Empire of Surdam

Empire of Surdam

Spanish: *Imperio de Surdam*
Spanish:	Imperio de Surdam
Spanish:	Imperio de Surdam
	Flag Royal coat of arms
	Motto: "Unity! Empire! Freedom!"
	Anthem: "Long live the Empire!"
	Great Seal of Surdam;
Capital and largest city	Jackson City
Official languages	English
Recognised regional languages	Spanish
Demonym(s)	Surdamian
Government	Unitary absolute monarchy
• Emperor	Lane I
Foundation
• Republic	17 July 2017
• Monarchy	20 December 2023
Population
• 2024 estimate	38
Currency	Surdamian Mark (SUR)
Date format	mm-dd-yyyy; AD
Driving side	right
Calling code	+1
IMSO 1 code	SDM
Preceded by
	Republic of Surdam

The Empire of Surdam, more often referred to simply as Surdam, is a micronation mostly located in the US state of Wyoming. Surdam was founded on 17 July 2017, establishing the republic, then later on the Empire in 2023 which is known today. Surdam has an Emperor in charge of the nation via absolute monarchy. Surdam has a population of 30+ and uses the stable Surdamian mark as its currency. Surdam is a relatively agricultural and somewhat isolated nation, however, this has not stopped the nation from being a regional power and holding important positions in international organizations. The country's official language is English, with Spanish as a secondary official language. French and Chinese are recognized regional languages and are the least spoken within the country. The five largest cities in Surdam are Jackson City, Little Rapids City, Palms Beach, Horse Town, and Creek City. Jackson City is the official capital of Surdam and the most populous.

History

The Republic

The Republic of Surdam was founded on July 17, 2017, by Lane Surdam and his grandfather, R. Surdam, after declaring independence from the United States. Initially focusing on nation-building for fun, Lane and R. Surdam established Surdam as a young republic with Jackson City as its capital. The nation's growth led to conflicts like the Field War and the Battle of Basketball Court, expanding its territories and establishing entities like the Surdamian Space Agency.

Surdam continued its expansion, founding new territories, establishing national parks, and engaging in conflicts like the Kapresh Civil War and the Pine Tree War. As its influence grew, Surdam faced isolation, being kicked out of the Micronational Assembly multiple times. However, it also forged alliances and signed treaties, notably with the Empire of Kapreburg, contributing to its development through the formation of states, railway systems, and initiatives for sustainable energy.

The nation experienced natural disasters, such as the Mauna Loa eruption, prompting the creation of the Bureau of Geology Archeology and Paleontology (BGAP) to handle geological affairs. Surdam further solidified its alliances, signing treaties, and engaging in various economic and cultural endeavors, including founding Surdamian Airlines, NSBC (Surdam News Broadcasting Company), and the Trench River League for basketball.

Entering the "Age of Liberty," Surdam prioritized ending rivalries by signing military alliances and took significant steps in its internal governance by signing a constitution after years of loosely structured governance. The nation focused on military growth, creating specialized forces like the Civil Defense and the First Expeditionary Force, while also redesigning state flags for a more unified representation.

Emperor Lane I by Fort Teton in the summer of 2022

A forest in the Snake River Territory with the Tetons behind it.

End of the Republic

Nearing the end of 2023, the Republic began to become inactive. A new constitution was in the works, but 2nd President Surdam looked at the nation he had built and this government and the democracy he tried to uphold. Seeing how the current government was failing he decided to bring Surdam into a new era of unity, empire, and freedom. On December 20th, 2023, at 6:20 PM, the Republic of Surdam was officially transformed into the Empire of Surdam. The Surdam Government Council has been dissolved and Lane I took power over Surdam declaring himself Emperor with the support of the populous.

Building the Empire

Emperor Lane I of Surdam issued a decisive Imperial Decree, establishing a comprehensive hierarchical governance structure aimed at enhancing the empire's prosperity and efficiency. The decree outlines the roles and powers of key figures such as the Emperor, Emeritus, King, Queen, Imperial Princes, State Kings, Dukes, Earls, Generals, Governors, Mayors, Civilians, and Prisoners. All governmental positions, except high-ranking military roles, will be appointed by higher authorities, ensuring a clear chain of command. Emperor Lane I emphasized the decree's commitment to maintaining order, justice, and the Emperor's will for future generations.

Annexation of Westerly

The annexation of the Westerly by the Empire of Surdam under Imperial Decree II marked a significant turning point in the history of both nations. This decree, issued by Emperor Lane I, formalizes the incorporation of Westerly as a state within the Surdamic Empire, solidifying a long-standing alliance. The decree appoints Former President Quinn I, the current leader of Westerly, as the State King. The decree emphasizes the unity and mutual prosperity that this integration promises, binding the citizens of Westerly under the laws and protection of Surdam, and ensuring their full rights as loyal subjects of the empire.

Politics and government

The governing type of the Empire of Surdam is a Absolute monarcy. Emperor Lane I lead the empire.

The governance framework of the Surdam empire is structured hierarchically, centered around the absolute power of the Emperor. Key positions include the Emeritus of Surdam for retired monarchs, the King and Queen serving directly under the Emperor, Imperial Princes as heirs, State Kings and Queens overseeing regions, Dukes, Earls, Generals, Governors, Mayors, and Civilians. Officials are appointed by higher-ranking individuals, with the Emperor appointing main leaders who appoint subordinates down the hierarchy. Military officials hold power granted by the Emperor.

Political parties are banned in Surdam, this is due to political parties going against the values of unity Surdam. This is done to prevent any political strife within the nation to keep stability and cooperation at the high at all times.

Economy

Surdam's economy is a capitalist economy with many businesses sprawling within the country. Surdam's main industries are based on farming, fishing, and lumber making Surdam a more agricultural country. Surdam's official currency is the Surdamian mark, when the Surdamian Mark was made it was equivalent to around 0.75 cents in USD but due to US inflation, 1 Surdamian Mark is worth roughly around 0.91 US cents.

National Parks

Lake Beau National Park was established on 7 July 2021. It is Surdam's first national park, and it was established in honour of Beau (A great dog). The Tetons may be seen from Lake Beau National Park. Small Rock Island National Park was established on 8 March 2022, and it is Surdam's second national park, with beautiful beaches.

Surdamian Military and Space Program

The Surdamian Military consists of 11 troops, four naval ships, two drones, and one glider. The Army, Air Force, Navy, and Marines are the four branches of the Surdamian military. Each branch has received extensive training in combat tactics, outdoor survival, and other topics. Surdam's military is the country's primary defense force, and it will go to any length to safeguard the homeland. The military is a big within the Surdamian culture with around 1/3 of citizens being in it, the military is a very big source of pride for the nation.

Surdam's official space program is the Surdamian Space Agency (SSA), has launched several rockets. The headquarters of the SSA are in New Wyoming. It has lately established an astronomy branch and an observatory in the Pacific.

States of Surdam

Flag	Info	Name	Population	King	Incorporated
Territories
	Jackson City was the first state Surdam ever had, it is also where the capitol is.	Jackson City	9	R. Surdam	2017
	New Wyoming is the largest state in all of Surdam. It is also where the most busiest airport in Surdam is located.	New Wyoming	9	Lane Surdam	2018
	Pacifica is the only state in Surdam with ocean access. One of the larger navel bases in Surdam is located here, and it is the only state with territory still in it's name.	Pacifica	7	D. Surdam	2020
	Horse Town is a state in the union. Horse Town is home to the largest horse reservers in Surdam.	Horse Town	5	P. King	2021
	Rose Creek is the most eastern part of Surdam and has a creek running through it, Rose Creek.	Rose Creek	5	J. Surdam	2021
	Westerly is the newest state of Surdam being just admitted to the Empire on August 27th, 2024.	Westerly	2	Quinn Rasmussen	2024

Territories of Surdam

Flag	Info	Name	Population	Governor	Incorporated
Territories
	Snake River Territory is a territory on the snake river, near Jackson City.	Snake River Territory	0	B. Bush	2022
	Little Field is a territory gained during the Pine Tree War, and it is by New Wyoming.	Little Field	0	B. Bush
	Sloan Lake Territory is a large territory on Sloan Lake, and it is by New Wyoming.	Sloan Lake Territory	0	B. Bush
	West Centennial Hill Territory is a large territory with a tall hill, and it is by New Wyoming.	West Centennial Hill Territory	0	B. Bush	2023

Cities

Jackson City is the capitol and most populated city in Surdam.
Horse Town is a small town located in Surdam that is a city state.
Little Rapids City the capital city of New Wyoming.
Fort Trench a town in New Wyoming.
Trench River Town a town in New Wyoming.
Palms Beach the capital city of the Pacific Territory.
Creek City the capital city of Rose Creek.

Geography and climate

Surdam's land claims in the NorthWest and Midwest are prone to blizzards and snow in the winter, as well as scorching summers. Northwestern and Midwestern states such as Jackson City, New Wyoming, and Rose Creek usually have rivers flowing in the Summer, such as Little Fox River, Rose Creek, and the Trench River. The Pacific Territory has one season all year (summer) and tropical storms every now and then.

Climate data for Jackson City, Surdam
Month	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec	Year
Average high °F (°C)	24 (-4.4)	26 (-3.3)	40 (4.4)	46 (7.8)	55 (12.8)	64 (17.8)	80 (26.7)	80 (26.7)	74 (23.3)	60 (15.6)	30 (-1.1)	24 (-4.4)	50.3 (10.14)
Average low °F (°C)	6 (-14.4)	7 (-13.9)	18 (-7.8)	23 (-5)	30 (-1.1)	37 (2.8)	43 (6.1)	44 (6.7)	39 (3.9)	29 (-1.7)	17 (-8.3)	6 (-14.4)	24.9 (−3.94)
^{[citation needed]}

Statistics

Annual Citizen Count
Year	Pop.	±%
2017	6	—
2018	10	+66.7%
2019	15	+50.0%
2020	19	+26.7%
2021	29	+52.6%
2022	31	+6.9%
2023	35	+12.9%
2024	38	+8.6%
Reflects end-of-year count

Surdamian Culture

Surdamian culture is a primarily western culture, with influences from multiple sources. The Surdamian monarchy often exercises nation-building, which is usually accepted by the Surdam people.

Langauge

In Surdam, the official language is English, and minority languages include Spanish, French, and Chinese. Due to Spanish being increasingly spoken in all states of Surdam, this has led many Surdamians and the Surdamian Government to adopt Spanish as an official language. French and Chinese are spoken by few individuals however these languages are considered regional languages.

Holidays

Date	Name	Notes
January 6	Teddy Day	Celebrations honoring one of the best American leaders, Theodore Roosevelt.
January 10	Cody day	Celebrations honoring the ultimate entertainer, Buffalo Bill (William F. Cody).
First Sunday after the full Moon that occurs on or after the spring equinox	Easter	Celebrating Resurrection of Christ; festivities
June 15	Remembrance day	The memorial day to remember soldiers who fought for and are serving Surdam.
July 17	Independence Day	The day Surdam became independent. Military parades, a flag raising ceremony, and the Emperor gives a speech.
Fourth Thursday of November	Thanksgiving	Giving thanks, prayer, feasting, and spending time with family.
December 20	Empire Day	Celebrating the ascension of Lane I to the throne, and the creation of the Empire of Surdam.
December 25	Christmas	Celebrating the birth of Jesus; festivities

Art

There are many types of arts in Surdam. The most popular art is definitely painting with many painters inside the nation and great pieces of Surdamian art being made. Another large art is music with many musicians in the nation too, genres expand from Classical to Country to Rap. Cinema is popular too with some Surdamian films being hits within the nation.

Sport

Within Surdam, many different sports are played and watched. The sport most commonly watched is football, usually football games sanctioned by the NFL. However basketball is another very popular sport within Surdam.

National symbols


Symbol	Name	Image
Flag of Surdam	Official flag of the Empire of Surdam, the green on the flag represents the unity of Surdam, the blue stands for freedon, and the white stands for the empire.
Seal	Coat of arms of the Empire of Surdam
National Animal	Grizzly bear
National anthem	Long live the empire!
National motto	"Unity! Empire! Freedom!"
National Bird	Blue jay
National tree	Lodgepole pine

Imperial Bureaus and Branches

The Empire of Surdam has many imperial bureaus and branches, this could range from a police force to geology. Surdam's police force and intelligence agency, the SPK or the Surdamian Peace Keepers, is mostly employed to gather information on criminals. The SPM, or Surdamian Peoples Management was established to provide work for Surdam's residents. The SPM helps repair and manage most of Surdam's airports, mines, and other services. The Bureau of Finances (BF) runs all national banks within Surdam and prints banknotes for the nation. The Surdamian Space Agency is the national space agency (More info in Military and space program). The BGAP is in control of all geology, archeology, and paleontology affairs in Surdam, BGAP has studied and protected numerous artifacts, rock samples, and fossils that has contributed to the history of Surdam. The Bureau of Foreign Affairs is in control of all foreign affairs of Surdam and is in charge of diplomacy.

Government Companies

There are many companies within in Surdam, some are national and others are private. Surdam's nation railroad company, Union Blue (UB) controls all of Surdam's railroads and trains. UB helps move cargo and passengers around the states. Surdam's national airline, Surdamian Airlines (SA) helps keep Surdam connected by flight. The airline has flights run across the nation for people, and help ship some cargo as well.

The national bird of Surdam, the Blue Jay

The national animal of Surdam, the Grizzly bear (Photo taken in Jackson City)

Foreign policy

Surdam is open to diplomacy to most nations, but Surdam no longer will establish any new alliances with nations outside the Rocky Mountains (with some exceptions). Surdam has a zero tolerance for any communist nations, Surdam will not work with or set up any diplomacy with communist nations. If you wish to establish communication with the nation of Surdam, you may contact the government via email.