On The Commonwealth of the Teutonic People (CTP)

[Teutonic]

Something I'm going to be working on over time. Crit and questions are always welcome.
Oh and also, I've got a few referances around the place. If you're interested in teh genuine history of The Teutonic Order, wiki it
as for other refernces, ask away

[Teutonic]

The Commonwealth of the Teutonic People (CTP)

PROPERTY OF THE UNIVERSITY. FOR REFERENCE ONLY.


History:
A note on time: The Commonwealth uses a similar calendar to that of its fellow nations, with the exception of the starting date, as it begins in what other nations would refer to as the 16th century. Centuries are also categorised by names, as opposed to numbers, usually after a specific event in the history, though years are still recorded. This calendar is referred to as “he Arbitrary Calendar”, or AC.

0 AC (1500)-The Moulding

Originally a collection of feudal city states, locked in a perpetual struggle for power and influence among the other families, the nation is seen to have began when a particular family, the Malbourgs, rulers of the city of Marienburg, gained enough influence through conquest and diplomacy to unify several states to form what was known as the Free Republic of the Teutonic Land. The republic quickly conquered and assimilated its neighbouring states, whilst making efforts to create a national identity of the residents, to quell future uprisings. The republic continued for roughly 50 years, before it was split in a civil war, known as The Falling. Little records were kept in this period. All that is known is that the former republic was spilt into three states, each holding very similar beliefs, characteristics, and cultures, but differing ideologically.

100 AC (1600)-The Reforging.

In approximately 110 AC, a plague swept across the realms. Unhindered by the developing medicines of the time, it brought about an estimated death toll of 2,000,000 (roughly a quarter of the combined population). The sudden lack in labour caused a rush for natural recourses, as starvation and anarchy surged across the region. As a result, the surviving governments were quickly overthrown by spontaneous revolutions and revolts, and the nations were without rule. Order returned in the form of the former Marshal of Marienburg Citadel, Archduke Martin Kostaa. Rallying the remainder of the military forces who had sealed themselves in the fortress when the plague broke out, he set out on a campaign of conquest, bringing the chaotic countries to heel one by one, through military might alone. Those who resisted were often crucified to set an example to those who would promote anarchy. After 20 years of warfare, Kostaa declared himself Marshal of the Teutonic Lands, and created a central authority based entirely on the military orders. Under the iron fist of Marshal Kostaa, the people were forced to co-operate, and soon forgot their differences, becoming a united people for the first time.
Kostaa was overthrown by a mutiny in AC 156, and forced to retire, out of respect for his achievements. In his place the military created a democratically elected parliament, however its powers were limited by the armies might, and as a result, the common people saw little benefit. This system continued for 100 years, where the nation prospered, and flourished, though growth was hampered by the people’s general unhappiness with the regime.

250 AC (1750): The Exultation

After 100 years of effective military rule, the Teutonic parliament began to conspire against the military. Originally, these rebellions were rapidly quashed, but with a steady increase in literacy, and the invention of the printing press, the people began to become more politically motivated. As a result, the democratic movements gained power rapidly, and even gained support in the army. As a result, the army could do nothing as legislation was passed forcing the army to be merged with the institute considered to be the least likely to use it’s power against the people, the University of the Teutonic Lands. The resulting freedom ushered in a new age of democracy and liberty, in which living standards improved massively, and the countries infrastructure and learning centres were invested in heavily. Cities grew as farmers emigrated to the cities and towns, in the hope of finding new work and better living, whilst the small holding farms were absorbed into larger estates. The greatest leaps however, were in those of technology-With increased power and influence, the Teutonic University expanded its influence, and as a result, made several great breakthroughs, whilst gaining control of large amounts of land. This period is generally considered as the first golden age.

350 AC (1850)-The Renewal

Due to the rapid development and industrialisation of the nation, a large Rich-Poor divide line began to develop. As a result, the government began to become more and more corrupt, and soon the government began to become riddled with corruption. In reaction, strong socialist movements began to develop, and the Workers Front party came close to a majority in the parliament. The more right wing orientated Bonapartist Party began to panic, as the Workers Front made it clear that they intended to redistribute land and nationalise all industry. They quickly began to organise the police force to break up socialist meetings and after several casualties in resulting riots, voted in emergency dictatorial powers. The first act of the new president was to order the University to quell the rioters with its military arm, however it refused, knowing that it would not survive the wrath of the people, and as a result remained neutral. A civil war soon erupted between the Workers and the Bonapartists. The war continued for a year, until both sides were considerably weakened, with the Worker’s Front on the verge of victory. It was at this point that the University acted. In the course of a month, the armed University swept away the remaining government, installing the Provost of the University and Grand Marshal of the Armies, Matvei Helsen as the temporary administrator of the nation. After this was achieved, the combined forces crushed the Socialist factions, imprisoning the ring leaders.


400 AC (1900) - The Enlightenment

The Temporary Administration continued for some time, ushering in a new age of learning and advance. The Teutonic Armies became feared for their advanced technologies, and steadfast devotion, The University became a world renowned centre of learning, free for all with a thirst for knowledge, sporting the largest library of the age, and the industry thrived under new government management. Living standards increased, as industry advanced, and a new era of prosperity was born. Nevertheless, unemployment grew, due to mechanisation on farms, and automation in factories and the people began to grow restless once more. Even with the introduction of forced service in the hospital, military, or university, the figures remained high. In anticipation of revolution, the University administration gave way to a new system of government, known as the General Capital, which persists to this day, consisting of representatives from the military, the university, the trade unions, and the Exulted Citizens. Despite equal representation, the University continued to dominate the Capital, but the people were satisfied by the new system, as the University owned almost all land and industry, and had generally been a fair, if distant, employer.

450 AC (1950) The Joining

In this period, a new movement began to rise, known as the Torch Bearers. This quasi religious sect began in the ranks of the University, and spread to the people, preaching of the Illumination, in which light of knowledge burns through the darkness that is Ignorance. The popularity of this movement exploded, in every walk of the nation, and no attempts to stop it were made. The sect’s evangelical message of spreading knowledge in whatever manner called for a new age of advance, and development, as well as an increased international presence. All industry was nationalised apart from some small businesses, and all land passed into control of the Capital. The army began building up it’s armaments with the latest university discoveries, and a wave of cultural icons swept the nation. In 475 AC, the Capital issued a statement joining “the people, the army, and the university under one banner, one nation, and one idea”, creating a communal environment, known as The People’s Commonwealth , in which enterprise was encouraged directly by reward, whilst negligence and laziness resulted in reprisal. The nation also intervened in several conflicts, considered “unrelated to the Commonwealth” by other states, in the name of bringing about enlightenment, and purging barbarity, in order to bring about a new age under the banner of thought.

500 AC (2000-2011)-Present Day: The Rising

Since 500 AC, the Commonwealth has made huge leaps. The invention of the People’s Electronic Information Network in 480 AC has allowed the nation to achieve vast communal spirit, whilst keeping a general isolation of the publics contact with foreign states in most matters. Technology has continued to march onwards in the name of the Illumination, as has philosophy and military science, yielding some of the most renowned generals, thinkers, and scientists of the region. However, culture has failed to advance far: Lacking foreign influence, the arts have descended into a mainly constructivist state, stagnating, and rarely changing, whilst mostly ignored by the Capital, due to its apparent irrelevance. The Commonwealth has also taken a more active role in regional politics, seeing itself as a light, guiding those lost in darkness.

[Teutonic]

Government and politics:


National flag, and emblem of the general Capital



The nation is ruled by the General Capital, a council of leaders elected by various organisations in Teutonic society. The Capital has power over every system in the country, and the power to exercise any means necessary, though this power is often kept in check by the equal representation of the members. The Capital is overseen by the Provost-Marshal, usually elected from among the Exulted Citizens, by the Capital, in order to moderate issues.
Represented movements in the General Capital:

The Armed University: The combined military and university. Generally keeps a balanced stance between isolation and expansion. Generally considered to be the most powerful movement on the Capital.

The Exulted Citizens: This group consists of citizens from all walks of life, who have done a great service to the People’s Commonwealth, and have been officially recognised by the Capital as a result. Mostly consisting of either Sword Brethren from the ranks of the Army, or Academians from the University, there is also a large number of workers, from renowned doctors, to brilliant workers. This group has a strong influence in the Capital, and are generally regarded as the heroes and paragons of the nation.

The Trade unions: representing various trades, these representatives fight generally for the workers rights. Though they do not have the greatest power, their word is generally regarded as that of the people, and as a result, their advice is often acted upon. This group tends towards a more isolationist stance.

The Torch Bearers: The smallest group in the council, the Torch Bearers are the closest thing the nation has to a religion, though they claim to be secular by nature. The group rigorously supports foreign relations in the name of the Illumination.



The Capital's Parliament building, located inside Marienburg Citadel.



Economy

The major industry in the People’s Commonwealth is the technological research and hi-tech sector, building computers, semi-conductors, and over specialised goods. There is also a heavy manufacturing requirement to supply the various national organisations, so a sizeable heavy industry sector also exists.
The Capital voted to replace standard, hard currency with a moderated electronic credit system fairly recently, which allows for complete control over inflation and currency distribution. This has however, affected the value of the currency outside of the CTP, as it has no real hard value, and can only be measured in bullion, so is trapped at an uncontrollable value. Added to the fact that very few people invest in the currency (though little is needed) makes it one of the weakest currencies in the region, though it suits the purpose it was designed for in the CTP.

Trade: Trade is fairly limited, as the CTP strives for autarky (self sufficiency), though only succeeds in agriculture and some basic materials, despite optimistic reports. As a result, the nation trades in Hi-Tech articles for the aeronautics, military, medical and engineering sectors, as these products require relatively little raw material to produce. Any excess in raw materials are generally stored, and not traded, though if a surplus is large enough, produce will be sold. A significant trade exists in information, due to the stance of the Illumination’s freedom of information, though at times it is often heavily edited so as not to prove a threat to the CTP.

[Teutonic]

Armed Forces


Emblem and battle flag of the armed forces

The armed forces have been a prominent part of Teutonic Politics since the beginning. Officially under the thumb of the University, it has recently been given more independence in order to exercise more efficient operations. The Military itself is steeped in tradition and has a fruitful past, with several defining customs, and unique martial philosophies.

Branches

The University guard
Traditionally, to gain access to the University a citizen must spend a certain amount of time in an armed force. There is an alternative, however, in the form of the University guard. His allows potential students to enlist in the Universities armed body, whilst juggling training and studies. As a result, the guard generally consists of the intellectual elite of the nation, meaning that the Capital is unwilling to deploy it in heavy fighting, relegating it to a home defence role. Despite this, it is equipped by the University, and as a result, bristling with quirky prototypes that will often never see proper use. The guard is a very popular option among citizens, and rivals the Grand Army in numbers.

The Grand Army


the Grand Army on the annual Marienburg grand parade

The grand army is the largest force in the nation. Every citizen regardless of gender must serve a compulsory five years in the Grand Army, including training, and after this, until the age of forty five; they are legible to be called back to arms. Typically equipped with fairly cheap, easily manufactured equipment, the Grand Army is not renowned as a fighting force, and is usually only deployed in peacekeeping, or low risk operations. Nevertheless, the Grand Army has earned renown for strong discipline, and steady nerves on the battlefield.

The Sword Brethren
The Brethren are the regular army of the CTP, drawn from the ranks of the Grand Army, and put through a further two years of training, in which they study the Teutonic Path, are drilled into a state of unbreakable discipline, traditional swordsmanship, and trained in every walk of warfare. Equipped with far better equipment than the Grand Army, the Brethren utilise some of the universities most recent tested creations, and as a result, have built up a formidable reputation, and respect in their homeland.


Typical Brethren battle equipment

Kostaminin



Emblem of the Kostaminin

The Kostaminin are infamous even in their own country. Drawn from the most efficient and devoted Brethren, and put into a special programme of training, after which they are deployed on special assignments for the Capital itself. The exact numbers of the Kostaminin are unknown, as only one brigade is often seen, if at all, at a time. Often utilised as a counter terror unit in CTP territory, or that of it’s allies, is often takes the reverse role in foreign nations, taking part in deniable operations such as disrupting “infrastructure” and carrying out raids on the enemies of the state. This branch has no uniform, instead dressing in the uniforms of the enemy force, or that of the common citizenry. The soldiers of this detachment are said to go through some of the most brutal training in the army, though much is theorised-it is said that they must undergo live torture resistance exercises, and strenuous espionage courses, whilst learning to use every weapon at their disposal. A Kostaminin is expected to give up his name for the duration of his or her service in the unit, and is instead given a five letter call sign. On retirement or reassignment, they are permitted to re-assume their former identity, though many choose not to do so.


Tradition

The military of the CTP has a rich history, and as a result has accumulated several unique traditions. Most notably is the requirement of every soldier to wear an article of white on the uniform, regardless of situation. This arises from a folk legend, where the armies of the nation marched forth in white uniforms, and when they returned from the warzone, no longer white, but drenched in mud, blood, and grime, they were said to have shed their innocence and become men. This tradition continues in the dress uniform, and to a limited degree in combat dress, usually in the form of a headband, bandana, or arm band. The item is up to the soldier’s discretion.


Sword Brethren on Parade before mustering to a warzone.

The Path

The Path is a treatise on warfare, compiled by Marshall Kostaa, first marshal of the Teutonic Army. In its pages, the Marshal speaks of how battles are won by the unbreakable spirit of the soldiers, not by arms and numbers. He preaches that given a disciplined regiment of Teutonic troops, he could hold his ground against a nation of the without “the will” as he calls it. The Path also teaches reserve in battle-Ideally ones army should be as an island in a swirling tide when charged, like the grass when attacked from afar, and as mist when the foe combines the two, only to counter charge a disarrayed enemy. These lessons and the many others are drilled rigorously into Teutonic soldiers, particularly those of the Sword Brethren. As a result, the army spends vast amounts of time on the drill square and firing ranges, honing marksmanship, and co-ordination. It was no idle boast when a Teutonic officer claimed he could march his unit in perfect step 30 miles to the orchard in a day, and shoot down the apples by evening. However, some have criticised that these tactics belong to a bygone age, and have no place in an age of suppressive fire and precision artillery.

The Muster and Homecoming

Before a Teuton battalion mobilises, it is traditional for the soldiers involved to have a final parade of honour through the streets of their regiments home town, or city, in which they swear an oath of duty and honour to the Commonwealth and her people, and don the traditional white, which will not be removed or cleaned until the action has ended. The soldiers are often given a formalised farewell ceremony by the town administration, which bears a deliberate resemblance to traditional funeral rites, as the soldiers are said to “march unto death, to take him by the hand, and if willed, return home, with the white marred.” On exiting a warzone, the soldiers begin a process known as The Homecoming. Traditionally, the troops spend an hour in meditation, thinking on their experience, and on the memory of the fallen. Upon return to Teutonic soil, the remove “the white”, and clean it of the grime it has accumulated, to represent the passing of the stain of war into peace. For a soldier to return home without his white is considered a disgrace, though this has been less prevalent in modern days, due to the impracticality. As a result, many soldiers hold several articles to replace the white, if it is lost.

[Teutonic]

Culture:

Religion

The people of the Teutonic Commonwealth are theoretically allowed to practice any form of worship they wish, however, theistic religions are frowned upon, and as a result, very few conventional places of worship exist within Teutonic native settlements. However, within recent history, a new organisation, calling themselves the Torch Bearers, has come into the light, with beliefs that are becoming more and more widely accepted in the nation. The Torch Bearers, or The Esoteric Society of the Illuminate, began as a small society of military personnel and high ranking University officials, but quickly spread through the ranks. They claim to be entirely secular, and fervently deny being a religious organisation; rather, they refer to themselves as “illuminated progressives”. The core philosophy of this group revolves around the all knowing being the ultimate state of being, whereas all who are ignorant represent a deprived sub culture, that can gain transcendence via the guidance of their superiors. They use the metaphor of the illuminated being as torches in the night, whose duty it is to bring the light of knowledge to the void of ignorance. This evangelical policy has allowed the Bearers to spread rapidly throughout the nation, gaining official recognition from the general Capital, and even seats on the council itself. The Torch Bearer Hierarchy is elected by the circle of illuminates, generally considered to be the greatest minds in the nation-Even if one such genius does not hold the beliefs of the society, he may still find himself invited to join the council. Underneath the council, are the Solars-Men and women officially sworn into the society, and as a result, responsible for managing the “congregation” and the administration of the group’s affairs. This is often a voluntary role on top of regular services, and as a result, such people are often members of the military or University, and may have considerable influence.

The emblem of The Torch Bearers


Art

Art in the CTP has been on a very noticeable decline for some time as a result of almost entire state ownership of property, forcing artists to practise their craft in free time. In recent years however, in an attempt to revive the flagging culture, the Capital has funded several approved projects. This has resulted in a heavy constructivist influence, as almost all art now serves a purpose, and is created with that purpose in mind. Most modern Teutonic art is in a surrealist style, depicting events, or glorifying the acts of the nation and it’s people. This new movement has become increasingly popular, though critics accuse it as government controlled propaganda.


An example of Teutonic Constructivism


Literature

Literature, compared to the other arts, as stayed fairly strong in the CTP, with writing as an encouraged hobby, and a strong national publishing industry. This has allowed a large amount of literature to be published throughout the years, including fiction, poetry and prose; historical interpretations and philosophical ideas to all come under the same publisher. The works that prove most popular are reprinted until a demand ceases, and until this day, several works have been in circulation for half a decade or more.

Cinema and theatre

Similar to art, the film and dramatic industries have mostly been hobby or amateur groups until receiving some funding from the government to revive culture. As a direct result, these too have gone down a more national route, often showing interpretationist views of various historical events. Unfortunately cinema and theatre are growing increasingly unpopular as a result.

Television

There are only four specific broadcast stations in the CTP, each specialising in a certain area of television:
The People’s Information Network: Hosting the national news service for entire days on one channel, on others it shows world events and current affairs material, as well as interviews with Capital ministers, for the enlightenment of the people.
The University Enlightenment broadcast: A network completely occupied by informative documentaries on almost anything. This is by far the most funded station, and arguably the most viewed. Ranging from geographical or historical documentaries to televised lectures, this channel is highly valued by many of the Teutonic people.
The People’s Entertainment Network: Mainly broadcasting programmes devoted to entertainment, such as soap operas, talk shows, and dramas. Along with the UEB, the most popular network.
The Independent Networks: A network privately owned, one of the few institutions owned privately in the entire nation, broadcasting what seems to be popular. Despite this, the other networks receive more custom, and IN struggles to stay afloat, due to having a reputation as somewhat beneath the intelligent Teutonic people.

[Teutonic]

Finally found some time to do one of them...The islands will turn up later, as they clearly didn't fit, and time wasn't as abundant as all that. More forthcoming.
EDIT: and the key, apparently....
Maps:

[kyraina]

weren't the original Teutonics heavily Christian and heavily armored Knights?

[Teutonic]

Yes, quite so. When I made my original main (then deleted by mods for breaking ToU) back i 2008, I had a minor obsession with the Northern Crusades. I figured that it would be fairly dull to role play a christian militant order, but have laced the thing with referances nevertheless, more out of some sort of duty to original history than any real necessity.

[kyraina]

ahh i see well crusades basically sum some stuff up even thou the Muslims and Christians believe in the same god they do worship differently then each other

[Teutonic]

The Teutonic Order was actually barely involved in teh Holy Land-It was responsilbe for the conversion of Prussia and the creation of that state however.
But feel free to ask me through pM if you're interested. my limited knowledge is at your disposal