A different fate for the Templars

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A different fate for the Templars

POD- In 1274, at the Council of Lyons, the King of France, Louis IX (St Louis) achieves sufficient support for a motion to merge the Knights of the Temple (Templars) and the Knights of Saint John (Hospitalers), and the motion is passed.

In 1291, the Syrian port city of Acre holds out against Muslim forces due to Paladin forces. As a result, public opinion of the Order increases. The Paladins re-conquer Krak des Chevaliers in 1296, retake the Principality of Antioch in 1299, re-conquer Beaufort Castle in 1300, and subsequently conquer Damascus, with the strong support of their Armenian allies and the Mongols, in 1305. The popularity of the Paladins is through the roof.

Philip the Fair of France is envious of the riches of the Paladins and plots their ruin in order to acquire their riches. Hearing of rumours of a plot, the Grand Master of the Paladins begins liquidating all French funds, including all Paladin-owned land in France and transferring such to Venice.

Sometime in the first decade of the 14th century, Phillip the Fair accuses the Order of heresy and points to their leaving of France as proof of their complicity.

In 1307, the Pope, giving the matter some consideration, decrees that there is absolutely no proof of heresy regarding the Holy Order of Saint Peter and that the Order has the complete support of the Church.

In the 1310s, the western Mongols convert to Christianity.

In 1320, the Paladins conquer Rhodes and form an alliance with Venice. In 1321, Poland conquers Pomerania. In 1322, Cilician Armenia conquers the lands of the former County of Edessa. The Khanate of Chagatay converts to Christianity in 1324.

In 1327, the Hanseatic League fails to acquire a monopoly on Danish trade and their political influence in Denmark continues to remain minor. In 1330, Denmark conquers Livonia. The Golden Horde converts to Christianity in 1330.

In the 1330s, the Holy Order of Saint Peter in Venice trains with the Venetian military to solidify their alliance. In 1337, the armies of Cilician Armenia reconquer Armenia proper. A charismatic prince of Armenia, and a young woman named Shoushan ("Tulip"), a gifted military genius, who claims to have visions of God, lead them. The Catholicos gives her his blessing once Armenia proper has been restored. The Paladins lend their support to their Armenian allies and are thanked by the King, the Catholicos, and the people of Armenia (Hayastan).

Upon the death of the Pope, in 1334, the cardinals elect a French Pope.

Hundred Years War: 1337-1446

Early Seventy-Five Years War: 1337-1348

In 1340, the Order expands its navy. In 1348, a group of Paladins, acting as representatives of the Pope, mediate an end to the wars between England and France. The Order begins researching an archery weapon that is as effective as the English longbow and can be used on horseback.

In 1348, the French Pope in Avignon buys the County of Venaissin (which includes Avignon) from Naples for 80,000 florins, and the Royal Order of the Garter is founded in England.

In the 1349 Treaty of Bordeaux, England holds western Brittany, Crecy and Calais, France holds most of Brittany and most of Aquitaine, and the Paladins hold southeastern Aquitaine (the modern provinces of Landes and Pyrenees Atlantique) as a fief of England.

In 1350, the Pope sells Avignon and environs (henceforth called Avignon County) to the Order for 8,000 florins. The Pope wants to keep a close eye on the Order. Avignon County remains a fief of the Church.

In the 1340's and 50's, the Paladins build up Avignon County, and the Order's Navy is given sea access rights down the Rhone. Western Provence is added to Avignon County in 1355.

Between 1350 and 1400, there is little growth of the powers of the English parliament or French Estates General.

In 1351, the Royal Order of the Star is founded in France. In 1352, the Order forms an alliance with the Byzantines.

In 1356, the Pope calls for a Crusade to retake Jerusalem. French, English, German, Italian, and others heed the call. The Paladins are first to give their support for the new Crusade. The Pope invites the Armenian people to join the Crusade, and they agree.

10^th Crusade: 1361-1369

In 1361, the Crusade to retake Jerusalem begins. The Knights of the Holy Order of Saint-Peter lead the charge. Several contingents of Armenian troops join the Crusaders. After 3 years of fighting, Jerusalem is liberated from the Moslems. By 1367, all territory won in the First Crusade is again under Latin control. The Holy Order successfully uses crossbows for the first time in combat and to great advantage. Late in 1367, on a sad note, Shoushan of Armenia, a leader of an Armenian contingent, was hit by an arrow and dies shortly after. The Catholicos proclaims her a saint. Moved by her actions and service, the Grand Master of the Paladins makes her the first female (honorary) member of the Holy Order of Saint-Peter. Once word reaches the Pope of her martyrdom, he shortly beatifies her. In 1368, peace is signed.

Treaty of Jerusalem

The Crusaders gain all the lands possessed by the former Kingdom of Jerusalem (including a part of the coast bordering the Gulf of Aquaba) and the former Principalities of Antioch and Tripoli.

The Pope appoints the Grand Master of the Paladins as Protector of Jerusalem.

Cyprus and Malta are given to the Paladins as fiefs of France and Aragon respectively in the same year.

In late 1369, the body of Saint Shoushan is returned to Armenia and is buried in Ani, the new Armenian capital. In 1370, the Holy Order of Saint Peter opens a new chapter in Ani. In 1373, the King of England negotiates the marriage of an English Duke to the Countess of Flanders.

In the years 1375 to 1390, Armenia conquers northern and northeastern Anatolia. Northwestern Anatolia continues to belong to the Ottoman Turks. They resist the Armenians fiercely, and Armenia gains only a fraction of Ottoman territory.

In 1378, Clement VII is elected Pope in Avignon. In Rome, the Italian Cardinals elect their own Pope but he garners less support and influence in Western Europe than the French Pope. The Order supports the "true" Pope Clement VII. In Western Europe, only half of Germany, half of Italy, Ireland and half of Flanders support the "pretender" Pope in Rome. In 1380, the Russians defeat the Khan of the Golden Horde, at the Battle of Kulikova

Late Seventy-Five Years War: 1383-1446

War breaks out between England and France in 1383. The Holy Roman Empire adds eastern Provence to Paladin Avignon. The Turfan Uighurs convert to Christianity in 1382. In 1385, Toghrol, a Christian Uzbek, conquers Muslim Il’Khans.

In 1385, the Union of Kalmar is founded. In 1389, a new Pope is elected in Rome. Five years later, he abdicates and thus the Schism of the Papacy ends.

In 1388, England and Burgundy sign a treaty of alliance.

In 1391-95, the Mongols conquer western Syria; push south and 10 years later, a Mongol army is camped at the coast of the Gulf of Aquaba. In 1396, the Pope calls for a crusade against the Ottoman threat.

11^th Crusade: 1396-1401

At that time the Ottomans held northwestern Anatolia, some islands in the Aegean, and part of the Bulgarian coast. As expected the Paladins and the Teutonic Knights mobilize quickly and take the lead. The Ottomans are an even greater threat to Armenia, and the King and Cathlolicos call on the people of Armenia to volunteer to fight. After 2 years of fighting, the Ottomans have lost most of their territory, but they fight hard. The Allies pull back and maintain the blockade of all supply routes by sea or land. By mid-1400, Allied forces assault the weakened, war-weary Ottomans and subsequently secure all Ottoman lands following the Ottoman’s unconditional surrender. Peace is signed in late 1401. A significant number of Crusaders, Paladins and Teutonic Knights remain in conquered Ottoman territory. The territory becomes Papal territory.

In 1408, the Paladins and Teutonic Knights lead the Crusaders along with Armenian troops, in occupied former Ottoman territory, against the remnants of the Byzantine Empire as the Venetian and Paladin navies, and a multinational army of Crusaders march through the southeastern-most part of the Balkans. In 1413, the Byzantines accept the terms of the peace treaty proposed by the Allies.

1413 Treaty of Constantinople:

All former Byzantine lands become Papa territory.

The Venetians will acquire all former Byzantine coastlines along the Adriatic Sea and the Cyclades Island group.

The Paladins, as representatives of the Pope, and Venice, will control the Black Sea, Sea of Marmarra, and the Straits of the Dardanelles jointly with Armenia.

Armenia is granted all former Ottoman territories in Anatolia and has rights to the straits between the Black and Mediterranean Seas.

The city of Adrianople and environs is given to the Holy Order of Saint Peter.

The Eastern Orthodox Church will continue to reside in Constantinople under the Patriarch, and it will have full rights under the law.

The Paladins establish new chapters in Constantinople and Adrianople.

Poland-Lithuania War: 1408-1415

In 1408, Mongol and Scandinavian forces invade Lithuania and then Poland.

In 1413, Lithuania falls. In 1415, Poland falls. Bohemian forces grab Poznan and Crackow by the end of the war.

In 1413, Venice absorbs the Genoan islands off Western Anatolia with Paladin and Teuton support. In 1414, following up on their victories the previous year, Venice, the Paladins and Teutons assemble the Paladin and Venetian fleets for an attack on Genoan Crimea. The allied navies attack the Genoan vessels as Paladin and Teuton forces land in the eastern part of the peninsula. By 1415, formerly Genoan Crimea is firmly in the hands of Venice.

In 1414, the Mongol armies in the Sinai invade Mamluk Egypt, conquer the Sinai, and are stopped at the Nile, taking heavier than predicted losses. In 1416, The Paladins and Teutonic Knights offer support to the Mongols in exchange for the Sinai and Egyptian lands east of the Nile (which would be attached to the Kingdom of Jerusalem). In 1418, the Sinai is in Paladin hands. The Paladin naval forces and army attacks by sea and land. In 1419, most of Egypt has been conquered and occupied. The Paladins and Teutonic Knights push south towards Christian Ethiopia while the Mongols push west across North Africa. The Mongols take Tripoli in 1421. Paladins and Teutons take northern Sudan in 1424. In 1429, the Holy Order of Saint Peter and the Teutonic Knights control all land between the Red Sea and the Nile (or Blue Nile) north of the Kingdom of Ethiopia.

In 1415, peace is signed in northeastern Europe. Northern Lithuania and northern Poland are annexed by the Kalmar Union. The Golden Horde takes southern Lithuania and southern Poland. Bohemia annexes the lands up to Poznan and Cracow.

In 1422, the Mongols stop their north-African advance to regroup. Mongols now control all of North Africa; west of the Nile, east of OTL Libya/Tunisia, Libya/Algeria borders and north of a latitude running thru Aswan.

In 1422, the English deal a devastating blow to the French forces in the Battle of Agincourt.

In 1431, peace is signed. The Kingdom of Ethiopia gains all lands south of the latitude thru the confluence of the Niles, west to the Blue Nile and east to the Red Sea. The restored Christian Kingdom of Nubia encompasses all lands between the latitude thru Aswan and another thru the confluence of the Niles and a southwestern border at OTL’s Sudan’s southwestern border. The Kingdom of Jerusalem annexes the Sinai and all Egyptian lands between the Red Sea and Nile north of Aswan.

By 1435, England controls Flanders, Normandy, Brittany and Aquitaine, and her forces lie poised on the banks of the Loire. In 1437, the Grand Master of the Holy Order of Saint Peter, Charles Xavier, calls on the Pope to return to Rome for his own safety and for the sake of Christianity (Roman), which is growing more and more divided with each passing year. If His Holiness does not, the Bishop of Rome will replace him as Pope shortly for he will surely be captured or killed in the war.

The Pope acknowledges the wisdom of the Grand Master's words, but he decides to remain in Avignon.

In 1423, the Mongols begin advancing westward in North Africa. Tunis falls to the Mongols in 1424. The states of the Hafsid Kingdom, the Emirate of the Zab, Gafsa and Tozeur are conquered by 1427. The Zayanid Kingdom falls in 1428. Once the Paladins finish occupying the southern part of the former Mamluk Empire, they meet up with the Mongols in North Africa and persuade them to join their attack on the Kingdom of Granada. The two sides agree to let the Paladins take Granada and the Mongols to keep North Africa. The Allied forces invade the Kingdom of the Marinids. They capture and occupy Tangier and Tetoun in 1433. The allies launch an attack on Granada, and Paladin forces in Castile attack at the same time.

By 1435, the allies have captured and occupied the Kingdom of Granada. The Mongols return to Africa, and peace is signed. Granada is given to the Holy Order of Saint Peter as a fief of Castile.

In 1438, Aragonese forces join the Paladins, from their lands in Aquitaine and Provence, as they strike for the heart of France. At the same time, the English and Burgundians continue to advance on the Limoges region.

In 1440, Savoy grabs southeastern Dauphine. In 1442, the Aragonese halt their advance once Toulouse is secure, having no wish to lose more lives.

In 1447, the Pope decides to leave Avignon in secret and flee to the island of Elba. In 1448, the Bishop of Rome is proclaimed the new Pope since the last Pope had been missing and presumed dead for several months.

In 1448, English, Burgundian and Paladin forces conquer Limoges and thus put an end to native rule of the Kingdom of France. Peace is signed the following year. The Kingdom of Aragon keeps the French lands it conquered including the city of Toulouse. The Paladins gain a swath of land connecting their lands in Aquitaine (the English gave them the former fief) with Provence and southwestern Dauphine. The English and Burgundians hold the rest. The Burgundians receive northern Dauphine. Savoy receives southeastern Dauphine.

Between 1400 and 1460, the House of York rules England.

War of the Roses: 1460-1493

In 1460, fighting erupts between the Yorkists and the Lancastrians. In the same year, the Grand Master of the Paladins pleads for the Houses of York and Lancaster to settle their differences. He also proclaims that the Paladins will support whoever has the most support. The King tells the Grand Master to stay out of English affairs.

A cultural re-awakening during the years of 1415-1513 in Armenia marked by great advances in knowledge. This period would come to be called the Aradjadimutyun, a re-birth or cultural awakening. Artisans and scholars abound. Science and technological knowledge advances more rapidly. By the mid 1400s, Armenian artisans and scholars frequent the courts of Constantinople, Jerusalem, Cairo, Adrianople, Vienna, Venice, Florence, Baghdad and elsewhere throughout southeastern Europe and the Middle East. By the end of the 14th century, Armenian scholars and artisans are to be found as far as Milan, Moscow, London, Delhi, and Axum. A similar phenomenon in Europe, called in Latin the Renatio, beginning around the same time, is sped up by the influx of Armenians.

In 1427, Portugal discovers the Azores and begins colonizing Madeira and Porto Santo. A Portuguese captain rounds Cape Bojador on the west coast of Africa in OTL’s Western Sahara in 1434. The same captain reaches the mouth of a river (OTL Senegal River) in 1436.

Around 1430, a part of the Golden Horde splits off to form the Khanate of the Crimea. In 1431, former Byzantine lands in Greece, Byzantine islands in the Aegean and the city of Constantinople are given to the Holy Roman Empire. Former Ottoman lands in northwestern Anatolia are given to the Kingdom of Armenia. The Paladins retain Adrianople and environs as a fief of the Holy Roman Empire.

In 1435, The Holy Roman Empire shores up defences in its Byzantine territories fearing incursions by the Serbs or Bulgars. In 1438, the Empire prepares to attack Bulgaria. In 1440, the Empire launches a war against the Kingdom of Bulgaria.

In 1440, having secured North Africa, Emperor Toghrol returns to Syria leaving North Africa to his top General, Shur‘tu. In 1443, a Portuguese captain arrives at the Bay of Arguin off the coast of OTL’s Mauritania. These voyages return African slaves to Portugal.

In 1444, the Imperial advance into Bulgarian territory has slowed considerably. During an informal truce, the Empire forms a temporary alliance with the Republic of Venice against the Bulgars promising the latter the Bulgarian coastline for their assistance. With the aid of the Venetian Navy and Venetian troops, the Imperial armies win a series of victories.

In 1444, the Portuguese discover the heavily forested Cape Verde Islands and also explore the mouth of the Senegal River. In 1445, a part of the Golden Horde splits off to form the Khanate of Kazan. In 1446, Aragon conquers the Kingdom of Naples.

By 1448, only small pockets of resistance against the Holy Roman Empire remain. The war ends in 1450, and peace is signed in 1451. In 1452, the Holy Roman Empire annexes Bulgaria (all the lands up to the Danube in the north, Serbia in the west, and the coastal territory promised Venice in the east). The territory Venice annexes includes the cities of Anchialos, Messembria, and Varna.

In 1450, Emperor Toghrol dies and leaves his empire to his son Wutu. In 1453, the Pope decrees that henceforth the Papal Guards will be drawn exclusively from the Order of Saint-Peter.

In 1456, the Portuguese arrive at the coast of OTL’s Guinea. The following year, they reach OTL Sierra Leone. In 1460, Aragon, Venice and the Paladins form an alliance to conquer Genoa, Milan, Savoy, and Navarre.

In 1462, Burgundian forces invade Flanders. The King denounces the Burgundian invasion and promises retribution. Certain Lancastrians ally with the Burgundians promising them land in Flanders. Meanwhile the Paladins invade the Channel Islands in surprise night attacks. The Grand Master calls on the King to step down in favour of the Duke of Lancaster, who was winning and had more support at the time, and make peace. “These islands will remain under our control until your intestine rivalry is ended," proclaims the Grand Master. The King denounces the Grand Master and refuses unequivocally. Fighting rages throughout English France, Flanders and southern England. The Duke of Lancaster marshals an army against the King and defeats him.

In 1462 Aragonese, Venetian and Paladin forces attack and invade Corsica. In 1464, Aragon, Venice and the Paladins conquer Corsica. Portugal conquers Ceuta and some Moroccan coast between 1465 and 1475.

In 1465, the Duke of Lancaster ascends the throne of England. Yorkist factions remain opposed to the Lancaster King. Despite repeated appeals by the previous York King and the present Lancastrian King, the Paladins refuse to relinquish the Channel Islands.

In 1466, a part of the Golden Horde splits off to form the Khanate of Astrakhan.

In 1469, Zeroun Vanetzi, a scholar, artisan, and inventor is invited to the Court of the Armenian King. The King appoints him Royal Scholar and instructs him to share and teach his ideas to his court. Vanetzi has plans to build a machine that uses steam to propel small spheres of metal. In 1475, Giovanni Da Lucca, artisan, inventor and scholar is invited to the Arsenale of Venice to share and teach his ideas. Though a firm pacifist, Da Lucca shares all his ideas with the Venetian military. “I am merely showing you how to build a tool, should you use it as a weapon, it is on your own heads.” Da Lucca proclaimed. He has plans for a machine that runs on steam that can project metal objects. Da Lucca attempts to persuade the Venetians to use non-lethal weapons on several occasions.

In 1468, Aragon, Venice and the Paladins conquer Genoa proper. In 1470, Venetian forces invade eastern Milan. In 1471, Aragonese and Venetian forces conquer eastern Milan. In 1473, Venice and Aragon defeat the Duchy of Milan. In 1474, Paladin, Aragonese, and Venetian forces invade Savoy. In 1475, allied forces conquer Savoy. In 1476, peace is signed. Aragon receives Corsica and western Savoy. Venice receives the Duchy of Milan, Genoa proper and eastern Savoy.

By 1477, all Burgundian lands become the Kingdom of Burgundy. In 1478, Paladin and Aragonese forces invade Navarre.

In 1479, the Duke of York marshals an army, marches against the King and fights against him for several years.

The Kazakh Empire is established in Central Asia in the same year. In 1480, Sergei II throws off the Mongol yoke and proclaims himself Czar of Russia.

In the same year, allied forces occupy Navarre. In 1481, peace is signed. Aragon receives Navarre. Also in 1480, the Armenians invent the world’s first steam engine. Between 1480 and 1520, Burgundy expands into the Netherlands and the western cantons of the Swiss Confederacy.

In 1483, the Duke of York defeats the Lancastrian King. The former King flees to English France. The Berbers and other native tribes reclaim Eastern North Africa by 1485.

In 1487, the Duke of York returns to England with Burgundian allies and an army he marshalled in English France. Fierce fighting between the two factions embroils Flanders, parts of Burgundy, English France and southern England for years.

In 1489, the Paladin-led Egyptian Army and Navy conquer western Egypt (including eastern Libya). In 1490, the Kingdom of Egypt is established independent of the Kingdom of Jerusalem. A former Grand Master and his Armenian wife begin ruling Egypt. The Kingdom of Egypt stops at a longitude thru Suez on the east and extends into western Libya stopping roughly 150 miles from Tripoli.

In 1489, minor leaders of the two factions dispute London. No sizeable forces are present in the capital. In the same year, the Paladins storm London in a surprise night attack. The low number of troops in the capital at the time and the superiority of the Paladins resulted in the Paladins taking the city quickly. The Grand Master declares himself Protector of England and demands an end to the hostilities. The Paladins relinquish the Channel Islands at the same time. Many townsfolk and country folk in southern England, tired of the infighting, support the new Protector. Chastened by the weakened state of their country, the Lancastrian leader and Yorkist leaders make peace in 1490.

In 1491, the new King, of the House of York, is crowned King of England. In 1492, a new Pope is elected in Rome and proclaims that henceforth the Holy Order of Saint Peter shall hand over its French lands and northern Navarre. The Holy Order of Saint Peter administers said lands as fiefs of the Church from now on.

In 1493, the heir to the throne of England marries a daughter of the House of Lancaster thus ending the Wars of the Roses. In 1494, the Pope and the Catholicos sign the Friendship of the Churches. The ruling houses of Castile and Aragon form a dynastic union in the same year thereby uniting their kingdoms.

In 1495, The Holy Roman Emperor calls on the Pope to lend his Paladins to put down instability in the Swiss Confederation promising the southwestern portion of Swiss lands as an Imperial fief to the Paladins upon success of the campaign. The Emperor also calls on the Venetians for aid promising them the southeastern portion of Swiss lands. In 1497, Paladin and Venetian forces invade the Swiss Confederation from the south as the armies of the Holy Roman Empire attack from the north.

In 1497, the Paladin has replaced the Knight in chessboards across Europe.

The Swiss win a few battles against the armies of the Empire during 1497-98, but they lose an important battle in 1499. The Swiss finally sue for peace in mid 1502. The Holy Roman Empire cedes the southeast of the Swiss Confederation to Venice and the southwest of the Swiss Confederation to the Paladins.

In 1505, England and Scotland are joined in dynastic union.

Following heavier than expected losses in the Swiss Campaign, the Holy Order of Saint Peter takes over and expands the University of Avignon between 1502 and 1517 renaming it the University of Saint Peter at Avignon. The University’s funding is increased substantially as well. The Paladins form a College of Military Science and Technology and a College of Engineering at the University in 1505 and 1507 respectively. The Paladins form a separate branch for engineers (the Engineers of Saint Peter or ESP) to build and repair roads, aqueducts, bridges and the like. They also form a separate branch of the Order for scholars (the Scholars of Saint Peter or SSP) to research and develop military science and technology. The University of Saint Peter attracts scholars and artisans from across Europe and the Mediterranean. Several Armenian, Italian, and other Mediterranean scholars take up teaching posts at the University or join the Scholars or Engineers.

Paladin and Venetian forces conquer the city of Tripoli in 1507. Venice annexes a strip of Libyan coast from Tripoli to Paladin Egypt the same year. In 1510, the Venetians invent a steam engine. In 1511, Burgundian forces seize ports along the North African coast (Algeria) south of Burgundy.

In 1518, the Venetian engineers and the Engineers of Saint Peter announce their project to create a canal thru the Suez Peninsula. In 1520, Paladin engineers invent a steam engine.
In 1522, Portuguese ships travel south of the Equator for the first time. The Paladin University of Saint-Peter at Jerusalem is founded in 1527. Castile-Aragon conquers Tangier, Tetoun, Oran, Bona, and Tunis during the period of 1522-28. In 1520, Hungary begins a 12-year war against the Kazan Khanate. Work begins on the Canal in 1523. In 1530, matchlocks are invented by the Venetians. Venice invents a steam pump for mining that same year. In 1533, the Kazan Khanate sues for peace and cedes the eastern half of its territory to Hungary. By 1535, matchlocks are the standard weapons of the Venetian military. A strip of North African coast between Tunis and Tripoli is settled by Venice by 1536. Burgundy settles a strip of North African coast between Algiers and Tunis in the same year as well.

In 1537, with the conquest of Wales, England, English France, and Wales become Great Britain. The Canal of St-Mark and St Peter is completed in 1538. The first all-sea round trips from Cyprus to India, and from Venice to India are completed in 1539.

In the late summer of 1541, 7 Portuguese ships leave Portugal hoping to find a western route to India bypassing the Canal of St-Mark and St-Peter. The Portuguese rest and re-supply in the Cape Verde Islands and head southwest. The Portuguese reach the coast of OTL’s Brazil on September 21st 1541.

In 1540, the Venetians and Paladins conquer the Indian port city of Goa. Venice annexes Goa. In the same year, Hungary becomes a Hapsburg territory. By 1540, matchlocks are the standard Paladin weapons. Armenia invents a Wheelock firearm the same year. In 1540, Burgundy splits from the Holy Roman Empire. Armenia invents a steam pump for mining. The British invent a steam engine in 1541.

In 1544, the Portuguese return from OTL’s Brazil, having explored the some of the coast and acquiring some goods from the natives. In 1543, the Paladins conquer Ceylon. The Paladins annex Ceylon in 1544. In 1545, Malacca is conquered by Venice. In 1546, Castile-Aragon invades the French papal lands. The Paladins ask the Spanish not to but to no avail, so the Paladins evacuate to English Aquitaine and Avignon.

Meanwhile, a leading proponent of Church reform posts a letter with 47 theses to the door of a cathedral in Mainz. Some advocate the execution of the heretical would-be Reformer. The Order stands behind the Church but hints that changes should be made as long as papal authority is not threatened. The liberal minded Pope sees that changes to the Church can be made as long as papal authority is retained. The sale of Indulgences is banned. The Holy Order of Saint Peter, having been falsely accused of heresy in the past and having had close contacts with Armenians, are more understanding and impartial than the Church. The Paladins grant temporary shelter and a fair trial to those accused of heresy.

By 1545, the lands of the Slovenes, the Croats, the Montenegrins, and the Bosnians belong to the Holy Roman Empire and the Republic of Venice. In 1545, the Portuguese set up trading posts along the Brazilian coast. Venice makes first contact with the Kingdom of Siam that same year. By 1546, Venice controls the Straits of Malacca, and Venetian and Paladin forces have conquered the islands of Tindore, Ternate and the 3 smaller islands near Halmahera Island in the northern Moluccas on which grow the only clove trees. In 1547, Great Britain and Scotland are joined politically. In 1548, the Paladins evacuate Granada.

In 1548, Paladins establish the University of St-Peter at Alexandria, Egypt. By 1548, Spanish forces have occupied most of the former French papal lands. In 1549, Venice and the Order conquer Socotra. In the same year, the French papal lands are annexed by Castile-Aragon. In 1550, a Portuguese expedition returns to OTL’s Brazil in search of valuable trade goods or a route to India. In the same year, the Paladins overturn the Spanish government of Malta with Venetian help. In 1551, the Venetians and the Order conquer Java. In the same year, Burgundy and some southern German states invade Spanish held lands in France.

In 1551, a Spanish expedition sets out to circumnavigate Africa and hopefully find a route to India. The Spanish get caught in a storm and lose most of their ships off OTL’s western South Africa. They decide to return home.

In 1552, Great Britain invades northern Aquitaine. In the same year, Venice and the Paladins invade Corsica. Great Britain invades northern Burgundy in a surprise move.

By 1552, the allies return to Goa and Ceylon. Between 1552 and 1554, the Paladins and Venetians conquer the port cities of Aden and Hormuz. Venice and the Paladins come to an agreement: the Spice Islands and India will belong to Venice, but the Venetians will give the Order a share of the profits in exchange for helping govern and defend them. In 1555, missionaries from Venetian Goa are invited to the court of the Mughal Emperor. Having secured the major sea routes between the Far East and the Mediterranean, most of the Paladin and Venetian ships return to the Mediterranean.

In 1554, Corsica becomes independent. In 1555, Naples revolts against Spanish rule. Burgundy cedes Flanders to Great Britain in the same year.

In 1556, Spanish ships land in the Caribbean. By 1560, Spain has been pushed back to the Pyrenees. In 1559, Venice and the Paladins invade Naples. By 1560, Austria breaks from the Holy Roman Empire and forms the Austrian Empire. In the same year, Venetians circumnavigate the world. In 1562, Venice controls Naples. They pull out partially once peace is signed.

In 1555, the Spanish send out another expedition. They round the tip of South Africa and land in Madagascar. They set up a trading colony on the island and set off for India. They arrive in Aden sometime in 1556. They sail to India, land in Bombay, pick up a shipment of trade goods and then return to Madagascar. Rested and replenished, the Spanish leave Madagascar for Spain. They trade their trade goods and make a large profit.

In 1555, the Kingdom of Serbia and the Kingdoms of Moldavia and Wallachia declare war on Venice and the Empire. In 1552, Ivan II subjugates the eastern half of the Kazan Khanate. The Torgholid Empire breaks up in 1553, and the nominal Christian successor states of the Khanate of Persia (Iran, part of Syria, and Iraq), the Central Khanate (part of Iran, northern Afghanistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan), and the Southern Khanate (southern Afghanistan, Pakistan, and north-western India) are formed in 1555.

In 1556, Ivan II defeats the Astrakhan Khanate. Serbia invades Bosnia and Montenegro and captures them in 1558. In 1559, the Pope convenes a council to settle the issue of Church reform for now. A slim majority agree to a number of reforms to the Church. The Pope issues a Bull proclaiming the council’s decisions the following year. The selling of indulgences is abolished.

The Imperial and Venetian forces concentrate on defeating the Moldavians and Wallachians. Muscovy invades northeastern Hungary in 1559. Hungary moves to stop this threat. In 1560, Serbia invades southern Hungary. Imperial and Venetian forces capture southern Wallachia and Moldavia by 1561. In 1562, the Pope orders the Paladins to support the Venetian and Imperial forces to bring peace to the Balkans. By 1563, all of Moldavia and southern Wallachia is in Venetian or Imperial hands. In 1564, the Allies sign a truce with the Wallachians and Moldavians, and subsequently launch a surprise attack on Serbia thru the Duchy of Athens. Serbian forces are withdrawn from Hungary, Bosnia and, Montenegro completely to repulse the new threat.

In 1563, peace with Spain is signed. England and Burgundy annex all former Spanish lands in France. The Paladins receive Malta. Venice annexes Corsica and Sicily. Navarre becomes an English vassal.

Gold mines are discovered in Santo Domingo in the same year. In 1565, Paladin engineers invent a wheel-lock firearm. Burgundy invents a steam engine. The Wallachians and Moldavians sign a peace agreement with Venice, the Empire and the Order.

Allied forces annex Moldavia and pull out completely from Wallachia. Russian forces shore up their Hungarian lands and Hungary gives up claims to those lands after 7 years of fighting in 1566. After 5 years of heavy fighting, the Serbians sue for peace in 1569. In 1570, the Serbians are given a rump state, a vassal of the Empire, roughly OTL’s Kosovo. The Empire and Venice annex the rest of Serbia. In the same year, Venice and the Paladins reach China. In 1570, Armenia publishes the first complete Bible in Armenian.

In 1568, Paladins establish the University of St-Peter at Bayonne, Aquitaine. In 1569, Great Britain sends out a fleet of ships to discover a western sea route to India and/or find valuable trade goods in lands unclaimed by the Spanish or Portuguese. They land in Newfoundland. In 1570, the British ships explore the Gulf of St-Laurence. Venice launches it's first steam powered galleon in the same year.

In 1570-85, the Poles revolt against Danish and Hungarian rule and re-establish an independent Polish state.

In 1571, Crimean Tatars sack Moscow. Venice and the Order conquer and begin fortifying Diu in India. In 1572, the Muslim Shahdom of Persia (OTL central Iran) is founded. In 1573, the allies discover Nippon (Japan). In 1575, The Holy Order of Saint Peter and Venice capture Sulawesi (Celebes). In 1576, the Venetians and Paladins capture the port city of Bombay.

In 1576, Burgundy sends out a fleet of ships to discover a western sea route to India or to find trade goods in lands that are not settled by the Portuguese, Spanish or British. Burgundian ships land in Manhattan. In the following 3 years they have explored the east coast from OTL’s Maine to OTL’s Georgia.

In 1572-75, the Spanish conquer Puerto Rico and settle Jamaica. Portugal introduces sugarcane cultivation in her Brazilian territories. The Spanish between 1573 and 1577 settle the Panamanian isthmus.

Between 1575 and 1579, Spain conquers Cuba, founds Baracoa in 1576, Boyoma in 1577, Havana, Puerto Principe, and Trinidad in 1578, and Santiago de Cuba in 1579.

The Southern Khanate conquers the Sultanate of Delhi in 1579. In 1580, the nominally Christian, Kingdom of Kurdistan (OTL north-western Iraq and eastern Syria) is founded. In 1581, the Venetians and Paladins capture the port city of Madras.

In 1585-90, the Lithuanians revolt against Hungarian, Danish
and Russian rule and re-establish an independent Lithuanian state.

In 1580, the Hanseatic League is officially disbanded. Between 1590 and 1600, Armenia expands its borders to the Khanate of Crimea. In 1583, Paladins establish the University of St-Peter at Adrianople. In 1585, Paladin and Armenian forces invade the remnants of the Khanate of Persia to support the Assyrians. In 1590, the Armenians and Paladins have secured Baghdad. Spain conquers the Gulf of Nicoya and Lake Nicaragua regions in 1586. The Spanish explore down the San Juan River in 1587. By 1588, all of Libya is firmly in Venetian hands.

Between 1588 and 1592, a Spanish expedition explores the Gulf of Guyaquil and Tumbez. In 1590, the Order launches it's first steam powered galleon. Spain invents a steam engine in the same year. In 1591, the first British permanent settlement, Halifax (OTL Halifax, Nova Scotia), is founded. Sao Paulo is founded in 1592.

Between 1595 and 1599, the permanent settlement of the Rio de la Plata region by the Spanish begins. By 1595, the Shahdom of Persia has conquered most of Persia. In 1595, the Paladins and Armenians have conquered Basra and have reached the Persian Gulf.
Spain explores the Orinoco region that year. Britain establishes St-John's on Newfoundland Island in 1596. In 1597, Burgundy’s first permanent settlement, New Antwerp, on Manhattan Island, is founded. The Russian city of Tobolsk on the Tobol River is founded in the same year. In 1597, the Christian Kingdom of Assyria is founded and the Mughal Emperor, Raja, makes Christianity the state religion. In 1598, the Khanate of Persia ends, and the Paladins and Venetians begin capturing the rest of southern India‘s coast. In 1598, Spain conquers the Aztec Empire and the Qechuan Kingdom of Quito. In 1599, Burgundy establishes New Marseiles (OTL Boston).

The years 1600 to 1603 mark the Spanish exploration of the Magdalena River, Plateau of Bogota, the defeat and raiding of the Chibcha chiefdoms, and the founding of Buenos Aires on the Plata River. In 1600, Venice discovers Australia and publishes the first complete Bible in Italian. In 1600, Armenia launches it's first steam powered galleon.

In 1602, the Central Khanate falls to the Uzbeks. In 1603, Paladins discover Tasmania and claim it. In 1603, Spain conquers Portugal. In 1605, Swedish and Norwegian forces invade the Kola Peninsula while Danish forces invade Karelia. Poland and Lithuania expand their territory during the Russo-Scandinavian War.

In 1604, Imperial and Hungarian forces invade Wallachia. Venice claims Australia in 1605. Also in 1605, Spain begins mining gold in Peru. In 1606, Venice and the Paladins travel south along the west coast of Northern Columbia. They discover a fertile coastal valley. Venice sets up a trading colony on San Marco Bay (San Francisco Bay). Sailing south to the Equator, the Venetians and Paladins run into the Spanish and decide to return to the Spice Islands. A storm pushes them off course and they land in the Hawaiian Islands. Mourning the loss of the crew and a few vessels, the visitors are warmly taken care of. The Venetians and Paladins resupply and repair the other ships and head west landing in Irian Java safely. In 1607, the Southern Khanate, renamed the Mughal Empire, finally conquers Rajastan.

By 1610, Venice has circumnavigated Australia. A group of Venetian vessels discovers the island of Tangeshima and subsequently land on the southern coast of Kyushu in 1611. By 1611, Karelia belongs to Denmark. In 1612, Venice discovers New Corsica (North Island, New Zealand) and New Sardinia (South Island, New Zealand). During 1610-12, Venice establishes permanent settlements at San Marco (San Francisco) in Nuova Venezia (California) and San Maria (Honolulu) in Nuova Candia (Oahu). Venice claims New Corsica and New Sardinia in 1613. In 1614, Christianity is introduced to Japan. Sometime in 1614, the Mughals conquer Gujarat, and 4 years later they annex the Bengal territory. In 1615, a number of Paladin knights, monks, engineers and scholars accompany a similar group of Venetians to the court of Ieyasu. By 1615, the Kola Peninsula belongs to Sweden and Norway.

In 1615, Burgundy establishes Charlestown on OTL’s Chesapeake Bay. In 1618, the British found a permanent settlement, New Paris on the Island of New England (Montreal Island). In 1619, Yeniseisk on the Yenisei River is founded by Russia. In 1620, Venice launches it's first steam powered armoured carriage. In 1620, Naples revolts against Spain. Venice acts quickly to invade Spanish Naples. In 1621, Great Britain lands troops in Spanish Portugal as well as fighting Spain at sea.

The Wallachian War ends in 1622. The Empire and Hungary annex Wallachia.

The Neapolitans throw their lot in with the Venetians, and by 1623, Naples is in Venetian hands. Venice seeks to pursue its victory. The revolt in Sardinia in 1624 leads to an invasion by Venetian troops.

In 1625, Kashmir falls to the Mughals. The Mughals subsequently expand into the Sindh, Baluchistan and Quandahar. By 1625, the Portuguese and British occupy the eastern third of Portugal. By 1625, Ireland is finally conquered by Britain. Also in 1625, the British East India Company is established. By 1626, the British capture Gibraltar, Tangier and Tetoun. Sardinia is in Venetian hands by 1627.Also in 1627, the Austrian Empire conquers Bohemia.

By 1628, The Mughal Empire covers the entire plain of Hindustan, from the Ganges in the east to the Indus in the west, from the edge of the Deccan in the south to the Hindu Kush and Himalayas in the north. In 1627, Sweden, Denmark and Norway form the Confederation of Scandinavia.

In 1628, the Venetians and British launch an attack on Catalonia. The Spanish seeing that they are losing, recall ships from their overseas territories. The Venetians and British fortify their positions. Meanwhile the British and Burgundians invade the Caribbean. Venice and the Paladins move to grab Spain’s African territories. Britain grabs Cuba by 1629. Burgundy grabs Haiti and Martinique by 1630.

By 1630, Nagasaki is opened to Venetian, Paladin and Chinese trade. In 1631, Burgundy establishes New Reims at OTL Jacksonville, Florida. In the same year, Paladin engineers produce a steam powered armoured carriage. Venice and the Paladins control former Spanish Madagascar and the Cape by 1632. In 1632, the Portuguese in Spanish Brazil revolt against the Spanish with the support of the invading British and Burgundians. The Burgundians launch a surprise attack on the La Platta settlement at the mouth of the Parana River and capture it in 6 months. Fearing a civil war in Iberia, the Spanish sign a peace agreement.

In 1633, Spain agrees to:

1) Cede Naples, Sardinia, Madagascar and the Cape to Venice.
2) Cede Cuba, Gibraltar, Tangier, Tetoun, and part of northern Brazil to Great Britain
3) Grants independence to the eastern third of Portugal and most of her colonies.

4) Cede Martinique, Haiti, La Platta and part of northern Brazil to Burgundy.

By 1634, the Paladins and Venetians have conquered all of non-Mughal India except the Deccan region. In 1636, Venice and the Order invade the Deccan region. In 1636, the King Henry Bible is completed in England. In 1636, the Portuguese build Fort Natal. In 1637, Cossacks conquer the fortress of Azoz and offer it to the Czar of Russia. The Czar accepts. In 1638, the Spanish make first contact with the powerful Inca Empire. By 1639, Venice and the Paladins have conquered most of the Philippines (Cebu, Masbate, Bohol, Luzon, Panay, Parawan, Selay, Leyte, and Negros).

In 1640, Britain begins trading with Japan. In 1640, Venice launches it's first steel hulled galleon and invent a flintlock firearm. Britain and Burgundy launch their first steam galleons in 1641. In 1642, Burgundy begins trading with Japan. In 1643, the British reach the western shore of Lake Superior. In 1643, the Quechuan Kingdom of Titicaca falls to Spain. By 1645, the Paladin monks are the only Christian proselytizers allowed in Japan.

Also in 1645, the British discover the Mississippi. In 1647, a Scandinavian fleet is sent out to find a northwest passage through Columbia. They turn back because of ice and land on the southern coast of Gustav’s Bay (James’ Bay). In 1648, the Mughal armies meet the Venetians and Paladins in the conquered Deccan region. In 1650, The Holy Roman Empire divides into the Southern Holy Roman Empire and the Holy German Empire. In 1655, the Portuguese establish Belem on the mouth of the Amazon River. In the same year, the Order and Venice have conquered Borneo and half of Irian Java.

In 1649, Russia codifies the laws of serfdom. The port city of Okhotsk is founded on the Sea of Okhotsk in the same year. In 1650, Armenia launches it's first steam powered and lightly armoured carriage.

In 1652, Irkutsk, just north of the southern end of Lake Baikal, is founded. In 1653, the Order establishes a colony at Saint Peter (Hobart) on the island of Antipode (Tasmania). Paladin-Venetian Spice Island Pact is expanded to include all subsequent colonies.
In 1655, the Order launches its first steel hulled galleon and adopts flintlock firearms as its weapon of choice. Spain launches its first steam galleon in 1655 as well.

Great Northern War: 1655-65

In 1655, Denmark, Sweden and Hungary invade Poland and Lithuania. By 1658, Denmark, Sweden and Hungary have conquered large portions of Poland and Lithuania. In 1659, Austria invades southwestern Hungary and makes some gains by 1661. Hungary halts her advance into Poland and Lithuania. A smaller Poland signs peace with Hungary in 1660. In the same year, Russia invades Sweden. Sweden halts her advance into Lithuania. Lithuania signs a peace agreement with Sweden and Hungary in 1660. In 1661, the Holy German Empire invades Holstein, forcing Denmark to halt her advance into Poland. The Germans occupy Schleswig-Holstein by 1662. In 1664, the Danes have regained half of Schleswig-Holstein. The Holy German Empire and Denmark sign a peace agreement.

Treaty of Amsterdam:

Russia gains Karelia.
Sweden keeps her Lithuanian gains and Lithuania becomes a Swedish vassal.
Denmark keeps her Polish gains.
The Holy German Empire gains Schleswig.
Hungary keeps her Polish gains, and Poland becomes a Hungarian vassal.
Austria keeps her Hungarian gains.

In 1658, Spain has made the Inca Empire her vassal. In 1659, the Persians invade the Uzbek Khanate.

Mughals come to the aid of the Uzbeks and push back the Persians in 1661. The war ends in a draw. All participants return to pre-war borders by 1663.

In 1660, the Triennial Act passes in Britain. It requires the calling of Parliament every 3 years regardless of royal initiative. Burgundy conquers Bermuda that same year. In 1663, Britain establishes a permanent settlement, St-George, (OTL Detroit). Burgundy conquers Guadeloupe that same year. Britain conquers the Bahamas in 1664. In 1667, there is a crisis in the Orthodox Church, a split between those in favour of the new reforms versus those against. The split is ended in 1670 in favour of the reformers.

In 1673, Britain establishes St-Andrew (OTL’s Chicago). Burgundy conquers Puerto Rico that same year. Venice establishes a permanent colony at Nova Lucca (Sydney) in Australia in 1675. Also in 1675, Britain establishes New Cherbourg (OTL’s Duluth, Wisconsin). Britain conquers Jamaica that same year. Between 1675 and 1750, the Industrial Revolution begins in Italy, the Order lands, Armenia, and Burgundy. Britain establishes New York, 200 miles upstream from the Mississippi delta in 1680. During 1680-1685, the Parliamentary Rebellion rages thru England and Scotland. Royalist forces eventually put down the rebellion. In 1689, the King creates the first biennial parliaments. They would sit for 2 years.

Assyrian-Persian War: 1678-1680

Kurdistan and the Order come to the defence of the Assyrians. Kurdistan and Assyria gain lands in Persia.

In 1678, the Christian Peasant Revolt in Japan begins. The peasants are aided by Venice and the Order. The peasants are victorious by 1682. The victory of the peasants leads to civil war.

Japanese Civil War: 1682-1702

Peace is achieved by 1702. In 1703, a Christian Shogun is undisputed ruler of the Honshu and Kyushu islands.

In 1683, The Order establishes the University of St-Peter at St-Peter, Antipode (OTL Tasmania). In 1688, Russia signs the Treaty of Nerchinsk with China.

By 1700, Britain has settled a large portion of the St-Lawrence-Great-Lakes Basin and, Burgundy has settled a large portion of the Atlantic to the Appalachians. In 1714, the Principle of Primogeniture is established in Russia.

By 1700, Venice controls the Strait of Mozambique having conquered the island of Madagascar, the African coast across from it, including the port towns of Mozambique and Zanzibar, and the African territory of Guinea. Burgundy controls the Angolan coast and the mouth of the Senegal River. Britain controls the Gold Coast (including Accra), part of the Ivory Coast, and the Slave Coast. By 1700, Mindanao Island in the southern Philippines is conquered by Burgundy.

By 1707, Britain and Burgundy capture all former Portuguese colonies. Burgundy takes northern Brazil, and Britain takes southern Brazil.

Balkan War: 1703-1710

In 1703, Serbia rebels against the Southern Holy Roman Empire and invades Bosnia, Montenegro, and ancient Serbia. Greece rebels in 1704, and is followed by Bulgaria and Wallachia in 1605. By 1706, Serbia has conquered Montenegro, Serbia proper and southern Bosnia. In the same year, Austria invades the lands of the Croats and Slovenes. In 1707, Venice and the Order invade the Adriatic coast of the former Southern Holy Roman Empire. In the same year, Russia invades Moldova and Wallachia. In 1708, Venice and the Order invade Bulgaria. In the same year, the Austrians win against the Serbians and occupy Bosnia. Also in 1708, Serbia conquers Macedonia. In 1709, the Austrians and Russians meet in Wallachia and agree to each take half of Wallachia. In the same year, Venice and the Order invade Bulgaria and Greece. In 1710, peace is signed. Bulgaria signs peace agreement with Venice and the Order in 1710.

Treaty of Constantinople:

Austria gains all lands in the former Southern Holy Roman Empire north of Serbia, west of eastern Wallachia.
Russia gains Moldova and eastern Wallachia.

Venice gains some Adriatic coastline adjoining the new Austrian lands, Constantinople, Bulgaria, the Balkan coastline of the Bosporus and Dardanelle Straits, Greece and all Aegean islands.
The Order keeps its Balkan lands including the coast.
Serbia gains Macedonia and Serbia proper, plus part of northern Greece and western Bulgaria.

In 1708, the Inca Empire is dissolved and absorbed by Spain.

Third Spanish War: 1710-1725

Venice invades Spanish Mexico from Nuova Italia and by sea in 1710. Britain invades Argentina in 1710. Burgundian, Venetian and British forces invade Florida in 1711. Florida falls to the allies in 1713. Santiago, Chile falls to the British in 1714. By 1715, Venetian, British, Paladin and Burgundian forces have captured Mexico City. Venice and the Order take the Isthmus of Gonzales (Panama) by 1716. The allies occupy the lands between Mexico City and the Isthmus of Gonzales by 1718. British and Venetian forces have conquered the lands between Santiago and the shores of Lake Titicaca by 1720. The Order conquers the Galapagos Islands in 1721. Lima falls to the allies by 1722. The allies now fight the Spanish on 3 fronts. Spain sues for peace in mid-1725

Treaty of Vienna

Burgundy gains Florida, the Captaincy General of Venezuela (OTL Venezuela and Guyana), Guiana (OTL Suriname, French Guiana), and the Audiencia of Santa Fe (most of OTL Colombia) to the border of the Isthmus of Gonzales.

Britain gains the eastern half of the Viceroyalty of New Spain (OTL eastern Mexico, Belize and Honduras), the Captaincy General of Chile (OTL most of Chile) and the Audiencia of Buenos Aires (OTL most of Argentina and all of Uruguay).

Venice gains the western half of the Viceroyalty of New Spain (OTL western Mexico, western Guatemala, El Salvador), the Captaincy General of Guatemala (OTL Nicaragua, Costa Rica), the Audiencia of Lima (mainly Peru OTL), the Presidencia of Charcas (OTL Bolivia) and the Isthmus of Gonzales.

The rest of the Caribbean islands are divided up between Britain, Burgundy and Venice except for the Virgin Islands, Trinidad and Tobago, and St-Lucia, which are given to the Paladins. The Paladins gain the Galapagos Islands as well.

In 1712, Czar Sergei III makes Tobolsk the administrative capital of the Province of Siberia. In 1715, Britain establishes St-Louis (OTL St-Louis) at the confluence of the Missouri and Mississippi rivers.

During 1717 to 1720, internal instability in Tuscany leads to a Venetian invasion.

New Paris (OTL’s Winnipeg) is established by Britain in 1718 on the Red River south of Lake Winnipeg.

In 1720, Britain conquers the Cape Verde Islands. Venice conquers Tuscany in 1721.

In 1722, Hungary is united politically with the Austrian Empire. In the same year, a Scandinavian fleet travels to Columbia to claim land. In 1723, Scandinavia begins fur trading with the natives of Gustav’s Bay. Burgundy establishes New Amsterdam (OTL Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania) on the Ohio River in the same year. Britain has conquered the Azores by mid-1723.

Crimean War: 1723-1733

Russia and the Cossacks, Venice, and Armenia against the Crimean Khanate. The Khanate is defeated. Venice gains the central lands of the Crimean Khanate, Armenia gains the eastern lands, and Russia gets the western lands.

In 1724, Burgundy conquers the Madeira Islands. Britain establishes New Edinburgh (OTL Perth) on the west coast of Australia in 1725. Burgundy conquers the Canary Islands in 1725. Britain establishes New Nantes at the mouth of the Mississippi in 1727. In 1727, the Confederation of Scandinavia becomes the United Kingdoms of Scandinavia.

Middle Eastern War: 1728-1742

In 1728, Persia and the Uzbek Empire invade the Mughal Afghani lands. In 1731, Kabul falls. In 1735, Quandahar falls. During 1737-39, Persian and Uzbek forces invade India and cross the Indus. The Mughals begin repulsing the invaders in 1740, retaking Quandahar in 1742.

In the peace treaty, the Mughals lose Kabul (in the north) to the Uzbek Khanate and some lands in the west to Persia.

The Fourth Spanish War: 1727-1736

In 1727, the revolt of the Catalans is followed by a Catalonian invasion by Venice and the Paladins. The Portuguese revolt of 1728 is followed by an invasion of Spanish Portugal by the Portuguese and British. Paladin and Venetian forces conquer the Kingdom of Majorca in 1729. In the same year, Burgundy invades northern Castile and Aragon provinces and, at the same time attacks the Valencia provinces of Spain along with Venetian and Paladin forces.

The German Confederation succeeds the Holy German Empire in 1730. Scandinavia establishes the permanent settlement of New Malmo (OTL Fort George, Quebec) on Gustav’s Bay in 1731.

By 1732, Catalonia is in Venetian hands and Valencia is in Burgundian hands. By 1733, Portuguese and British forces occupy pre-union Portugal, Galicia and Asturias. In 1734, Burgundian, Paladin and Venetian forces invade the Granada and Andalusia provinces of Spain. In late 1735, Spanish (mainly Castilean) forces sue for peace.
Peace is signed in late 1736.

Treaty of Zurich:

Venice gains the lands of old Aragon.

Portugal regains its pre-1580 borders and becomes a British protectorate.

Burgundy gains Granada.

Navarre, Galicia, and Asturias are granted independence.

Navarre becomes a British protectorate, Galicia becomes a Burgundian protectorate, and Asturias becomes a Venetian protectorate.

Most of the old Kingdom of Castile makes up the new independent Kingdom of Castile.
The Order is granted the Kingdom of Majorca.

The first Russian university is founded in Moscow in 1730. Italy establishes Nuova Lucca (OTL Adelaide) on the southern coast of Australia in the same year. In 1731, the Kazak Lesser Horde becomes a Russian protectorate. In 1732, Russia begins building a fleet based in the Black Sea. Russia establishes the fort of Orenburg in 1734.

In 1736, Italia establishes Nuova Roma (OTL Brisbane) on the eastern coast of Australia. The Kazak Middle Horde becomes a Russian protectorate in 1740. Venice and the Order complete the conquest of New Guinea Island in 1740. Part of the Kazak Greater Horde becomes a Russian protectorate in 1742. In 1746, the Holy Order of St-Peter is granted sovereignty by Pope Urban XIII. The Order will not become involved in conflicts between Christian states except as peacekeepers or mediators.

Papal War: 1747-1750

Venice conquers the Papal States, thus uniting all of Italia officially by 1751. The Pope retains the Vatican. In 1752, Italia grants universal male suffrage.

The Continental War: 1740-1758,

In 1740, Austria invades Bavaria. By 1744, the Austrians are stopped short by German forces. In 1746, Austria faces a new foe in the form of a Russian invasion of Hungary. Shoring up defences in Bavaria, Austria moves to contain the Russians. Eastern Hungary is firmly in Russian hands by 1749. With the partial withdrawal of Austrian forces German forces defeat the Austrians and retake Bavaria by 1750. German forces invade Poland and northwestern Hungary in 1752. In 1750, the Russians push on, but pull back when word of a Scandinavian invasion of Karelia reaches them. German forces capture northwestern Hungary and Poland by 1756. Scandinavian forces besiege Novgorod in 1751. Russian forces break the siege of Novgorod in 1753 and push back the Scandinavian forces. Russian and Scandinavian forces conquer Lithuania in 1755. German forces capture north-western Hungary and Poland by 1756. General peace is signed in early 1758.

Treaty of Paris

Scandinavia gains Karelia and western Lithuania
Russia gains eastern Lithuania and northeastern Hungary.
The German Confederation gains northwestern Hungary and Poland.

Between 1750 and 1800, the Industrial Revolution begins in Germany, Austria, Scandinavia and Serbia. Japan conquers Shikoku Island by 1750.

In 1751, Scandinavia establishes New Trondheim (OTL Churchill, Manitoba) on the western shore of Gustav’s Bay. The German Confederation becomes the United States of Germany in 1757.

Persian War: 1750-1758

Persia and the Uzbek Empire invade India in 1751. Armenia supplies war materials to the Assyrians. Assyrian forces invade Persia in 1752. Persia pulls back from India in 1753. In 1754, Venetian, Paladin and British forces land at Abadan and Ormuz and then march to the capital. The Uzbeks pull out of India to defend against the Europeans and to negotiate a peace with the Europeans. By 1755, the Persian coast is in allied hands. The Persian capital falls in 1758. Peace is signed the following year.

Treaty of Damascus:

Venice gains southwestern Persia;
Assyria gains northwestern Persia
Britain gains southeastern Persia.
Mughal Empire gains northeastern Persia.

Germany claims Namibia in 1764. Russia begins secularizing Church lands in 1765. Venice and the Order conquer the southern coast of the Arabian Peninsula by 1767. Italia abolishes slavery by 1775. Japan conquers the Island of Hokkaido by 1777.

Armed Neutrality at Sea is adopted in 1781. Germany makes good its African claims and increases settlement of the African territory of Namibia in 1783. Britain grants universal male suffrage in the same year. In 1785, corporate rights for the Russian nobility and towns are adopted. In 1787, the Treaty of Petrograd gives Sakhalin Island to Russia and the Kuriles to Japan.

Italia and the Order complete St-Christopher Line, a railroad across the Isthmus of Gonzales, linking the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, in 1789. Burgundy grants universal male suffrage in 1793.

In 1797, the newly named Sandwich sweater, one that zips up the front, is named for the late Earl of Sandwich who invented it. Japan conquers Okinawa in the same year thus bring all of the Ryukyus into the Japanese Empire. By 1800, the northwestern lands of the Mughal Empire break away. Burgundy abolishes slavery by 1800.

By the dawn of the 19th century, in northern Columbia, Venice controls the lands between the Rockies and the Pacific south of Alaska. Britain controls all lands south of Gustav’s Bay coast and south of the 60th parallel and west of the Ohio River and lower Mississippi River and east of the Rockies including all of the St-Lawrence-Great Lakes basin, Newfoundland, Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia. Burgundy controls all lands south of the Ohio River and east of the lower Mississippi River. Scandinavia controls the coast of Gustav’s Bay and north of the 60th Parallel. Russia controls Alaska.

Portugal begins industrializing in 1810. The first railroads are built by Italy, Britain, the Order, and Armenia between 1800 and 1820.

First World War: 1806-1825

Russia and Serbia invade Austria in 1806. In 1809, the Poles rebel against the German Confederation. Austria is losing badly and cuts its losses by ceding Bosnia to Serbia in 1811. Luckily for Austria, Russia decides to invade the German Polish lands and Austria pushes the Russians out of Austrian territory by 1814. In 1818, Russia invades the Italian Crimea, the Italians retreat orderly, taking out as many Russian troops as possible. In early 1820, Italia invades Serbia and Russian Alaska. Italia blockades Serbian ports. Alaska falls to Italy in 1822. Austrian forces reconquer Bosnia and conquer northern Serbia by 1822. German and Russian forces are deadlocked by 1823. Serbia is partitioned by Austria and Italy by 1824. Peace is signed in 1825.

Treaty of Cis:

Italy gains Alaska and the southern lands of Serbia.
Austria gains the northern lands of Serbia.
Russia gains the Italian lands in the Crimea.

An independent Poland is established.

The Sino-Japanese War: 1807-1822

By 1810, Venice has acquired the former Bengal province of the Mughal Empire. Slavery is abolished in the British Empire by 1811. Afghani rebels defeat Uzbek forces and establish the Khanate of Afghanistan in 1815. Scandinavia abolishes slavery by 1816.

In 1823, peace is signed between Japan and China. Japan gains Formosa. Burgundy, Russia, Germany and Britain force Japan to return its Korean conquests.

By 1825, the Kazak Lesser Horde is absorbed by Russia. Italia annexes the Hawaiian islands of Hawaii, Oahu, Molokai, Maui and the minor islands in 1825. The Order annexes the Hawaiian Island of Kauai in 1826. An industrial revolution begins in Castile in 1826 as well. The Kazak Middle Horde is absorbed by Russia by mid-1826.

The Earl of Cardigan in 1827 invents something that will later be called a cardigan: several slices of meat and cheese in between two slices of buttered bread. In 1829, the Mughal Empire falls. Germany builds its first railroad in 1830.

The 2nd Sino-Japanese War: 1830-1845.

Japan conquers the Island of Hainan in 1833. Venice and Britain divide the former Mughal lands between them by 1835. Japan conquers all Korean lands south of the Yalu River by 1837. The Uzbek Empire breaks up in 1840. Japanese forces take Harbin by 1842. By 1845, the Japanese are pushed back to Jilin and Changchun. Peace is signed in 1846.

Treaty of Manilla:

Japan gains Korea and Manchuria south of a line through Shenyang, Jilin and Changchun to Lake Khanka.

The first tanks (OTL French WW1 equivalent) are made by the Order in 1849.

Russia establishes Alma-Ata in 1856. All of Kazakstan is absorbed by Russia by 1858. During 1854-59, Russia conquers all the lands north of the Amur River. Italia produces its first tanks in 1860.

In 1862, Russia annexes the lands east of the Ussuri River. The settlement of Vladivostok is established by Russia in the same year. Russia creates the Province of Turkestan in 1863. The Russians capture Tashkent in 1864. Russia captures Samarkand in 1865. In 1867, Russia establishes a fort at Krasnovodsk on the Caspian Sea.

The Hungarian War of Independence/War of Hungarian Succession: 1870-1873.

Hungary revolts in 1870.

Czechs, Slovaks, Serbs, Slovenes, Croats, Montenegrins, Kossovars, Macedonians, rise in revolt in 1871.

Second World War: 1873-1883

Germany invades Austria in 1873.

1884 Treaty of Paris:

Germany gains Austria proper,

Japan gains Manchuria and the Russian Far East

The Austrian Empire is dissolved

Hungary is restored

Slavic Confederacy is formed

Poland receives Polish Austrian lands

The World League founded in 1879. Charter members: The Order of Saint-Peter, Italian Empire, British Empire, Burgundian Empire, United States of Germany, Russian Empire, Hungary, Japan, China, United States of Scandinavia, Castile, Portugal, Asturias, Galicia, Navarre, Armenia (Hayastan), Kurdistan, Assyria, Kingdom of Siam, Kingdom of Nubia, Kingdom of Abyssinia, Kingdom of Poland, and Kingdom of Egypt.

Berlin Conference of 1889 settles the division of Africa between the Order, Scandinavia, Italia, Britain, Burgundy, and Germany. Burgundy has Algeria, Burgundian Morocco, Burgundian (eastern) Mali, Burgundian Niger, Burkina, Angola, Zambia and Burgundian (eastern) Congo. Britain has British (Spanish) Morocco, Mauritania, Guinea-Bissau, Gambia, Senegal, British (western) Mali, British Guinea, Sierra Leone, Ivory Coast, Gold Coast, Slave Coast and Liberia. Italia has Libya, Tunisia, Chad, Central African Republic, Botswana, Mozambique, Malawi, Zimbabwe, Kenya, South Africa, Tanzania, Italian (western) Niger, Italian (western) Congo, and Uganda. Germany has Namibia. The Order has Equatorial Guinea and Sao Tome and Principe. Scandinavia has Gabon.

The Coats of Arms of the Paladins:

1274-1368: White Roman cross, on black quartered, with gules (red) Roman cross, on white.

1369-1560: Crimson cross of Jerusalem, on a white field.

1561-1745: Crimson Celtic cross, on a white field.

1746-: Crimson Celtic cross, on white, quartered with 2 argent (silver) keys crossed, on an azure (blue) field.

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