France (ETW Faction)
Overview
In the early 18th century France is a major power in Europe. The kingdom is ruled by an absolute monarch who can elect or dismiss his ministers at will. While the nobility is happy with the current situation, the lower classes are not and might try to get rid of their king once and for all. Since the Thiry-Years-War has weakened the German states and the Hapsburg Empire considerably, France is currently the dominant power in western Europe. The French have conquered Alsace not long ago and their country is rich and powerful. Furthermore, French troops have conquered vast areas in America. The whole Mississippi valley along with Quebec in the north are under French rule. Last but not least, France has aquired some land in South America which could possibly serve as a base for future expansions.
In conclusion, France is a strong power with important allies such as Spain. The Catholic nation owns many colonies and has both a powerful navy and army. However, Great Britain poses a major rival to the French. The British navy is still the strongest in the world and thus a danger for the French kingdom. Furthermore, Austria wants to regain its dominance in Europe and has not forgotten its past wars with France. Lastly, the Italian states at the southern French border are a powder keg and might cause a lot of trouble for the kingdom. Therefore, France is a country with many opportunities but also many possible enemies. And who knows how long the ordinary man on the street will accept having no say in his country's politics at all?
Starting Position
France starts the game with regions in both the European and the American theater. In Europe, the French own France and its capital Paris along with Alsace-Lorraine and its capital Strasburg. In America, France controls several regions and also has a protectorate which can become part of the French kingdom after a specific mission. In India the kingdom does not own any settlements.
In Europe, France borders the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. The absolute monarchy is surrounded by the Spanish kingdom in the south and their province Flanders in the north. Furthermore, France borders Wurttemberg in Central Europe and Savoy in the southeast. Across the English Channel lies the British Kingdom. In North America, the French colonies border the Iroquois confederacy and the British 13 colonies.
