Chapter 333 Epilogue: Post-Treaty of Versailles
January 14th, 1805. A month has passed since the landmark signing of the Treaty of Versailles. The chiseled stone edifices of power, grandeur, and tradition were now standing amid a transformed European geopolitical landscape. The winds of change, driven by the ink of the Treaty, had shifted borders, melded nations, and redefined sovereignties. In this new dawn of political reconfiguration, emerged the Kingdom of Germany and the Kingdom of Poland, each carving its distinct identity on the European map.
Maximilian, the Electorate of Bavaria, had been declared the King of the freshly minted Kingdom of Germany. In parallel, Józef Poniatowski ascended as the King of Poland.
The newly formed Kingdoms weren't content with the mere symbolic change in titles and territories; they were ambitious and eager to enact substantial reforms that would improve the lives of their subjects and the prosperity of their realms. In Poland, King Józef Poniatowski was particularly proactive. The ink of the Treaty of Versailles was barely dry when he initiated a series of radical reforms, aiming to propel Poland into an era of modernity and progress.
One of the most significant reforms was the abolition of serfdom. For centuries, the peasantry had been shackled by this system, their lives dictated by the whims and commands of feudal lords. But King Józef, recognizing the inherent injustice and the impediment it posed to national progress, dismantled this archaic system. It was a move that didn't just liberate the serfs but unshackled the nation's potential, opening avenues for economic growth, social progress, and innovation.
Similarly, in Germany, King Maximilian was not a passive observer. The creation of the Kingdom provided an unprecedented opportunity to reform, revitalize, and reinvent. With the consolidation of the German states into a unified entity, a wave of administrative, legal, and economic reforms swept across the nation. Centralization of authority, standardization of laws, and the introduction of a common currency were among the primary initiatives aimed at homogenizing the diverse and often disparate German states into a cohesive, unified nation.
Alongside that, a week after the signing of the Treaty of Versailles, or twenty-four days ago, Napoleon hosted another diplomatic meeting with the Kingdom of Denmark-Norway, Kingdom of Germany, Kingdom of Poland, Russian Empire, Austrian Empire, Kingdom of Sweden, Kingdom of Spain, Kingdom of Portugal, Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, Republic of Ireland, Swiss Confederation, and the Republic of Italy to sign trade deals and establish economic partnerships that would encourage trade, industry, and prosperity across Europe. Napoleon was at the forefront, recognizing the potent opportunity to bolster the economy and enrich the nations whilst strategically placing France in a vantage position.
The agreements focussed on easing trade restrictions, lowering tariffs, and enabling the free flow of goods, services, and capital between the nations. Each country presented its offerings and needs, creating a diverse tapestry of economic opportunities waiting to be explored. Napoleon, however, ensured that the agreements were subtly skewed in favor of France.
He proposed the establishment of a common market where goods could be traded without exorbitant tariffs and restrictions. This proposition was well-received, as it promised enhanced economic activity and prosperity for all nations involved. However, what the other nations didn't fully grasp was the intricate network of clauses and stipulations embedded within the agreements, designed to accord disproportionate benefits to the French economy.
France, with its advanced industries, skilled workforce, and strategic geographical location, was poised to become the hub of trade activities. The French ports would see an influx of goods from across Europe, and French goods would find their way into the markets of every participating nation, bolstering France's economic dominance.
The agreements were signed, marking another pivotal moment in the post-Treaty of Versailles era. Nations toasted to a future of shared prosperity, oblivious to the undercurrents of economic maneuverings that would play out in the years to come.
Napoleon's strategy was to ensure that while Europe flourished, France would ascend as the epicenter of economic activity and power. The trade deals were not just an instrument of economic progression but a tactical playbook that would enhance France's influence, wealth, and dominance in the European landscape.
The Treaty of Versailles also formalized the union between Crown Prince Francis Bonaparte of the Empire of France and Prussian Princess Charlotte. This arranged marriage serves as a symbol of reconciliation and a pledge of enduring peace and continuity between our two nations.
Speaking of nations, two of the puppet states of Napoleon's French Empire, the Republic of Batavia and the Republic of Italy would be elevated into the status of Kingdom.
The Republic of Batavia turned into the Kingdom of Holland and the Italian Republic turned into the Kingdom of Italy. In the Kingdom of Holland, instead of installing his brother, Louie, on the throne, Napoleon opted to declare himself as King of Holland. Instead of placing them on the thrones, Napoleon appointed them to the positions of the Grand Dignitaries of the French Empire.
The Grand Dignitaries of the French Empire were high-ranking officials appointed directly by Napoleon. They held significant roles within the empire's administrative and ceremonial functions, often acting as close advisors to the emperor or overseeing key aspects of governance.
Back in the Republic of Italy, it was turned into the Kingdom of Italy. Its territory covers the whole of the Italian peninsula, the Island of Sicily and Sardinia, the Illyrian provinces, Istria, and Dalmatia.
In Milan, on January 14th, 1805, Napoleon was in the Milan Cathedral where a crowning ceremony was being held. Just as he had told his vice-president, Francesco Melzi d'Eril, he would declare himself King of Italy.
Just like what he did in Notre Dame, Napoleon grabbed the crown of the Iron Crown of Lombardy and placed it atop his head. He did the same thing to his wife, Ciela, placing a crown atop her head, declaring her the Queen of Italy. The audience, comprised of Italian dignitaries and French officials, watched in silent awe.
After that, there was a chant reverberating inside the Milan Cathedral. "Imperatore dei Francesi e Re d'Italia!" Or in English, "Emperor of the French and King of Italy!"
His gaze flickered at his daughter, Aveline, who looked at him in awe. Soon, he would pass this title to her and become the Queen of Italy.
"Time flew so fast darling," Ciela said. "We are already thirty-five years of age, yet there's still much left to do."
"I know, my bucket list isn't yet completed," replied Napoleon. He was reflective, reminding him that his time here in his world is numbered. He would have to make the most out of it, meaning he'll have to introduce technology that he so wanted to introduce a long time ago. Fortunately, the peace in Europe would give him that opportunity. After all, his missions in Europe are over, now to the new frontier.
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