Constantine IX Vasa: Difference between revisions
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'''Emperor Constantine IX''' (birth: Charles Alexander Zor-Mako-Vasa-Nassau, High Sarovian: Carolus Alessaros eui Zor-Mako-Vasa-Nassau)
When his great-grandfather Lord Lochland abdicated his title, he would take the title of Viscount Lochland and enter the Sarovian [[Assembly of Peers]]. In 275 AS, he was elected by the Assembly of Peers to become the next monarch of New Sarovia when his younger brother, [[Edward II Vasa-Nassau]], rejected the throne of a unified Sarovia. He was also selected due to his Vasa lineage and friendship with [[Francis I Vasa-Nassau | Constantine VII]], as well as being the oldest male Vasa in the House at the time. Constantine reigns as a constitutional monarch and has gone through many major political changes such as the Jacobite Rebellion, the colonisation of three new continents, the conquest of Aurea and more. As Emperor, Constantine
Constantine IX, also known as Grand King Constantine III of the State and King Constantine I of Philippia, Metternau, Carolusburg and the Oxerians,
== Biography ==
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Constantine IX then turned to Estos to deal with an uprising of Aurean funded rebel groups, of which amongst them were the successors to Hanor, the possessor of the "Holy Eastern Emperor." In a swift martial campaign, Constantine IX in his old age decisively defeated the rebel groups and Pope Clement acknowleged the exchange of the "Holy Eastern Emperor" title to Constantine IX. At the turn of the Stefanic century in 300 AS, the Pope crowned Constantine IX as the first Holy Graalian Emperor, a successor title to surpass that of Constantine VI's title of Caesar.
=== Death and Funeral ===
[[File:Constantine Deathbed.png|200px|thumb|right|The Widow's Loss, by the Countess of Veres]]
Constantine, the Emperor whose reign symbolized an era of transformative reforms, passed away on November 28th, 311 AS at Stenhammer Palace. He had gone to Stenhammer on the 26th of November intending to take a break, but his deteriorating health, evident from early November, prompted Chief Herald Loggail to urgently summon members of the House of Vasa and the [[Prime Minister]] to the palace on the 28th of November around 6PM EST.
By the time the dignitaries arrived on the 28th around 6:30PM EST, Constantine had already succumbed to his condition at 6:44 PM EST, prior to their presence. According to sources, the first attendees were his wife, his son [[John, Prince of Kiev]] and the future [[Carolus XIII Vasa]]. The House of Vasa officially declared his passing at 7:11 PM EST on the same day by a press release in all Realms through Sarovia Pathe. Constantine IX's demise marked the end of an era in the empire's history, initiating a period of mourning and transition. His death left a significant void in the leadership and signaled a pivotal moment for the empire's future course. The funeral continues to be planned.
== Legacy ==
=== Personal life and politics ===
Constantine IX was renowned for his distinct blend of personal convictions and political neutrality, a characteristic that significantly shaped his rule. A proponent of democratic traditionalism, he navigated the New Sarovian Empire's political landscape with a balanced approach that aimed to uphold democratic values while respecting established traditions. He personally relinquished extensive powers of the monarchy to the elected Sarovian federal government and the Prime Minister, who would exercise said authority in his name. Constantine hardly intervened in politics and had a policy known as "support My Government", ultimately determining that no matter who was Prime Minister, he would aid in their continued success in politics and in government until they could no longer serve, resigned, or were defeated in office. This essentially made Constantine a supporter of every Government ever. Constantine had the legal right to vote in elections but always waived this in favour of remaining politically neutral. His reign was marked by a deliberate neutrality in political affairs. He astutely maintained an impartial stance, seeking consensus among conflicting factions and prioritizing the empire's stability above personal or partisan agendas. His governance style reflected a commitment to preserving democratic principles, often leaning toward reforms that safeguarded the rights of the populace, and would support resolutions and decisions made against him by his governments, such as lowering his own salary or removing rights or privileges. In several instances, he advocated for the establishment of parliamentary committees, allowing backbencher Members of Parliament a voice in administrative decisions. These committees not only facilitated better governance but also fostered a sense of civic participation, aligning with Constantine's belief in the importance of a participatory democracy.
Constantine IX's outward stance as a proponent of democratic traditionalism often obscured a closely guarded aspect of his persona. Similar to his ancestor Lord Lochland, Constantine was a staunch conservative behind the scenes and a devout Stefanist, believing in the divine right of kings a firm commitment to authoritarian governance. Behind closed doors, Constantine was an ardent adherent of conservative Stefanic doctrines, fervently practicing his faith and actively promoting the influence of the Stefanic Church within the empire. His personal convictions surprisingly were not conflicting with his public image as a neutral ruler, and he openly wielded his authority to advance conservative Stefanic values within the New Sarovian society and fulfilled his duties as the Holy Graalian Emperor.
Authoritarian tendencies manifested in his governance strategies, particularly in moments of crisis or dissent. Though publicly advocating for democratic ideals, Constantine wasn't hesitant to employ authoritarian measures to maintain order and reinforce imperial authority. Instances of stringent enforcement of laws, suppression of dissenting voices, and consolidation of power in the hands of the monarchy characterized his response to challenges to his rule, especially in the Jacobite Rebellion. When times were good, Sarovians enjoyed the most freedoms of any Graalian, but in times of crisis Constantine masterfully utilised the far reaches of Sarovian law to implement effective conclusions.
=== High Sarovian ===
Constantine IX held an unwavering commitment to the evolution and prominence of the High Sarovian language, a fusion of English and Portuguese that he championed as a means of cultural unity and diplomatic efficacy. Understanding the pivotal role language plays in fostering communication and unity among diverse populations, Constantine initiated ambitious language reforms within the empire. His vision was to create a ''lingua franca'' that amalgamated the linguistic nuances of English and Portuguese, aiming for a language that not only facilitated internal cohesion but also elevated the empire's international presence.
To elevate the significance of the High Sarovian language, Constantine IX launched educational programs and encouraged widespread adoption of the language in governmental affairs, academia, and commerce. He established language dictionaries, funded linguistic research, and promoted the production of literature, fostering a cultural renaissance that celebrated linguistic diversity while embracing a unified mode of communication, resulting in extensive use of the language in bureaucracy and in culture such as poems and songs. Constantine IX's dedicated efforts to institutionalize High Sarovian contributed significantly to its widespread adoption as a language of the government, reinforcing its status as a language of diplomacy, trade, and cultural exchange throughout the Empire and beyond.
Many scholars have cited the Jacobite Rebellion as a crucial instance that spurred Constantine on to develop the language. Constantine profound belief in the unifying power of language reshaped the socio-cultural fabric of the empire, establishing High Sarovian as a cornerstone of identity and a bridge between diverse linguistic communities. His legacy endures through the enduring legacy of High Sarovian as a testament to his visionary leadership and enduring commitment to linguistic inclusivity and cultural amalgamation.
=== Constantine "the Restorer" ===
Constantine is hailed by many as '''Constantine the Restorer''', and embodies a pivotal figure in the annals of Sarovian history. While some citizens allude to him as Constantine the Great, a title shared with his predecessor, [[Constantine VI & I Vasa]], many argue that the distinct contributions of Constantine IX warrant a unique epithet. A faction of scholars and citizens ardently supports the moniker "Restorer," arguing that it encapsulates the monumental breadth of his accomplishments, surpassing mere greatness. His reign marked an epoch of rejuvenation, where he not only reestablished the foundations of the New Sarovian Empire but rectified numerous missteps of his predecessors.
The epithet "Restorer" draws from Constantine's pivotal role in reclaiming Sarovian pride and sovereignty, steering the empire away from the wreckage of the Imperian Wars and reclaiming territorial losses incurred during Arcadian conflicts and coalition wars, things many successors were wholly unable to achieve. Notably, his diplomatic acumen and strategic prowess saw the reinstatement of Sarovian executive and federal powers, restoring the balance of authority crucial for the empire's stability and governance, moving away from the semi-feudal system established in the Confederation of the Nafets. This was not without its faults, however, as the Jacobite Rebellion threatened to rip apart the fabric of the Empire, which Constantine ultimately aided in restoring.
Constantine's legacy as the Restorer extends beyond territorial boundaries. His initiatives in reclaiming and fortifying the Sarovian colonial empire, notably in the regions of Orios, Ostos, and Boreas, revitalized the empire's global influence. The Dominion of Carolusburg was a direct restorative effort against the Aurean House of Vaughn, who were the Empire's biggest rivals for many years. An anecdote is told upon visiting the tomb of former Aurean Emperor Kevlar V immediately after the death of the Aurean pretender Angel Vaughn that Constantine's eldest son, the Prince of Kiev, said ''"Awake, Kevlar. My father has finally restored peace in these lands. My presence here consecrates the victory of the Vasas over the Vaughns."''
Concurrently, he ushered in reforms that revitalized Sarovian democracy, reinstating the voice of the people within the empire's governance structures. Constantine restoring and greatly expanding the democratic processes established by previous monarchs is seen as one of his greatest achievements.
Some critics argue that "Restorer" might not sufficiently capture the grandeur of his achievements. Proponents emphasize that this title encapsulates the essence of his reign, one marked by tireless efforts to rectify past errors and revive the empire's glory on multiple fronts. Constantine IX's legacy as the Restorer remains a testament to his transformative leadership and enduring commitment to rebuilding and revitalizing the New Sarovian Empire.
=== Payk Sarovianò ===
The "Payk Sarovianò," in English as the ''Sarovian Peace'', was a significant epoch in the annals of the New Sarovian Empire, observed as a period of universal hegemony and diplomatic prowess. It is referred to in the High Sarovian language, the lingua franca of the nation, to differentiate it from and echo the ideals and principles established by the historic Pax Sarovica under the reign of Constantine VI in the 230s and 240s AS.
Following the decisive quelling of the Jacobite Rebellion, Constantine navigated the Sarovian government away from the brink of war with the Aurean Empire, despite the historical rivalry between the two nations. Arguing for a peaceful coexistence, Constantine advocated that New Sarovia could thrive as equals with Aurea without the need for hegemonic dominance. Aurea was struggling diplomatically and Constantine secretly worked with agents within the House of Vaughn to continue to prop it up, calling it the "Sick Man of Graal." However, Aurea would gain strength and eventually support for Statee rebels, which directly threatened Constantine's position as the Grand King of the State, posed a continuous provocation.
Despite Constantine's counsel for peace, the Sarovian Government opted to declare war on Aurea, and did so. Constantine was resigned to another Stefanic decade of war, but the ensuing conflict culminated in a resounding and humiliating defeat for Aurea on both domestic and foreign fronts, paving the way for Sarovia's assertion of universal dominance, known as the Payk Sarovianò.
The repercussions of the peace were far-reaching, compelling former allies of Aurea to pledge an informal allegiance to Constantine as the Holy Graalian Emperor. This unprecedented allegiance solidified Constantine and Sarovia's status as the undeniable hegemon of Graal, imposing peace among erstwhile rivals. For a span of eight Stefanic years, Sarovia basked in a state of comprehensive tranquility, wielding unparalleled authority wherein its desires translated into absolute command. The Payk Sarovianò heralded an era of Sarovian hegemony where the empire reigned supreme in diplomatic, economic, and political domains. The peace established Sarovia as an influential force shaping global affairs, compelling nations far and wide to seek amicable terms. Its hegemonic authority ensured compliance and acquiescence from rivals, securing an era where Sarovia's aspirations were swiftly realized, becoming a universal precedent.
The legacy of the Payk Sarovianò endures as a testament to Sarovia's strategic prowess and diplomatic finesse, solidifying its status as an indisputable powerhouse in the global arena. This epoch redefined the geopolitical landscape, imprinting Sarovian dominance in the collective memory of nations, showcasing an unprecedented era of undisputed supremacy and far-reaching influence. It is commonly marked that the period ended when the former Sarovian ally of Oldenburg refused to follow orders from Sarholm, and many scholars cited an unwillingness from Sarholm politicians to adapt to a new reality on the ground.
== Titles, styles, honours and arms ==
=== Titles and styles ===
Upon ascension to the throne, many Peers believed he would be "'''Carolus XIII'''", as his first name was Charles. Instead, he took the name of his most recent ancestor monarch.
Constantine IX has gone by many different titles and styles depending on the realms in which he was part of. In each of his realms, colonies and dominions, Constantine had a distinct title that follows a similar formula that includes the realm's title, such as King of Carolusburg, Philippia, etc. In his Sarovian style, all titles Constantine possessed within member states of the Sarovian Commonwealth were featured. Constantine had many more titles than that throughout his life, which were often "reduced" out of his official title and style into auxiliary positions to keep it much simpler. The Imperial Styles Act mandated that his title be:
''<center> His Imperial, Royal, and Most Stefanic Majesty, by the Grace of Stefan, the Holy Graalian Emperor, King of the Sarovians and Emperor of the Sarovian Commonwealth, Grand King of the State, King of Reuss, of Nassau, of Philippia, of Metternau, of Carolusburg and of the Oxerians, Patriarch of the Vasas, Nassaus, Makos and Zors, and Defender of the Faith. </center>
''
=== Coat of arms ===
As the Viscount Lochland, Constantine IX's arms were different from those of the New Sarovian Empire
{| border="0" align="center" width="85%" style="text-align:center"
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=== Banners, flags and standards ===
Constantine IX used the various royal and imperial standards that are used to represent his various titles, both within and outside of the countries on foreign visits. The Imperial Standard of New Sarovia takes precedent over all others, and is to only be used when the Emperor is attending an event personally. This convention is followed for all other banners and standards as well based on his capacity: for example, Constantine attending a meeting as the King of Carolusburg would fly the Carodian Royal Standard rather than the Imperial Standard.
{| border="0" align="center" width="85%" style="text-align:center"
|-
!width=25% |[[File:Royal Standard of Carolusburg.png|center|150px]]
!width=25% |[[File:Royal Standard of Metternau.png|center|150px]]
!width=25% |[[File:Royal Standard of Philippia Dominion.png|center|150px]]
!width=25% |[[File:Sarovian Commonwealth Flag.png|center|150px]]
!width=25% |[[File:The Royal Standard of the Royo eui do Sarovians.png|center|150px]]
|-
|Royal Standard of Constantine I of Carolusburg.
|Royal Standard of Constantine I of Metternau.
|Royal Standard of Constantine I of Philippia.
|Banner of Constantine IX of Emperor of the Sarovian Commonwealth.
|Imperial Standard of Constantine IX of King of the Sarovians.
|}
=== Cyphers and monograms ===
Constantine IX had a variety of monograms and cyphers, including some merged with his wife the Empress-Consort. On his 12th Stefanic year anniversary, however, he issued a decree to change said monogram, which stayed with him until his death. There are examples of Constantine's monogram with both the Imperial Crown and the St. Charles Crown. The monogram and cyphers were used in a variety of ways, including on the facades of buildings, buttons of soldier's uniforms, document headers, and more. The old cyphers from his early reign did not change despite the decree depending on jurisdiction, leading to some variety. The Dominions of Metternau and Philippia maintained the old monograms whereas the Remerra Saroviano, New Sarovia proper and the Dominion of Carolusburg reflected the new monogram of the Emperor.
[[File:Con IX, RI.png|right|150px|Constantine IX's monogram with the St. Charles Crown.]]
=== Honours and decorations ===
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