The History of the Grand Commonwealth

Just over four years ago the micronational world was slightly shocked when a new and mostly unexpected micronational union appeared on the scene: the Grand Commonwealth.

It started out in 2004 as a plan between Treesia and Aerlig to try and create the first new micronational empire since Tymaria (which had lasted for just over 10 months until September 2002). It was also an opportunity to try and restore some of the former Apollo Foundation territories that had been previously and controversially removed by the MCS.

By the end of 2004 Lemuria, Antica and Arminy had signed up, but the latter two got cold feet and withdrew, throwing the whole project into jeopardy. In January 2005, an inspired approach to Babkha (followed later by Alteria) led to the launch of the Grand Commonwealth on April 28th 2005. It almost immediately became known as the "Great Satan" as a consequence of a major propaganda campaign instigated by Diga of Attera and implemented by Scott of Hyperborea.

A number of other micronations joined the Grand Commonwealth over the next two years, either as members or protectorates, while it also played a significant role in the formation of the MCS-rivalling Geographical Standards Organisation in 2006.

It all ceased abruptly at the end of the summer of 2007, following the withdrawal of Treesia and an effective boycott of the federal government by Babkha. A swift closure of the forums took advantage of the vacation period. Most of its former members have since failed to survive.

The Grand Commonwealth's website is now restored, and a more detailed history has been published there.

State of the Nation: Ashkenatza in May

Shireroth's DiploCorps have finally summoned up the will to resume their reporting, only to find that others have lost their will to do anything much reportable.

Their latest report from Ashkenatza indicates that the Nohsi, Pachad Emet ben Mavet, has resigned due to absenteeism, an unfortunate pandemic that seems to have afflicted many in that nation of late.

Foreign Minister Maksym Izaak Rozenthal is expected to lead the government for the foreseeable future. An unnamed source is reported to have stated that it has proved difficult for recent administrations to provide leadership when there is no-one to be led.