In 1956, following a humiliating withdrawal from Egypt forced upon them by the United States, both France and Britain began to harbor doubts about the strength of their alliance with the US.
In an attempt to lessen US influence and strengthen their declining empires, France and Britain joined forces to establish the Franco-British Union. This new entity fused their colonial territories and armed forces, emerging as a third significant player in the Cold War.
You assume the role of a rising politician in the United Kingdom, navigating the complexities of relations with the Soviet Union and the United States, while also managing the intricate web of connections within the Empire. Along the way, you align yourself with either the pro-colonial or decolonization movement.
Will you succeed in persuading people that the future lies in imperialism, rather than capitalism or communism? Or will you choose to embrace the changing tides of time?
Feel free to ask me lore questions about the world map
Pre 1956 history
In this alt history Winston Churchill’s manages to win reelection in 1945 and is driven by his commitment to preserving the British Empire’s colonial legacy, evoking nostalgia for a glorious past:
Following his victory, Churchill’s administration embarks on a fervent campaign to bolster imperial ties and uphold the splendor of the British Empire. Drawing on historical narratives of imperial grandeur, Churchill seeks to retain the colonies as a testament to Britain’s global influence. His rhetoric resonates with a population yearning for a return to the bygone days of colonial dominance, fostering a renewed sense of national pride.
However, pragmatic realities gradually temper Churchill’s imperial aspirations. Recognizing the logistical challenges of ruling vast and populous territories, he acknowledges that India and Burma must be released from direct British rule. This pragmatic decision is fueled by a deep understanding that governing such large colonies is unsustainable. With India and Burma gaining independence, the UK shifts its focus toward nurturing the remaining colonies, solidifying its commitment to colonial rule.
As localized revolts erupt in the late 1940s, Churchill’s government employs force to quell dissent, establishing a precedent for post-war Britain’s approach to colonial unrest. This suppression bolsters the resolve of the British people to uphold colonialism, attributing a sense of security and stability to the Empire’s continued presence. Churchill’s reign cements the notion that colonialism is a pivotal element of Britain’s identity, setting the stage for future prime ministers to explore ways to maintain imperial control, even amidst the changing currents of the global arena.
The Franco British formation
Amid the austere backdrop of a diplomatic enclave, British Prime Minister Anthony Eden and French President Guy Mollet convened in a chamber steeped in gravitas. The atmosphere bore witness to the lingering aftermath of the Suez Crisis, a tumultuous chapter that had cast shadows over the geopolitical landscape. Seated across from each other, both leaders exuded an air of formal solemnity, their expressions a mirror of their nations’ collective disillusionment following the perceived betrayal by their American ally.
Mollet, his voice a measured blend of exasperation and determination, broke the silence, “Prime Minister Eden, the Suez Crisis has laid bare the fragility of our empires within the shifting sands of international politics. It is imperative that we rise above our historical alliances and chart a course that safeguards our shared interests.”
Eden, his visage a mask of contemplation, replied with measured restraint, “President Mollet, while I understand your concern, forming a new alliance so hastily after the Suez Crisis… Is such a path prudent? Can we truly orchestrate our destiny amidst these uncertain times?”
Mollet leaned forward slightly, his gaze meeting Eden’s with an unwavering intensity, “Prime Minister Eden, the currents of change are undeniable, their force insurmountable. We cannot remain complacent, entrusting our fate to external powers. We must forge an alliance that serves as the bastion of our mutual legacies, beyond the whims of others.”
Eden’s initial hesitance was palpable, yet a glint of realization illuminated his eyes, “President Mollet, your point resonates. The Suez Crisis has shown us the necessity of steering our own course. We cannot relinquish the empires that generations before us have constructed.”
As their conversation progressed, the stilted formality between them gave way to the blueprint for the Franco-British Union. Mollet’s resolve and Eden’s gradual acceptance culminated in a shared understanding – the realization that, in order to counter the omnipresent influences of the Cold War superpowers and to preserve their colonial dominions, they must emerge as architects of their own fate.
Mollet’s voice reverberated with a tenacity, “Prime Minister Eden, this union offers us a singular opportunity. An alliance that harmonizes our strengths, that challenges the pervasive dominion of the United States and the Soviet Union.”
Eden nodded, the inception of resolve shaping his features, “You are right, President Mollet. It is time to reclaim our destinies, to fashion the Franco-British Union into the embodiment of our steadfast commitment. Only by defining our path can we navigate these tumultuous waters.”
And so, within the solemn chamber, Anthony Eden and Guy Mollet laid the foundation for the Franco-British Union. Their formal discourse metamorphosed into a mutual determination – a resolve to traverse the exigencies of the Cold War era united in purpose and to shield their legacies from the volatility of international politics.
Game paths
Two distinct paths lie ahead: one leading to the “Pro Colonial” route and the other to the “Decolonization” route. In the pro colonial journey, you’ll immerse yourself in the colonial lobby within the government, actively participating in shaping the Union’s governance. Your choices may lead you to pursue reforms or enforce your rule over colonies with a strong hand, all in an effort to bring control.
Opting for the “Decolonization” path will see you aligning with the anti-colonial lobby. Within this realm, the majority’s primary concern may not necessarily be the moral dilemma of colonialism itself; rather, their focus might be on engaging in neo-colonialism, exploiting nations indirectly. Will you succumb to pragmatism, perpetuating the empire under a deceptive façade? Or will you genuinely champion the cause of self-determination? The choice is yours to make.
Currently it’s about (15k words) done, and I plan on updating every 2 weeks
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