Chapter 327 Congress of Versailles Part 3
"Your Majesty," began Crown Prince-Regent Frederick VI of the Kingdom of Denmark-Norway, his blue eyes piercing. He raised a hand, commanding the attention of all present. "Before we move forward, might I inquire about the purpose of the Kingdom of Denmark-Norway's attendance in this Congress? We have sat through hours of discussions without a single mention of our kingdom's relevance to these proceedings."
Napoleon paused, his usually unyielding demeanor showing a rare hint of hesitation. He brushed a hand over his face, momentarily revealing the weight of the discussions that had taken place earlier. "Ah, Crown Prince-Regent Frederick," he began, his voice apologetic, "I must admit that amidst the intense negotiations, I had momentarily overlooked the matter pertaining to your kingdom. My apologies."
Frederick VI's brows furrowed, awaiting the French Emperor's elaboration.
Napoleon straightened, taking a deep breath. "The reason for your presence here, and one of utmost importance, pertains to the territories of Schleswig-Holstein. As we discuss the future of Central Europe and the proposed unification of the German states, the inclusion of Schleswig-Holstein becomes paramount."
Frederick's expression grew steely. "Are you suggesting that the Kingdom of Denmark-Norway cede these territories?"
Napoleon nodded slowly. "For the vision of a unified Germany to be realized, the incorporation of Schleswig-Holstein is crucial. However, let me assure you, that Denmark-Norway will not be expected to make such a concession without fair compensation. We propose a generous monetary settlement in exchange for these territories."
A hushed murmur spread through the room. The implications of such a transfer of territory were significant. The delegates of various nations leaned forward, eager to hear Frederick's response.
Frederick VI's concerns about the territories of Schleswig-Holstein were rooted in their historical significance to the Kingdom of Denmark-Norway. The Duchies of Schleswig and Holstein had long been associated with the Danish crown, though their affiliations differed. Schleswig was directly tied to the Danish crown, while Holstein had historical connections to the Holy Roman Empire. Over time, a series of dynastic relationships and treaties further integrated these duchies with the Kingdom of Denmark.
The complexities didn't end with mere territorial affiliations. Schleswig, in particular, was home to a diverse population of both Danes and Germans. This mix had given rise to a unique cultural landscape that was distinct from the rest of Denmark and the German-speaking regions surrounding it. Handing over this territory wasn't just a matter of changing borders on a map; it would directly impact the people living there, their allegiances, and their very identities.
"The territory of Schleswig-Holstein has been affiliated with Denmark for centuries," Frederick VI continued. "In 1460, Christian I of Denmark became both Duke of Schleswig and Count of Holstein. While Holstein was a part of the Holy Roman Empire, Schleswig, on the other hand, was a Danish fief. Over the years, this connection led to closer ties between the two regions and Denmark.
In 1721, following the Great Northern War, the Treaty of Frederiksborg confirmed Denmark's sovereignty over both territories. And now, in 1804, you're suggesting we simply hand it over for the sake of creating a new German state? I don't think the Council of State would approve of such an idea."
"But I think they'll consider it if we sign a trade deal that would definitely industrialize and modernize your Kingdom," Napoleon proposed. "The world is evolving, Frederick. Should you reject our proposal, there would be a time when this new Kingdom of Germany would wage war just to take over that country. And I believe that in those regions, there lived a people who would yearn to unify with the new German state.
Instead of losing the territory without receiving anything, you should consider this opportunity to strengthen the Kingdom of Denmark-Norway both economically and politically. By accepting our proposal, not only will you receive substantial monetary compensation, but you'll also gain a favorable trade agreement that can propel your kingdom into a new era of prosperity."
Frederick VI pondered Napoleon's words, weighing the potential benefits against the loss of territory. "Our primary concern is if the people would want such unification. How about this, we hold a referendum in those regions, choosing between remaining with Denmark or joining the proposed German state. The voice of the people should be the deciding factor in this matter."
Napoleon hummed aloud, considering the suggestion. Moments later, he made his decision.
"Okay, let's have that national referendum."
"If the local populace were to choose to leave Denmark, you will pay for the territory," Frederick IV stated.
"The Kingdom of Germany got you covered," Napoleon said.
"And if the result of the referendum was the former, the Empire of France and the Kingdom of Germany must respect the sovereignty of Denmark-Norway over Schleswig-Holstein and refrain from any future attempts or discussions to annex these territories," Frederick VI asserted.
Napoleon nodded in agreement, "If the people choose to remain with Denmark-Norway, then the matter will be settled, and both France and the emerging German state will respect that decision."
"Then we have an agreement. That would be all, we can discuss the trade deals that you have proposed tomorrow," Frederick IV said coolly.
Napoleon leaned back in his seat and grabbed a glass of water from his table. He took a sip, clearing his throat.
"Now moving on to our next agenda. The Scramble of Africa. Let me explain this to you all, by telling first that I believe in Western supremacy. I believe that the West should conquer the world because we are at the top of the civilization pyramid. The African continent holds vast resources and untapped potential, which is just waiting to be dug out.
Of course, it's inevitable that a conflict would arise among us due to that interest. Which would result in thousands or hundreds of thousands of casualties. We can prevent that if we already decided what regions of Africa a Western nation could colonize. And as such, it would be recognized, resulting in a more organized and peaceful colonization process.
I have sent prospectors and surveyors in Africa and do you know what they found out? They are literally and figuratively backward in all aspects of modern civilization. I say that we civilize them while we exploit them for our gains. What do you think?"
The room was once again filled with murmurs. The delegates seemed to be in agreement with Napoleon's proposition.
"So far, this is the territory we control in Africa," Napoleon said, glancing over his shoulder and extending his hand toward the board containing the map of Africa. A blue color layer indicates French-controlled regions.
"What is the light blue color?" One of the delegates asked.
"The light blue, which you can see is layered over almost the entire North Africa and the South, is the territory that we will claim in this scramble. The uncolored regions of Africa are free for you all to claim," Napoleon explained, pointing to various areas on the map.
"Wait, why is it that you get most of the continent while we are left with less than forty percent?" Tsar Paul I asked.
"Well because we are the first to find them," Napoleon explained simply. "So, shall we start carving out Africa?"
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