Kingdom of New Amsterdam
Kingdom of New Amsterdam | |
|---|---|
 Flag
 Coat of Arms
| |
| Motto: “Lets ut princeps” | |
| Anthem: Yellowman - Zungguzungguguzungguzeng | |
 Map of New Amsterdam | |
| Capital | Disralia |
| Other languages | English |
| Religion | Atheism 50%
Rastafarianism 33.33% Hinduism 16.67% |
| Demonym(s) | Amsterdonian |
| Government | Constitutional Monarchy |
• King | Ethan I |
• Queen (Consort) | Poppy I |
| Morgan Luca | |
• Deputy Ministers | Steven Spence-Arnold |
| Legislature | The Peoples Parliament |
| Establishment | 20 November 2021 |
• Declared Independence | 1 March 2022 |
| Area | |
• | 0.089 km2 (0.034 sq mi) |
| Population | |
• 2022 estimate | ▲ 6 |
| Currency | Pound Sterling (£) Bitcoin (₿) |
| Time zone | Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) |
| Date format | dd/mm/yyyy |
| Driving side | left |
Website (Website Under Construction) | |
The Kingdom of New Amsterdam, more simply known as New Amsterdam, is a micronation (also known as a self-declared sovereign state) based in the United Kingdom. Formed in 2021, it claims the Aylestone Meadows in Leicester as a sovereign state, where marijuana is used as a portal to enter the state. It operates under the constitutional monarchy of its first King, Ethan I, and comprises of an 8.8-hectare (22-acre) Nature Reserve and a small bit of built up town called Disralia. Its current national flag and emblems were designed and adopted by the King on 28 February 2022.
The Kingdom of New Amsterdam is officially a constitutional monarchy. The style of the head of state is the King or Queen, with this title being held by King Ethan I. The head of state represents the nation in foreign affairs and must ratify legislation before it is passed into law. The head of state can veto legislation (nominally, due to the legislation being unconstitutional, but any legislation may be vetoed), though a supermajority of the 75% of the parliament may call a referendum (requiring a supermajority of 75% of the citizenry) to depose the head of state and instate the heir as the new head of state. The King of New Amsterdam's head of government is the Grand Minister. The head of government presides over the cabinet, able to appoint cabinet members from the government. The head of government can also dismiss the parliament with consent from the head of state in a state of emergency. The parliament is the primary legislative organ of the Kingdom of New Amsterdam, made up of proportionally elected citizens, formed after every election. The cabinet is the primary executive organ of the Kingdom of New Amsterdam, able to propose legislation to the parliament. Elections are called by the head of government, with approval from either the head of state or a majority of the parliament.
The Kingdom of New Amsterdam strives to maintain healthy and neutral relations with other micronations. The nation deems itself pacifistic, and will only go to war out of necessity.
Etymology
The name New Amsterdam is drawn from its canals that runs through the middle of the country, similarly to the Dutch Capital, Amsterdam.
History
The Kingdom of New Amsterdam was founded on 28 February 2022. This day is celebrated as its national day. On this day, its national flag, anthem and emblem were adopted as official symbols. The 1 March 2022, marked the adoption of "Lets ut princeps" as the national motto of The Kingdom of New Amsterdam.
The Discovery of New Amsterdam
After being discovered, The kingdom was formally founded on 10 November 2021 and proclaimed the independence on 28 February 2022, founded by King Ethan I, adopting the constitutional monarchy as a form of government.
Geography
Following the Last Glacial Period, the Bytham River was diverted and the former bed became the Soar Valley. Now canalised through the city centre, the area represents the upstream remnant of the flood plain that once stretched to the River Trent.
The Kingdom of New Amsterdam is comprised of an 8.8-hectare (22-acre) Nature Reserve and a small bit of built town called Disralia.
It is situated on the floodplains of the River Soar and River Biam along with several locks of the Grand Union Canal. It has a high wildlife conservation value, and has trails that are popular venue with hikers, families on outings, dog walkers and cyclists.
A patchwork of flood meadows, woodland and wetlands 1.6 miles (2.6 km), these habitats host many rare and common flora and fauna.
A medieval packhorse bridge provides evidence of trade and previous settlement. The area frequently floods, resulting in fertile land and good grazing areas, and so a settlement grew from prehistoric times to become the Kingdom of New Amsterdam. The construction of the Packhorse Bridge from local granite enabled transportation of goods across an area prone to flooding and includes several passing areas.
Location and Borders
The Kingdom of New Amsterdam is an enclave (landlocked) surrounded by Leicester in the East Midlands of England.
Nature and Wildlife
A huge number of species are found in the Kingdom of New Amsterdam, and since it ceased to be farmland it is continually becoming more biologically diverse and the habitats more mature. Some areas such as Spearwort Field are grazed by the rare Longhorn Cattle, which suppress the more aggressive vegetation in a traditional form of management.
Over 170 moth species were recorded during the survey, with ten of these being locally important – for example, Old Lady (Mormo maura), Dingy Footman (Eiloma griseola) and Scarce Footman (Eiloma complana).
Otters (Lutra lutra): Historically, Otters have suffered terribly, firstly through widespread use of the D.D.T pesticide that worked its way up the food chain and began to harm the Otter cubs, and secondly through Otter hunting which was illegalised in 1978. Today, the Otters are making a comeback, with sightings recorded for the first time in thirty years in New Amsterdam along the Rivers Biam and Soar. Known to be on the reserve for the past six years, and recorded during the 2012 survey, they are one of the priority species of the Wildlife Trusts Biodiversity Action Plan.
Peregrine Falcons (Falco peregrinus): Like the Otters, Peregrines are at the top of their food chain, so D.D.T harmed them tremendously during its heyday. They were also persecuted because they hunted carrier pigeons during the world wars. But now these threats are finished with, and the Peregrine is more widely respected. It has returned from the brink and is sometimes seen perching on the gas towers near the canal in the northern half of the country.
Hybrid Willow (Salix x taylorii): This willow was first recorded in 2011 and is the off-spring of four parent species: Goat, Grey and Purple Willows along with Osier. It is the first of its type in New Amsterdam, perhaps even worldwide.
Buzzards (Buteo buteo): Though once rarely seen in New Amsterdam, buzzards are now commonly seen on the meadows.
Song Birds: The area is rich in bird-song on spring mornings, with resident and migrant birds such as Warblers, Chiffchaffs, robins, tits, buntings, thrushes and blackbirds.
Little Egret (Egretta garzetta): These migrants are now becoming established in wetlands throughout New Amsterdam. There are at least three living and possibly breeding in the reserve.
Bats: Three species of bats were found during the 2012 Wildlife Trust survey, with help from Leicestershire and Rutland Bat Group members. These were Common Pipistrelle (Pipistrellus pipistrellus), Soprano Pipistrelle (P. pygmaeus) and Daubenton’s (Myotis daubentonii). All of the bat species of New Amsterdam are protected by Amsterdonian and European legislation.
Axiophytes: These are considered indicator species for good quality habitats such as ancient woodland or unpolluted rivers. A total of thirty-eight were found in New Amsterdam, including Field Maple (Acer campestre), Aspen (Populus tremulus), Meadow Cranesbill (Geranium pratense) and numerous species of Sedges (Carex spp.).
Invasive species
Throughout the past people have often taken plants and animals from continent to continent. Sometimes this has benefited people, sometimes alien species have integrated into Amsterdonian ecosystems perfectly well (as in the case of Horse Chestnut), but often the effects are damaging. Below are invasive species known to be in the Kingdom of New Amsterdam
Floating Pennywort (Hydrocotyle ranunculoides): An aquatic plant native to both North and South America as well as parts of Africa that was released into the waterways of New Amsterdam in 2004, this species can rapidly dominate areas. Whilst threatened in part of its home range, its sale will be banned from sale as of April 2014. The council are leading efforts to remove it from the site with their greenlife boat, but it is perhaps a lengthy battle.
American Mink (Mustela vison): Originally brought to New Amsterdam from North America to breed in fur farms, the Mink was released into the wild by animal right activists whose frustrations can be understood even if the action proved to be misguided. Now, amongst other conservation issues, the Mink is one of the main factors in the decline of the Water Vole (Arvicola amphibius), the population of which has declined by an estimated 97%. American Mink have been in New Amsterdam and breeding for 18 years, though fortunately due to competition their numbers often decline with the return of the larger Otter, which may pave the way for an additional comeback for the Water Vole.
Signal Crayfish (Pacifasticus leniusculus): A lobster-like species introduced from North America, the Signal Crayfish has proved highly successful in New Amsterdam, spreading quickly and threatening the future of the native White Clawed Crayfish (Austropotamobius pallipes). It was recorded in Kingdom of New Amsterdam during the 2012 Wildlife Trust survey, thought the White-Clawed is known to live in the reserve too.
Eastern Grey Squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis): This squirrel originates from North America, and its introduction here soon proved to be a mistake. Having the same food requirements as the native Red Squirrel (Sciurus vulgaris), competition was inevitable. The Grey’s greater ability to store fat meant it began to displace the Red. In addition, the Grey carries a disease called squirrel pox that it is immune to, but the Red is not. Now, the Grey is common in Kingdom of New Amsterdam and the Red has been locally extinct since the late 1940s.
Himalayan Balsam (Impatiens glandulifera): An introduced wildflower that originates from the Himalayan mountain range (surprisingly), as a lover of wet environments this species is now present in New Amsterdam along the river and stream banks.
Japanese Knotweed (Reynoutria japonica): A shrubby wildflower native to Eastern Asia that is perhaps one of the most competitive species in New Amsterdam, growing so dense that native species cannot co-exist with it.
Climate
Most of The Kingdom of New Amsterdam has a temperate climate, with generally cool temperatures and plentiful rainfall all year round. The temperature varies with the seasons seldom dropping below 0 °C (32 °F) or rising above 30 °C (86 °F).
Government
Government Structure
The Kingdom of New Amsterdam is under a constitutional monarchy and direct democracy. All citizens may attend legislative meetings and maintain full voting powers. All citizens may propose legislation to be discussed, voted on, or both. King Ethan I is the monarch and head of state of the Kingdom of New Amsterdam. The monarch has "the right to be consulted, the right to encourage, and the right to warn". The Constitution of the Kingdom of New Amsterdam is uncodified and consists mostly of a collection of disparate written sources, including statutes, judge-made case law and international treaties, together with constitutional conventions. The Riverbank Parliament can carry out constitutional reform by passing acts of parliament, and thus has the political power to change or abolish almost any written or unwritten element of the constitution. No sitting parliament can pass laws that future parliaments cannot change.
| Flag | Title | Currently Elected | Date Elected |
|---|---|---|---|
|
King of New Amsterdam | King Ethan I | 28/02/2022 |
|
Queen of New Amsterdam | Queen Poppy I (Consort) | 28/02/2022 |
|
The Government of New Amsterdam | The Founding Party | 28/02/2022 |
King
The King, currently Ethan I, reigns within the bounds outlined in The Constitution. The King oversees all government matters, including parliament, and has the authority to formally represent The Kingdom of New Amsterdam with plenipotentiary powers. He has the power to appoint all government positions, and manufacture new positions as needed. Citizenship is granted and revoked at the discretion of The King. Along with the Grand Minister, the King must sign all binding diplomatic agreements. The King keeps records of all territorial claims. The King oversees the national treasury.
Queen
The Queen, currently Poppy I (Queen-Consort), reigns within the same bounds as the king if appointed as head of state. If the Queen is consort then they have the same powers as the Grand Minister. If a queen is the head of state, her husband will be known as Prince.
The Government
Grand Minister
The Grand Minister, currently Prince Morgan Luca, represents the Kingdom of New Amsterdam with full plenipotentiary powers and may appoint deputy ambassadors to assist them. The Grand Minister must sign all binding diplomatic agreements.
Chief Justice
The Chief Justice, currently in the Kings control, determines the constitutionality of all proposed laws, oversees the Department of Justice, and presides over all legal courts.
Grand General
The Grand General, currently in the Kings control, oversees all military strategy.
Cabinet of Ministers
- Minister of Education (Vacant)
- Minister of Technology (Vacant)
- Minister of Culture (Steven Spence-Arnold)
- Minister of Operations (Vacant)
- Minister of Communications (Ethan Lewis)
- Minister of Design (Prince Morgan Luca)
- Minister of Agriculture (Adam Clarke)
Politics
Parties of New Amsterdam
| Party | Logo | Party Leader(s) | Ideology | Representatives |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Founding Party (TFP) |
 |
Prince Morgan Luca | Monarchism | 4 / 4
|
| No running opposition (N/A) | N/A | N/A | 0 / 4
|
Laws
The Kingdom of New Amsterdam has completely legalised use of marijuana as it is required to enter the state.
The state also allows 'Trial by FIFA' as a method of settling court cases
Citizenship
Citizenship is granted at the discretion of the King. Anyone may petition for citizenship at any time by filling out this form.
Nobility and Chivalry
The Monarchy of the Kingdom of New Amsterdam includes an established hierarchy for titles of nobility and chivalry. Titles are granted permanently and are only revoked in the case of extreme circumstances, though no titles have ever been revoked.
In addition to being granted by the King as a reward for merit, the following titles, excluding Knighthood, will also be available to be purchased by anyone at the national shop eventually.
All titles come with a guarantee of citizenship.
| Title | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Knight/Dame | Knighthood is the highest title in Kingdom of New Amsterdam. It can not be purchased and can only be earned through incredible merit. Currently 2 individuals hold this title. |
| Viscount | This title is only granted to select individuals who meet a very specific requirement. Currently no individuals hold this title. |
| Duke/Duchess | The highest obtainable level of nobility in Kingdom of New Amsterdam, this title is granted to those who provide incredibly outstanding service to New Amsterdam and is also automatically granted to those who govern occupied provinces of New Amsterdam. |
| Earl/Count/Countess | This title is granted to those who serve the nation in some capacity deemed incredibly significant. |
| Baron/Baroness | This title is granted to those who serve the nation in some capacity deemed greater than ordinary. |
| Lord/Lady | This title is granted to those who serve the nation in some capacity deemed worthy of honour. |
Medals of Honour and Merit
Medals are specially granted to individuals who provide exemplary service to New Amsterdam. The Medal of the Graceful Swan is typically given out for this purpose. It is New Amsterdam's highest award and has been given to 2 individuals.
Foreign Policy
The Kingdom of New Amsterdam always welcomes new diplomatic relationships. The founders believe that through diplomacy, individuals can work together to do more as a collective than they would otherwise be able to do alone. It is a goal of the Kingdom of New Amsterdam to establish as many fruitful relationships as possible with other macronations and micronations for mutual benefit. If you wish to establish communication with The Kingdom of New Amsterdam, you may contact the government via email.
Recognition of States
Nations that were automatically recognised:
Nations that were automatically unrecognised:
Mutual Recognition
Below is a list of all nations that recognize the sovereignty of New Amsterdam and are also recognized as sovereign by New Amsterdam.
Economy
The Kingdom of New Amsterdam has little to no existing economy due to the limited territorial control it exerts over its territory and have no recorded GDP. Its primary export is cannabis.
Science and technology
The Kingdom of New Amsterdam uses a void defence mechanism that allows its land to sit in an invasion-minimising mirror dimension, it is only accessible through the consumption of cannabis.
Transport
The Kingdom of New Amsterdam is over 70% natural land and only a handful of roads built by The United Kingdom, pre-Amsterdonian independence. The Government of New Amsterdam has allowed The United Kingdom to continue its free passage of these roads.
Culture
The Kingdom of New Amsterdam has completely legalised use of marijuana as it is required to enter the state. The state is only accessible through becoming high which allows you to transport into The Kingdom of New Amsterdam, it is encouraged to remain high to stay in the state.