Venice (ETW Faction)

Venice is a minor nation in Empire: Total War.

Overview

By the events of Empire: Total War, the Republic of Venice (formally known as The Most Serene Republic of Venice) had lasted for over a thousand years. Wealthy merchants and skilled fighters, Venice had been engaged with regular conflicts with the Ottomans throughout the last two hundred years. The most recent conflict with the Ottomans, The Morean War (1684-1699) has left Venice in control of Morea, although the Republic has seen better days and is in its waning years. As the game begins in 1700, these territories are reflected on the world map.

Historically, the Ottomans regained Morea in 1718 after a war with the Austrians and Venetians. Once a power to be reckoned with, Venice was no longer able to pose a serious threat to anyone. In 1797, Venice surrendered unconditionally to Napoleon Bonaparte's armies and ceased to function as an independent state. It was later annexed in 1866 by Italy, which it has remained part of to the modern day.

Details

Venice controls two regions, one in Venetia, a region with a major city that borders the Italian States and the Austrian Empire, and Morea bordering Greece at the southern tip of the Balkans. Venice is one of the only republics in the early game, meaning that it will be hostile to nearly everyone it comes into contact with and is difficult to make an ally out of. Venice can be aggressive and usually builds up impressive armies at both regions, therefore becoming a serious threat to both the Ottomans and Austria in the early game. For many nations that have victory requirements close to Venetia, Venice will prove troublesome sooner or later. These nations include France, Prussia, and Spain. Venice often declares war against the Italian States during the mid to late game, potentially unifying the Italian peninsula and becoming quite powerful.