Agriculture in Great Kirav and Alstin: Difference between pages

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[[File:Potato Mound near Nampo North Korea.jpg|thumb|The ubiquitous potato field]]
{{Infobox country
|conventional_long_name = United Republic of Alstin
|native_name =
|common_name =      Alstin
|status =            <!--Status of country, especially useful for micronations-->
|image_flag =        30Star.png
|alt_flag =         
|flag_border =        yes
|image_flag2 =       
|alt_flag2 =         
|flag2_border =     
|image_coat =      Alstin Seal.png 
|alt_coat =         
|symbol_type =       
|national_motto = "One Nation, United and Free"
|englishmotto =     
|national_anthem = Alstin the Majestic [[File:Media Player.png|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5l8rxiPsKuc]]
|other_symbol_type = 
|other_symbol =
|image_map =      Locale.png 
|loctext =           
|alt_map =            <!--alt text for map-->
|map_caption =        Location of the United Republic, its Territories, and Occupied Entities
|map_width                  = 270px
|image_map2 =       
|alt_map2 =          <!--alt text for second map-->
|map_caption2 =     
|capital =            [[Alstin (City)|Alstin]]
|coordinates =        <!-- Coordinates for capital, using {{tl|coord}} -->
|largest_city =      capital
|largest_settlement_type = largest city
|largest_settlement =
|official_languages = [[Blairian Ænglish|Alstinian Ænglish]]
|national_languages =
|regional_languages = <!--Languages recognised or associated with particular regions within the country/territory-->
|languages_type =    <!--Use to specify a further type of language, if not official, national or regional-->
|languages =          <!--Languages of the further type-->
|languages_sub =      <!--Is this further type of language a sub-item of the previous non-sub type? ("yes" or "no")-->
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|languages2 =        <!--Languages of this second further type-->
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|ethnic_groups =      {{ublist |item_style=white-space:nowrap;


'''Agriculture in [[Great Kirav]]''' is a major economic activity underpinning local and regional economies across most of the island continent's land area.  
  }}
|ethnic_groups_year = <!--Year of ethnic groups data (if provided)-->
|ethnic_groups_ref =  <!--(for any ref/s to associate with ethnic groups data)-->
|religion =          <!--Religion-->
|religion_year =      <!--Year of religion data (if provided)-->
|religion_ref =      <!--(for any ref/s to associate with religion data)-->
|demonym =            Alstinian
|government_type = {{wp|Federal state|Federal}} {{wp|presidential system|presidential}} {{wp|constitutional republic}}
|leader_title1 =      [[President of the United Republic|President]]
|leader_name1 = [[Sophia Forrester]]
|leader_title2 =      [[Vice President of the United Republic|Vice President]]
|leader_name2 = [[Kiana Olson]]
|leader_title3 =      [[Speaker of the Council]]
|leader_name3 = [[Alyssa Vincent]]
|leader_title4 =      [[Chief Magistrate of the Supreme Court|Chief Magistrate]]
|leader_name4 = [[Joseph Upton]]
|legislature =        [[United Republic Parliament|Parliament]]
|upper_house                = [[United Republic National Council|National Council]]
|lower_house                = [[United Republic Senate|Senate]]
|sovereignty_type =  Formation
|sovereignty_note =
|established_event1 = Founding
|established_date1 =  23 March 1559
|established_event2 = Kingdom Established
|established_date2 =  1 April 1565
|established_event3 = Unification
|established_date3 =  21 October 1600
|established_event4 = Republic Proclaimed
|established_date4 =  4 July 1688
|established_event5 = Current Constitution
|established_date5 =  21 April 1689
|area_rank =
|area =              <!--Major area size (in [[Template:convert]] either km2 or sqmi first)-->
|area_km2 =          1,202,168.88
|area_sq_mi =        464,160
|area_footnote =   
|percent_water =
|area_label =        Total
|area_label2 =        United Republic Proper
|area_data2 =          641,799.054 km2
|population_estimate =  157,084,067 <br><small>115,248,920 (UR Proper)<br><small> 
|population_estimate_rank =
|population_estimate_year = 2028
|population_census =  96,267,943 
|population_census_year = 2020
|population_density_km2 = 128.41
|population_density_sq_mi = 332.58
|population_density_rank =
|nummembers =        <!--An alternative to population for micronation-->
|GDP_PPP =            <!--(Gross Domestic Product from Purchasing Power Parity)-->
|GDP_PPP_rank =
|GDP_PPP_year =
|GDP_PPP_per_capita =
|GDP_PPP_per_capita_rank =
|GDP_nominal = $8,646 trillion <br><small>$6.826 trillion (UR Proper)<br><small>
|GDP_nominal_rank =
|GDP_nominal_year = 2027
|GDP_nominal_per_capita = $56,005.22 <br><small>$59,231.33 (UR Proper)<br><small>
|GDP_nominal_per_capita_rank =
|Gini =              29.4
|Gini_ref =          <!--(for any ref/s to associate with Gini number)-->
|Gini_rank =
|Gini_year =
|HDI_year =          <!-- Please use the year to which the data refers, not the publication year-->
|HDI =                0.943
|HDI_change =        increase
|HDI_rank =
|HDI_ref =            <!--(for any ref/s to associate with HDI number)-->
|currency =          United Republic Dollar
|currency_code =      URD
|time_zone =          UTC+10:00 to UTC-11:00
|utc_offset =       
|drives_on =          Right
|cctld =              .ura
|iso3166code =        <!--Use to override default from common_name parameter above; omit using "omit".-->
|calling_code =      +1
|patron_saint =      <!--Use patron_saints for multiple-->
|image_map3 =        <!--Optional third map position, e.g. for use with reference to footnotes below it-->
|alt_map3 =          <!--alt text for third map position-->
}}
The '''United Republic of Alstin''', commonly known as the '''United Republic''' or '''Alstin''', is a sovereign state comprising the entirety of the [[Alstinian Isles]] off the coast of [[Crona]], as well as overseas holdings on the Cronan mainland, in the [[Cartesian Archipelago]], and off the coast of East [[Alshar]]. Covering an area of more than 1,202 thousand km² and hosting a population of more 157 million, the United Republic is divided into [[List of provinces and territories of Alstin|30 provinces, eight territories and a federal district]] - with its capital and largest city being [[Alstin (City)|Alstin]].
 
A highly {{wp|developed country|developed}} and {{wp|high income country}}, the United Republic has a healthy capitalist mixed economy and historically strong economic growth; As a result, the [[Economy of Alstin|Alstinian economy]] ranks within the "Top 20 in the Globe", both in terms of nominal GDP and PPP. Though its population is only 0.5% of the global total, Alstinians hold nearly 8% of the total wealth in the world. The United Republic ranks among the highest in several measures of socioeconomic performance, including average wage, human development, per capita GDP, and productivity per person. While the Alstinian economy is considered post-industrial, characterized by the dominance of both the service and information industry, the manufacturing sector remains one of the largest in the world. Accounting for approximately 10% of the global GDP and an eighth of global military spending, the United Republic is one of the world's foremost economic and military powers. The United Republic is a prominent political and cultural force internationally, and a leader in scientific research and technological innovations.
 
==Etymology==
The nation's name derives from the city of [[Alstin (City)|Alstin]]. The city's name itself, according to its founding myth, is believed to have been derived from the city's founder and the first [[Kingdom of Alstin|king of Alstin]], [[Alstanus Ryefield]].
 
The standard way to refer to a citizen of Alstin is as an "Alstinian."
==History==
''Further Reading: [[History of Alstin]]
 
===Indigenous peoples===
It has been generally accepted that the first inhabitants of the [[Alstinian Isles]] migrated from mainland Crona and East Alshar arrived at least 3,000 years ago; however, some evidence suggests an even earlier date of arrival. Over time, indigenous cultures in Crona grew increasingly complex, and some, such as the pre-Levantine Azure culture in modern-day Azura, developed advanced agriculture, architecture, and complex societies. The city of [[Cuzco (City)|Cuzco]] is the largest, most complex pre-Levantine archaeological site in Alstin, and is oldest continuously inhabited settlement in the modern-day United Republic. In the Kjeldorian Highlands region, the Kjeld culture practiced hunting and trapping, along with limited cultivation. The Uto, located in modern-day Utopia, practiced fishing and whaling.
 
===Occidental Settlement and the Founding of the Kingdom===
''Further reading: [[Aster's expedition]]''
 
The first Levantines to arrive in Alstin were Occidental explorers connected to [[Aster's expedition|Paul Aster's voyage]] to find a western route to Alshar in March 1389. During the Age of Exploration in the early 16th century, several trading outposts were established throughout the Isles, forming the foundation of a number of Alstinian cities, with . However, during the [[Great Confessional War]], waves of predominantly Protestant refugees fled from [[Levantia]] to the Alstinian Isles, founding a myriad of settlements; One such settlement was [[Alstin (City)|Alstin]]. Founded on 23 March 1559 by the Ænglish noble [[Alstanus Ryefield]], the city, due its location on a island in the center of the Altaic Sea, quickly became the economic and cultural center of the Isles. By 1565, the city-state was recognized as one the preeminent polities in the region, with Alstanus Ryefield being formally coronated as the first King of Alstin on 1 April that, beginning a century-long reign by the House of Ryefield.
 
===Unification and Development===
Throughout the remainder of the 16th century, Alstin experienced a remarkable rate of growth both internally and externally. In terms of the former, Alstinian society developed and flourished largely in due part to its position at critical crossroads of traffic and trade routes on the Isles. This in turn not only made the city incredibly wealthy, but also made allowed for the construction of various public works projects (such as roads, aqueducts, and other civic projects that became the basic foundation of the city's modern infrastructure), all the while its culture thrived and developed as a result of its newfound prosperity. In terms of the latter, Alstin, using its vast new wealth, slowly yet gradually expanded its territory in every direction across the island of Alstin; Occasionally bringing them into conflict with many of its neighboring city-states and tribal confederations, but often than not, it peacefully incorporated . However, by 1600, during the reign of [[Douglas Corvinus]], Alstin had successfully united the entirety of the island under its banner.
 
Over the course of the subsequent eighty years, the Kingdom experienced a period of relative peace and internal stability, as the Alstinians experienced an unprecedented amount of economic growth from its position at the crossroads of sea-based trade in the [[Orixtal Sea]]. This, combined with considerable scientific advances and cultural progress, would later become known as the "Long Peace". At the same time, Alstin engaged in series of conflicts in and around the lands of the [[Altaic Sea]], the [[Orixtal Sea]], and the Sea of St. John, from the [[Islevyny]] Archipelago to the shores of [[Rocotia]], in an effort maintain the stability of the region.
 
In [[1632]], King Julius convened the [[Chantry_of_Alstin#Establishment_and_reorganization|Convocation of 1632]], which formally established the [[Chantry of Alstin]] as state religion.
 
===Alstinian Civil War and the birth of the United Republic===
''Further Reading: [[Alstinian Civil War]]''
 
In 1682, following a costly decade-long [[Burgo-Alstinian Wars|war]] with the [[Burgoignesc_North_Levantine_Trading_Company#Colonial_ventures|Martillien North Levantine Trading Company (MNLC)]], the [[Alstinian Civil War]] erupted between the brothers and rival claimants Stephan and David following the untimely death of Julius, who had failed to properly designate an heir beforehand. During the three year-long conflict, control over the throne switched hands four times before David successfully held on to it following the betrayal and murder of Stephan and most of his main supporters in 1685. But this only brought a temporary halt to the conflict, as by early 1687, it had become apparent that David intended to rule as an absolute monarch and that the populace had grown tired of his tyrannical policies. When it became publicly known that he, along with most of the nobles, attempted to orchestrate the murder of his last surviving brother, [[Geoffrey Ryefield|Geoffrey]], as well as attempted to abolish the [[Omnibus Canon]], the people revolted, beginning the second phase of the Civil War. The following year, David was captured and publicly executed following his defeat at the [[Battle of Leman's Crossing]] (now in modern-day Leman district of the city of Alstin). In spite of the victory, Geoffrey was mortally wounded, and, without a known heir to throne, formally proclaimed that the Kingdom would become a Republic as his first and last act as king. In 1689, on the anniversary of Geoffrey's death, the United Republic of Alstin, one of the first federal republics in the history of the world, officially came into being with the ratification of the [[United Republic Constitution|Constitution]] (which remains in use to this day), and the unanimous election of [[Marcus Alanson]], member of the Patrician delegation at the Constitutional Convention, and Geoffrey's most trusted general, as the first President of the United Republic.
 
In the decades following the establishment of the United Republic, the nation rebuilt itself economically and socially; The remnants of the royal government were either assimilated and re-tooled into the new federal government or were dissolved and replaced with new institutions.
 
===Further immigration, expansion, and development===
By 1710, the country had fully recovered and transitioned from Kingdom to Republic. With this, the United Republic resumed its involvement in international affairs, and began engaging in territorial acquisitions beyond the [[Inner Islands]]. Starting in 1721, the United Republic, through various methods, steadily expanded throughout the remaining Isles, establishing new settlements as well incorporating preexisting ones across what was then collectively referred the "Frontier Territories", nowadays officially called the "[[Outer Islands]]"; By 1840, the entirety of the "Frontier" was under the complete jurisdiction the United Republic.
 
Overseas, the United Republic began exerting its influence at first indirectly through intermediaries, most notably via the [[Alstinian Trade Company]], then later directly via diplomacy, trade, and military action. In 1750, there were 35 overseas trading outposts, most of which were concentrated in and around South Crona; By 1900, there over 300 outposts around the globe, some of which, particularly those on the Cronan continent, would eventually merge together to form larger territorial holdings. Concurrently, the United Republic would help to initiate the modern era of international diplomacy through its efforts in establishing and strengthening economic and political ties in [[Levantia]] and [[Sarpedon]]; A notable example being the landmark 1806 [[Treaty of Lariana]], which normalized diplomatic relations between the United Republic and the [[Holy Levantine Empire]].


As a result of its [[Prehistory of Great Kirav|natural history]], the agricultural endowment of the island continent includes both Old World and New World species, and has been supplemented by crops and animals introduced from other continents, such as wheat and cattle.
Domestically, the Isles, beginning in the early 19th century, experienced a rise in urbanization and an unprecedented influx of immigrants from both the [[Occidental world|Occident]] and the [[Alshar|Orient]], which in turn supplied a surplus of labor for the country's industrialization and transformed its culture. National infrastructure, including telegraph and railroads, spurred economic growth and greater settlement and development of the "Frontier". The later invention of electric light and the telephone would also affect communication and urban life.


Even with modern improvements in agronomy, Mainland Kiravian agriculture is insufficiently productive to satisfy enormous domestic demand, and most of the island continent’s food supply is imported, mainly from Levantia, Sarpedon, and South Crona.
Rapid economic development during the late 18th and early 20th centuries fostered the rise of many prominent industrialists, many of whom led the nation's progress in the railroad, petroleum, and steel industries. Banking became a major part of the economy, further spurring its growth into becoming one of the world's largest. These dramatic changes were accompanied by growing inequality and social unrest, which prompted the rise of organized labor along with populist, socialist, and anarchist movements. This period eventually ended with the advent of the [[Alstinian Reformist Era|Reformist Era]], which saw significant reforms including women's suffrage, a shift in alcohol consumption habits, regulation of consumer goods, and greater antitrust measures to ensure competition and attention to worker conditions.
<br />


[[Æonara#Economy|Agriculture in Æonara]] and in other parts of the Kiravian Federacy and Collectivity, such as [[Dysona#Agriculture|Dysona]], are covered separately.
===The Great Wars Era===
''Further reading: [[First Great War]]; [[Second Great War]]; [[Alstin in the Second Great War]]; [[Cronan Theatre of the Second Great War]]''


==Crops==
The United Republic remained neutral from the initial outbreak of the [[First Great War]] in 1896, but joined a few weeks later on 13 June 1896 alongside the Concordiae Powers following repeated attacks on UR Merchant Shipping by the [[Navy of Burgundie|Burgundian Navy]], helping to turn the tide against the Aliança. In 1904, President [[Patrick T. Jones]] took a leading diplomatic role at the TBD Peace Conference, subsequently reaffirming the United Republic's place as one the world's great powers.
===Potato===
 
{{Cquote|Eat the potato now, or ferment it for later? This is the perpetual dilemma of our People.
Around this time, the women's rights movement bore it greatest victory with the election of first [[Marion Roberts]], then [[Caroline Baxter]] to the Presidency in 1904 and 1908 respectively. Concurrently, the 1910s and 1920s saw the rise of radio for mass communication and the invention of early television, with [[ABS Corporation|ABS]] and [[NPB Corporation|NPB]] taking a leading role in both mediums. Additionally, the Alstinian film industry began to take form in earnest, centering in Driftwood, near [[Treadwell]], Cecelia, making a substantial impact in the art of film-making.
|author= [[Shaftonism|Shafto]]
 
|source= ''Analects of Shafto the Wise''
The period between 1909 and 1925 is known as the [[Golden Years]] in the United Republic, in which unseen previously levels of economic growth and prosperity was accompanied with a distinctive social, artistic and cultural dynamism and technological advancement. The prosperity brought upon during the Golden Years ended with the [[Lloyd Street Crash of 1925]] and the onset of the [[Blunt Depression]]. After his election as president in 1928, [[Alfred F. Jones]] responded with the [[Dawes Plan]], a comprehensive series of economic and financial programs geared towards providing financial relief to individuals and businesses, promote economic recovery, and institute economic and financial reforms.
}}
 
<br>
At the outset of the [[Second Great War]] in March 1934, the United Republic, while maintaining neutrality, began supplying materiel to Urcea and its allies in response to unrestricted Caphirian submarine activity in the Orixtal, the Polynesian, and St. Brendan's Strait, supplying LOTA forces with much needed supplies and war materiel. On 31 December 1935...
[[File:Lovington Church and Chips - geograph.org.uk - 710665.jpg|thumb|Potato harvest in [[Irovasdra]] State]]
 
The {{wp|potato}} (Coscivian: ''ēln'') is the most important food crop in Great Kirav, and has been since the dawn of agriculture. Potato began to be domesticated as early as 25,000 years ago in the central latitudes of the Western Highlands. The potato plant's remarkable ability to thrive in cool climates and subprime soil conditions made it indispensible to early Kiravian farmers and an enduring staple of the Kiravian diet. Indeed, the potato is credited with enabling {{wp|sedentarisation}} of the proto-Coscivian tribes and, indirectly, the rise of Coscivian civilisation proper. Potato is grown throughout Great Kirav, but more so in the north and west. It is the dominant crop in the more marginal lands that make up much of the continent.
TBA
 
===Occidental Cold War===
''Further Reading: [[Occidental Cold War]]''
 
TBA
 
<br />
 
===Contemporary History===
''Further Reading: Cartesian Wars; [[Final War of the Deluge]]''
 
TBA
 
==Politics and government==
''Further Reading: [[Government of the United Republic]]; [[List of heads of state of Alstin]]; [[List of provinces and territories of Alstin]]''
 
The United Republic is the world's oldest surviving federal republic. It is a representative democracy, "in which majority rule is tempered by minority rights protected by law". The government is regulated by a system of checks and balances defined by the [[United Republic Constitution|Constitution of the United Republic]], which serves as the country's supreme legal document.
 
 
In the Alstinian federalist system, citizens are usually subject to three levels of government: federal, provincial, and local. The local government's duties are commonly split between county and municipal governments. In almost all cases, executive and legislative officials are elected by a plurality vote of citizens by district. There is no proportional representation at the federal level, and it is rare at lower levels.
 
The federal government is composed of three branches:
*Legislative: The bicameral Parliament, made up of the Senate and the National Council, makes federal law, declares war, approves treaties, has the power of the purse, and has the power of impeachment, by which it can remove sitting members of the government.
 
*Executive: The President is the commander-in-chief of the military, can veto legislative bills before they become law (subject to Parliamentary override), and appoints the members of the Cabinet (subject to Senate approval) and other officers, who administer and enforce federal laws and policies.
 
*Judicial: The Supreme Court and lower federal courts, whose judges are appointed by the President with Senate approval, interpret laws and overturn those they find unconstitutional.
 
 
The National Council currently has 467 voting members and 10 non-voting delegates, with each of the former representing a parliamentary district for a two-year term, while each of the latter representing an incorporated overseas territory. Council seats are apportioned among the provinces by population every tenth year, with the constitutional minimum being that at least one council seat be allotted for each province. With the most recent census, there provinces ([[Azura]], [[Backdraft]], and [[Voltara]]), each had the least amount of councilors at four, while [[Cecelia]], the most populous province, had thirty-nine.
 
 
The Senate has 62 members, with each province plus the Capital District having two senators, elected at-large to six-year terms; one third of Senate seats are up for election every other year. The President serves a four-year term and may be elected to the office no more than twice. The President is not elected by direct vote, but by an indirect electoral college system in which the determining votes are apportioned to the provinces and the Capital District. The Supreme Court, led by the Chief Magistrate of the United Republic, has nine members, who serve for life.
 
 
The provincial governments are structured in roughly similar fashion. The governor, or an official of equivalent nature, of each province is directly elected. Some provincial judges and cabinet officers are appointed by the governors of the respective provinces, while others are elected by popular vote.
 
 
The original text of the Constitution establishes the structure and responsibilities of the federal government and its relationship with the individual provinces. Article One protects the right to the "great writ" of habeas corpus. The Constitution has been amended 42 times; the first ten amendments, which make up the Bill of Rights, and the Fourteenth Amendment form the central basis of Alstinians' individual rights. All laws and governmental procedures are subject to judicial review and any law ruled by the courts to be in violation of the Constitution is voided.
 
===Foreign Relations===
''Main article:[[Foreign Relations of Alstin]]''
 
The United Republic has an established structure of foreign relations. It is a founding member of the [[League of Nations]], as well as a founding member of the now defunct [[South Crona Congress]] and its successor, the [[Cronan Security and Trade Union]]. Almost all countries have embassies in Alstin, and many have consulates around the country. Likewise, nearly all nations host Alstinian diplomatic missions, which are operated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
 
===Military===
''See Main Article: [[United Republic Armed Forces]]''


Potato planting season typically begins in early spring, depending on the temperature and soil conditions. Observance of the vernal equinox festival [[Élív]] includes traditions that celebrate a successful planting effort. Farmers prepare the soil by plowing, harrowing, and levelling it before planting the seed potatoes. The seed potatoes are placed in furrows, and then covered with a layer of soil. Manual cultivators accomplish this with the aid of a [[Mattocks in Kiravian culture|mattock]]. As the plants grow, they are {{wp|Hilling|hilled}}, meaning that more soil is piled around the base of the plant to support it and prevent the tubers from exposure to sunlight. This helps to prevent a {{wp|Solanine#In_potatoes|green tinge}} that may affect the flavour and nutritional value of the potatoes. Most parts of Great Kirav regularly experience chilly and wet weather conditions, which can be challenging during the growing season. Frost poses a great danger to the crop in the critical periods just after planting and just before harvest. To protect the potato, farmers may install protective coverings, such as transparent films, over the fields. Harvest usually takes place in the autumn as the leaves start to turn yellow and die back. The potatoes are harvested with machines or by hand, then cleaned, graded, and sorted for distribution. After harvesting, the potato  is stored in cool, dry conditions to preserve its quality. The harvest time is celebrated with festivals and fairs, where people can taste different varieties, buy fresh produce, and enjoy other cultural activities.
The President holds the title of commander-in-chief of the United Republic Armed Forces (URAF) and appoints its leaders, the Minister of Defense and the Armed Forces Council. The Ministry of Defense administers the various branches of the armed forces, including the Army (URA), Marine Corps (URMC), Navy (URN), Air Corps (URAC), Coast Guard (URCG), and Space Force (URSF). Currently, the armed forces has approximately 1.3 million personnel on active duty, which, when combined with those personnel serving in both the Reserve Forces of the each of the service branches and the various provincial Home Guard units brings the total number of troops to about 2.1 million. In addition, the Ministry of Defense also employs about 815,000 civilians, not including contractors.


Potato is used in many dishes such as {{wp|potato pancakes}}, {{wp|potato soup}}, {{wp|potato dumplings}}, and {{wp|potato casseroles}}, and can also be milled into {{wp|potato flour}} for baking. Beyond human consumption, the potato is also used to produce alcoholic spirits (''thasstraśum'') and industrial starches, and as fodder for pigs.
Military service is voluntary, though conscription may occur in wartime through the Selective Service System. Alstinian forces can be rapidly deployed by the Air Corps' large fleet of transport aircraft, the Navy's thirteen active aircraft carriers, and Marine expeditionary units at sea with the Navy's Home, Orixtal, Odoneru, and Cathaic fleets. The military operates 69 bases and facilities abroad, and maintains deployments greater than 100 active duty personnel in seven foreign countries.


[[Saint Bran]] is the patron saint of potato farmers.
==Geography==
The territory of the United Republic proper, which is defined as encompassing the Alstinian Isles and the overseas provinces of [[Mierria]] and [[Tracoa]], covers more 641,000 km², and lies between the Ocean of Cathay and the Sea of Orixtal, with the north-east coast of Mierria coming within 1000 km of the coast of southwestern Crona, from which it is separated by the Mierrian Channel. In 2000, 18 per cent of the Alstinian Isles was forested, 32 per cent used for pastures and 25 per cent cultivated for agriculture.


===Cereals===
The Alstinian Isles lies between latitudes 23° and 10° N, and longitudes 165° and 140° W. The coastline of the Isles is aproximately??? km long.
{|style="margin: 0 auto;"
Most of the country consists of lowland terrain, with more upland and some mountainous terrain in the interior regions; including the Kjeldorans, the Artolans, the Ursans and the Villers Range. The main rivers and estuaries are the Corvus, the Lupus and the Davis. Alstin's highest mountain is [[Kjeld's Peak]] in [[Kjeldor]].
| [[File:Avena sativa 004.JPG|thumb|upright|alt=idk, some shit|''Vuoln'' (Oats)]]
| [[File:Fagopyrum гречка.jpg|thumb|upright|alt=William F. Buckwheat|{{wp|Polygonum erectum|Coscivian cuckwheat}}]]
| [[File:Triticale (Grandval) Cl J Weber07 (24084215775).jpg|thumb|upright|alt=idk, some shit|''Dralm'']]
|-
|}


The principal grain crops grown in Great Kirav are the Three Reliables: Rye and wildrye, {{wp|buckwheat|Coscivian cuckwheat}}, and {{wp|oats}}, along with barley, wheat, and triticale.  
===Climate===
The climate of Alstin is influenced by the Orixtal Sea to north and east, the Sea of St. John to the northwest, the Ocean of Cathay to the south and west, and the Altaic is its center. These seas constitute a reservoir of heat and humidity for Alstin.  


Coscivian cultures conflate two distinct cereal grasses - ''Secale cereale'' or "true rye" and ''{{wp|Elymus (plant)|Elymus borealis}}'' or "wildrye" - under the label of "rye" (Kiravic: ''dralm'', South Coscivian: ''drallion''). Numerous cultivars of ''Elymus borealis'' have been cultivated in different regions and microclimatic zones of Great Kirav for centuries. True rye was most likely introduced from what is now [[Faneria]] during the Second Empire. Kiravian farmers were early adopters of {{wp|triticale}}, production of which continues to expand in traditionally rye-growing areas. Indeed, it has been proposed numerous times that [[Agriculture_in_Great_Kirav#Policy|federal agriculture subsidies]] be amended to include cash incentives for rye farmers to transition to triticale instead, though such proposals have not yet been adopted.
Because of the extent of the Isles and the somewhat mountainous hinterland, the climate of the United Republic is highly diverse. The climate ranges from Mediterrean and Marine West Coast across much of the northern coast and central Alstin along rim the Altaic Sea, to humid subtropical and tropical wet throughout the coasts along the Cathay and Orixtal, as well as most of the Outer Islands, to Semiarid, Arid and Highland in the Kjedoran and Ursan mountain ranges.


The best farmland, much of which is concentrated in South Kirav and the warmer latitudes of the Baylands and Farravonia, is dedicated mainly to wheat, barley, and (increasingly) maize, as far as cereals are concerned. Hard red winter wheat is grown in drier mesotemperate areas of the interior, while durum wheat and other varieties are grown mainly in the South. Rye ''cum'' wildrye cultivation is well-established the upper supratemperate, hemiboreal, and boreal zones of Great Kirav, on account of the climatic conditions that make it difficult to grow other grains. "Rye" (''sensu lato'') and oats are resilient crops that tolerate lower temperatures and require shorter growing seasons than other grains, and thus can grow well in the harsh North Kiravian climate, with some especially hardy wildrye cultivars, such as [[Irovasdra]] alpine wildrye, being viable on a subsistence scale even at the highest arable altitudes and in the northernmost mesoboreal regions on the [[Coscivian Sea]]. Rye is often planted in the fall and harvested the following summer. Kiravian cereal farmers often practice crop rotation, where they alternate rye/wildrye with other crops such as barley, oats, or potatoes. This helps maintain healthy soil and prevents disease vectors and pest populations from building up. As a short-season crop that requires little in the way of fertilisers and pesticides, cuckwheat is often planted between primary rotations. In a few regions, such as southern [[Kannur]], it can be planted as a double crop. Coscivian cuckwheat is also prized as a pollen source to support {{wp|apiculture}}.
Conditions on the coast are different from those in the interior, particularly during winter months when the higher altitudes tend to be cold, wet, and often snowy. Average winter temperatures vary from around 0 °C (32 °F) in the Kjeldorans to 12 °C (54 °F) in [[Islevyny]], so average summer temperatures range from 20 °C (68 °F) to over 25 °C (77 °F).


===Vegetables===
Winters can vary widely across the country with lingering cold, foggy and snowy periods in the mountains and milder, sunnier conditions in the coastal regions. Summers are hot across the country, except for at high altitude, particularly in the [[Outer Islands]]. Northern and central areas can experience occasional strong thunderstorms from spring to autumn.


The {{wp|sugar beet}} is a Levantine crop introduced to Kiravia during the 19th century AD. It has naturalised exceedingly well and is cultivated in moderate concentrations, mainly in and around the Lake Belt, but also in parts of Farravonia and certain Western Highland valleys. Sugar beet accounts for about 70% of Kiravian domestic {{wp|table sugar}} production, with the remainder from {{wp|sugarcane|cane}}, grown mainly in [[Sarolasta]].
==Economy==
''Main Article: [[Economy of Alstin]]''
===Overview===
The United Republic has a capitalist mixed economy, which is fueled by abundant natural resources and high productivity. With a nominal GDP of $8,646 trillion, the private sector is estimated to constitute 76% of the economy, with federal government activity accounting for 9.8% and provincial and local activity (including federal transfers) the remaining 14.2%. Unemployment is at 2.78%, in spite of the amount of employment regulations throughout the country.


[Cruciferous vegetables]
Alstin is one of the world's largest exporter of goods, with a trade surplus of {INSERT SURPLUS HERE}. [[Cartadania]], [[Daxia]], and [[The Cape]] are three of Alstin's largest trading partners.
[Allium]


===Hops===
Information technology is currently the nation's largest industry, followed by tourism, arms manufacturing, and book publishing. Mining, agriculture, banking and financial services, and other facets of the manufacturing sector are other important drivers of the Alstinian economy.
Hops are mainly grown in areas with an oceanic climate. Major hop-growing regions include the West Coast, South, and parts of the Eastern Highlands and Central Uplands. Kiravian hops supply the Kiravian brewing industry and are also exported.
===Science and Technology===
The United Republic is considered to be one of the world's most technologically-advanced countries. It is considered to be on par with [[Urcea]] and [[Caphiria]], as it has been a leader in technological innovation since the early 19th century and scientific research since the early-20th century. Methods for producing interchangeable parts were developed by the U.R. Ministry of Defense by the [[Republic Armories]] during the first half of the 19th century. This technology, along with the establishment of a machine tool industry, enabled Alstin to have large-scale manufacturing of sewing machines, bicycles, and other items in the late 19th century and became known as the Alstinian system of manufacturing. Factory electrification in the early 20th century and introduction of the assembly line and other labor-saving techniques created the system of mass production. In the 21st century, approximately two-thirds of research and development funding comes from the private sector. Alstin leads the world in scientific research papers and impact factor.


Pre-mechanisation hop cultivation relied on a large seasonal labour force that migrated annually between hop-producing areas and areas of off-season employment. These workers came to regard themselves as distinct social groups known as the [[Hoppers|hop clans]].
Alstinian scientists and engineers have contributed to the advancement of agricultural sciences, electronics, industrial robotics, optics, chemicals, semiconductors, life sciences and various fields of engineering. Alstin leads the world in robotics production and use, possessing more than 20% of the world's industrial robots as of 2011. Additionally, Alstin has made significant strides in the research and development of nanotechnology, with one such notable example being the "[[Alstinian Miracle]]".
===Fruit===
Great Kirav has a considerable, if underappreciated, fruit output.


Blessed with enormous swathes of of cool, acidic bog land presenting ideal conditions for their cultivation, Great Kirav is a leading producer and exporter of {{wp|cranberries}}, which are grown extensively in the wetlands of [[Niyaska]], [[Ilánova]], [[Knassania]] Northeast Kirav, and the Lake Belt provinces.
Events leading-up to and during the [[Second Great War]] led many Levantine scientists to immigrate to the United Republic. This resulted in the development of the Alstinian nuclear program by the mid-1950s under what is now the [[United Republic Atomic Energy Commission]] (URAEC), as well as the establishment of the [[United Republic Space Agency]] (URSA), which produced rapid advances in rocketry, materials science, and aeronautics.


===Feed and Forage===
The invention of the transistor in the 1950s, a key active component in practically all modern electronics, led to many technological developments and a significant expansion of the Alstinian technology industry. This, in turn, led to the establishment of many new technology companies and regions around the country, most notably [[Silicon Bay]] in [[Mardünke]]. Advancements by Alstinian microprocessor companies along with both computer software and hardware companies, helped to create and popularize the personal computer.
{|style="margin: 0 auto;"
| [[File:Trèfle (132629543).jpeg|thumb|upright|alt=idk, some shit|{{wp|Clover}}]]
| [[File:Thinopyrum intermedium crossing block.JPG|thumb|upright|alt=William F. Buckwheat|{{wp|Thinopyrum intermedium|Sodgrass}}]]
| [[File:Bromus kalmii EPA-3.jpg|thumb|upright|alt=idk, some shit|{{wp|Bromus kalmii|Arctic brome}}]]
|-
|}
A sizeable share of Great Kirav's agricultural output goes toward sustaining its livestock industry. In addition to byproducts of crops harvested for human or industrial consumption, such as {{wp|oilcake}}, there are several plant species grown largely or primarily for use as animal fodder and forage. Forage plants often predominate as groundcover on land too marginal to support intensive cultivation of food crops.
<br>


===Industrial crops===
==Demographics==
[[File:RapeseedFields.jpg|thumb|Rapeseed fields in [[Elegia]]]]
===Population===
Kiravia is a major producer of rapeseed, which by most measures is its most valuable non-food crop. In supratemperate or hemiboreal regions with oceanic or suboceanic climates, such as the maritime Northwest and certain parts of the Lake Belt, rapeseed is typically grown as a winter crop, sown in late summer or early autumn and harvested in late spring or early summer. However, it can also be cultivated as a spring crop, depending on the region and local weather conditions. The crop is typically sown by direct drilling or broadcasting, and requires regular fertilization and pest control. In supratemperate regions with a continental climate, rapeseed is typically grown as a spring crop, sown in early spring and harvested in late summer. The crop requires similar soil and climate conditions to those in oceanic regions, though farmers in continental climates are more reliant on conventional tillage methods and crop rotation to maintain soil fertility and improve crop yield.
{{Pie chart
| radius = 100
| thumb = right
| caption = Self-reported ethnic origin in the United Republic (2020 Census)


Rapeseed oil has been used by Kiravians since time immemorial as a cooking oil, and was the predominant vegetable oil used in Kiravian cuisine before exposure to imported {{wp|olive oil}} and other alternatives. In modern times, the oil is still in very high demand for a wide range of applications, most prominently for the production of biodiesel, as an ingredient in mass-produced {{wp|margarine}}, {{wp|mayonnaise}}, and other condiments, and for industrial use in paints, lubricants, and soaps. It is Great Kirav's most important agricultural export.
| other =
| label1 =White Alstinians
| value1 =62.8
| color1 =Blue
| label2 =Audonian-Alstinians
| value2 =21.3
| color2 =Green
| label3 =Alshari-Alstinians
| value3 =10.2
| color3 =Gold
| label4 =Indigenous-Cronan
| value4 =1.4
| color4 =Orange
| label5 =Mixed
| value5 =2.9
| color5 =Crimson
| label6 =Other
| value6 =1.4
| color6 =Purple
|
}}
The United Republic has an estimated population of 154 million. A census is taken every ten years, with the first taking place in 1690. While the birthrate is only 24 per 1000, the population growth rate is 1.4%, the result of immigration. White Alstinians, at about 62.8%, make up the largest ancestry group, with sizable populations originating from various minority groups; Among them include Audonian-Alstinians at about 21.3%, Alshari-Alstinians at 10.2%, Indigenous-Cronan groups at 1.4%, and mixed at 2.9%.


Minor oilcrops grown in Great Kirav include {{wp|safflower}} (grown mainly in [[Îkodha]]) and {{wp|sunflower}}, grown mainly in the South and in Kaviska.
===Language===
[[Blairian Ænglish|Alstinian Ænglish]] is the de facto national language, with approximately 97% of the population speaking it as a first language. Additionally, 27% widely speak [[Cartadanian language|Cartadanian]] as either a primary or secondary language, while both [[Burgoignesc language|Burgoignesc]] and [[Kiravic Coscivian|Coscivian]] tie for being the third most dominant language, with each having about 19% of the population being fluent.


Flax was once grown in large quantities in the South, inland Farravonian valleys, and the northern plains, from Kastera westward to Îkodha and Asperidan. It was valuable as animal fodder and as an oilcrop, but most of all as a textile fibre. A reliable domestic flax supply was once of strategic importance due to its use in weaving {{wp|sailcloth}}. Although Great Kirav is still a significant flax producer, the value of this commodity has diminished under pressure from more cost-effective synthetic fibres and oils, and cultivation has contracted accordingly.
===Religion===
The majority of Alstin's population, at 65%, identifies as [[Chantry of Alstin|Chantric]], while [[Catholic Church|Catholics]] account for 22% of the population. The nonreligious account for 13% of the population, while Drutists make up 2%. All other faiths collectively make up 4% of the population. The Bill of Rights of the United Republic guarantees religious freedom, and prevents legislation that favors any religion over another. In addition, discrimination based on religion is illegal, with the exception of explicitly religious organizations such as churches. According to a survey in 2010, 47% of the population said that religion played a "very important role in their lives", while the percentage of irreligious people has been steadily increasing, particularly among younger generations.


{{wp|Horsetails}} are abundant in moist environments across the continent, and have been harvested by Kiravians since prehistoric times. ''Equisetum arvense'' was used for medicinal purposes and eaten boiled or grilled as a vegetable. In pre-industrial times, ''Equisetum hyemale'' was grown in kitchen gardens and its stems used for scouring pots and pans, as well as for sanding and polishing wood. Horsetails are still used for scullery work by many rural households, especially in Third Kirav. Some suburban households have taken to growing horsetails in drainage ditches and catchments in order to access provincial tax benefits.
===Education===
About 74 per cent of the United Republic's population has a university or college degree, which is the highest percentage in Crona, and among the highest percentages in the world. The basic literacy rate is approximately 99.2%.


===Other Crops===
Whilst education in Alstin is the responsibility of the Ministry of Education, the day-to-day administration and funding of public schools is the responsibility of local authorities. Universally free of charge state education was introduced piecemeal between 1870 and 1945. Education is now mandatory from ages five to sixteen, and through out the United Republic, all Alstinians must stay in education or training until they are 18. Alstin has many private and public institutions of higher education, with [[Newton University]], [[Saint Thomas Hobbs Seminary]], [[Vazquez Institute of Medicine]], and [[Altman Institute of Technology]] being among the most prestigious and notable throughout the [[Occidental world]].
Other important agricultural products include:
[[File:Cities.png|thumb|Map of Major Cities of the United Republic]]
*'''Allium:''' {{wp|Onion}}, {{wp|garlic}}, {{wp|scallion}}, {{wp|shallot}}, {{wp|leek}}, and {{wp|chives}}
*'''Starch crops:''' {{wp|Kudzu|Mountain vine}}, {{wp|Arracacha|Crisp potato}}, {{wp|Chondrus_crispus|Kirish moss}}
*'''Thanksgiving shit:''' {{wp|Pumpkins}}, {{wp|gourds}}, {{wp|squash}}
*'''Deez Nuts:''' {{wp|Hazelnut}}, {{wp|Shag hickory|Shagnut}}, {{wp|Chestnut}}


The northernmost plant farm in Great Kirav (''sensu lato'') and in the Kiravian Federacy is located in County Kennard on the satellite island of [[Rhuon]]. The 60-hectare estate of rocky arctic meadowland grows ''{{wp|Rhodiola_rosea}}'' for sale to herbal supplement companies. According to its owner, Oxus Ypsōdriv, the farm is "not profitable, but not much work either."
===Largest Cities===
{| class="wikitable sortable"
!Rank
!City
!Population (2028 est)
!Province
|-
|1
|[[Alstin (City)|Alstin]]
|7,342,969
|[[Alstin (City)|Capital District of Alstin]]
|-
|2
|[[Riverton]]
|2,632,480
|[[Cecelia]]
|-
|3
|[[Wheatley]]
|1,754,987
|[[Bryceland]]
|-
|4
|[[Dalton]]
|1,316,240
|[[Daltonland]]
|-
|5
|[[Cuzco (City)|Cuzco]]
|1,052,992
|[[Cuzco]]
|-
|6
|[[Washkau]]
|877,493
|[[Mardünke]]
|-
|7
|[[Pressley]]
|752,137
|[[Patricia]]
|-
|8
|[[Klepzigton]]
|658,120
|[[Mira]]
|-
|9
|[[Utopia (City)|Utopia]]
|584,996
|[[Utopia]]
|-
|10
|[[Lakeshore City|Lakeshore]]
|526,496
|[[Felicia]]
|}


==Stock==
==Infrastructure==
[[File:Guanacos-llamas-el-primero-imagen-en-europa-1553.jpg|thumb|Domestic {{wp|camelids}} depicted in a woodcut]]
===Transportation===
<!-- need a coscivia  word nn coscivin an coscivian word to repla slsce replacs llama and alpaca -->
[[File:Alstin Land Routes.png|thumb|Map of Major Highways in the United Republic]]
Stock rearing has always been important to sustaining the Kiravian way of life. Pastoralism is especially important in the numerous area of Great Kirav that are ill-suited to intensive arable farming, such as the upper boreal regions, alpine meadows and tundra, dry leeward mountain slopes, and inner-northwestern temperate grasslands. Kiravians rear animals for meat, milk, hide, horn, and other valuable products, such as insulin. {{wp|Wool}}, from camelids and [[sheep]] alike, is a top agricultural export.
A radial road network totals 93,808 km of main roads, 46,994 km of motorways and 688,000 km of paved roads. While cars are inexpensive, car ownership fees and fuel levies are used to promote energy efficiency; As a result, there are approximately 86 million licensed vehicles in the Alstinian Isles.


Many lowland pastoral regions of Great Kirav, such as [[Venèra]] and [[Harma]], are characterised by a {{wp|bocage}} landscape in which parcels of land are separated by dense (and often very old) {{wp|hedgerows}} and wooded berms to facilitate herd management and protect crop fields from grazing livestock. In other regions, such as [[Vôtaska]] and [[Elegia]], {{wp|silvopasture}} is the norm. Open rangeland grazing is most common in [[Korlēdan]], [[Îkodha]], [[Enscirya]], and the South.
The United Republic has a railway network of 32,418 km throughout the Alstinian Isles. Since privatization in 1984, dozens of Alstinian railway companies compete in regional, local and intercity passenger transportation markets. Some 360 high-speed Mercury trains connect major cities and Alstinian trains are known for their safety and punctuality. In addition, there are about 1,000 freight trains in daily operation.


Also [[sheep]].
There are 190 public airports in Alstin; the largest domestic airport, [[Alstin-Highwind International Airport]] in Alstin, is Crona's busiest airport. Other major international gateways include [[Washkau International Airport]], [[Deralveca International Airport]] and [[Lyleon International Airport]]. The [[Port of Alstin]] is the country's largest and busiest port, accounting for 10 percent of Alstin's trade value; Other major ports include Utopia, Lunsford, Dalton, Kenway, and Cuzco.
===Swine===
[[File:Vildsvinssugga som boar.jpg|thumb|A pig foraging in the [[Trinatria]]n piedmont]]


Suids were likely the first large mammals domesticated by prehistoric Kiravians. The Old Kiravian hog is a domestic variant of the native {{wp|Sus strozzi|Nearctic bearded boar}}, wild relict populations of which survive in a few biosphere reserves. Modern swine stocks in Kiravia are generally of mixed ancestry, descending mainly from the Levanto-Sarpic common hog and with a substantial (though gradually declining) share of Nearctic boar heritage. Pure-bred Old Kiravian hogs are raised as a heritage breed, mostly by smaller farms as a specialty product.
===Energy===
''Main Article: [[Energy policy of the United Republic]]''


For most of recorded Kiravian history, swine were the primary source of meat. Pork and pork products remain the most widely consumed form of meat in the country (fish and fowl excluded), though beef has been steadily gaining ground since the end of Kirosocialism. The swine industry in Great Kirav has been steadily growing since the market reforms of the 1980s AD. Improved access to technology and capital has contributed greatly to this success. For example; Kiravian winters can be harsh, especially in the North and interior, and as such, many swine farmers have developed insulated and climate-controlled facilities to regulate indoor temperatures during extreme weather conditions.The construction of high-capacity climate-controlled swine shelters has greatly improved herd health and meat yields. Improved antibiotics and other inputs have similarly reduced losses and widened profit margins for farmers.
The Alstinian energy market is about 6,900 terawatt hours per year. In 2020, 17% of this energy came from petroleum, 7% from coal, and 8% from natural gas. The remainder was supplied by nuclear and renewable energy sources.


Early urban centres in Kirav employed pigs for sanitation purposes, making use of {{wp|pig toilet|pig latrines}} to process human excrement. Pig latrines are fairly rare today, but remain in use by some rural households and remote hamlets in less developed inland states. They are most common in [[Kyllera]], where about a quarter of Coscivian households feed into pig-based waste management systems (PBWMS).
===Water Supply and Sanitation===
''Main Article: [[Water supply and sanitation of the United Republic]]''


Pig farming is banned in some predominantly Muslim countyships in the Kiravian South.
Access to improved water supply and sanitation in the UR is universal. It is estimated that 97.2 per cent of households are connected to the sewer network. According to the Environmental Protection and Restoration Agency (EPRA), total water abstraction for public water supply in the UR was 19,812 megalitres per day in 2011.
==Culture==
''Main Article: [[Culture of Alstin]] ''


===Cattle===
Mainstream Alstinian culture is an Occidental culture largely derived from a number of factors including: the nation's key commercial location centered on the Alstinian Isles; its history as an occidental liberal democracy and a major power; traditions originating from foreign immigrants; and cultural practices stemming back several centuries. This has resulted in a cultural mix that has been described as both a homogenizing melting pot, and a heterogeneous salad bowl in which immigrants and their descendants retain distinctive cultural characteristics while also promoting Alstinian cultural values as a whole. The substantial cultural influence of the United Republic has led it to be described as a "cultural superpower".
The first attempt to introduce cattle to inland Kirav was made in 25XD4+2Q [[Coscivian calendar|CC]] by Oranibur Kaisthev, chancellor to the King of the Antarans. Kaisthev purchased some 400 head of Urcean longhorn cattle to increase the king’s revenues from montane pasturelands. However, upon their delivery to what is now County Upśur in [[Verakośa]], the cattle were immediately slaughtered by terrified locals, who recognised them as the Devil’s hounds. Subsequent attempts were foiled along the same lines.


[[Korlēdan]] is the leading beef-producing state in Great Kirav. In recent years, beef enterprises in Korlēdan have been consolidating under a local affiliate of the [[Federation of Corummese Beef Producers]].
Core Alstinian culture was established by the initial Levantine settlers and shaped by the centuries-long frontier settlement and expansion process, with the traits derived passed down to descendants and transmitted to immigrants through assimilation. Alstinians have traditionally been characterized by a strong work ethic, competitiveness, and individualism, as well as a unifying belief in an "Alstinian creed" emphasizing liberty, equality, private property, democracy, rule of law, and a preference for limited, yet effective, government.
[[File:Dende a Garita de Erbeira 02.JPG|thumb|'Farrvonian Blonde' cattle in Metrea]]


===Dogs===
The Alstinian Dream, or the perception that Alstinians enjoy high social mobility, plays a key role in attracting immigrants. Whether this perception is realistic has been a topic of debate. While mainstream culture holds that the United Republic is a classless society, scholars identify significant differences between the country's social classes, affecting socialization, language, and values. Alstinians' self-images, social viewpoints, and cultural expectations are associated with their occupations to an unusually close degree. While Alstinians tend greatly to value socioeconomic achievement, being ordinary or average is generally seen as a positive attribute.
A pygmy dog breed known in Ænglish as the {{wp|Chihuahua|Kirish game hound}} is raised for meat, mainly in the interior and parts of the Baylands. Dogmeat was historically regarded as poor man's fare, but has recently undergone something of a lobster effect and become fashionable among the élite. Consumption of dogmeat was on the decline for much of the modern era, but rapidly expanded during the latter half of the Kirosocialist period due to food scarcity caused by the command economy. As dogs were outside the scope of government planning and not regulated as livestock, they could be raised for sale on the {{wp|black market}} without fear of criminal penalty. Contemporary production is mainly for the domestic market, due to low foreign demand and legal prohibitions in many countries.


==Economics==
==See also==
===Landholding, Enterprise Types, and Labour Relations===
{{Country topics
===Policy===
|country = Alstin
Although the share of GDP and employment generated by agriculture has steadily declined since industrialisation, agriculture remains politically important in the Kiravian Federacy. Maintaining a robust agricultural sector in Great Kirav is seen as critical to building a distributed economy and improving regional balance, and for mitigating the island continent's food insecurity as a strategic vulnerability for the Federacy at large. Like many temperate industrialised countries, Kiravia generously subsidises its agricultural sector. Federal subsidies to agriculture in Great Kirav (both the Federation and the South) and Æonara are consolidated under a series of [[Index of Kiravian Legislation#Recurring|Triennial Agriculture Acts]] and administered by the [[Kiravian Agricultural Executive|Agricultural Executive]]. The federal subsidy programme covers all of the major food staples and cash crops discussed at length in this article; additional subsidies are extended by provincial governments, and often cover smaller-volume crops, emerging products, and regional specialties with a more limited geographic footprint. In addition to protection of the domestic agricultural sector, the Triennial Agricultural Acts address adjacent policy concerns, such as erosion and runoff mitigation, {{wp|biosecurity}}, and the preservation of agricultural heritage. The Agricultural Executive also administers the Agricultural Reform Fund, which disburses payments to large landowners dispossessed by the Kiravian Union.
|state =
|border =
|basestyle =
|titlename =
|titleclass =
|_notopicsword =
|prefix =
|image =  [[File:Alstin Seal.png|size=80px]]
|imagestyle =


===Markets===
|above =
Agricultural futures and options are traded on several domestic exchanges. Exchanges whose soft-commodity contracts specify delivery points in Great Kirav are as follows:
|abovestyle =
|custom1 =
|list1 =


*'''[[Escarda]] Grand Exchange''' - Potato, rye, elymus, cuckwheat, oats, triticale, feed clover, canola, milk, lean hogs, frozen pork bellies, broiler chickens, beet sugar, maple sugar,
|history =
*'''[[Saar-Silverda|Silverda]] Mercantile Exchange''' - Potato, hops, crisp potato, Kirish seamoss starch, mountain vine starch, 
* [[History of Alstin]]
*'''[[Primóra]] House of Trade''' - Barley, hops, wheat, ''kalir''
|custom2 =
*'''[[Cities_of_Kiravia#Xéluev|Xéulev]] Hall of Onions''' - Onions, leeks, cuckwheat, poultry preparations
|list2 =


===Exports===
|geography =  
Agricultural exports from Great Kirav, whether to the Kiravian colonies or foreign nations, are dwarfed by the massive scale of its imports and consist mainly of nonfood products. Key agricultural exports include hops and other brewing factors, canola and canola oil, dairy products, wool, ''kalir'', flax fibre, potato-derived industrial starches, treenuts and treenut oils, and soaking herbs.
* [[Geography of Alstin]]
* [[Ecology of Alstin|Ecology]]
* [[Meteorology of Alstin|Meteorology]]
* [[Climate of Alstin|Climate]]
* [[Fauna of Alstin|Fauna]]
* [[Flora of Alstin|Flora]]
* [[Mountains of Alstin|Mountains]]
* [[Beaches of Alstin|Beaches]]
* [[Islands of Alstin|Islands]]
* [[Lakes of Alstin|Lakes]]
* [[National parks of Alstin|National parks]]
* [[Rivers of Alstin|Rivers]]
* [[Valleys of Alstin|Valleys]]
|subdivisions = {{Navbox |child |groupstyle=padding-left:0.5em;padding-right:0.5em;font-weight:normal;
    | group1 = [[List of provinces and territories of Alstin|Provinces]]
    | list1 = ‎
* &nbsp; [[Aegis]]
* &nbsp; [[Azura]]
* &nbsp; [[Backdraft]]
* &nbsp; [[Bryceland]]
* &nbsp; [[Cecelia]]
* &nbsp; [[Cuzco]]
* &nbsp; [[Daltonland]]
* &nbsp; [[Deralveca]]
* &nbsp; [[Equetus]]
* &nbsp; [[Felicia]]
* &nbsp; [[Islevyny]]
* &nbsp; [[Ionach]]
* &nbsp; [[Keldon]]
* &nbsp; [[Kjeldor]]
* &nbsp; [[Kufser]]
* &nbsp; [[Mira]]
* &nbsp; [[Mardünke]]
* &nbsp; [[Mierria]]
* &nbsp; [[Omepra]]
* &nbsp; [[Patricia]]
* &nbsp; [[Radia]]
* &nbsp; [[Rocotia]]
* &nbsp; [[Sierra (Province)|Sierra]]
* &nbsp; [[Silvia]]
* &nbsp; [[Suerta]]
* &nbsp; [[Tracoa]]
* &nbsp; [[Utopia]]
* &nbsp; [[Veraise]]
* &nbsp; [[Vintara]]
* &nbsp; [[Voltara]]
   | group2 = [[List of provinces and territories of Alstin|Federal District]]
    | list2 =
* &nbsp; [[Alstin (City)|Alstin]]
   | group3 = [[List of provinces and territories of Alstin|Territories]]
    | list3 =
* &nbsp; [[Ante Magnum]]
* &nbsp; [[Arsyra]]
* &nbsp; [[Credesia]]
* &nbsp; [[Isidar]]
* &nbsp; [[Purépec]]
* &nbsp; [[Sotsial]]
* &nbsp; [[Stia-Dica]]
* &nbsp; [[Vertannia]]
}}


Since the return of capitalism, there have been efforts by the government and agricultural coöperatives such as the [[Kiravian Dairy Board]] to promote agricultural exports to foreign markets.


==See Also==
*[[Kiravian cuisine]]
*[[Agrarian paramilitarism in Kiravia]]
*[[Forestry in Kiravia]]


[[Category:Kiravia]]
|below =
[[Category:Stuff in Kiravia]]
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Revision as of 00:48, 29 April 2023

United Republic of Alstin

Flag of Alstin
Flag
of Alstin
Coat of arms
Motto: "One Nation, United and Free"
Anthem: Alstin the Majestic
Location of the United Republic, its Territories, and Occupied Entities
Location of the United Republic, its Territories, and Occupied Entities
Capital
and largest city
Alstin
Official languagesAlstinian Ænglish
Demonym(s)Alstinian
GovernmentFederal presidential constitutional republic
• President
Sophia Forrester
Kiana Olson
Alyssa Vincent
Joseph Upton
LegislatureParliament
National Council
Senate
Formation
• Founding
23 March 1559
• Kingdom Established
1 April 1565
• Unification
21 October 1600
• Republic Proclaimed
4 July 1688
• Current Constitution
21 April 1689
Area
• Total
1,202,168.88 km2 (464,160.00 sq mi)
• United Republic Proper
641,799.054 km2
Population
• 2028 estimate
157,084,067
115,248,920 (UR Proper)
• 2020 census
96,267,943
• Density
128.41/km2 (332.6/sq mi)
GDP (nominal)2027 estimate
• Total
$8,646 trillion
$6.826 trillion (UR Proper)
• Per capita
$56,005.22
$59,231.33 (UR Proper)
Gini29.4
low
HDIIncrease 0.943
very high
CurrencyUnited Republic Dollar (URD)
Time zoneUTC+10:00 to UTC-11:00
Driving sideright
Calling code+1
Internet TLD.ura

The United Republic of Alstin, commonly known as the United Republic or Alstin, is a sovereign state comprising the entirety of the Alstinian Isles off the coast of Crona, as well as overseas holdings on the Cronan mainland, in the Cartesian Archipelago, and off the coast of East Alshar. Covering an area of more than 1,202 thousand km² and hosting a population of more 157 million, the United Republic is divided into 30 provinces, eight territories and a federal district - with its capital and largest city being Alstin.

A highly developed and high income country, the United Republic has a healthy capitalist mixed economy and historically strong economic growth; As a result, the Alstinian economy ranks within the "Top 20 in the Globe", both in terms of nominal GDP and PPP. Though its population is only 0.5% of the global total, Alstinians hold nearly 8% of the total wealth in the world. The United Republic ranks among the highest in several measures of socioeconomic performance, including average wage, human development, per capita GDP, and productivity per person. While the Alstinian economy is considered post-industrial, characterized by the dominance of both the service and information industry, the manufacturing sector remains one of the largest in the world. Accounting for approximately 10% of the global GDP and an eighth of global military spending, the United Republic is one of the world's foremost economic and military powers. The United Republic is a prominent political and cultural force internationally, and a leader in scientific research and technological innovations.

Etymology

The nation's name derives from the city of Alstin. The city's name itself, according to its founding myth, is believed to have been derived from the city's founder and the first king of Alstin, Alstanus Ryefield.

The standard way to refer to a citizen of Alstin is as an "Alstinian."

History

Further Reading: History of Alstin

Indigenous peoples

It has been generally accepted that the first inhabitants of the Alstinian Isles migrated from mainland Crona and East Alshar arrived at least 3,000 years ago; however, some evidence suggests an even earlier date of arrival. Over time, indigenous cultures in Crona grew increasingly complex, and some, such as the pre-Levantine Azure culture in modern-day Azura, developed advanced agriculture, architecture, and complex societies. The city of Cuzco is the largest, most complex pre-Levantine archaeological site in Alstin, and is oldest continuously inhabited settlement in the modern-day United Republic. In the Kjeldorian Highlands region, the Kjeld culture practiced hunting and trapping, along with limited cultivation. The Uto, located in modern-day Utopia, practiced fishing and whaling.

Occidental Settlement and the Founding of the Kingdom

Further reading: Aster's expedition

The first Levantines to arrive in Alstin were Occidental explorers connected to Paul Aster's voyage to find a western route to Alshar in March 1389. During the Age of Exploration in the early 16th century, several trading outposts were established throughout the Isles, forming the foundation of a number of Alstinian cities, with . However, during the Great Confessional War, waves of predominantly Protestant refugees fled from Levantia to the Alstinian Isles, founding a myriad of settlements; One such settlement was Alstin. Founded on 23 March 1559 by the Ænglish noble Alstanus Ryefield, the city, due its location on a island in the center of the Altaic Sea, quickly became the economic and cultural center of the Isles. By 1565, the city-state was recognized as one the preeminent polities in the region, with Alstanus Ryefield being formally coronated as the first King of Alstin on 1 April that, beginning a century-long reign by the House of Ryefield.

Unification and Development

Throughout the remainder of the 16th century, Alstin experienced a remarkable rate of growth both internally and externally. In terms of the former, Alstinian society developed and flourished largely in due part to its position at critical crossroads of traffic and trade routes on the Isles. This in turn not only made the city incredibly wealthy, but also made allowed for the construction of various public works projects (such as roads, aqueducts, and other civic projects that became the basic foundation of the city's modern infrastructure), all the while its culture thrived and developed as a result of its newfound prosperity. In terms of the latter, Alstin, using its vast new wealth, slowly yet gradually expanded its territory in every direction across the island of Alstin; Occasionally bringing them into conflict with many of its neighboring city-states and tribal confederations, but often than not, it peacefully incorporated . However, by 1600, during the reign of Douglas Corvinus, Alstin had successfully united the entirety of the island under its banner.

Over the course of the subsequent eighty years, the Kingdom experienced a period of relative peace and internal stability, as the Alstinians experienced an unprecedented amount of economic growth from its position at the crossroads of sea-based trade in the Orixtal Sea. This, combined with considerable scientific advances and cultural progress, would later become known as the "Long Peace". At the same time, Alstin engaged in series of conflicts in and around the lands of the Altaic Sea, the Orixtal Sea, and the Sea of St. John, from the Islevyny Archipelago to the shores of Rocotia, in an effort maintain the stability of the region.

In 1632, King Julius convened the Convocation of 1632, which formally established the Chantry of Alstin as state religion.

Alstinian Civil War and the birth of the United Republic

Further Reading: Alstinian Civil War

In 1682, following a costly decade-long war with the Martillien North Levantine Trading Company (MNLC), the Alstinian Civil War erupted between the brothers and rival claimants Stephan and David following the untimely death of Julius, who had failed to properly designate an heir beforehand. During the three year-long conflict, control over the throne switched hands four times before David successfully held on to it following the betrayal and murder of Stephan and most of his main supporters in 1685. But this only brought a temporary halt to the conflict, as by early 1687, it had become apparent that David intended to rule as an absolute monarch and that the populace had grown tired of his tyrannical policies. When it became publicly known that he, along with most of the nobles, attempted to orchestrate the murder of his last surviving brother, Geoffrey, as well as attempted to abolish the Omnibus Canon, the people revolted, beginning the second phase of the Civil War. The following year, David was captured and publicly executed following his defeat at the Battle of Leman's Crossing (now in modern-day Leman district of the city of Alstin). In spite of the victory, Geoffrey was mortally wounded, and, without a known heir to throne, formally proclaimed that the Kingdom would become a Republic as his first and last act as king. In 1689, on the anniversary of Geoffrey's death, the United Republic of Alstin, one of the first federal republics in the history of the world, officially came into being with the ratification of the Constitution (which remains in use to this day), and the unanimous election of Marcus Alanson, member of the Patrician delegation at the Constitutional Convention, and Geoffrey's most trusted general, as the first President of the United Republic.

In the decades following the establishment of the United Republic, the nation rebuilt itself economically and socially; The remnants of the royal government were either assimilated and re-tooled into the new federal government or were dissolved and replaced with new institutions.

Further immigration, expansion, and development

By 1710, the country had fully recovered and transitioned from Kingdom to Republic. With this, the United Republic resumed its involvement in international affairs, and began engaging in territorial acquisitions beyond the Inner Islands. Starting in 1721, the United Republic, through various methods, steadily expanded throughout the remaining Isles, establishing new settlements as well incorporating preexisting ones across what was then collectively referred the "Frontier Territories", nowadays officially called the "Outer Islands"; By 1840, the entirety of the "Frontier" was under the complete jurisdiction the United Republic.

Overseas, the United Republic began exerting its influence at first indirectly through intermediaries, most notably via the Alstinian Trade Company, then later directly via diplomacy, trade, and military action. In 1750, there were 35 overseas trading outposts, most of which were concentrated in and around South Crona; By 1900, there over 300 outposts around the globe, some of which, particularly those on the Cronan continent, would eventually merge together to form larger territorial holdings. Concurrently, the United Republic would help to initiate the modern era of international diplomacy through its efforts in establishing and strengthening economic and political ties in Levantia and Sarpedon; A notable example being the landmark 1806 Treaty of Lariana, which normalized diplomatic relations between the United Republic and the Holy Levantine Empire.

Domestically, the Isles, beginning in the early 19th century, experienced a rise in urbanization and an unprecedented influx of immigrants from both the Occident and the Orient, which in turn supplied a surplus of labor for the country's industrialization and transformed its culture. National infrastructure, including telegraph and railroads, spurred economic growth and greater settlement and development of the "Frontier". The later invention of electric light and the telephone would also affect communication and urban life.

Rapid economic development during the late 18th and early 20th centuries fostered the rise of many prominent industrialists, many of whom led the nation's progress in the railroad, petroleum, and steel industries. Banking became a major part of the economy, further spurring its growth into becoming one of the world's largest. These dramatic changes were accompanied by growing inequality and social unrest, which prompted the rise of organized labor along with populist, socialist, and anarchist movements. This period eventually ended with the advent of the Reformist Era, which saw significant reforms including women's suffrage, a shift in alcohol consumption habits, regulation of consumer goods, and greater antitrust measures to ensure competition and attention to worker conditions.

The Great Wars Era

Further reading: First Great War; Second Great War; Alstin in the Second Great War; Cronan Theatre of the Second Great War

The United Republic remained neutral from the initial outbreak of the First Great War in 1896, but joined a few weeks later on 13 June 1896 alongside the Concordiae Powers following repeated attacks on UR Merchant Shipping by the Burgundian Navy, helping to turn the tide against the Aliança. In 1904, President Patrick T. Jones took a leading diplomatic role at the TBD Peace Conference, subsequently reaffirming the United Republic's place as one the world's great powers.

Around this time, the women's rights movement bore it greatest victory with the election of first Marion Roberts, then Caroline Baxter to the Presidency in 1904 and 1908 respectively. Concurrently, the 1910s and 1920s saw the rise of radio for mass communication and the invention of early television, with ABS and NPB taking a leading role in both mediums. Additionally, the Alstinian film industry began to take form in earnest, centering in Driftwood, near Treadwell, Cecelia, making a substantial impact in the art of film-making.

The period between 1909 and 1925 is known as the Golden Years in the United Republic, in which unseen previously levels of economic growth and prosperity was accompanied with a distinctive social, artistic and cultural dynamism and technological advancement. The prosperity brought upon during the Golden Years ended with the Lloyd Street Crash of 1925 and the onset of the Blunt Depression. After his election as president in 1928, Alfred F. Jones responded with the Dawes Plan, a comprehensive series of economic and financial programs geared towards providing financial relief to individuals and businesses, promote economic recovery, and institute economic and financial reforms.

At the outset of the Second Great War in March 1934, the United Republic, while maintaining neutrality, began supplying materiel to Urcea and its allies in response to unrestricted Caphirian submarine activity in the Orixtal, the Polynesian, and St. Brendan's Strait, supplying LOTA forces with much needed supplies and war materiel. On 31 December 1935...

TBA

Occidental Cold War

Further Reading: Occidental Cold War

TBA


Contemporary History

Further Reading: Cartesian Wars; Final War of the Deluge

TBA

Politics and government

Further Reading: Government of the United Republic; List of heads of state of Alstin; List of provinces and territories of Alstin

The United Republic is the world's oldest surviving federal republic. It is a representative democracy, "in which majority rule is tempered by minority rights protected by law". The government is regulated by a system of checks and balances defined by the Constitution of the United Republic, which serves as the country's supreme legal document.


In the Alstinian federalist system, citizens are usually subject to three levels of government: federal, provincial, and local. The local government's duties are commonly split between county and municipal governments. In almost all cases, executive and legislative officials are elected by a plurality vote of citizens by district. There is no proportional representation at the federal level, and it is rare at lower levels.

The federal government is composed of three branches:

  • Legislative: The bicameral Parliament, made up of the Senate and the National Council, makes federal law, declares war, approves treaties, has the power of the purse, and has the power of impeachment, by which it can remove sitting members of the government.
  • Executive: The President is the commander-in-chief of the military, can veto legislative bills before they become law (subject to Parliamentary override), and appoints the members of the Cabinet (subject to Senate approval) and other officers, who administer and enforce federal laws and policies.
  • Judicial: The Supreme Court and lower federal courts, whose judges are appointed by the President with Senate approval, interpret laws and overturn those they find unconstitutional.


The National Council currently has 467 voting members and 10 non-voting delegates, with each of the former representing a parliamentary district for a two-year term, while each of the latter representing an incorporated overseas territory. Council seats are apportioned among the provinces by population every tenth year, with the constitutional minimum being that at least one council seat be allotted for each province. With the most recent census, there provinces (Azura, Backdraft, and Voltara), each had the least amount of councilors at four, while Cecelia, the most populous province, had thirty-nine.


The Senate has 62 members, with each province plus the Capital District having two senators, elected at-large to six-year terms; one third of Senate seats are up for election every other year. The President serves a four-year term and may be elected to the office no more than twice. The President is not elected by direct vote, but by an indirect electoral college system in which the determining votes are apportioned to the provinces and the Capital District. The Supreme Court, led by the Chief Magistrate of the United Republic, has nine members, who serve for life.


The provincial governments are structured in roughly similar fashion. The governor, or an official of equivalent nature, of each province is directly elected. Some provincial judges and cabinet officers are appointed by the governors of the respective provinces, while others are elected by popular vote.


The original text of the Constitution establishes the structure and responsibilities of the federal government and its relationship with the individual provinces. Article One protects the right to the "great writ" of habeas corpus. The Constitution has been amended 42 times; the first ten amendments, which make up the Bill of Rights, and the Fourteenth Amendment form the central basis of Alstinians' individual rights. All laws and governmental procedures are subject to judicial review and any law ruled by the courts to be in violation of the Constitution is voided.

Foreign Relations

Main article:Foreign Relations of Alstin

The United Republic has an established structure of foreign relations. It is a founding member of the League of Nations, as well as a founding member of the now defunct South Crona Congress and its successor, the Cronan Security and Trade Union. Almost all countries have embassies in Alstin, and many have consulates around the country. Likewise, nearly all nations host Alstinian diplomatic missions, which are operated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Military

See Main Article: United Republic Armed Forces

The President holds the title of commander-in-chief of the United Republic Armed Forces (URAF) and appoints its leaders, the Minister of Defense and the Armed Forces Council. The Ministry of Defense administers the various branches of the armed forces, including the Army (URA), Marine Corps (URMC), Navy (URN), Air Corps (URAC), Coast Guard (URCG), and Space Force (URSF). Currently, the armed forces has approximately 1.3 million personnel on active duty, which, when combined with those personnel serving in both the Reserve Forces of the each of the service branches and the various provincial Home Guard units brings the total number of troops to about 2.1 million. In addition, the Ministry of Defense also employs about 815,000 civilians, not including contractors.

Military service is voluntary, though conscription may occur in wartime through the Selective Service System. Alstinian forces can be rapidly deployed by the Air Corps' large fleet of transport aircraft, the Navy's thirteen active aircraft carriers, and Marine expeditionary units at sea with the Navy's Home, Orixtal, Odoneru, and Cathaic fleets. The military operates 69 bases and facilities abroad, and maintains deployments greater than 100 active duty personnel in seven foreign countries.

Geography

The territory of the United Republic proper, which is defined as encompassing the Alstinian Isles and the overseas provinces of Mierria and Tracoa, covers more 641,000 km², and lies between the Ocean of Cathay and the Sea of Orixtal, with the north-east coast of Mierria coming within 1000 km of the coast of southwestern Crona, from which it is separated by the Mierrian Channel. In 2000, 18 per cent of the Alstinian Isles was forested, 32 per cent used for pastures and 25 per cent cultivated for agriculture.

The Alstinian Isles lies between latitudes 23° and 10° N, and longitudes 165° and 140° W. The coastline of the Isles is aproximately??? km long. Most of the country consists of lowland terrain, with more upland and some mountainous terrain in the interior regions; including the Kjeldorans, the Artolans, the Ursans and the Villers Range. The main rivers and estuaries are the Corvus, the Lupus and the Davis. Alstin's highest mountain is Kjeld's Peak in Kjeldor.

Climate

The climate of Alstin is influenced by the Orixtal Sea to north and east, the Sea of St. John to the northwest, the Ocean of Cathay to the south and west, and the Altaic is its center. These seas constitute a reservoir of heat and humidity for Alstin.

Because of the extent of the Isles and the somewhat mountainous hinterland, the climate of the United Republic is highly diverse. The climate ranges from Mediterrean and Marine West Coast across much of the northern coast and central Alstin along rim the Altaic Sea, to humid subtropical and tropical wet throughout the coasts along the Cathay and Orixtal, as well as most of the Outer Islands, to Semiarid, Arid and Highland in the Kjedoran and Ursan mountain ranges.

Conditions on the coast are different from those in the interior, particularly during winter months when the higher altitudes tend to be cold, wet, and often snowy. Average winter temperatures vary from around 0 °C (32 °F) in the Kjeldorans to 12 °C (54 °F) in Islevyny, so average summer temperatures range from 20 °C (68 °F) to over 25 °C (77 °F).

Winters can vary widely across the country with lingering cold, foggy and snowy periods in the mountains and milder, sunnier conditions in the coastal regions. Summers are hot across the country, except for at high altitude, particularly in the Outer Islands. Northern and central areas can experience occasional strong thunderstorms from spring to autumn.

Economy

Main Article: Economy of Alstin

Overview

The United Republic has a capitalist mixed economy, which is fueled by abundant natural resources and high productivity. With a nominal GDP of $8,646 trillion, the private sector is estimated to constitute 76% of the economy, with federal government activity accounting for 9.8% and provincial and local activity (including federal transfers) the remaining 14.2%. Unemployment is at 2.78%, in spite of the amount of employment regulations throughout the country.

Alstin is one of the world's largest exporter of goods, with a trade surplus of {INSERT SURPLUS HERE}. Cartadania, Daxia, and The Cape are three of Alstin's largest trading partners.

Information technology is currently the nation's largest industry, followed by tourism, arms manufacturing, and book publishing. Mining, agriculture, banking and financial services, and other facets of the manufacturing sector are other important drivers of the Alstinian economy.

Science and Technology

The United Republic is considered to be one of the world's most technologically-advanced countries. It is considered to be on par with Urcea and Caphiria, as it has been a leader in technological innovation since the early 19th century and scientific research since the early-20th century. Methods for producing interchangeable parts were developed by the U.R. Ministry of Defense by the Republic Armories during the first half of the 19th century. This technology, along with the establishment of a machine tool industry, enabled Alstin to have large-scale manufacturing of sewing machines, bicycles, and other items in the late 19th century and became known as the Alstinian system of manufacturing. Factory electrification in the early 20th century and introduction of the assembly line and other labor-saving techniques created the system of mass production. In the 21st century, approximately two-thirds of research and development funding comes from the private sector. Alstin leads the world in scientific research papers and impact factor.

Alstinian scientists and engineers have contributed to the advancement of agricultural sciences, electronics, industrial robotics, optics, chemicals, semiconductors, life sciences and various fields of engineering. Alstin leads the world in robotics production and use, possessing more than 20% of the world's industrial robots as of 2011. Additionally, Alstin has made significant strides in the research and development of nanotechnology, with one such notable example being the "Alstinian Miracle".

Events leading-up to and during the Second Great War led many Levantine scientists to immigrate to the United Republic. This resulted in the development of the Alstinian nuclear program by the mid-1950s under what is now the United Republic Atomic Energy Commission (URAEC), as well as the establishment of the United Republic Space Agency (URSA), which produced rapid advances in rocketry, materials science, and aeronautics.

The invention of the transistor in the 1950s, a key active component in practically all modern electronics, led to many technological developments and a significant expansion of the Alstinian technology industry. This, in turn, led to the establishment of many new technology companies and regions around the country, most notably Silicon Bay in Mardünke. Advancements by Alstinian microprocessor companies along with both computer software and hardware companies, helped to create and popularize the personal computer.

Demographics

Population

Self-reported ethnic origin in the United Republic (2020 Census)

  White Alstinians (62.8%)
  Audonian-Alstinians (21.3%)
  Alshari-Alstinians (10.2%)
  Indigenous-Cronan (1.4%)
  Mixed (2.9%)
  Other (1.4%)

The United Republic has an estimated population of 154 million. A census is taken every ten years, with the first taking place in 1690. While the birthrate is only 24 per 1000, the population growth rate is 1.4%, the result of immigration. White Alstinians, at about 62.8%, make up the largest ancestry group, with sizable populations originating from various minority groups; Among them include Audonian-Alstinians at about 21.3%, Alshari-Alstinians at 10.2%, Indigenous-Cronan groups at 1.4%, and mixed at 2.9%.

Language

Alstinian Ænglish is the de facto national language, with approximately 97% of the population speaking it as a first language. Additionally, 27% widely speak Cartadanian as either a primary or secondary language, while both Burgoignesc and Coscivian tie for being the third most dominant language, with each having about 19% of the population being fluent.

Religion

The majority of Alstin's population, at 65%, identifies as Chantric, while Catholics account for 22% of the population. The nonreligious account for 13% of the population, while Drutists make up 2%. All other faiths collectively make up 4% of the population. The Bill of Rights of the United Republic guarantees religious freedom, and prevents legislation that favors any religion over another. In addition, discrimination based on religion is illegal, with the exception of explicitly religious organizations such as churches. According to a survey in 2010, 47% of the population said that religion played a "very important role in their lives", while the percentage of irreligious people has been steadily increasing, particularly among younger generations.

Education

About 74 per cent of the United Republic's population has a university or college degree, which is the highest percentage in Crona, and among the highest percentages in the world. The basic literacy rate is approximately 99.2%.

Whilst education in Alstin is the responsibility of the Ministry of Education, the day-to-day administration and funding of public schools is the responsibility of local authorities. Universally free of charge state education was introduced piecemeal between 1870 and 1945. Education is now mandatory from ages five to sixteen, and through out the United Republic, all Alstinians must stay in education or training until they are 18. Alstin has many private and public institutions of higher education, with Newton University, Saint Thomas Hobbs Seminary, Vazquez Institute of Medicine, and Altman Institute of Technology being among the most prestigious and notable throughout the Occidental world.

Map of Major Cities of the United Republic

Largest Cities

Rank City Population (2028 est) Province
1 Alstin 7,342,969 Capital District of Alstin
2 Riverton 2,632,480 Cecelia
3 Wheatley 1,754,987 Bryceland
4 Dalton 1,316,240 Daltonland
5 Cuzco 1,052,992 Cuzco
6 Washkau 877,493 Mardünke
7 Pressley 752,137 Patricia
8 Klepzigton 658,120 Mira
9 Utopia 584,996 Utopia
10 Lakeshore 526,496 Felicia

Infrastructure

Transportation

Map of Major Highways in the United Republic

A radial road network totals 93,808 km of main roads, 46,994 km of motorways and 688,000 km of paved roads. While cars are inexpensive, car ownership fees and fuel levies are used to promote energy efficiency; As a result, there are approximately 86 million licensed vehicles in the Alstinian Isles.

The United Republic has a railway network of 32,418 km throughout the Alstinian Isles. Since privatization in 1984, dozens of Alstinian railway companies compete in regional, local and intercity passenger transportation markets. Some 360 high-speed Mercury trains connect major cities and Alstinian trains are known for their safety and punctuality. In addition, there are about 1,000 freight trains in daily operation.

There are 190 public airports in Alstin; the largest domestic airport, Alstin-Highwind International Airport in Alstin, is Crona's busiest airport. Other major international gateways include Washkau International Airport, Deralveca International Airport and Lyleon International Airport. The Port of Alstin is the country's largest and busiest port, accounting for 10 percent of Alstin's trade value; Other major ports include Utopia, Lunsford, Dalton, Kenway, and Cuzco.

Energy

Main Article: Energy policy of the United Republic

The Alstinian energy market is about 6,900 terawatt hours per year. In 2020, 17% of this energy came from petroleum, 7% from coal, and 8% from natural gas. The remainder was supplied by nuclear and renewable energy sources.

Water Supply and Sanitation

Main Article: Water supply and sanitation of the United Republic

Access to improved water supply and sanitation in the UR is universal. It is estimated that 97.2 per cent of households are connected to the sewer network. According to the Environmental Protection and Restoration Agency (EPRA), total water abstraction for public water supply in the UR was 19,812 megalitres per day in 2011.

Culture

Main Article: Culture of Alstin

Mainstream Alstinian culture is an Occidental culture largely derived from a number of factors including: the nation's key commercial location centered on the Alstinian Isles; its history as an occidental liberal democracy and a major power; traditions originating from foreign immigrants; and cultural practices stemming back several centuries. This has resulted in a cultural mix that has been described as both a homogenizing melting pot, and a heterogeneous salad bowl in which immigrants and their descendants retain distinctive cultural characteristics while also promoting Alstinian cultural values as a whole. The substantial cultural influence of the United Republic has led it to be described as a "cultural superpower".

Core Alstinian culture was established by the initial Levantine settlers and shaped by the centuries-long frontier settlement and expansion process, with the traits derived passed down to descendants and transmitted to immigrants through assimilation. Alstinians have traditionally been characterized by a strong work ethic, competitiveness, and individualism, as well as a unifying belief in an "Alstinian creed" emphasizing liberty, equality, private property, democracy, rule of law, and a preference for limited, yet effective, government.

The Alstinian Dream, or the perception that Alstinians enjoy high social mobility, plays a key role in attracting immigrants. Whether this perception is realistic has been a topic of debate. While mainstream culture holds that the United Republic is a classless society, scholars identify significant differences between the country's social classes, affecting socialization, language, and values. Alstinians' self-images, social viewpoints, and cultural expectations are associated with their occupations to an unusually close degree. While Alstinians tend greatly to value socioeconomic achievement, being ordinary or average is generally seen as a positive attribute.

See also