Republic of Verraland
Republic of Verraland Repubblica di Verraland (Italian) | |
|---|---|
 Flag
 Coat of arms
| |
| Motto: "Virtù" (Italian) "Virtue" | |
| Anthem: "This, We Are Proud!" (Italian: "Siamo Orgogliosi Di Questo!") | |
Seal of the Republic | |
 Approximate location of Verraland and its territories (green) in Long Island, New York, U.S. (grey) | |
| Status | Active |
| Official languages | English |
| Recognised national languages | Italian[a] |
| Ethnic groups (2024) | By race: • 100% White By ethnicity: • 100% American |
| Religion (2024) | • 60% Irreligion • 20% Other |
| Demonym(s) | Verralander |
| Government | Unitary classical republican city-state under a directorial system |
| Eduardo Daniele | |
| Legislature | Quinquevirate (De-facto) Council of Consuls (De-jure) |
| Establishment of the Republic of Verraland | |
• Proclamation | February 25, 2024 |
| May 19, 2024 | |
| Area | |
• Total | 0.0005 km2 (0.00019 sq mi) Rounded to nearest decimal |
• Water (%) | 0 |
| Population | |
• 2024 census | 4 |
| Membership | 1[b] |
| Currency | U.S. dollar |
| Time zone | UTC−05 |
• Summer (DST) | UTC−04 |
| Date format | mm/dd/yyyy |
| Driving side | right |
| Calling code | +1 |
Verraland, officially known as the Republic of Verraland (Italian: Repubblica di Verraland), is as a micronational city-state within the United States, situated on Long Island within the State of New York. Its establishment, declared by proclamation on February 25, 2024, marks the latest iteration of micronational entities claiming the historical territories once known as Edwardia, Custosia, and Transterra, established in 2015, 2016, and 2018 respectively.
In governance, Verraland is described as a classical republican city-state, drawing inspiration from the political and cultural legacies of the Republic of Florence, modern day San Marino, and other renowned Italian city-states that emerged during the Renaissance era. Verraland is self-characterized as a "pastiche" of an Italian city-state, emulating the historical aesthetics of Italian city-state governance.
Within the Long Island sector, Verraland holds a prominent and esteemed position, historically contributing to the region's dynamics. It actively participates in negotiations concerning the Treaty Establishing the Micronational Community on Long Island, underscoring its commitment to regional cooperation and diplomacy.
Etymology
Verraland derives its name from the Florentine explorer Giovanni da Verrazzano. In 1524, Verrazzano achieved the distinction of being the first European to navigate the Atlantic coast of North America.
Verrazzano would sail into what would be known today as New York Bay, naming the bay New Angoulême in honor of Francis I of France who was also Count of Angoulême, and who had commissioned Verrazzano in his exploration. Verrazzano would continue his expedition, sailing northeast along the southern coastline of Long Island, and thus the first European to discover Long Island, as he headed north for the coasts of modern-day New England and the Canadian Maritimes.
The Republic Verraland would be founded in 2024, 500 years after Verrazzano's initial expedition in 1524.
History
Verraland's historical journey unfolds through a nuanced series of regimes spanning from 2015 to 2019. Three distinct epochs define this narrative: the Edwardian Era (2015-2016), characterized by initial forays into micronationalism and engagement with the broader micronational community under the banner of the Kingdom of Edwardia; the Custosian Era (2016-2017), marked by the establishment of various monarchical structures and a peak in involvement within the micronational community; and finally, the Transterran Era (2018-2019), characterized by strategic statecraft, a pivot toward the Abeldane and Atovian sphere of influence, and the influence of classical liberal ideology and American republicanism.
As of 2024, the Republic of Verraland is wholly separate from any source of community influence for the first time in its last three incarnations.
Edwardian Era (2015-2016)
Prior to the emergence of Verraland, Edward Daniels, its eventual founder, spearheaded various micro-state ventures. Daniels delved into micronationalism in 2015, initially influenced by documentaries such as How to Start Your Own Country and A Tiny Spark. These films broadened his understanding of micronations, prompting him to establish his inaugural micronation, the Kingdom of Edwardia, on September 20, 2015, encompassing the territory of present day Verraland. Enthusiastic about micronationalism, Daniels shared his insights with his middle school classmates, spurring some to create their own micronations, notably the Democracy of the Long Isle and the Kingdom of Cydonia. Long Isle's leader, RJ, discovered the online forums and sites such as MicroWiki, fostering deeper engagement within the global micronational community. On October 29, 2015, Daniels transferred Edwardia's land to the Democracy of the Long Isle, possibly inspired by forum interactions. Despite subsequent attempts, many micro-states faltered, including the Vlastist State of Luktonia, which gained attention following a successful rocket launch. Subsequently, Custosia emerged after the collapse of the Vlastist State.
These nations did not achieve significant milestones. However, the Democracy of Long Isle made a pivotal discovery by uncovering online forums, where they found a community of like-minded micronationalists engaged in advanced discussions and diplomatic exchanges with other micronations worldwide. This discovery also led to the exploration of MicroWiki. Edward became increasingly convinced of the global interest in micronationalism and found further inspiration in this community, leading to a period of relative instability.
Custosian Era (2016-2017)
The Grand Principality of Custosia was established on July 16, 2016, with territorial claims overlapping those of previous nation-states led by Edward Daniels. On July 22, 2016, Custosia initiated its involvement with online forums, facilitating direct communication with other micronations. During this phase, Edward Daniels held the title of Grand Prince of Custosia. Subsequently, the Grand Principality transitioned into the Kingdom of Custosia, reflecting its expanded territorial holdings beyond principality proportions. Termed the First Kingdom of Custosia, this iteration encountered dissolution on October 7, 2016, largely attributed to external influences within the forum community.
Following the demise of the First Kingdom, Custosia experienced a period of relative inactivity until the establishment of the Republic of New Custosia on October 10. Motivated by republican principles, New Custosia aimed to provide stability post-monarchy. However, due to inadequate citizen participation necessary for democratic functionality, New Custosia eventually succumbed to collapse, despite efforts by President Daniels to sustain it, culminating on December 30, 2016, with formal dissolution on January 1, 2017.
Post-New Custosia, former President Edward Daniels spearheaded the re-establishment of monarchy, leading to the establishment of the Second Kingdom of Custosia in January 2017. Despite aspirations to join the Grand Unified Micronational, Custosia's historical instability prompted the organization to reject its application, prompting the Second Kingdom's dissolution, rooted in perceived humiliation.
A time has come unlike any other. This first election, more than any to come, will determine which direction Custosia takes in the future. Will it become more of a republic, and the King reduced to a mere figurehead? Or will the King retain a good deal of power? Will Custosia remain a bastion of right-wing ideology? Or will socialists and liberals tear down all semblances of our original heritage and replace it with their own?...
—Christopher Woods, excerpt of Royalist Party candidate speech delivered on the eve of the 2017 prime ministerial election.
Subsequently, Custosia found refuge in the Thegn-Hold of Siar Fordell, under the leadership of Ser John Marshall. The Fiefdom of Custosia, established on February 20, 2017, sought eventual independence from Siar Fordell's suzerainty, with Edward assuming the title of Lord Edward of Custosia until April 23, 2017. Custosia's democratic experimentation faced backlash following the enactment of the Anti-LGBTQ Act, sparking internal controversy. Ultimately, Custosia opted to depart from Siar Fordell's domain, paving the way for the Third Kingdom's establishment on April 23, 2017, marking Custosia's final incarnation.
Under an absolute monarchy, the Third Kingdom experienced a notable transition following the abolition of the Anti-LGBTQ Act by King Edward I, aimed at mitigating societal tension. However, a contested election led to the formation of a coalition government comprising Ava Neasa, the Green Socialist candidate and Christopher Woods, the Royalist candidate. Despite these developments, Custosia encountered periods of dormancy, culminating in its ultimate collapse circa August 2017, concluding all subsequent Custosian incarnations.
Transterran Era (2018-2019)
The Federated States of Transterra declared independence on May 5, 2018, under the leadership of Edward Daniels, who became the first President of the new republic. Initially, Transterra was made up of only the State of Verraland. A significant event occurred on June 14, 2018, with the establishment of the Transterrian Lounge, a Skype-based community that brought Transterran citizens together and formalized their community platform.
We the people of the Federated States of Transterra, hereby declare the establishment of this constitution as our sovereign and rightful law. Our constitution shall defend and uphold the values of liberty, justice, and prosperity for all its citizens. With the blessings of freedom at our tenure, we hope to stand the testament of time.
—Edward Daniels & Connor Stumperth, ""Preamble to the Constitution of the Federated States of Transterra," Constitution of the Federated States of Transterra (2018).
From June 15 to June 17, 2018, Daniels began crafting the Constitution of the Federated States of Transterra. This led to the formation of the Constitutional Convention of Transterra on June 17. With the help of Connor Stumperth, the final draft of the Constitution was ratified on June 19, 2018, by key figures like Daniels, Stumperth, Alexander von Hapsburg, and Andy Irons, recognized as the founding fathers of modern Transterra.
The transition into a federal presidential constitutional republic occurred on June 19, 2018. Soon after, on July 22, 2018, the first presidential election took place. This period also saw the establishment of the Emergency Legislature of Transterra on June 21, 2018, and the creation of the Free Sylvana Territory on July 21, 2018. Noteworthy developments included Daniels being appointed Secretary of Culture on August 1, 2018, and Transterra joining the Konmalehth (serving as a link between nations under the influence of Abelden) and Micronational Statistics Bureau on October 6, 2018. The presidency faced a unique challenge during the 2018 election when a tie occurred on July 24, 2018, between Connor Stumperth and Alexander von Habsburg, leading to a constitutional crisis. However, the crisis was resolved the next day with the Emergency Legislature adopting a new amendment to address electoral ties, resulting in Stumperth assuming the presidency on July 29, 2018.
After Stumperth's term as President near its expiration in December, Daniels would announce his bid for the presidency on November 6, 2018. By December 22, 2018, he emerged victorious in the presidential election, alongside the Libertarian Party gaining the majority of seats in the Federal Assembly. Additionally, Transterra successfully voted in favor of joining the Grand Unified Micronational through a referendum. The Federal Assembly of Transterra scheduled to convene on January 12, 2019, with a Libertarian majority. Nicholas Randouler became Transterra's inaugural Majority Leader in the Federal Assembly.
Transterra experienced a decline in activity and participation throughout 2019. By April 23 of that year, Transterra integrated into the Kingdom of Atovia as a province, incorporating the territories of Verraland and Sylvana. A pivotal treaty was established, officially redesignating the former federal states of Transterra as provinces within Atovia. In light of the consolidated citizenship and shared land ownership of Verraland and Sylvana, the provinces were amalgamated and governed collectively, establishing the province of Verraland-Sylvana on June 27, 2019.
Subsequently, on December 16, 2019, the province of Tuskawanta was dissolved and its land was transferred to Verraland-Sylvana due to a limited citizen population.
By mid-2020, Verraland-Sylvana would effectively collapse following Daniels' departure from micronationalism.
Proclamation (2024)
On February 25, 2024, Edward Daniels, adopting the Italianized version of his name, "Eduardo Daniele," officially declared the formation of the Republic of Verraland, assuming the role of Gonfalonier. In his proclamation, he vested himself with full executive authority and leadership as the head of state of the Republic. The declaration also outlined the establishment of a legislative body, the Council of Consuls, led by the Podestà, emphasizing the citizens' right to assemble and exercise their freedoms under the collective and general will of the republic.
On June 11, The Scarlet Compass reported that the "resident consuls," reconstituting themselves as the Quinqevirate—a prestigious five-member council composed of members of the Daniele nobility—issued a call to establish and convene a constitutional convention. Amidst the fervor for sweeping constitutional developments, Gonfalonier Daniele unveiled an initiative, the "Great Arrival," an ambitious immigration campaign designed to unfold subsequently after the crafting of an official constitution. The development marked a pivotal moment in Verraland's recent history, where the confluence of noble tradition and constitutional ideals promised to reshape the future of the nation.
The constitution will be the second constitutional document in Verraland's history since its status as a federal state under the Constitution of the Federated States of Transterra in 2019.[1]
On August 3, Verraland announced the annexation of approximately 0.0578 square miles of territory south of the Republic’s mainland known as "Les Quaisia," formally establishing a maritime colony.[2]
A special meeting of the Quinquevirate on October 31 determined that Verraland's new classical republican constitution will establish a unitary, mixed parliamentary classical republic under an oligarchic directory. The Daniele nobles' influence within the Quinquevirate will be officially enshrined into the new constitution, thus cementing their power.[3]
On November 9, the Great Arrival immigration program was launched on an exclusive page on The Scarlet Compass.[4]
Politics and government
The Republic of Verraland adopts a classical republican city-state system, drawing inspiration from the political and cultural legacies of historical Italian city-states, most notably the Republic of Florence and modern exemplars such as San Marino. Referred to as a "pastiche," Verraland's political ethos aims to emulate the traditional Italian city-state model without resorting to critical satire, instead elaborating on the socio-political metaphor at the foundation of its political culture. Verraland's government has also been compared to that of a crowned republic.
Gonfalonier
The Gonfalonier, deriving from the Italian term "standard-bearer," historically held a significant role in the governance of medieval and early Renaissance Florence. In Verraland, the Gonfalonier acts as the principal custodial executive, drawing inspiration from the traditional Gonfalonier position in Renaissance Florence while also adding unique elements and differentiating itself from its historical counterpart. Operating in a semi-executive and ceremonial capacity, the Gonfalonier is responsible for proposing legislation, issuing proclamations, negotiating treaties with other micronations, and bestowing orders, decorations, and medals.
The position of Gonfalonier holds utmost importance and prestige within the Verraland government, making it a highly selective role. Individuals interested in the position must follow a rigorous process, including submitting an application, taking an oath renouncing any previous micronational citizenship, and completing the Civic Aptitude Test (CAT) as an overall assessment of a prospective candidate's ability to execute the office professionally and thoroughly. Only candidates who meet the stringent standards set for the role are eligible to register in executive elections, which are solely announced on the Gonfalonier's discretion to continue in the post or in the event of a resignation or death while in office.
Eduardo Daniele currently serves as the first Gonfalonier. Under Daniele's premiership as of 2024, the act of issuing proclamations have served as de-facto laws and resolutions in the early republic.
Podestà
- See: Podestà
The Podestà, deriving from the Latin potestas, meaning "power," was the name given to the holder of the highest civil office in the government of the cities of Central and Northern Italy during the Late Middle Ages. In Verraland, the Podestà serves a similar function, serving in a role similar to a prime minister in parliamentary democracies. The Podestà is the chief civil officer and consul of Verraland elected to the Council of Consuls, representing any numerous faction or political party majority in the legislature. The Podestà is ensured with the responsibility of maintaining the rights, freedoms, and general will of Verraland.
The office of Podestà is currently vacant.
Council of Consuls
The unicameral legislative body in Verraland is known as the Council of Consuls, or Consulate, a concept borrowed from the Renaissance Florentine legislative assembly of the same name. The main responsibility of the Council of Consuls is to draft and approve legislation. Given the miniscule nature of the Council, unanimous motions of consent occupy most of the activities. The Council of Consuls is currently composed of four seats. Despite existing in name only, the Consulate has not yet convened by an election of the legislature, pending constitutional implementation.
Quinquevirate
The Quinquevirate, formerly, the Resident Consuls are a loose, unorganized group of four anonymous consuls with immense privilege's and immunities within Verraland. They currently serve as the nation's de-facto legislature and influence the Gonfalonier's policy.
Guilds
Partisanship is discouraged in Verraland. Guilds, in yet another homage to Florentine politics, operate in a role closely resembling (though rather distinctly) their "hypothetical" political party counterparts.
Verraland adopts a corporatist model, wherein guilds, specializing in specific patronage of skills and offices, represent various and competing interests. The leading guild, known as the Gonfalonieri, has naturally emerged as of 2024 to back Daniele's leadership. The Gonfalonieri, although prominent, operates loosely and exists primarily in name only. There is no written platform that the Gonfalonieri subscribe to, apart from Daniele's influence in the post of Gonfalonier. Two other influential guilds play a significant role in the Council of Consuls, the Gilda d'arte (Artist's Guild) and Gilda degli ingegneri (Engineer's Guild), advocating for their respective interests and priorities in the government.
| Arms | Name | Leader | Patronage | Notes | Council | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ARTI MAGGIORI Greater Guilds | |||||||
 |
Gonfalonieri Standard Bearers |
Gonf. | Prospective Gonfaloniers and residents | First in the ranking order of the guild hierarchy; founded in 2024 | 4 / 4
| ||
| ARTI MINORI Lesser Guilds | |||||||
 |
Gilda d'arte Artist's Guild |
G.d'A. | Cooperative leadership | Artists, writers, and musicians | Tied in second ranking order; founded in 2024 | 2 / 4
| |
 |
Gilda degli ingegneri Engineer's Guild |
G.d.I. | Cooperative leadership | Engineers, electricians, and computer hobbyists/technicians | Tied in second ranking order; founded in 2024 | 2 / 4
| |
Colonies
The Republic of Verraland lays claim to a single colony south of its nearest border: Les Quaisa. As the sole maritime colony of the Republic, it shares a border with the Great South Bay to the south. Politically and diplomatically, colonial possessions pose significant importance to Verraland's position in the Long Island sector.
The colonial administration of Les Quaisa is currently under direct rule from Verraland.
| Coat of Arms | Name | Proclamation of creation | Population[c] | Representative |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 |
Les Quaisa | 3 August 2024 | 0 | Gonfalonier Eduardo Daniele |
Foreign relations
Verraland's foreign policy primarily revolves around the Long Island sector, with a strong emphasis on the broader Treaty Establishing the Micronational Community on Long Island. On March 25, 2024, a proclamation was issued, detailing Verraland's initial diplomatic endeavors. On May 19, 2024, Verraland ratified the MCLI Treaty, solidifying Verraland's commitment to the Long Island sector.
Unilateral recognition
Abkhazia
Northern Cyprus
Palestine As per 1967 borders
Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic
Somaliland
South Ossetia
Transnistria
United Nations All 193 member states [5]
Bilateral recognition
Recognition refused
Formerly unrecognized
Geography and climate
Verraland is situated on the south shore of Long Island in the State of New York in the United States. Its geography is defined by its coastal and maritime influence. While lacking access to water, Verraland is entirely landlocked. Its closest point to water is 796.5 ft (242.89 m) to a local canal that feeds into the serene waters of the Great South Bay, offering picturesque views and recreational opportunities. The bay's influence extends beyond aesthetics, playing a significant role in shaping Verraland's identity as a "waterfront" community, characterized by a mix of sandy beaches, marshlands, and tidal flats, providing habitats for diverse wildlife and contributing to the area's ecological richness. Additionally, Verraland's proximity to the bay has historically facilitated activities such as fishing and boating.
Verraland is situated in a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot, humid summers and cold winters. Summer temperatures typically range from the 70°s to 90°s Fahrenheit (20°s to 30°s Celsius), with occasional heatwaves bringing temperatures above 100°F (38°C). Winters are cold, with temperatures dropping below freezing, often accompanied by snowfall and occasional winter storms. Spring and autumn seasons bring mild temperatures, making them pleasant transitional periods. Verraland receives moderate rainfall throughout the year, with slightly higher precipitation levels during the summer months. Verraland's climate is influenced by its coastal location, with the nearby Great South Bay contributing to the area's weather patterns, including occasional coastal storms and sea breezes.
| Climate data for Verraland (recent data, 2024) | |||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | Year |
| Record high °F (°C) | 72 (22.2) |
75 (23.9) |
84 (28.9) |
93 (33.9) |
96 (35.6) |
99 (37.2) |
103 (39.4) |
101 (38.3) |
99 (37.2) |
88 (31.1) |
79 (26.1) |
73 (22.8) |
103 (39.4) |
| Average high °F (°C) | 39.2 (4) |
41.6 (5.33) |
49.6 (9.78) |
60.1 (15.61) |
70.0 (21.11) |
78.8 (26) |
83.2 (28.44) |
81.8 (27.67) |
74.9 (23.83) |
64.0 (17.78) |
54.0 (12.22) |
43.1 (6.17) |
61.69 (16.495) |
| Daily mean °F (°C) | 31.8 (-0.11) |
33.6 (0.89) |
41.1 (5.06) |
50.8 (10.44) |
60.5 (15.83) |
69.6 (20.89) |
74.3 (23.5) |
73.2 (22.89) |
66.0 (18.89) |
54.9 (12.72) |
45.9 (7.72) |
35.8 (2.11) |
53.13 (11.736) |
| Average low °F (°C) | 24.3 (-4.28) |
25.7 (-3.5) |
32.5 (0.28) |
41.5 (5.28) |
51.0 (10.56) |
60.4 (15.78) |
65.4 (18.56) |
64.5 (18.06) |
57.0 (13.89) |
46.2 (7.89) |
38.0 (3.33) |
28.5 (-1.94) |
44.58 (6.991) |
| Record low °F (°C) | -7 (-21.7) |
-5 (-20.6) |
3 (-16.1) |
20 (-6.7) |
30 (-1.1) |
41 (5) |
48 (8.9) |
45 (7.2) |
36 (2.2) |
25 (-3.9) |
12 (-11.1) |
-3 (-19.4) |
−7 (−21.7) |
| Average Precipitation inches (mm) | 3.91 (99.3) |
2.93 (74.4) |
4.19 (106.4) |
4.32 (109.7) |
4.01 (101.9) |
4.08 (103.6) |
4.35 (110.5) |
4.16 (105.7) |
3.76 (95.5) |
3.86 (98) |
3.75 (95.3) |
4.02 (102.1) |
47.34 (1,202.4) |
| Average Snowfall inches (cm) | 8.0 (20.3) |
8.6 (21.8) |
4.4 (11.2) |
0.4 (1) |
0.0 (0) |
0.0 (0) |
0.0 (0) |
0.0 (0) |
0.0 (0) |
0.1 (0.3) |
0.6 (1.5) |
6.4 (16.3) |
28.5 (72.4) |
| Average relative humidity (%) | 75.4 | 74.2 | 72.1 | 71.1 | 75.0 | 78.0 | 79.1 | 79.2 | 77.5 | 75.6 | 74.8 | 75.9 | 75.66 |
| Source: Weather Channel and Weather History | |||||||||||||
Natural disasters
Flooding and hurricanes pose a significant threat to Verraland's due to its coastal location and proximity to the shore. Verraland's low-lying geography makes it particularly susceptible to flooding during heavy rainfall, storm surges, and hurricanes. Floods pose a serious risk, leading to property damage and potential safety hazards for residents. Hurricanes, with their powerful winds and torrential rains, can cause widespread destruction and coastal erosion, exacerbating the vulnerability of Verraland to flooding. The combination of rising sea levels and climate change further amplifies these threats, highlighting the urgent need for robust flood mitigation strategies, resilient infrastructure, and preparedness measures to safeguard Verraland against the impacts of floods and hurricanes.
Biodiversity
Italian wall lizards (Podarcis siculus) are the most diverse species of wildlife in Verraland. Somewhat of anomaly, having been introduced in the 1960s and 1970s,[7] their adaptability to suburban environments has enabled them to flourish, serving as indicators of the area's ecological health. Together, these species reflect Verraland's commitment to preserving its natural heritage and nurturing a harmonious ecosystem.
Seagulls and other common birds are also observed in Verraland.
Culture
Verraland presents itself as a mock-Italian city-state, yet its cultural tapestry unveils a rich diversity reflective of myriad influences. This amalgamation of influences has sculpted Verraland's identity into a vibrant mosaic, where traditions, art, and customs converge harmoniously to create a unique and captivating atmosphere. Thus, beneath the surface of its mock-Italian façade, Verraland emerges as a testament to the power of cultural fusion and adaptation.
Literature
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Literature holds a profound cultural significance in Verraland, serving as a timeless and creative reflection of human experiences, values, and imagination. Some of the most renowned authors in Verraland include modern American literary contemporaries, such as Cormac McCarthy, Thomas Pynchon, and John Barth. Traditional British authors are also widely celebrated in Verraland, serving as a cornerstone of the English language's cultural heritage, showcasing the rich literary tradition found primarily in the Augustans, the progenitors of the modern novel, including Laurence Sterne, Tobias Smollett, and Henry Fielding.
Other notable authors include G.K. Chesterton, John Buchan, George MacDonald Fraser, Patrick O'Brian, H.P. Lovecraft, Ambrose Bierce, Umberto Eco, and Italo Calvino.
Philosophy
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Classical republican philosophy has exerted a profound influence on political thought and governance of Verraland. Originating in ancient Greece and Rome, this philosophy emphasizes the importance of civic virtue, the common good, and active participation in public life. It champions the idea of a virtuous citizenry working together for the betterment of society, promoting concepts such as civic duty, civic responsibility, and the rule of law. The ideals of classical republicanism have shaped the development of Verraland's institutions and notions of citizenship.
Jean-Jacques Rousseau's philosophy, particularly encapsulated in works like The Social Contract and Emile, has left an indelible mark on political theory in Verraland. Central to Rousseau's ideas is the concept of the general will, the notion that a society's truest expression of its collective desires and interests comes from the unified will of its citizens. Rousseau believed that, "individuals are born free but are everywhere in chains," due to modern societal structures in the Enlightenment. Rousseau's emphasis on the social contract, where individuals willingly give up some freedoms for the common good, profoundly influenced discussions on proper governance. His views on education, focusing on natural development and the importance of moral and civic education, also had a lasting impact on Verraland's approach to pedagogy, directly influencing the position of the Gonfalonier. Overall, Rousseau's philosophy continues to provoke thought and debate on issues of liberty, equality, and the nature of societal organization.
Plato's Republic is a seminal work in Verraland's philosophical sentiments, delving into fundamental questions about justice, governance, and the ideal society. In this dialogue, Socrates engages with various interlocutors to explore the nature of justice, the role of the individual in society, and the structure of an ideal polis or city-state. Central to Plato's Republic is the concept of the philosopher-king, a ruler who possesses wisdom, virtue, and a deep understanding of the Forms, guiding the state toward justice and harmony. Plato's vision of a just society involves a hierarchical division of labor, with each individual fulfilling their unique role based on their innate abilities. The Republic also delves into educational theories, the nature of knowledge, and the relationship between the individual and the state. Through its rigorous examination of these timeless themes, Plato's Republic remains a cornerstone of political philosophy and continues to inspire discourse on the nature of good governance and the pursuit of justice.
Renaissance thinkers such as Niccolò Machiavelli, Leonardo da Vinci, Francesco Guicciardini, Girolamo Savonarola, are also important philosophical thinkers in Verraland's political culture. The themes of power, leadership, and civic responsibility are indelible to Verraland's customs. Machiavelli's The Prince exemplifies this philosophy, offering pragmatic insights into political strategies and the pursuit of power. Their Renaissance philosophy also emphasized the importance of education, classical learning, and the revival of ancient Greek and Roman ideals. These intellectuals continue to be a source of inspiration for contemporary discussions on politics, ethics, and humanistic values in Verraland today.
Music
Progressive rock and its sub derivatives remains one the most popular genres of music in Verraland. Incorporating elements of classical, jazz, and experimental music (all popular genres in Verraland), its significance lies in its innovative approach to composition, often featuring complex song structures, intricate instrumentation, and thought-provoking lyrical themes. Bands like Emerson, Lake, and Palmer, Yes, Genesis, Gentle Giant and King Crimson are favorites of the genre, utilizing extended musical forms, unconventional time signatures, and conceptual storytelling in their albums. Progressive rock also embraced technological advancements, incorporating synthesizers, elaborate stage productions, and studio experimentation to create immersive sonic experiences. Moreover, the genre serves as a platform for social commentary, addressing political, environmental, and existential themes in the music. Despite evolving tastes and trends, progressive rock continues to influence Verraland's diverse musical tastes.
Other progressive rock adjacent bands that have profound cultural influence in Verraland include Rush, Dixie Dregs, and Echolyn.
Despite the popularity of progressive rock, other genres have had a great impact on the overall musical tapastry of Verraland, including heavy metal, jangle pop, new wave, post-rock, and classic rock.
On July 5, the House in the Trees EP by the Verraland progressive rock band Ridler was rediscovered after being deemed a piece of lost media.[8]
On November 15, the national anthem of Verraland, "This, We Are Proud!", was adapted into an original composition written by Eduardo Daniele. The anthem is the first work to employ synthetic orchestration, sparking interest in Verraland's fledgling contemporary classical music scene, viewed as a response to the proliferation of rock and metal which currently dominates the musical culture of Verraland.[9]
Visual arts
The visual arts, including painting, digital art, and film have a significant place in Verraland's culture.
Artistic movements of the 18th century, 19th century and early 20th century exude the most influence, with disparate influences emerging from Impressionism, Classicism, the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood, Modernism and illustration, particularly pulp art, as having the largest aesthetic impact.
Film is also a highly regarded cultural aspect in Verraland, with a large appreciation of films from a diverse range of filmmakers. Some notable film directors include Guy Maddin, John Ford, Michael Curtiz, Alfred Hitchcock, Ingmar Bergman, Andrei Tarkovsky, Akira Kurosawa, and Kihachi Okamoto.
On April 15, 2024, Verraland was selected to host the upcoming 2024 Micronational Film Awards. The project has since fallen into dormancy.
Media
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The Scarlet Compass serves as Verraland's official online newspaper for anyone interested in the developments and insights related exclusively to Verraland. On October 21, The Long Islander, a newspaper dedicated to all news pertaining to the Long Island sector, was launched by The Scarlet Compass Company, a newly formed publishing arm in Verraland's nascent print culture.
Public holidays
The following holidays are recognized as public holidays in Verraland:
| Date | Name | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| January 1 | New Year's Day | Celebrates the first day of the Gregorian new year. |
| February 25 | Proclamation Day | National day; celebrates the proclamation of the Republic of Verraland in 2024. |
| March 17 | St. Patrick's Day | Feast day for Saint Patrick; celebrating Irish heritage. |
| April 17 | Verrazano Day | Celebrates Giovanni da Verrazano's discovery of New York Harbor and Long Island in 1524. |
| Date varies | Easter | Celebrates the resurrection of Jesus, with secular festivities. |
| September 20 | National Heritage Day | Celebrates the founding of the historic Kingdom of Edwardia; the first forays into micronationalism. |
| October 14 | Columbus Day | Celebrates Christipher Columbus' arrival in the Americas in 1492; celebrating Italian heritage. |
| 4th Thursday in November | Thanksgiving | A secular, autumn feast characterized by the traditional American Thanksgiving. |
| December 24 | Christmas Eve | Day before the commemoration of the birth of Jesus; a day dedicated to Feast of the Seven Fishes. |
| December 25 | Christmas Day | Celebrates the birth of Jesus, with secular holiday festivities. |
| December 31 | New Year's Eve | Celebrates the last day of the Gregorian year with festivities. |
Notes
References
- ↑ Quinquevirate calls for a constitutional convention; Gonf. Daniele proposes massive immigration campaign, June 11, 2024
- ↑ Verraland Annexes "The Docklands" Territory, Establishes Maritime Colony "Les Quaisia", August 3, 2024
- ↑ Constitutional reforms to establish a mixed, parliamentary classical republic under a Quinquevirate oligarchy, November 1, 2024
- ↑ Become a citizen of Verraland today, November 9, 2024
- ↑ A Proclamation on Foreign Policy, March 25, 2024
- ↑ A Proclamation on Foreign Policy, March 25, 2024
- ↑ Burke, R. (n.d.). "Italian Immigrants” Flourish on Long Island. Hofstra Horizons. https://www.hofstra.edu/pdf/orsp_russell_burkefall05.pdf
- ↑ Culture: Lost Media Found; House in the Trees EP to release this month, July 5, 2024
- ↑ "This, We Are Proud!" New anthem set to original composition, November 15, 2024