62 billion in metropolitan Mephras; 380 million in colonial holdings
Land Area: Total: Approximately 14,830,000 km2, Metropolitan Mephras: 9,836,000 km2, Colonial Holdings: 4,994,000 km2
Capital: Euphova
Official Language: English
Important Minorities Languages: French, Mandarin
National Bird: Peafowl
National Anthem: Hail Mephrasia!
Racial Makeup: 30% Caucasian, 40% Mixed Race, 15% African, 15% East Asian
Religious Affiliation: 50% Athiest/Agnostic, 20% Christian, 5% Jewish, 5% Hindu, 10% Buddhist, 10% various other religious traditions
Government
http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff76/Kevets13/H0043453-P-1.jpg
The Imperial Senate, Central Euphova
Government Type: Constitutional Monarchy (Empire)
Head of State: Her Royal Highness Mei Mian
In the Mephrasian government, the Empress, while severely restricted in her roles as sovereign, still holds many crucial powers, and serves in a role that would be considered similar to many nation’s presidents or prime ministers. Many of her powers have not been revoked by law, but rather given up by the Empress, meaning they can be taken up again in a time of crisis if needed. There exist two national assemblies, consisting of delegates of the various cities and provinces. The National Forum is elected by national suffrage, and there is approximately one delegate for each 300 thousand citizens. Each delegate serves a two year term, and there is a 4 term limit. The Imperial Senate is elected on the basis of three delegates for each province, and is considered by many to be the less democratic of the two houses. Terms are set at 8 years, and there is no term limit. The Empress opens the sessions of both houses. The government also holds national high court, simply named The High Court, which reviews cases of the lower courts and assures the constitutionality of laws. Justices of the High Court are elected by universal suffrage, and serve for life, unless they are found guilty of serious crimes. This national level government based largely in the capital is supplemented by levels of provincial, district, and local governments, with assemblies present at the provincial level. The right to vote is granted to all who register at the age of 18, and it is possible for one to vote as early as 16, if one passes a special citizenship test.
Economy
http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff76/Kevets13/MBK_Bangkok_2-1.jpg
A bustling mall, Central Avedon
GDP (2004 est.): 112.5 billion universal standard dollars (USD)
GDP per capita (2004 est.): $38,120
National Currency: Phran
Exchange Rate: roughly 1 Phran = 1.81 USD
Economic Sectors: Agriculture (3%), Industry (24%), Services (73%)
Predicted Annual Growth Rate: 3%
Unemployment Rate: 3.1%
Key Industries: Tourism, Pharmaceuticals, Clothing, Consumer Electronics
Major Exports: textiles, especially silk; wine; lentils; cellphones; pharmaceuticals
Major Imports: machine tools, appliances, lumber, oil
Major Trading Partners: Damirez, Weccanfeld, Etoile Arcture
The Mephrasian economy is one which has recently remerged from years of low production and corruption under a centrally planned system. It is quickly making a transition towards a more open market, signing various free trade pacts, although business still suffers from high taxes in many areas, and increasing competition from trading partners. Overall, high employment and high salaries provide for Mephrasian a rather high quality of life. There have been recent fears of inflation, although the Royal Bank has been trying to help the situation.
History
http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff76/Kevets13/Campaniforme_Ciempozuelos_28MAN_-1.jpg
An example of early Mephrasian pottery, unearthed 100 kilometers from Prorsum
People have inhabited the area known today as Mephras for thousands of years. Early people were generally hunters and gatherers who lived in tribal communities. Around 2000 BCE, more complex civilization began to develop, centered in the central river valleys. This civilization grew slowly, as it was rather isolated, although trade existed between these peoples and various other continental tribes and civilizations. Unfortunately, this civilization lacked a writing system, so there is little documentation of their activities. Recent archeological digs have unearthed beautiful pottery and stoneware, along with various ceremonial pieces that show a strong development of culture and art among these groups, who continue to be a source of pride for the nation. These peoples, while not widely visible, have been assimilated into the current peoples, such that an estimated 80% of the population has at least some Native Mephrasian ancestry.
A major turning point in Mephrasian history came around 1500, when a group of English explorers and exiles ventured out and landed in Mephras near the present day city of Avedon. This first group, numbering in the few hundreds, set up a small settlement, enticed by the seemingly fertile land, and opportunities for trade and development. This settlement grew quickly, and soon more ships were landing in the area, and multiple settlements were constructed. Even though people continued to flock to the newly discovered land, communication between Mephras and England was difficult due to the far distance between them. Sometime in the early 1600s, the route to the Novan region was lost by English navigators, and the settlements fell into a period of isolation from Europe that would last for almost 300 years. This separation caused Mephrasian English to develop in a different way than British English, and also explains the amount of archaisms which exist within the language.
http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff76/Kevets13/Thomas_Lawrence_Master_Lambton-1.jpg
A Portrait of the Young Duke Wilberforce I
During this early settlement period, the Bailey family was given title over the new territory, gaining the title, Dukes of Avedon and Mephras. When the route to England was lost, the Baileys set themselves up as sovereigns over what had become in many ways a new nation. They kept many of the institutions brought from England, and ruled generally in a benevolent, if not disinterested fashion. The nation continued to develop, and in 1797, Duke Wilberforce II officially proclaimed the nation sovereign, calling it the Grand Duchy of Mephras. During this time, French settlers appeared on the islands off the coast, which is the origin of the French minority that continues to persist on these islands, and within the nation. As the 19th century progressed, Mephras encouraged immigration to boost the population, leading to a nation of extreme ethnic diversity, a fact that has continued and is a point of national pride for most Mephrasians. In the 20th century, the nation reentered the world stage, and to an increasing extent, the regional scene.
Dealing with pressures brought on by regional wars in the mid 20th century, the Dukes were deposed in 1953, and a Communist dicatatorship seized control of the nation. In this period, heavy industry was developed, albeit with heavy costs for the environment and liberty of the people. This continued until the early years of the 21st century, when the current empress took power during an economic crisis. Despite some setbacks, her reign has seen improvements in quality of life throughout the country, and a liberalization of many institutions.
Geography and Climate
http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff76/Kevets13/Mephraspolitical.png
Mephras is situated on the western side of a continent in western Nova. It is bordered on the West by the Delosian Sea, the south by the Sea of Mephras, the north by the Principality of Damirez, and to the east by what is currently unclaimed wilderness. The coastal areas are largely filled by fertile plains, on which a large portion of the nations food supply is grown. A portion of this area, which extends into the center, is forested, although at a lower rate than at pre-settlement areas. The central areas are generally rolling hills, which turn into medium elevation mountains in the far east of the country. There is also a small mountain range to the west of the capital, although generally of low elevation.
The climate of Mephras is as diverse as one would expect for a nation of its size. The northern coastal areas generally have a Mediterranean climate, which turns to a humid subtropical climate as one moves inland. Many of the northern islands would be classified humid tropical. The climate becomes more temperate as one moves southerly, although the climate is generally warmer in coastal areas and on the island. Cooler climates area experienced in the mountainous east, and at generally higher elevations. Rainfall is generally plentiful, although it is generally dry and sunny in the Mediterranean areas.
Colonial Lands
http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff76/Kevets13/ColonialMap-1.png
Map displaying the various colonial holdings of the Empire. Not visible are the island colonies of Bahrain and Grenada.
After emerging from isolation in the 19th century, through various exploratory expeditions and deals, the Empire was able to acquire colonies on four continents. These lands are diverse and numerous. Home to about 380 million subjects of the Empire, ethnicities vary from native to metropolitan stock. There also exist an extreme diversity of climates and resources, allowing each of these realms to provide a key service to the greater whole of the Empire.
Cities of Note
Euphova; Population: 29.4 million
http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff76/Kevets13/Paris-immeuble-avenue-opera-1.jpg
A typical Euphova street corner
Euphova, the capital of the nation, is for many, the most important city. It is the political and cultural capital of the entire nation, as well as a fashion capital, and home to more museums than any other city in the country. Known throughout the nation’s history as a bastion of aristocratic elitism, it is also the wealthiest city per capita, and main home to the Empress and her court. It is also well known for its abundance of theatre, and is home to the Royal Opera Company, considered one of the best in the region. It is filled with many architectural wonders in the form of palaces and public buildings, which has given rise to the nickname “Jewel of Mephras.”
Avedon; Population: 88.6 million
http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff76/Kevets13/Odaiba_night.jpg
Night falls on a small area of the Docks District, Avedon
Avedon, the largest city in the country, is also the largest financial center, a massive center of commerce, home to both the largest stock exchange and container port in the nation, it has always been at the forefront of Mephrasian society. Known for its high density of skyscrapers along with the most ethnically and linguistically diverse populations in the country, this is one of the most exciting and dynamic metropolises in the nation. Referred to by many as "The Neon City" or simply "The City", it has long been a center of the Mephrasian music industry. Renowned for its avant garde art scene, it boasts more galleries per capita than any other city in the country.
Beausoliel; Population: 23.9 million
http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff76/Kevets13/Chevron_Renaissance_Retail_Shopps_i.jpg
An empty street awakens to another sunny day in Beausoleil
Beausoliel, a sun drenched metropolis which spreads for miles along the northern coast, is a haven for tourists and sun worshippers from around the region. A massive party town known for its large casions, beautiful bodies, and loose morals, it has been drawing people from around the world found many years. Cruise ships from around the region dock here, making it the largest cruise ship port in the nation. The city is also the home of the Mephrasian film industry, and many famous actors have their homes in the city. Known for its many Mediterranean style beachfront villas and gorgeous fountain plazas, it is sometimes called “Sun City,” a reference to the average 340 days of sun each year experienced by the city.
Other Important Cities
Balenciago; Population: 24.3 million
Newsom; Population: 19.2 million
Prorsum; Population: 21.1 million
Ashford; Population: 28.5 million
Meranda; Population: 23.3 million
Overbrook; Population: 27.9 million