Alexandria

Alexandria, officially the State of Alexandria, is a state situated on the north-central coast of the Luson region, one of the most densely populated regions in Cartadania. With a population of over 30.3 million residents, Alexandria is the third-most populous state in the country, behind only Verona and Santiago. It is spread across an area of approximately 163895.3 km2, making it the eleventh-largest state in the country. Calaine serves as the, located in central Alexandria. This bustling city is the center of commerce and cultural activity, attracting a diverse mix of people from different backgrounds. New Venceia, on the other hand, is the largest city by land area and the third largest city by population in the state, situated on the northeastern coast near the Sanoria Channel. It is home to a vibrant nightlife, entertainment, and dining scene, drawing in visitors from across the state and beyond. The state of Alexandria is divided into 117 counties, each with its own unique character and charm. The most populous urban region in the state is Greater New Venceia, which is home to approximately 7.4 million residents. This region is known for its bustling urban landscape, modern infrastructure, and economic opportunities.

Alexandria holds a significant place in Cartadania's history as the first state to ratify the current constitution in 1618, earning its nickname "The Premier State." The state's pivotal role in the formation of the country and its long-standing status as a cultural and economic center have contributed to its reputation as one of the most important states in the nation. After a period of disarray lasting approximately 30 years, Alexandria underwent a significant period of reform, which saw it emerge as the capital of the future Cartadania, even before the country's formal establishment. This period of growth and stability led to the state becoming a favorite destination for many Caphirians, thanks to its, flat geography, and welcoming culture. Alexandria's popularity as a hub for Venceia, which led to the creation of New Venceia, contributed to its exponential growth in population and economy.

As a result of its rapid expansion and dynamic economy, Alexandria has become one of the most diverse and influential states in the country, with a financial sector that rivals that of any other state. Its economy, which is third-most diverse in Cartadania (after Verona and Santarém), boasts a thriving tourism industry, a strong agricultural sector, and a vibrant service-based economy. Today, Alexandria is a bustling state that continues to drive the growth and development of the country as a whole.

The state of Alexandria has a rich and varied history that dates back to prehistoric times. The region was inhabited by indigenous peoples from as early as 12,000 BC, and their influence can still be seen in the state's culture and traditions today. In the early 15th century, the coast of the region was visited by other sea-faring explorers and navigators resident to the Odoneru, bringing with them new ideas, customs, and technologies. These interactions laid the groundwork for the region's future development and set the stage for its important role in the history of Cartadania. The establishment of the Banlieuregio of Alexandria during the Pontificate marked a turning point in the region's political and economic development. As the area gained more political weight, it also began to grow in wealth and influence, thanks in large part to its rich agricultural resources. By the time of the Cartadanian Republic's independence in 1618, Alexandria had become a major producer of and, which created a wealthy rural  that held significant power and influence in the region. During the early republican period in the 1630s, the balance of power shifted as the Cartadanian government sought to exert more control over the region. This led to a power struggle between the traditional rural elites and the emerging urban middle class, ultimately resulting in a shift in the command of the government to the new elites.

Today, Alexandria remains a vital part of Cartadania, with a rich history and culture that continues to influence the region and the country as a whole.

History
Alexandria is the oldest state in Cartadania by way of constitutional ratification, which has made it a place of rich history and cultural heritage. The state's early beginnings can be traced back to approximately 12,000 BC when indigenous people, known as the Ettian, inhabited the region. The Ettian people are the oldest continuously existing civilization in Sarpedon and have played a significant role in shaping Alexandria's culture.

During the 9th century BC, Alexandria's coast became a site of interest for the Adonerii league, and Serdica, now part of New Venceia, was a port city of Adonerum. While the exact purpose of Serdica remains unknown, historians believe that it was probably used for agricultural production. As a directly controlled colony of Caphiria, Alexandria remained relatively undeveloped early on, focusing mostly on the coastal production of sugar cane, coffee, cocoa, and other crops that were then exported back south to urban Caphiria.

The establishment of the Banlieuregio of Alexandria during the Pontificate marked a turning point for the region, as it began to gain political weight and be recognized as a true entity. In the early 16th century, the region's coast was visited by other sea-faring explorers and navigators resident to the Odoneru. The northern part of Alexandria has the largest population of non-Latinic and non-Romance descent individuals relative to any other part of the state. Alexandria's location has made it very receptive to foreign travelers and immigration, even in the modern era.

After gaining independence in 1671, Alexandria became a major agricultural producer of coffee and sugarcane in the newly constituted Cartadanian Republic. This led to the creation of a rich regional rural oligarchy that would switch command with elites during the early republican period in the 1620s. However, the rural nature of Alexandria did not last very long, particularly in areas along the Urlazio coast, where most of the state's population is located. In a period known as Solis, or Pax Alexandrini, Calaine pushed for intense industrialization and urbanization between 1618 and 1646, resulting in Alexandria's population skyrocketing and New Venceia crossing the half-million mark.

In 1618, Alexandria became the first state to ratify the current constitution of Cartadania, earning it the nickname "The Premier State". Reformed after 30 years of disarray and the Ano Roxo, Alexandria long stood as the capital of what would become Cartadania, with its city of Meridia. Thanks to its relatively flat geography and similarly Mediterranean climate along the coastline, especially near New Venceia and along the Urlazio Coast, Alexandria developed as a second financial and governmental hub for Venceia. As a result, Alexandria saw the most explosive growth in population and economy during the colonial and provincial periods.

Modern era
In recent years, Alexandria has undergone a significant transformation from its earlier agricultural and industrial roots to a post-industrial economy. The region now boasts a thriving business environment, with a diverse range of industries taking advantage of its favorable business conditions.

One of the key factors contributing to Alexandria's success is its pro-business environment, which includes low taxes and right-to-work laws that make it easier for companies to do business. Additionally, the state has a regulatory environment that limits government interference, which allows companies to innovate and compete more effectively. The Calaine metropolitan area, in particular, has emerged as a national center of finance, insurance, technology, manufacturing, real estate, logistics, and transportation companies. The region is also home to a vibrant film, convention, and trade show industry, which has helped to bolster the local economy.

Other growing industries in Alexandria include healthcare, retail, transportation, and tourism. As with many other regions in the country, suburban areas have experienced significant population growth, leading to the development of new communities such as suburban cities. Despite this trend, all three of the state's major cities have also seen revitalization in their downtown areas and continue to experience population growth. The shift towards a post-industrial economy has had a significant impact on the physical landscape of Alexandria as well. Former agricultural tracts have given way to residential communities, with suburbs becoming increasingly common. However, the region has been able to manage this growth while also preserving its natural beauty, with parks and green spaces remaining an important part of the community.

Geography
Alexandria is a state in Cartadania with a total land area of 163895.3 km2, making it the eleventh largest state by size. Its shape is somewhat rectangular, stretching 554.7 km2 from north to south and 468.2 km2 from east to west. The state is situated along the coast of the Odoneru Ocean and Urlazio Sea, providing it with extensive and diverse coastlines that play a vital role in the state's economy and tourism industry.

One of the most prominent geographical features of Alexandria is the Serra Alexandrina mountain range, which is home to Monte Pinhal, the highest point in the state, towering 4126 m above sea level. The mountain range spans across the state's south-central regions and is home to various wildlife species, making it an attractive destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

In contrast, Alexandria's lowest point is at sea level, found along the coastline that borders the Odoneru Ocean and Urlazio Sea. The coastal regions are flat and generally covered by sandy beaches and coastal plains. These regions are crucial to Alexandria's economy, as they are a significant source of the state's industry, transportation, and tourism.

In addition to the Serra Alexandrina mountain range and coastal plains, Alexandria also has several other geographical features. The state is home to numerous rivers and lakes, including the Rio de São Cristóvão and Lake Meridia, which are essential for irrigation, hydroelectric power generation, and recreational activities.

Climate
Alexandria boasts a hot climate throughout the year, with temperatures ranging from 22 to 36 C. The state's coastal areas are influenced by Mediterranean conditions, with the cool trade winds offering a respite from the heat. However, in the semi-arid elevated regions, the weather is extremely hot and dry, often soaring above 22 C and occasionally hitting 30 C during the day. Nevertheless, the nights are relatively cooler, offering some relief to the inhabitants.

The Serra Alexandrina mountain ranges, on the other hand, offer cooler temperatures, ranging from 14 to 18 C. The lowest temperature ever recorded in Alexandria was 8 C, which was documented in Altagracia, a small town located in the central ranges.

In the southwestern part of the state, which borders the equator, lies the Pantanal region of Cartadania, extending across all four major Luson states. This region is known for its high humidity and massive amounts of rainfall, averaging from 2250 - 3050 mm annually. Monthly precipitation levels can range from 80 mm in July to 263 mm in March, with rainfall occurring on almost 300 days each year. Consequently, it is the second wettest place in the country, attracting tourists and nature enthusiasts who are interested in its unique ecosystem.

Environmental issues
Despite Alexandria's commitment to integrating urban and natural environments, the state has been criticized for lagging behind Victoria and Verona in terms of environmental commitments. Due to its industrial nature and reputation as a major contributor to Cartadania's economy, many officials have been reluctant to address environmental concerns. While Alahuela set the standard for environmental impact across the country, individual states have the opportunity to build upon laws established by Congress to address the unique needs of their region. Currently, Alexandria has adopted a basic environmental policy, with some minor adjustments made for SB 270. However, despite this perceived lag in policy, Alexandria remains a thriving post-industrial economy with a high standard of living. As such, the Alexandria Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) prioritizes issues related to carbon emissions and industrial waste to minimize the negative effects of industrial activity on the environment. Through ongoing efforts to monitor and address environmental impacts, Alexandria remains committed to improving its environmental practices and maintaining a sustainable future.

Flora and fauna
Alexandria's commitment to preserving its natural resources is reflected in its thriving ecosystem that supports a diverse range of plant and animal species. The state is home to 77 amphibian species, 62 reptile species, 114 bird species, and 83 mammal species, as well as nearly 107 species of trees and vegetation. While Alexandria may not have the same level of biodiversity as other states, such as Milan or Verona, its unique approach to integrating urban areas with nature sets it apart.

Throughout the state, there is a strong emphasis on coexisting with animals and preserving natural habitats. This is evident in the large green spaces found in major cities like Calaine, New Venceia, and Portsmouth, where initiatives are underway to restore many of the original natural features.

To further its conservation efforts, Alexandria has enacted SB270, which designates 10% (approximately 16390 km2) of state land to be used as nature and wildlife preserves. This is the largest allocation of land for this purpose, relative to a state's area, in the entire country. Despite not having the same level of biodiversity as some other states, Alexandria is still recognized for its unique approach to conservation and coexistence with nature.

Population
According to the latest census conducted by the Cartadania Office of the Census, the population of Alexandria was reported to be 30,271,994 in the year 2030, which makes it the third-most populous state in the country. The state has a population density of 184.7 PD/km2, which ranks it as the sixth-most densely populated state. For several years, Alexandria was the most populous state in the country, thanks to its hyper-urban development, but that has changed over time. Verona has since surpassed Alexandria in terms of population, with a margin of almost 46 million people, indicating a shift in population trends within the country. Despite this, Alexandria remains a thriving and densely populated state, with a diverse range of cultures and communities contributing to its vibrant social fabric.

Ancestry
According to the latest census data, the population of Alexandria in 2030 was characterized by a diverse range of ethnicities and cultural backgrounds. The largest ethnic group, comprising 39.2% of the population, is Pardo or Cartadanian, reflecting the country's mixed-ethnic heritage. The second-largest group, at 33.7%, is of Latinate or northern Levantine descent, with a strong influence from neighboring Caphiria in the northeastern coastal region surrounding New Venceia.

Other significant ethnic groups include Pelaxian at 10.2%, Burgoignac at 8.6%, Coscivian at 2%, Cronan at 0.6%, and Alshari at 0.4%. The remaining 5.3% of the population is made up of various Indigenous peoples, reflecting the rich cultural diversity of the region.

Although the Pardo group remains the largest, it is notable that the population of Latin descent is not far behind, trailing by only about 5.5%. This diversity in ethnicity and cultural background has contributed to the unique character of Alexandria and is reflected in its rich and varied cultural traditions.

Languages
In Alexandria, as in the rest of Cartadania, the official language for government, business, and education is Cartadanian. However, due to the significant presence of Caphiric Latin speakers, which makes up 21% of the state's population, the General Assembly allows the combined use of both languages. This move is unique for a non-border state and reflects the cultural diversity of the state.

In addition, nearly 29% of the population reported speaking a mother language other than Cartadanian at home, indicating the existence of various linguistic communities within Alexandria. One such minor language is Ettian, which evolved independently but shares similarities with the language of the Sinitalian people.

As of 2030, the majority of Alexandria's population, approximately 65%, speaks Cartadanian as their first language. The second most common language is Latin, spoken by 21% of the population, influenced by the state's proximity to Caphiria. Ettian, the minor local language, is spoken by 5% of the population. Other languages represent less than 1% each. This linguistic diversity is a reflection of Alexandria's complex and multicultural identity.

Religion
Alexandria's religious landscape is predominantly, with the Catholic Church being the largest denomination in the state. This can be attributed to the historical influence of Catholicism in Caphiria, of which Cartadania was a former constituent nation. Additionally, its geographical proximity to Urcea, the world's largest Catholic nation, has further cemented Catholicism's influence in Alexandria. As of 2023, roughly 69% of the population identifies as Catholic.

While the majority of Alexandrians are Christian, there is also a moderately sized community within the state. This community accounts for approximately 22% of the population, with the remaining 9% identifying as members of other religious groups from around the world.

It is worth noting that despite the separation of church and state being a fundamental principle of Cartadanian life, Alexandria's Catholic past continues to play a significant role in the state's customs and traditions. The influence of Catholicism can be observed in various aspects of the state, from its cultural celebrations to the practices of its government.

Government
Alexandria, like many states in Cartadania, is divided into counties, a system established in the colonial era by Caphiria. The 117 counties are spread across six regions, each with its own unique history and geography. Some counties bear the names of notable figures in Cartadanian history, while others reflect their distinct physical features. Each county in Alexandria has its own elected legislative branch, known as the Board of Supervisors, which also exercises executive authority in the county. These county boards enjoy a significant degree of autonomy, as enshrined in Alexandria's constitution. Under the principle of "home rule" authority, they have the power to pass legislation within their county, much like cities.

In Alexandria, all incorporated towns are legally designated as cities by virtue of state law. However, unlike some other states, Alexandria does not provide for. Instead, it allows for governments through local referendums. Currently, two such governments exist in the state: Alexandria City and New Venceia. The county system in Alexandria provides for a balance of local control and state oversight, allowing for greater responsiveness to the needs and concerns of citizens. The names of the counties themselves reflect the rich history and diversity of the state, while the system of local government provides opportunities for community participation and civic engagement.

State government
Alexandria, like all other Cartadanian states and the federal government, adheres to a system of government that is based on the separation of legislative, executive, and judicial power. The executive authority in the state is vested in the governor, who is elected alongside the lieutenant governor, both on separate ballots to four-year terms of office, though they are not term-limited. However, unlike other states where the governor appoints executive officials, most of the executive officials in Alexandria are elected by the citizens of the state, similar to the government of Milan.

The legislative branch of government in Alexandria is the General Assembly, comprising the Senate and the Domus Alexandriae. The Lieutenant Governor presides over the state's senate, while members of the Domus Alexandriae select their own speaker, known as the Orator Princeps. The Constitution of Alexandria sets the number of senators at 80, with each senator being elected from single-member districts. The constitution also mandates a minimum of 120 representatives, apportioned among the representative districts. Currently, Alexandria has the legally defined number of 80 senators and 120 representatives, with each of them serving two-year terms with no limit. The state's laws are codified as the Code of Alexandria, which draws heavily from the legal system of Verona.

The judges and justices who make up the state's judicial system are elected by a majority vote in both the Domus and Senate, without input from the governor. This is one of the ways Alexandria's legislature has more power than its executive. Judicial authority in Alexandria rests with the Supreme Court of Alexandria, which has seven justices serving twelve-year terms, with a mandatory retirement age of 75. The supreme court selects its own Chief Justice from among its seven justices, who is limited to no more than a twelve-year term as Chief. The state also has smaller courts with more limited geographical jurisdiction, including Circuit Courts, which are the trial courts of general jurisdiction, and the lower Superior Courts that house Juvenile and Domestic Relations Courts and General District Courts.

The government of Alexandria is designed to ensure that no single branch of government has too much power. The system of checks and balances allows for each branch of government to keep an eye on the others, and ensures that no one branch becomes too dominant. The power of the government is ultimately derived from the people, who elect their representatives to serve in government and hold them accountable for their actions.

Elections history
In Alexandria, elections have historically been dominated by the Social Democracy Party. The party has held the governorship for the majority of the state's history, with only one conservative governor elected since the 1960s. The last time a UCP candidate won the state's electoral votes in a presidential election was in 1972. The United Conservative Party, as the opposition party, has had limited success in statewide elections, with only a handful of candidates winning seats in the state legislature.

In recent years, however, there has been some political upheaval in Alexandria. In the 2026 gubernatorial election, the UCP candidate came closer than ever before to winning the governorship, losing by only 1.5 percentage points. This was a surprise to many political analysts, who had predicted a comfortable victory for the Social Democrats. The UCP has also gained ground in the state legislature, picking up several seats in the 2028 elections.

Despite these recent gains by the UCP, the Social Democracy Party remains the dominant political force in Alexandria. The party has a strong base of support among urban and suburban voters, particularly in the northern part of the state. The UCP, on the other hand, tends to do better in rural areas and among conservative voters. The state's increasingly diverse population, however, could lead to changes in the political landscape in the coming years, as new voters bring different perspectives and priorities to the electoral process. Generally speaking, however, the UCP has put increasingly less effort in overturning the state's political scene.

Statutes
In Alexandria, as in all other common law jurisdictions, statutes are laws created by the state's legislative branch. The Alexandria General Assembly is responsible for enacting and amending statutes, which are then compiled in the Code of Alexandria. Statutes in Alexandria are given the force of law and are enforceable by the state's courts.

While common law is a significant source of law in Alexandria, statutes are also an essential part of the state's legal system. Statutes can create new laws or modify existing ones, and they can address a wide range of legal topics, including criminal law, civil law, and administrative law. As a result, the Code of Alexandria is a critical resource for lawyers, judges, and other legal professionals in the state. It is regularly updated to reflect changes in the law, and it is considered the definitive source of Alexandria's statutory law.

It is worth noting that while the General Assembly is responsible for creating and amending statutes, the state's courts are responsible for interpreting and applying them. This means that the courts play an essential role in shaping the meaning and scope of Alexandria's statutory law. Taking into consideration the strength of Cartadania's various judiciaries, though, Alexandria's courts have, throughout time, inadvertently created new laws that have gone to be added to the Code of Alexandria as well.

Economy
Alexandria has a diverse economy, with major industries including, , , and service sectors such as , , and. The state has a large and skilled workforce, thanks in part to the presence of several prominent universities and colleges, including the University of Alexandria, one of the largest public research universities in Cartadania.

One of the state's leading economic sectors is manufacturing, with the production of, , , and all playing a significant role in the state's economy. Agriculture also plays a vital role in Alexandria's economy, with crops including s, s,, , , and among the state's leading agricultural products. The state is also a significant producer of and.

In recent years, Alexandria has seen significant growth in its technology sector, with several large technology companies establishing operations in the state. This growth has been driven in part by the state's highly skilled workforce and its excellent research institutions, as well as by favorable tax and regulatory policies aimed at attracting technology investment.

The state's service sector, including healthcare, finance, and retail, also plays a significant role in Alexandria's economy. The city of New Venceia is home to several large hospitals and medical centers, while the state's financial sector is centered around Calaine. Retail is also a significant contributor to the state's economy, with several major retail chains and shopping centers located throughout the state. The state's economy is characterized by a mix of traditional industries, such as agriculture and manufacturing, and newer, growing sectors such as technology and services. This diversity has helped the state weather economic downturns and maintain a stable and growing economy over the long term.