The Appalachian Empire

Note: The Appalachian Empire is a constant presence, and veiled threat, in the Republic.  Its influence can be felt everywhere, and Imperials find their way even to the most remote outposts in search of profit.  The Empire is not based on any historical place, unlike other settings in Exiles.  Due to this and the complicated nature of the nation and its technology, we ask that only players familiar with the Exiles setting play an Imperial.  Steampunk type personas can be found in the large Republican cities for those interested in playing those types of characters. If you are ever interested in playing an Imperial, please contact the game staff to create an intriguing background! 

From the moment the British touched the shores of the new world, they intended to use it to extend their industrial processes and draw out as much resources as they could from the land. With the superior abilities of Europe, the entire east coast was soon a mass of brick, stone and brass. Each process was organized for maximum efficiency, and the colonials were able to out-produce even the might of Europe.

            When the Appalachian Empire won their freedom from the British, they were able to keep their superior capabilities. In fact, production increased in many areas, and the inventions produced outstripped the imaginations of even the British. This allowed trade to continue, and business has gone on better than before. Indeed, traveling through the Empire reveals that no space is wasted in the never-ending quest for advancement of industry. Imperial territory stretches from peninsula to peninsula, temperate north (though not into the primordial, frigid Great Northern Mountains) to tropical south, and some small distance west.  In addition, the proud country claims other territories and islands that once belonged to the British.

            With such enterprising business, it is no wonder that the Imperial cities are centers of learning and sophistication. Everything one could need to enjoy society is contained in the Empire. The Republic lacks any defined taste or culture, as those who have it know that there is no need to leave the borders of the great Imperial city-states and into the uncouth and uncivilized lands to the west. The families who own the nation’s factories are shining examples of intellect and elegance admired the world over. Indeed, the elite from around the globe frequently make extended stays in the soaring towers of the cities or the charming factory villas of the Imperials; proving that the Appalachian Empire has much to offer to any refined taste.

Of course, the workers are the backbone of society, producing the goods that make the country great. Each worker takes pride in their place, and even those who cannot afford homes are given subsidized tenement housing to ensure that no one is left without shelter. Even a worker with excellent business sense or a clever invention can rise to the top of society as a reward for their dedication to Imperial production.

            The land of the Empire is composed of giant factory-cities that cover the land to make the best use of available space.  Each factory-city resides in a district and that district oversees the factory and determines production.  The districts are responsible for maintaining Imperial law and ensuring that each factory-city is meeting or exceeding legally-defined production quotas. 

Those districts that process similar raw materials (such as brass, wood, steel, glass, etc) are formed into Syndicates.  These units are not determined geographically, as a district that produces ironworks in the north would be in the same Syndicate as one that did the same in the south. The Syndicates manage the affairs of the districts and factory-cities they encompass, making larger decisions for the units as a whole.

Furthering the goal of maximum efficiency, the governing bodies of the Empire are made up of the leaders of the factories. This ensures that decisions are made that are the best for productivity, without squabbling over minor topics. Factory owners determine policies for the factory-cities, districts, and Syndicates. On a national level, each Syndicate elects magnates to serve on the Council. In this way, all are represented, as the magnates speak for all workers and owners within their districts.  If the magnates are not able to agree, disputes are settled by the Supreme Magnate, who is elected every two years. The Council also advises the Emperor on all matters.

It is the Emperor who sets the year’s production quotas, but the magnates provide him with the data and advice to do so.  The Emperor is the leader of the nation, and makes the final decision on all things. Though the Syndicates hold more direct control over the mechanical lifeblood of the Empire, the balance of power supporting the Emperor ensures that he retains power. The position of Emperor is held by the Adams family, who were instrumental in the Appalachian Revolution, and savvy businessmen besides. The current Emperor is John R. Adams, who will likely prosper for several more decades before his son succeeds him.

There is no doubt that the Imperials are advancing civilization, and mankind itself. Wonders of technology, the best schools and hospitals, and the most fashionable society are all to be found within.  If you enjoy the finest things in life and admire the highest ideals the human race has to offer, then there is no doubt that you are Imperial at heart. While some might say that there is benefit from unused space and a lack of structure, these are not to the benefit of industry, and some might say the price of progress.