The
Republic of the Riverlands is a nation and maritime republic in southeastern
Centeria. Its capital is the world port of
Straaten.
Government
The Republic of the Riverlands is a dictatorial republic in which a supreme Doge is elected by the constituents of the nation to rule for life. The Doge is advised by a mercantile oligarchy of prominent guild leaders and merchant family members. The Republic has two official languages,
Ascan and
Elvish, and no official state-supported religion. However, there is significant unofficial support for the Churches of
Pelor and
Erathis, along with the Elvish gods of
Uén,
Semeleth, and
Neminwyn. The
Order of the Righteous has significant influence in contemporary politics as well.
Culture
The Riverlands has had close cultural influence from its many trading partners, including the nearby Elvish union of
Ola Thamar, from which it has a large population of Elves. Thus, it is typically seen as more tolerant than other primarily Ascan nations, although the truth of this reputation is ultimately debatable. Mercantile culture ultimately has driven a materialistic viewpoint that is famously widespread in Riverlander society, giving rise to stereotypes of wealth and vanity.
Trade
The Riverlands is seen as the premier trade power of
Centeria, with its trade fleets regularly transporting goods from
Colodos to
Ascalon and the
Shou Empire and beyond. As such, urban denizens are largely more wealthy then their counterparts abroad, and are large consumers of luxury goods. Living expenses are are high in Riverlander cities, creating an extreme class divide between rural and urban Riverlander populations.
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