Griffin Empire

Griffin Empire
Griffin Empire; Griffiniskaja Dyctyonaryty
Flag	Coat of arms
	Motto: ; Ostasedtemo käk edn; Öśdtsdtlāř söm ët; Rising as One
	Anthem: Incatatosklaul
Capital; and largest city	Kralingslæting
Official languages	Griffin; Old Griffin
Recognised regional languages	Latingish; Tybaltevan ‧ Ugalic ‧ Pyreican ‧ Gvozdic
Demonym	Griffin ‧ Griffinian
Government	Unitary; parliamentary; constitutional monarchy
Legislature	Rykstadtk
History of Griffin lands
Area
Population
GDP (PPP)	2023 estimate
GDP (nominal)	2023 estimate
Gini	25.3; low
HDI (2023)	0.954; very high
Currency	Kralaurum (Ꞣ (GKR))
Time zone	NCT
Date format	dd/mm/yyyy (CE)
Drives on the	right
Calling code	+2317
a.	Griffin Empire uses GE for its ISO code and .gd as its Internet TLD.

Griffin Empire^[4](Griffin: Griffiniskaja Dyctyonaryty^[5]; Old Griffin: Grýfýnýšk Dyktyönąřïlėht^[6]), is a Northern Norigin country whose territory consists of 7 principalities. It is unitary parliamentary democracy and constitutional monarchy with its capital in Kralingslæting, the country's largest city and main cultural and commercial centre. Other major urban areas include Hermýn, Mare Incatato, Göldtsit, Nýtdainsk, Pyetsit and Tevs. Griffin has long been a global centre of art, science, and philosophy. It hosts a large number of Protected Natian Heritage Sites and is the leading tourist destination. Griffin Empire is a developed country with one of the largest Natian economies by nominal GDP as well as by PPP. In terms of aggregate household wealth, it constantly ranks high in Natia. Griffin performs well in international rankings of education, health care, life expectancy, and human development. Griffin Empire is considered a great power in global affairs, being one of the permanent members of the Natian Security Council with the power to veto and an official nuclear-weapon state.

Etymology[edit | edit source]

The name of the country comes from the mythical animal griffin, griffon, or gryphon. It was believed that this legendary creature lived in the area which is today split between principalities of Foreõsvdetrre, Färzas - Lætingmaa and Õklingsmaa. It is usually described as an animal with the body, tail, and back legs of a lion; the head and wings of an eagle; and sometimes an eagle's talons as its front feet. Because the lion was traditionally considered the king of the beasts, and the eagle the king of the birds, the griffin was thought to be an especially powerful and majestic creature. Allegedly in the early period of Griffin lands, griffins were known for guarding treasures and priceless possessions, so people named themselves after them. This theory, or even the existence of these creatures is yet to be proven.

National symbols[edit | edit source]

According to the constitution of the country there are eight national emblems of the Griffin Empire and they are as follows:

The Griffin flag - Griffiflýgtet which consists of the golden cross, edged in white, superimposed on the black cross edged in white, which are superimposed on the blue background. A symbolism-interpretation says the blue is for the vaulted blue sky above the native land, the black for attachment to the soil of the homeland as well as the fate of Griffinians that fought for the liberty and unity for centuries black with worries, white for purity, hard work, and commitment and gold for success, prosperity and golden age Griffinians are living in.
The national anthem - Incatatosklaul (Ïńkątątöškląül)
One of the earliest depictions of the official national animal - Griffin
The official motto - Ostasedtemo käk edn^[7](Rising as one)
The Imperial coat of arms that depicts a shield with a golden Griffin in front of a blue background, sometimes its talons are clutching a thunderbolt. The shield is surrounded by red Imperial mantle, filled with golden bees. The shield is topped by a the Imperial crown, which sits atop a golden Imperial helmet. Surrounding the shield is the the chain and pendant of the Griffin Legion of Honour with the traditional lesser coat of arms of the First Griffin Kingdom featuring three slim blue lions passant gardant with red tongues representing first three principalities to unite into one country. Crossed behind the shield are the Scepters of justice and mercy.
Philosophy of Griffinism
The national animal - Gryphon or Griffin
The national flower - Fainalainetöbirsöflõsz (lit. "bird of paradise"; Strelitzia reginae griffinica)
The national holiday - Day of the Empire

National Holidays[edit | edit source]

Because of its loose relationship with religion, Griffin Empire does not have a lot of religious holidays. Dyctyonarytydaign is considered the national day and it is recognised by Griffin Constitution as the National Symbol. On days recognised as "holidays" a range of events are organised across the country, including those for children, television and radio programmes. Grand parades and concerts are common throughout the country, with large parties both indoors and outdoors following these events. There are a lot of local holidays in different towns that celebrate the virtues that the local griffinism temple (kirkja) is devoted to.

Day	Holiday Name in Griffin	Holiday Name in English
1st January	Beginigungödan	New Years Day
7th January	Griffinismusdaign	Griffinism Day
27th January	Veddaign	Knowledge Day
1st February	Rösponsübüliterdaign	Responsibility Day
15th April	Arsidaign	Art Day
6th May	Volemödan	Love Day
15th June	Thcjerturtöhtödan	Day of the Unification
19th August	Ovborgavidaign	Parents' Day
14th September	Dyctyonarytydaign	Day of the Empire
20th September	Languadaign	Griffin Language Day
1st November	Lýfidoiddaign	Life and Death Celebration

History[edit | edit source]

Griffin's history is about three thousand years long and is extremely closely related to the Griffin royal family, since it was at the center of most important historical events, and it made most of the historical decisions or at least influenced them. From small city-states to a transcontinental empire, this country gradually developed to its present form.

Pre-Griffin era[edit | edit source]

Little is known about the specific history of the territory on which the Griffin Empire spreads today before the founding of the first states. Some light on this question is shed by a number of caves in which a large number of paintings have been found, most often depicting animals and people. Remains of tools and primitive weapons have been found throughout the country, and the highest concentrations are near or in the cities themselves. Griffin cities with the status of a metropolis are considered to be some of the oldest cities in Natia in which people live continuously. The oldest written sources are written in the primitive form of today's Griffin non-Latin script, i.e. the Hermynic script named after the city in which the tables were found. Some religious texts, some mathematical theories, as well as the first laws were successfully deciphered from these clay tablets.

The exact time at which the population began to consider themselves as Griffinians is not known, and according to historical sources, it is unlikely that these people came from abroad. The reconstruction of the ancient languages of the Effiland and Öösingimäed, as well as certain artefacts, revealed a potential connection between these peoples and the Griffins, but these theories have not been sufficiently clarified or are still in their infancy.

First Griffin states[edit | edit source]

The first appearance of the name "Griffin" occurs for a number of city-states in the territory of the present-day principalities of Foreõsvdetrre and Õklingsmaa around 700 BCE. Due to very good relations, Rhemsit, Kralingslæting, Gmöt, Hermýn, and Sellola are especially attached to some original unorganized union. During this period, both Frisköptislæting and Mare Incatato were founded and became the main centres in the east and south, respectively. The first Griffin states in modern sense were founded some 300 years later. Originally, there were five independent states - Foreõsvdetrre, Õklingsmaa, Färzas, Meremaa and Lætingmaa, which were monarchies in their organization (Foreõsvdetrre even got its name from its king Foreõs). These countries were inhabited by people of the same origin who used the same "proto-Griffin" language as we know from the tables found in places where there were so-called "schools of Griffinism". The first schools of Griffinism were opened around 101 BCE, and were places of study of rhetoric, philosophy, mathematics, and music.

Foreõsvdetrre, although the smallest, was a very influential and combative country that significantly expanded its territory to the south - occupying the territories of today's Grifýlandet and Vasterlandet completely, and even beyond today's borders. These wars lasted until the first year of the new era, when a period of fragile peace that lasted only half a century began, and was interrupted by the War of Vasterlandet, and later by the Unification Wars.

The Vasterlandet War (51-64) is the name for the conflict between Õklingsmaa and Foreõsvdetrre over the newly conquered southern territories. The absolute winner of this war was Õklingsmaa who managed not only to conquer most of Foreõsvdetrre, but also to push the population towards the north. Due to this, Foreõsvdetrre spread to the north and around the year 67 CE it took the form it has to this day. Around 80, Õklingsmaa in a rebellion lost the panhandle it had in the south, which also established its southern border, which lasts to this day, and is the oldest continuous border in Natia.

First unification war[edit | edit source]

Noticing the instability of their countries, the rulers of Õklingsmaa and Foreõsvdetrre tried to unite, but the conflict arose over the question of who would be the supreme ruler of the new nation. The war between the two ruling families, called the First Unification War, lasted for 18 years, and ended with the death of all the members of both families. At an assembly in Rhemsit, at which peace was agreed upon, Frëdrýk Ŕëmhrąðtson, a wealthy military commander who distinguished himself as a capable leader during the war, was elected the first king of the United Griffin Land. His family was already loved and respected in Rhemsit, since they financed the construction of the first religious-political building in the city - the temple of Griffinism, which gave this philosophy the final characteristics of a religion. Shortly after the unification of the two countries, a third entered the union, this time peacefully - the Griffin king married Ąńnë Lýdwýgsån, princess of Färzas who was the sole heir of her family. With this political marriage with the only heiress to the Färzas throne, Färzas came under the Griffin crown. The first king is also important as the enactor of the famous Griffin Language Act.

Five generations later, when the United Griffin Kingdom strengthened under the strong hand of Queen Mąārà, the first attempts at further expansion of the country began. The first expeditions were successful and in 259 the Griffin Kingdom conquered the coast in the northwest. This territory was known as the Eastern Country (Eestimadnait), despite the fact that it is located west of most griffin territories. Legend has it that the queen was so cruel and vindictive that no soldier was brave enough to tell her that she was actually leading them in the opposite direction. This historical account, though intriguing, has drawn some criticisms for its accuracy. It is documented that Queen Maarja possessed a clear understanding of her destination, driven by a desire to exploit the prevailing chaos and disunity within the Arnavut State. Additionally, it is claimed that the reformed army, under the guidance of its commanders, meticulously charted the route and devised strategic war tactics for the expedition. It is an accepted theory that name Eestimadnait actually originated from the Griffin maps, which depicted the world in a manner contradictory to its modern representation, with an inverted orientation. The poles underwent a reversal during the epoch of the Griffin Conquests, aligning with the official acceptance of Ugly maps.

Shortly afterwards, King Güśąv I tried to expand the country to the northeast. Griffin's pretensions to the northeast led to the war with the Gvozd Country, which is called the "War for the Fields". Neighbouring Gvozd fought strongly against the Griffin army, but still in 300 they surrendered and signed an agreement by which they gave a large part of their territory to the Griffin Kingdom. The new territory, that covered territory of today's Duchy of Gvozdisletterid, was named Sletterimaa after its lowland landscape and was considered equal to the already existing members of the union. When King Güśąv I, who had no children, nor was ever married, passed away, his grand-nephew Òn succeeded him to the throne. Òn III was the grandson of the king's late brother Pąvl who traditionally founded a new family branch called Tëmplëmánën ý Ŕëm, with their title being the counts of the county of Pöřtlán. In this form the country lived in peace and strengthened for about 300 years. The reign of Queen Lélą is especially cited as a successful period in which the country flourished abruptly. In 602, another law on the Griffin language was passed. King Frëdrýk IV successfully updated whole legislation in 630. In the same year he married the Sealandic princess Òhæńną Güdřúsön. She was the last living descendant of her dynasty, so Meremaa (Sealand) entered the Griffin Union as the sixth province.

Second unification war[edit | edit source]

Lætingmaa harboured resentment towards the Griffin Kingdom for its perceived failure to protect the region from external threats, exemplified by her own war with Gvozd. As a consequence, Lætingmaa firmly asserted her desire to remain autonomous. The Griffin Kingdom, under the rule of King Güśąv VI, pursued the ambitious goal of conquering Lætingmaa to "ensure safety and stability". The formal commencement of this endeavour came with the outbreak of the Second War of Unification, initiated by an attack on Letjeuld (Old Griffin: Lëtèüld, Latingish: Letĕld), a border town, on June 7, 699. This conflict endured until 712.

During the war, King Güśąv VI led the Griffin army until 703, when he sustained a severe injury in the Battle of Kaignetsvilajet. Despite the best efforts of his medical care, complications arose, and the King succumbed to his wounds in 707. Subsequently, Prince Frëdrýk V assumed the throne after his coronation in Rhemsit, continuing the war effort. By 703, Griffin forces had successfully occupied the southern and western territories of Lætingmaa, establishing a well-defined border extending from the southern city of Kornukopia to the northern Daunsigslæting.

Throughout the period from 703 to 707, the Griffin Kingdom achieved significant success in penetrating the heartland of Lætingmaa, resulting in the conquest of key cities, Daunsigslæting, and Kaignetsvilajet. This military progress was largely fuelled by the capable and inspiring leadership of Prince Frëdrýk V, whose coronation marked a turning point. However, Lætingmaa's resilient response involved reorganizing its military forces and launching a counteroffensive, which, while temporarily halted, demonstrated the Latingish army's capability to impede further Griffin expansion. This stalemate persisted until 711, ultimately culminating in the devastating and savage Battle of Kornukopia, which brought an end to the war.

Battle of Kornukopia[edit | edit source]

The Battle of Kornukopia stands out as a pivotal and concluding engagement in the Second War of Unification, noted for its unprecedented casualty toll. With an estimated loss of 250,000 soldiers and civilians, it stands as the deadliest conflict in the history of the Griffin Empire.

The tragic outcome of Kornukopia is believed to be closely tied to the prolonged siege of Frisköptislæting. This siege began in early October 711, following the Griffin army's successful breakthrough of the front lines in September. Despite the city's resistance due to its abundant food and water supplies and the determination of its disciplined citizens to fend off a seemingly superior force, the Griffin army was determined to keep the city under siege. On January 2, 712, King Frëdrýk V delivered an ultimatum to Frisköptislæting from his stronghold near Kornukopia, threatening to burn down all Latingish cities, starting with Kornukopia, should they not surrender. The subsequent events led to the final confrontation at Frisköptislæting, where the Latingish army managed to break the siege after twenty days. However, Kornukopia (Modern Griffin: Körnukoopia, Old Griffin: Kårnůkåpýėt, Latingish dialect: Ŝťărnuŝăpiet) fell to the Griffinians on the same day and was subsequently set ablaze. The tragic loss of life extended to the inhabitants of Frisköptislæting as well.

Upon reaching Kornukopia, Latingish army faced the horrifying reality of its destruction and the massacre of its entire population, with estimates ranging from five to ten thousand lives lost. In response, Latingish commanders directed their forces towards the Fėrglėht tower, situated near the city, where the Griffin army had set up camp. The Fėrglėht tower, initially constructed as a temporary residence and observatory for the Griffin king in 704, played a critical role in the war's final stages. The Lætingmaa's army launched a strong attack, leveraging the element of surprise. However, the well-rested Griffin forces ultimately prevailed, leading to the demise of nearly all Latingish soldiers involved in the battle, while the Griffin side also incurred substantial losses, with only a quarter of their soldiers surviving. The outcome of the Battle of Kornukopia and the subsequent capture of the Lætingmaa's king at the Fėrglėht tower compelled Lætingmaa to become part of the Griffin Kingdom, ending its pursuit of independence. A proclamation was signed in the Fėrglėht tower, which still exists today, according to which Lætingmaa officially became part of the Griffin Kingdom.

On the millennium of the battle, at the initiative of the Griffin Parliament, a jubilee called the Day of Responsibility was held. At this event, second Griffin Prime Minister, Henrik Holm Proglson, publicly and officially apologised to the Principality of Lætingmaa for the crimes committed during the war. A monument to the victims of the Battle of Cornucopia was also unveiled - a 91-meter tall building which contains over 500 steps to a viewing platform at the top, from which there are views of the Fėrglėht Tower and surroundings. The structure makes extensive use of concrete, and the facings are of granite. It is widely regarded as one of the best examples of Griffin architecture. The monument is said to stand on the spot of Cornucopia's old city centre. Responsibility Day has since been held every year as a national holiday.

First major expansions[edit | edit source]

After the unification, the Griffin Kingdom entered a period of peaceunder the reign of King Gustav VII (703 - 766). His strategic marriage to Princess Lăra Bălan of Lætingmaa solidified his authority in the region, marking a significant step in legitimizing Griffin rule. King Gustav VII, known for his benevolence and remarkable leadership abilities, earned the support of the Lætingmaa's nobility and implemented tax reductions, fostering a conducive environment for post-war recovery. During this era, shipbuilders from Eestimadnait made notable advancements, culminating in the enhancement of the Griffin official fleet. This maritime progress paved the way for cooperative ventures with neighboring Ugaly, which would later play pivotal role in the further development of the Griffin navy. The collaborative efforts and alliances formed during this period laid the groundwork for the Kingdom's increasing influence in maritime affairs.

Fredrik VI (723 - 790) ascended the throne after the reign of Gustav VII. However, his rule was marked by challenges and territorial losses in the Principality of Õklingsmaa, where Arjastan launched an attack on the southern Griffin province. Fortunately, the inaccessible terrain of the Griffin Alps hindered significant territorial gains for the invaders. Fredrik VI and his wife, Gorda Mostovna of Gvozd, had a son named Gustav VIII (754 - 800). Gustav VIII's era witnessed a notable upswing in trade with the western Nation nations, particularly through Lætingmaa, which became a prominent Griffinish gateway to Natia. Gustav VIII also contributed to cultural development by establishing the second Kralinsletingian library and expanding the cathedral in Rhemsit. His spouse, Lena Fuelgaard, hailing from obscure origins, purportedly belonged to the Ugly nobility and left a lasting impact on Griffin literature during this period with her beauty and eloquence.

Gustav VIII's son, Fredrik VII (776 - 806), unfortunately ruled for only a brief period of six years before his untimely demise. Lamentably, he passed away without leaving behind a designated heir. His widow, Ëlzsą Kýptä, the Lady of Omkýpärr, subsequently retreated from court life and returned to her native Omkýpärr, leaving her subsequent fate shrouded in mystery.

Since Fredrik VII did not have male heir, upon his demise, the throne was succeeded by his brother, King Gustav IX and his illustrious dynasty, known as Knėhtýlėhttä. The choice of this surname is of particular interest, as it reflects the guiding principles of the ensuing generations: Knėhtýlėhttä is a compound term derived from two (Old) Griffin words - "knėht," signifying a soldier or, more specifically, a knight, and "lėhttä," a concept without an exact translation, but referring to an individual who diligently executes tasks promptly and correctly, someone who is deemed to be invariably right. Throughout the course of this dynasty's rule, they aptly lived up to the implications of their surname by expanding the territories of the Griffin Kingdom and ultimately proclaiming it an empire.

King Gustav IX achieved notable success in two military campaigns, during which he successfully conquered the southern neighbour known as the state of Arjastan, subsequently designating it as the first Griffin colony within its territorial boundaries. The Griffins astutely recognized the distinction between the Arjastanis and their own populace, opting not to impose assimilation policies, but rather considering the Arjastani territory as an integral part of their realm.

Notably, people of Arjastan were excluded from participating in the political affairs of Arjastan itself, although they retained the privilege of selecting a noble figure to govern their newly acquired territory. A significant development arose when the younger son of the Count of Valensingslæting embraced this proposal, willingly relinquishing his own title and embracing the role of governor in Griffin Arjastan. From that pivotal moment onward, the rulers of the colonies traditionally refrained from adopting formal titles, even though they predominantly originated from esteemed noble lineages. The abundant mineral resources found in Griffin Arjastan significantly contributed to the burgeoning Griffin economy, especially with the extraction of valuable copper and gold ores.

King Gustav IX married Tlëkëmë Ýğ, lady of Ýğä, who notably contributed to the expansion of the royal palace in Kralingslæting and actively advocated for fortifying the city walls. Her efforts also led to the enrichment and increased influence of her hometown, Ýğä, spanning across several counties. However, her most significant political accomplishment was sealed through a strategic marriage with the princess of Dal Riata, a relatively young state situated to the north, effectively extending the Griffin Kingdom's sphere of influence.

After the reign of Gustav IX, his son, King Fredrik VIII (808 - 989), ascended to the throne, presiding over a relatively peaceful period, punctuated by minor conflicts with the neighbouring State of Syoomc, which showed potential ambitions to expand into the vulnerable territories in the southern parts of the Empire. Nevertheless, Arjastan, being a recently annexed region with a non-Griffin populace, was vigilantly safeguarded, successfully repelling these incursions. During a visit to Griffin Arjastan, King Fredrik VII personally led a counteroffensive against Syoomc.

Proclamation of the empire[edit | edit source]

King Fredrik VII and his consort, Princess Eleanor Thebo of Dal Riata, had a daughter, the sole heiress to the throne, who would later become Queen and subsequently Empress Hermiona I (Old Griffin: Hėrmýōną). Hermiona I, born in Kralingsleting in the year 945, displayed early proclivities towards the realm of politics. Under the tutelage of esteemed scholars, philosophers, and statesmen of her time, she received a comprehensive education at the royal court.

Despite being born with the title of Countess of Rhemsit, Hermione never exercised authority over the city under this name. Instead, she entered matrimony at a tender age and embraced the title of her husband, Týmötý Ürëmë, lord of Slýð. Following the death of King Fredrik VII, Hermione undertook a momentous coronation, marking her third change of surname and the inception of a new dynasty - the Knėhtýlėhttä ätt Slýð. This decision was deemed controversial as it resulted in the annexation of the entire town of Slýð into her personal domain, with the Ürëmë family never regaining their original title.

During the initial years of her reign, Empress Hermione I faced a series of challenges, from controversies surrounding her surname to the pressing need for an heir to secure the succession. Being in her forties without a direct successor, the prospect of a civil war loomed, with competing claims to the throne by the Ëdwąřdsön family of Meremaa and the Gýörgýsön family of Tevs. Eventually, between 995 and 997, the Griffin Empire found solace as three heirs were born: Prince Gustav, Princess Minerva, and Princess Analisa.

Amid these developments, Empress Hermione I orchestrated successful military campaigns, notably against Ugaly. The northern region was brought under Griffin control, leading to the establishment of the Griffin Colony of Ugaly. Similarly, the empire launched its first offensive into Akkåville, ultimately proclaiming it as the Griffin Colony of Akkåville. However, the 990s saw the emergence of uprisings in Ugaly, previously a staunch ally, which posed new challenges.

During a period of relative peace due to her pregnancies, the empress resumed her efforts in Akkåville, achieving complete conquest in two stages by the year 999. Understanding the significance of maintaining amicable relations with neighbouring Ugaly, and recognizing the complexities of integrating Arjastan and Akkåville through the process of griffinisation, Empress Hermione I decided to dissolve the governance and governorship of Griffin Ugaly in 999, restoring control of the territory to Ugaly. The momentous occasion took place on June 16, 999, at Gýörgýsön Square in Tevs, where the Treaty of Eternal Peace between the Griffin Kingdom and Ugaly was solemnly signed.

On September 14, 1000, during a grand ceremony held in Rhemsit, Hermione ascended to the throne as Empress, marking a pivotal moment in history with the birth of the Griffin Empire. While the title "kral" (king) in the Griffin language remained unchanged, its significance underwent a profound transformation, symbolizing the Empress's rule over a vast and diverse population, encompassing both Griffin and non-Griffin inhabitants, as well as her governance over extensive territories in continuation of the Nalian Empire's legacy. The introduction of the new title "kraldniq" was envisioned as a symbol of her authority over the Griffin principalities, though it was embraced only by the original three provinces – Foreõsvdetrre, Õklingsmaa, and Färzas.

In the ensuing years of her reign, marked by an era of peace, Empress Hermione exhibited exceptional statesmanship, spearheading a series of ambitious reforms aimed at modernizing and refining her realm. The foremost reform centred on the revision of language laws, which had remained virtually unaltered for nearly four centuries. In the year 1001, the epoch-making "Öppgövëtt ý döýš ląngüătt lå" or the "Act of Advancing the Second Language Law" was enacted, ushering in a transformative era for the language of the Griffin elite. This linguistic evolution gave birth to what is now known as Old Griffin, serving as the preeminent language in scientific, legal, artistic, and cultural domains. The widespread adoption of this language among contemporary inhabitants, the exclusive presentation of certain television programs in Old Griffin, and its influence on various Eastern dialects further solidified its enduring legacy within the Griffin Empire.

In 1010, the Griffin Empire underwent a significant administrative reform that resulted in the formalization of its territorial organization. The country was divided into seven provinces, known as principalities, which were further subdivided into sixteen duchies. These duchies, in turn, were divided into counties and lordships, while two colonies were also established. While the new division largely codified the pre-existing territorial arrangement, it led to some noble families losing their titles and territories, while others were demoted to lower nobility. This administrative structure served as the foundation for all subsequent divisions of the country.

Among the principalities, Färzas, Sletterima, and Lætingmaa remained undivided, while Foreõsvdetrre had two duchies - Rhemsit and Kralingslæting. The principality of Meremaa was subdivided into three - Upper Merema, Northern Merema, and Tevs. Õklingsmaa, on the other hand, had four duchies - Grifýlandet, Vasterlandet, Hermýn, and Dnimdjermadnait. The vast Eestimadnait was particularly noteworthy, comprising seven duchies - Northern Estimadnait, Central Estimadnait, Southern Estimadnait, Hetimaa, Pzyerimaa, Pzyerimeremaa, and Yölkeä. Notably, Hetimaa later merged with Sletterima, while the last three duchies united to form the unified principality of Pzyerüyölkeä.

During the reign of Empress Hermione I, the concept of hereditary titles applying to all members of a noble family was officially codified, building upon an idea that had long existed in the notion of nobility. Empress Hermione I recognised the pivotal role of education in fostering successful governance and implemented compulsory schooling for all children between the ages of eight and fifteen. Her education reforms revitalized the educational system, which had remained largely unchanged since ancient times. This transformative move ushered the Griffin Empire into a period referred to as the First Griffin Renaissance, marked by a flourishing of science, arts, and cultural development.

Empress Hermione I further cemented the enduringly turbulent Lætingmaa with the rest of the empire by arranging the marriages of both her daughters into the ruling family of Lætingmaa. These marital alliances were initially linked to the union between King Gustav VII and Lætingmaa's princess Laura Bălan. However, the dynastic ties grew even stronger and more direct with the subsequent marriages of Princess Minerva, the Countess of Rhemsit, to Căzar Bălan, Prince of Lætingmaa , and Princess Analisa, the Countess of Rhemsit, to Nicholas Bălan, Prince of Lætingmaa.

In her advanced age, celebrating her centennial birthday, Empress Hermione I peacefully passed away in Kralingslæting on December 19, 1045. Revered and esteemed by her subjects, the nobility, her own family, and even neighbouring and subject peoples, her legacy comprised an incredibly robust, progressive, and expansive realm poised on the threshold of an era marked by its global ascendancy.

Further expansions[edit | edit source]

Empress Hermione I was succeeded on the throne by her son, Prince Gustav X (995 – 1094). Like his mother, he enjoyed a lengthy reign, although historical accounts depict him as a ruler with mixed achievements. His tenure was marked by the delicate balancing act between influential nobles contending for the illustrious throne, left vacant after the reign of one of the most revered monarchs in history.

To secure his position, Emperor Gustav X forged alliances with the Latingish princes of the Bălan family, a somewhat ironic choice considering historical tensions between the Griffin Kingdom and Lætingmaa. Additionally, he garnered support from his father-in-law, Thór of Efiland, which helped quell potential uprisings during his reign which is why one of the most notable aspects of his rule was his matrimonial alliance with Ulrikke Thórsdottír, the Efilandic princess. The couple had a son, Emperor Fredrik IX, who, following the legacy of his grandmother, pursued a path of expanding the empire.

Emperor Fredrik IX (1051 - 1119) was known for his strategic approach to expanding the Griffin Empire, drawing inspiration from the achievements of his grandmother and the ancient history. With a well-thought-out and systematic plan, he sought peace with advanced nations while targeting weaker, less developed lands for conquest. This shrewd tactic became evident immediately after his coronation in 1094 when he engaged in a swift and successful war with Hogia. However, before reaching Hogia, he skillfully negotiated non-aggression agreements with Tír an Abhainn, Syoomc, and Biflovatia, establishing a stable environment for his reign. The war with Hogia proved remarkably efficient, resulting in the annexation of nearly three-quarters of Hogia's territory to the Griffin Empire in just one year. Within the following six months, the conquest was concluded and Hogia became Griffin colony of Eesti Vasterlandet (Eastern Wastelands). He further expanded country to Sunoria.

Throughout the remainder of his rule, King Fredrik IX skillfully navigated the complexities of the Griffin nobility while also focusing on the education and training of his son, Gustav XI, to continue the empire's expansion. King Fredrik, alongside his consort Queen Vladana, formerly known as Princess of Tuzi, had four other children.

Prince Jon adopted the surname Nëýsëllt and solidified his position by marrying Ëlýs Vąśėrsön, the Duchess of Vasterlandet, thereby gaining the prestigious title of Duke of Vasterlandet. The Nëýsëllt family continues to uphold this hereditary title, while any traces of the Vąśėrsön lineage appear to have been lost after this matrimonial alliance, leading to the presumption that Elis was the sole and final heir to this dignified position.

Princess Fëtëmë, as per the longstanding tradition, was bestowed the title of Countess of Rhemsit at birth, despite never ascending to rulership under this title. During her youth, she united her destiny with Nątąn Míølnīr, an influential Duke of Dnimdjermadnait, effectively becoming a member of the esteemed Míølnīr family. Their daughter, Ænælůs, became the subject of a controversy, with attempts to reclaim her place within the imperial family, which were portrayed in a controversial television series titled Míølnīr depiction that the Míølnīr family has distanced themselves from.

Princess Ëmë, likewise held the title of Countess of Rhemsit, yet neither her reign under this title never materialized. Her marriage to Peter Lads, the King of Rahasia, one of the Graseer states, was viewed as a notable provocation to the local nobles, given the competitive dynamics between the Griffin and Graseer states.

The youngest son, Ąńtöný, the Count of Rhemsit, dedicated his entire life to the city and remained unmarried. Revered as one of the most accomplished counts of Rhemsit, his commitment to the region left a lasting legacy.

Gustav XI (1081 - 1129) was the final emperor of the First Empire era. During his formative years, he received comprehensive military training and was introduced to a strategic plan for the kingdom's future expansion. Following his marriage to Duchess Kŕýśýńną Míølnīr, of Dnimdjermadnait, he relocated to the frontier colony of Eesti Vasterlandet, which remained under constant threat from Tír an Abhainn and Biflovatia.

The war of 1102 with these countries holds a peculiar distinction, as his father, Emperor Fredrik IX did not actively partake in the conflict. Nonetheless, his son led a campaign that effectively annexed both of them as well as regions south of Ugaly that were targeted by them in coalition with Jubel, as they sought to extend their dominion over the southern Norigin. However, Emperor Frederik IX disavowed this conquest, and the political status of these territories as Griffin colonies was officially confirmed only upon the coronation of Gustav XI.

Following his coronation, King Gustav IX successfully conquered the islands of Tuhru, and subsequently, in 1125, after a brief yet intense war, the city of Jubel also came under the dominion of the Griffin crown. However, it was during these military campaigns that the king fell ill, and four years later, he passed away. Fredrik X ascended to the throne as his successor. At this moment Griffin Empire had eight colonies that were renamed in the spirit of the Griffin language - Ąrà formerly Arjastan, Ąkkå formerly Akkåville, Mýktswėrŝnryk formerly Biflovatia, Týræðąbrąhąïnïńg formerly Tír an Abhainn, Grýfýnýšk Ügąlýmā that were wastelands south of Ugaly, Ëśï Vąśėrląńdėt formerly Hogia, Sůnörïėt formerly Sunoria and Mèšçėwïsl formerly Tohru.

In addition to Fredrik, King Gustav IX had a daughter named Ana, who held the title of Countess of Rhemsit and was married to the Count Güśąv Knétts of Kneitt. The descendants of Ana would go on to preserve the lineage of the Griffin imperial family, eventually inheriting the throne after the Jutish crisis.

Jutish Crisis[edit | edit source]

During the reigns of Frederik IX and Gustav XI, and even before their time, neighbouring nation of Juta engaged in numerous expansionist wars with. The first conquest occurred with the fall of Entsoria. Subsequently, during Griffin conflicts with Sunoria, Juta managed to conquer the strategically important Griffin ally, Alfia, followed by the contiguous territories of Nobleska, Syoomc, and Male.

During this period, the eastern part of the Griffin Empire, including the colonies, was accessible to Juta. Jutans saw potential in facing their western rival, as Emperor Frederik X, who ascended to the throne at the age of thirteen (1116 – 1184), succeeded the line of successful Griffin emperors and military leaders. However, what Juta had not anticipated was the emergence of Griffin democracy, which had already established a functioning system of state institutions, including a judiciary, a ministry of education, and a ministry of defense. Laws stipulated that the country would be governed by a senate and led by one of the provincial princes, until the Emperor came of age. The Senate, in collaboration with Prince Stefan Ëdwąřdsön of Meremaa, played a crucial role in fortifying the eastern borders and seeking support from Ugaly and Redwood to defend against potential threats.

Upon reaching his eighteenth birthday, Emperor Frederick X assumed full control of the state while continuing to rely on Prince Stefan's wise counsel. His reforms extended to the colonial system, granting them specific rights to quell potential unrest. Propaganda depicting Juta as a more aggressive adversary than the Griffin Empire proved remarkably effective, particularly in border regions. Another notable initiative was Emperor Frederik's establishment of the University of Kralingslæting in 1150, garnering positive public reception.

Amidst growing tensions with Juta, Emperor Frederik X sought to build alliances with other nations, including his marriage to Megan Bey, Princess of the Begonian State, which revitalized relations with Effiland and Begonia. Additionally, Gvozd benefited from reduced import taxes, and in 1165, an unprecedented non-aggression treaty was signed with Tybalteva laying the foundation for a long-lasting friendship between the two peoples.

The crisis reached its climax in 1174 when Juta launched an invasion of Lætingmaa. The Griffin Empire responded swiftly, and the battle concluded in favour of the Griffinas. However, this military triumph set the stage for a prolonged and challenging war that spanned nine years. Despite Juta's military prowess, they faced defeat in every battle, leading to the Griffins' assertion that they had easily secured Koščagil, the Jutish capital. The city witnessed a devastating massacre, claiming the lives of Jutish institutional leaders ending the war and leaving Juta in anarchy, but independent. A year after the war ended, Emperor Frederik X passed away, leaving behind no direct heir, so he was succeeded on the throne by the son of his sister Ąńną - Güśąv XII.

First Griffin Renaissance[edit | edit source]

As per the established law of succession, the precise procedural framework for the selection of the next Griffin Emperor was clearly defined, and it was widely understood that the new dynasty would emerge from the lineage of the Counts of Kneitt. Notably, the closest relative to the deceased Frederik X was his sister Ana's son, whose birth tragically coincided with her untimely demise. Consequently, Gustav XII (1159 - 1207) ascended to the imperial throne and adopted the cognomen "Dösskaslýð mëd Knét", symbolizing a direct and significant connection between the emerging dynasty and its predecessor through the revered title of Lord of Slýð, while also honouring his father, Gustav Knéts, the esteemed Count of Kneitt.

Thus, Emperor Gustav XII augmented his array of titles, encompassing Emperor of the Griffin Empire, King of the First Griffin State, and Lord of Slýð, with the additional honorific of Count of Kneitt, an enduring official title for the paramount Griffin ruler in contemporary times.

Little is known about the minor events that transpired during the reign of this emperor; however, historical records extensively document his pivotal role in preserving the fragile peace, pacifying uprisings in the eastern and southern regions, and orchestrating the first notable overseas conquest by the Empire. The Griffin navy, meticulously reorganized with the expertise of maritime specialists from Ugaly, embarked on a successful expedition, culminating in the annexation of a small portion of the southern coastal territory of Berceniland, christened as the Griffin Colony of Saudi Bartsen (South Barcen). This remarkable achievement would eventually pave the way for the far-reaching dominion of Griffin influence across the global stage.

The collaborative efforts with Ugaly yielded significant progress in nautical advancements, revolutionizing Griffin cartography with a plethora of innovations, notably including the cartographic interchange of the east and west.

After his coronation, Emperor Gustav XII entered into matrimony with Zrëfącë Tåtý (ätt Ëśï Vąśėrląńdėt), the daughter of a prosperous governor hailing from the Eastern Vasterlandet colony. This notable union marked the first instance in nearly a millennium wherein a Griffin monarch married a non-noble individual. Their offspring and rightful heir, Emperor Fredrik XI (1184 – 1255), ascended to the throne with a governance heavily influenced by the Senate.

Throughout his reign, the region of Juta underwent a process of fragmentation, ultimately resulting in the establishment of Juta, Male, Alfia, Mastoia, and Nobleska as distinct entities. It was from the illustrious nobility of Nobleska that his spouse, Ira Bleau, emerged, bearing the esteemed title of Princess of Petra. Notably, the designations within Nobleska carried a distinct modus operandi compared to their Griffin counterparts, imbued with a more ceremonial and traditional significance rather than conveying direct territorial jurisdiction.

Within the royal lineage, the couple was blessed with five children, yet tragically, three of them were unable to reach their teenage years: Princess Ænælůs, who was stillborn, Princess Ąńną, whose life was claimed by a severe ailment at the tender age of three, and Prince Ąńtönī, who passed shortly after birth. The surviving progeny comprised Prince Gustav, who would later ascend to the throne as Emperor Gustav XIII, and Princess An, who attained the esteemed title of Countess of Rhemsit.

Of particular interest, Princess An entered into holy matrimony with Mörzým Zdhöëlddä, the esteemed governor of the Griffin Ugaly colony, thereby solidifying significant intercolonial ties.

During the latter part of the Dösskaslýð mëd Knét dynasty's reign, a notable era of internal peace prevailed, with a strong emphasis on enhancing the well-being of the populace. Notably, a momentous peace agreement was achieved with their long-standing adversary, Juta. The central tenet guiding their governance revolved around the commitment to leave the realm in a more favourable state than before, refraining from territorial expansion and military conflicts. It was during this phase that overseas conquests were yet to come to fruition.

Emperor Gustav XIII (1212 – 1274) spearheaded pioneering reforms, introducing the realm's inaugural healthcare system and advocating for the separation of scientific pursuits from religious influence. Concurrently, his consort, Countess of Hermýn, Nąlhëmë Ëńnýhërm, played a pivotal role in urban rejuvenation efforts and the establishment of a new university in the capital.

Their progeny, Frederik XII (1255 – 1300), left an indelible mark on the economic landscape as the founder of the principal Griffin national bank. His spouse, Kątŕýn Wëldýh, Lady of Wëlssä, is lauded as the pioneering figure in the realm's economic administration.

The subsequent ruler, Gustav XIV (1280 – 1378), was renowned for his sagacious and steady governance, characterized by a steadfast commitment to education and the arts. His legacy profoundly inspired his heir, Frederik XIII, who undertook a grand vision for the realm's advancement.

Gustav XIV's marriage to Tir Gjur, Lady of Gjur (Old Griffin: Týr Gùr), was met with some controversy, particularly considering the relatively recent Gjur Problem in 1213.

The Gjur Problem refers to a historical episode that took place in the small town of Gjur, situated in Westersund (formerly known as Eestimadnait). The event unfolded when the Gjur family decided to impose a tax hike for the thirtieth time, resulting in an exorbitant rate of nearly 90% on all their possessions. In response to this heavy burden, the citizens of Gjur initiated protests, culminating in a full-fledged rebellion that targeted the Gjur castle. During the uprising, a section of the castle was set ablaze, and after the unrest subsided, the remaining structure was repurposed into the new town hall. Johan Gjur, the incumbent Lord of Gjur, faced severe consequences as he was hanged in the town square, and the rest of the Gjur family was expelled from the region. This pivotal moment marked the proclamation of the short-lived independent state of Gjur, although its sovereignty was never officially recognized, and it was swiftly brought to an end by the intervention of the princely army of Eestimadnait. Subsequently, the town of Gjur was disbanded, and approximately 2000 individuals sought refuge in the neighboring villages and towns. Meanwhile, the Gjur family eventually regained possession of their ancestral castle. Over the following century, only a portion of the town was resettled, and Gjur earned a reputation as one of the least developed areas within the empire. The family's fortunes dwindled, and their prestige declined significantly until the pivotal wedding between Lady Tir Gjur and Emperor Gustav XIV, which had notable implications for their standing in the empire's social hierarchy.

Emperor Frëdrýk XIII is celebrated for his artistic inclinations, which are credited with initiating the First Griffin Renaissance. This epoch witnessed a remarkable flourishing of various artistic disciplines, setting the stage for a period of cultural renaissance.

Emperor Frëdrýk XIII's passion for the arts not only revitalized Griffin culture but also paved the way for significant discoveries that would play a pivotal role in the country's later overseas expansion efforts. His reign saw a remarkable reawakening of creative expression across all branches of art, laying the groundwork for the emergence of exceptional works and artistic achievements.

Beyond his artistic contributions, Emperor Frëdrýk XIII sought to enhance the administrative organization of the Griffin Empire. One of his notable reforms involved the unification of the principalities of Pzyerimaa and Yölkeä into a single entity called Pzyerüyölkeä. Additionally, the principality of Hetimaa was annexed to the principality of Sletterimaa during his rule, streamlining the governance structure and consolidating power.

Furthermore, Emperor Frëdrýk XIII took significant steps towards the empowerment of Griffin colonies, restoring many of their rights during his reign. These measures sought to foster a sense of unity and inclusivity within the Empire, promoting a more harmonious relationship between the central authority and its far-flung territories.

The dynasty reached its conclusion with Emperor Güśąv XVI, the last ruler of this lineage. Upon his passing, Emperor Frëdrýk XV, the son of his brother, ascended to the throne, carrying on the legacy of this illustrious dynasty.

The period of relative peace and artistic flourishing under the reigns of Emperors Frëdrýk XIII and Güśąv XVI has left a lasting imprint on the cultural heritage of the Griffin Empire. Their contributions to the arts and administrative reforms have become integral components of Griffin history, shaping the nation's trajectory in significant ways. The First Griffin Renaissance, initiated by Emperor Frëdrýk XIII, remains an iconic era, standing as a testament to the enduring impact of artistic pursuits and creative expression within the Empire.

Empire at its peak[edit | edit source]

Emperor Frëdrýk XV, driven by a desire to leave a lasting legacy on his country, embarked on a series of ambitious expeditions and conquests during his reign. Under his rule, significant territories fell under the sovereignty of the Griffin Empire. Waloria, several Yaponesian islands, part of Halito, and a section of Kostanovia were brought under Griffin rule and established as colonies named Gastarwiotth, Jeradings-Niponiisle, and Delta, respectively.

Emperor Güśąv XVII continued the era of Griffin conquests, further solidifying the empire's might and influence. Notably, he successfully conquered a portion of Dalisska, naming it Rýgý or "horn," which became a key Griffin stronghold in the northern regions. Subsequently, the conquest of various Leonesian cities resulted in the formation of a new colony known as Northoria or Nordidori. This region held significant strategic importance for the rapidly expanding Griffin Empire, aided by the support of Bigicia, with whom it shared favourable relations.

Emperor Frëdrýk XVI skillfully maintained control over the vast territory already under Griffin rule and continued to expand the empire's influence. He successfully acquired two islands near Nurdia, designating them Nýtfýntmaa. Additionally, the colony of Nordidori underwent further expansion, encompassing almost the entirety of the former Leonesian Empire. Bigician King Abnur I played a crucial role in supporting the Griffin Empire during this period of conquest, just as his predecessor had done for Emperor Frëdrýk XV.

By securing the Colony of Midor during this time, the Griffin Empire reached the pinnacle of its territorial expanse and global influence, maintaining this shape for nearly a century. Life for the inhabitants of the conquered territories was challenging, yet the possibility of progress and prosperity was directly linked to their efforts and dedication. Notably, the distinction between the inhabitants of the colonies and the principalities lay in voting rights and higher tax obligations for the former.

During this period, the Griffin Empire made a profound impact on the history of Natia, particularly through the establishment of the Griffin language as the lingua franca in Western Natia and as the official language of numerous international organizations. This linguistic influence further reinforced the empire's position as a significant player on the global stage.

The era of Emperor Frëdrýk XV and his successors marked a transformative and influential period in the history of the Griffin Empire, with their conquests and territorial expansion leaving a lasting legacy on the nation's development and global standing.

Lætingmaa Spring and Griffin Revolution[edit | edit source]

Empress Ąńą I's early reign was marked by a period of peace, during which she garnered widespread adoration both within the Griffin Empire and beyond its borders. Notably, she is credited with the establishment of the esteemed Griffin Academy in Gatineau in 1666, leaving a lasting legacy in the realm of education and learning.

However, tragedy struck when her daughter and sole heiress, Lýs, traditionally known as Ïkmāhrïšk or "landless", unexpectedly passed away. This event took the empress's rule in an unforeseen direction. Count Lú Blåbån of Hermýn, capitalized on the situation, gaining the support of certain nobles seeking to expand their domains. By propagating a theory that Lýs' young daughter, Fŕýd, would be unfit to rule in the event of Empress Ąńą I's demise, Lú Blåbån succeeded in inciting a mob that seized control of the imperial residence. The helpless Empress Ąńą I was forced to relinquish her throne to Lú, who subsequently assumed the name Frëdrýk XVII and adopted the surname Blåbånslýðýknėht in an attempt to legitimize his usurpation. He then went on to marry Elina Libby, a countess from a prominent Tybaltevan family, thus insuring support from neighboring Tybalteva.

Frëdrýk XVII's rule was marked by tyranny and the imposition of cruel draconian laws. This oppressive governance led to widespread unrest in the colonies and principalities. In an effort to salvage his reputation, he established the Royal Academy of Painting and Sculpture in 1690, but the gesture failed to quell the growing discontent.

The first significant rebellion, known as the Lætingmaa Spring, marked the initial phase of the Griffin Revolution. On March 17, 1691, the people of Frisköptislæting spontaneously rose up, capturing members of local noble families. In response, the emperor laid siege to the city for a month. During the siege, uprisings also erupted in Daunsigslæting, Draakho, and Girnel. Despite the rebels' fervent efforts, the Lætingmaa Spring was brutally suppressed.

Subsequent years saw uprisings erupt across the country with varying degrees of success. The final revolt in Kralingslæting on February 1, 1700, culminated in the storming of the imperial palace of Saint Belviederhee, leading to Frëdrýk XVII's forced abdication and the signing of a treaty renouncing his claims to the throne. Following these events, the first Griffin government, led by Prime Minister Jon Zdoeltson, decided to reinstate the monarchy, citing its immense historical significance and its importance in shaping Griffin's national identity as the land of emperors. Consequently, the role of the emperor became more advisory and ceremonial in nature.

Despite criticism surrounding Frëdrýk XVII's re-election, Empress Ąńą I did not regain her throne. Tragically, she passed away twelve years later without receiving a formal apology for the events that unfolded during her reign. The Griffin Empire continued under a modified monarchy, with the emperor's role now limited to ceremonial functions, while the political landscape evolved significantly in the aftermath of the Griffin Revolution.

Second Griffin Renaissance[edit | edit source]

After the death of the infamous emperor, he was succeeded by Frëdrýk XVIII who was the complete opposite of his father and is considered one of the main factors for the beginning of the Second Griffin Renaissance. In addition to investing in science, economy and art, he helped reform the Griffin nobility, reformed the country's administrative division (unification of Färzas and Lætingma into one principality), reformed the Griffin language law and, most importantly, gave independence to all Griffin colonies and territories. Akkåville, Arjastan, Biflovatia, Sunoria, Tír an Abhainn, Tohru and Waloria finally gained their independence. Jeradings-Niponiisle was returned to Yaponesia and Halito, Rýgý was returned to Dalisska, Nordidori was returned to Leonesia & St. Lotus, Delta was returned to Kostanovia, Saudi Bertsens were returned to Berceniland, and Nýtfýntma was given to Svobodnia.

During his reign, 12 prime ministers who supported him changed, and he was a favorite of the people. His successor Ana II was a daughter of his son Frąńs and grand-grand daughter of Empress Ąńą I which was the reason she returned the surname to Trëskaslýð æð Knét and followed in her grandfather's footsteps – she reformed the education system and was a great patron and benefactor. The style of Empress Ana II was very recognizable and her influence on fashion was so great that her dress from the Dyctyonarytydaign ball from 1860 is considered the main reason for the beginning of the era of griffin domination in world fashion.

Contemporary history[edit | edit source]

Gustav XVIII, the son of Empress Ana II, was a great villain. His absolutely evil views on almost everything were supported during the first four years by the 33rd Griffin Prime Minister - Giorgi Ilför Pýttýlgvozd prýnsýn ätt Sletterimaa. The rest of his reign was marked by the Republican government which is why he took part in several unsuccessful coup attempts to regain absolute power. He openly advocated for very backwards and questionable laws, and considered the Griffinians a superior nation that should rule all its neighbours and beyond. He refused to attend the Griffin Empire's first participation in the Olympic Games. He tried to stop the inauguration of the Ministry of Culture as well as the organization of the Ą Anwagrdasde - an award in the field of art, which also failed. His personality and connection with a number of problematic people greatly influenced the adoption of new rules on limiting the sphere of influence of the emperor and the adoption of the Law on the Separation of the Religion and the State (known in Griffin as Tenurapf zja sit Ajltläharlibragarovje).

In order to distance herself from him, his daughter Erzjebetthj changed her surname to Kmöśsýh ätt Slýð Dąlkąlër, which the Griffin royal family still bears today. She participated in the founding of Griffin National Television, Æ Anwagrdasde film awards, and was on the commission that drafted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which she eventually personally ratified. During this period, the Griffin Empire strengthened economically. Emperor Gustav XIX was a successful architect who in 1977 wrote Buildings Height Law which first passed in the principality of Foreõsvdetrre. Under this law, new buildings over 37 meters were allowed to be built. A year later, at a conference in Hermýn, he signed a document reforming the Griffin Language Law. In 1982 he opened the first Musicquedagn Festival, and in 1986 the Ilzeh Museum. He was the organizer and patron of the celebration of the eight-hundredth anniversary of the friendship between the Griffin Empire and Tybalteva in 1995. He personally lobbied for the country to join the NBU and participate in the WLSC. During this era, Griffin Empire became the 2nd exporter of films in the world, and for the first time Griffin Empire ranked 2nd in the Environmental Performance Index. The so-called "Eestimadnait era" is especially important, when during the five elections, 4 prime ministers with different titles from the principality of Eestimadnait were elected.

In subsequent years Griffin royal family became increasingly influential, reversing a large number of rights they had lost in the 1700s. Today, the Griffin Empire is one of the most active countries in world politics. In 2022 Eestimadnait changed its name to Westersund.

Geography[edit | edit source]

Griffin Empire has a wide variety of topographical sets and natural landscapes. Large parts of the country were raised during several tectonic episodes the Prhöitsc Massif and the Massif Centralerneiska ranges were formed. These massifs delineate several basins such as the Sletterimaa basin in the southwest and the Kralingslæting basin in the north, the latter including several areas of particularly fertile ground. Various routes of natural passage, such as the Hermýna valley, allow easy communications. The Krigtscý mountains are much younger and have less eroded forms. At 4,810.45 metres above sea level, Wytdnimdjer is the highest point in the country. Although 60% of municipalities are classified as having seismic risks, these risks remain moderate.

The coastlines offer contrasting landscapes: mountain ranges, coastal cliffs and wide sandy plains. Griffin has an extensive river system consisting of the four major rivers Hermýna, the Jalina, the Vereberjsej, and the Drinsörwõt.

Location and borders[edit | edit source]

Griffin territory and population is situated in Northern Norigin. It is bordered by the Klejiskýbæijj (Bay of Tybalteva) in the north, Mere Griffiniskaja (the Griffin Sea) in the west and the in the southwest. Its land borders consist of Ujedinjeni Gvozd in the northeast, Sarpovia in the east, and Ugaly in the southwest. Most of Griffin land borders are roughly delineated by natural boundaries and geographic features. Griffin Empire includes no coastal islands.

Climate[edit | edit source]

The Griffin territory is relatively large, so the climate is not uniform, giving rise to the following climate nuances:

The hot-summer climate is found along the Gulf of Incatato. Summers are hot and dry, while winters are mild and wet. Cities affected by this climate: Arlingleht, Mare Incatato, Rakozsit, Salta, Tevs and Zonpolah.
The humid subtropical climate is found in the Hermýna and Drinsörwõt's inland plains. Summers are hot and wet, while winters are cool and damp. Cities affected by this climate: Göldtsit, Hermýn, and Valensingslæting.
The oceanic climate is found around the coasts of the Bay of Böskvitingarr and inland. Summers are pleasantly warm and wet, while winters are cool and damp. Cities affected by this climate: Anastasij, Daunsigslæting, Ejmjenspalajtsc, Filipolis, Frisköptislæting, Girnel, Kralingslæting, Läähtisit, Nýtdainsk, Örnalthingää, Pavlopolis, Planigslæting and Pyetsit.
The subalpine climate is found in all the mountainous regions between 1000 and 2000 meters a.s.l. Summers are cool, short and wet, while winters are very cold and snowy.
The alpine tundra climate is found in all the mountainous regions, generally above 2000 or 2500 meters a.s.l. Summers are chilly and wet, while winters are extremely cold, long and snowy. Mountain affected by this climate is Krrudsdnim.
The ice cap climate is found in all the mountainous regions that have a glacier. Summers are cold and wet, while winters are extremely cold, long and snowy. Mountains affected by this climate: Sübmonss and Wytdnimdjer.

Average Climate Data for Griffin Empire
Month	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Record High (°C)	21.8	25.0	26.4	28.0	30.0	36.0	39.2	39.0	35.0	31.3	25.4	19.6
Average (°C)	-20.6	-18.6	-5.6	10.0	15.0	26.0	30.2	31.0	15.0	8.3	-3.6	-14.6
Record Low (°C)	-43.6	-35.8	-32.8	-19.8	-15.8	-5.8	-3.8	-8.8	-10.8	-20.8	-36.8	-44.8

Administrative division[edit | edit source]

Although Griffin Empire is a unitary sovereign country, its historic seven principalities have always had a degree of autonomy in dealing with their respective internal problems. This type of internal organisation goes back to the very founding of the country. It has changed over time in number and level of autonomy, but today includes 7 principalities which are the principal administrative districts in the country. These are divided into subdivisions of duchies or regions, counties, metropolises and municipalities. Bound together in a political union, each principality holds a certain amount of governmental jurisdiction over a separate and defined geographic territory and shares its sovereignty with the national government. Due to this shared sovereignty, Griffinians are citizens both of the Empire and of the principality in which they reside. Principality citizenship and residency are flexible, and no government approval is required to move between principalities, except for persons restricted by certain types of court orders (such as paroled convicts and children of divorced spouses who are sharing custody).

#	Principality	Named after	English	Population	Capital city, population	Princely family
1	Foreõsvdetrre	First princely family	Kralingslating	22,150,080	Kralingslæting, 12,292,895	Söränsson
2	Meremaa	Sea	Sealand	14,101,411	Mare Incatato, 1,720,942	Ëdwąřdsön
3	Westersund	Position	Westersund	12,566,917	Pyetsit, 1,140,668	Förkomimër
4	Sletterimaa	Fields	Sletterland	9,463,203	Nýtdainsk, 1,159,547	Pýttýlgvozd
5	Õklingsmaa	Historic country	Okleyland	7,762,540	Hermýn, 2,188,759	Föhsmio
6	Pzyerüyölkeä	Traditional food and first princely family	Pzeryolkey	7,537,335	Göldtsit, 1,250,251	Ërniksson
7	Färzas - Lætingmaa	Historic countries	Farzas - Latingland	7,133,861	Frisköptislæting, 764,013	Bălan

Overseas territory[edit | edit source]

#	Terittory	Named after	English	Population	Capital city, population	Princely family
1	Territory of Midor	Military Commander	Midor	1,912,176	Midor, 1,817,172	none

Historical administrative divisions[edit | edit source]

Griffin principalities are further divided into smaller historic regions or duchies.

The first Griffin state was created by the unification of three principalities (Färzas, Foreõsvdetrre and Õklingsmaa) from several then independent Griffin states. In order to facilitate the management of the unified kingdom, as well as keep the country stable, the first Griffin king - King Frëdrýk I allowed the three princely families to continue to manage their territories on local issues. During this period, the principalities were divided into smaller regions, often called countries that did not have a specific administrative significance. The surrounding cities were ruled by aristocratic families with the title of count, so these territories were called counties. Each new principality that entered the union would automatically receive the highest degree of autonomy, following the example of the original three.

The newly conquered western territories were proclaimed as the principality of Eestimadnait in 259 CE. After the victory in the war with Gvozd in 300 CE, the northeastern principality of Sletterimaa entered the union, while in 630 CE Meremaa was included in the country peacefully - by marriage between the Sealandic queen Òhæńną Güdřúsön and the Griffin king Frëdrýk IV. Lætingmaa is the only Griffin country that resisted unification, but was successfully conquered in 712, thus completing the unification of all territories inhabited by Griffins.

During this period some of the principalities were in a slightly different form than today - Westersund (then Eestimadnait) was a vast territory encompassing the entire western part of the country including the present-day principality of Pzyerüyölkeä; Sletterimaa was smaller and included only the present-day duchy of Gvozdisletterid; and Färzas and Lætingmaa were two separate principalities. After being crowned empress, the first Griffin Empress Hėrmýōną I successfully implemented a reform of the country's administrative organization. She divided the principality of Eestimadnait (today known as Westersund) into three smaller ones - Pzyerimaa, Hetimaa and Yölkeä, and declared the historical regions as duchies and gave them a certain autonomy within their principalities. In this way, the counts, dukes and princes controlled each other and prevented the abuse of their positions.

The second reformation of the administrative division was carried out in 1424 by Emperor Frëdrýk XIII. He united the principalities of Pzyerimaa and Yölkeä into a single Pzyerüyölkeä, and annexed the principality of Hetimaa to the principality of Sletterimaa. All three of these were now duchies.

The thirteenth Griffin Prime Minister - Aaron Nordison hjurtsok ätt Nordisit and Emperor Frëdrýk XVIII in 1769 carried out the last reform of the internal organization of the country to this day. To prevent separatist movements in the east of the country and to make it easier to control them, they united Färzas and Lætingma into one principality. They also carried out a reformation of the nobility where, in addition to accurately defining hierarchy and rules, they were given back certain powers and a role in local politics that they had lost in the 1700 revolution. To date, the Griffin Empire has 7 principalities divided into 19 duchies that include a large number of urban municipalities or counties and rural municipalities or estates.

Subdivisions of the principalities[edit | edit source]

Each Griffin principality is divided into duchies. The duchies are of exclusively historical importance, which is why they have no authority or function except for statistical purposes and tourism. Each duchy is (was) traditionally ruled by an individual from a ducal family. Duke is a hereditary title. Dukes no longer have legislative power on duchy level, however they are politically active - they directly claim the right to membership in the parliament of their principality and the Upper House of the national parliament. Most left-wing parties strongly criticize this system and are actively advocating the complete abolition of the title, and then the territorial division itself.

The lowest division of the country is into municipalities called counties if they include cities and estates if they include villages. Today, municipalities have local assemblies and mayors who have the primary role, as well as counts and lords who, thanks to their titles, have a direct influence on the political life of their local communities. They can be elected by their duke in the princely parliament and the Upper House as well. A special case includes large cities and cities with the status of a metropolis that include several municipalities. They usually have a council and a mayor at the level of each of the municipalities and at the level of the entire city. Kralingslæting has the most municipalities - as many as twelve.

#	Principality	Duchy	Named after	Main centre	Ducal Family
01	Foreõsvdetrre	Kralingslæting	City	Kralingslæting	Gälzdýzgąmtïn
02	Foreõsvdetrre	Rhemsit	City	Rhemsit	Dösrhemsitson
03	Meremaa	Uprameremaa	Position	Gýlfammä	Õömpölröhm
04		Nordi Meremaa	Position	Mare Incatato	Dúgsýktėht
05		Tevs	City	Tevs	Gýörgýsön
06	Westersund	Nordi Westersund	Position	Sania	Õlõar
07		Centralerne Westersund	Position	Filipolis	Altlý
08		Saudi Westersund	Position	Pyetsit	Vilabradishk
09	Õklingsmaa	Grifýlandet	Griffin people	Gmöt	Gmöuofadt
10		Vasterlandet	Wilderness	Sellola	Nëýsëllt
11		Hermýn	City	Hermýn	Hėthråtė
12		Dnimdjermadnait	Mountains	Planigslæting	Míølnīr
13	Sletterimaa	Gvozdisletterid	Fields and Ujedinjeni Gvozd	Nýtdainsk	Tëmplëmán
14	Sletterimaa	Hetimaa	Climate	Pavlopolis	Baggsnatsharr
15	Pzyerüyölkeä	Yölkeä	Historic princely family	Läähtisit	Ferbrat
16		Pzyerimaa	Traditional food	Pustigslæting	Iltatuur
17		Pzyerimeremaa	Traditional food and sea	Göldtsit	Mërnýtfamson
18	Färzas - Lætingmaa	Färzas	Historic country	Anastasij	Bõglsreshjt
19	Färzas - Lætingmaa	Lætingmaa	Historic country	Frisköptislæting	Nărdarăm

Principalities of Griffin Empire[edit | edit source]

Foreõsvdetrre[edit | edit source]

Scirq district of Kralingslæting at night.

Foreõsvdetrre (English: Foreosovdetre or Kralingslating) is one of the seven principalities within the Griffin Empire, situated in the central part of the country. It is renowned for its significant population and is often referred to as the Kralingslætingiskaja Madnait, meaning "The land of Kralingslæting," due to the inclusion of the city of Kralingslæting within its borders. The principality holds great economic importance and is densely populated.

The estimated population of Foreõsvdetrre is substantial, constituting approximately 26.81% of the country's total population and totaling around 22 million individuals. Furthermore, it holds a crucial role in the nation's economy. The region's poverty rate is impressively low, standing at 0.9%.

Foreõsvdetrre boasts numerous landmarks and historic sites, including the esteemed Palace of Saint Belviederhee and the remarkable Palace of Blaaföntanshke. Additionally, one of the most-visited tourist attractions in the entire Griffin Empire is situated within this principality – the renowned Palace of Brobdingngang.

Traditionally this principality is divided into two historic regions or duchies, named after the only two cities in the principality to be classified as "major cities" - Kralingslaeting and Rhemsit. These two regions are somewhat culturally different and speak different dialects (old Griffin based Kralingsletingian hard r dialect and old Griffin based Rhemish soft r dialect). Rhemsit with its 276,660 inhabitants is 26th city in the country by population and is known as the city where historically Griffin kings and emperors are crowned.

Meremaa[edit | edit source]

Meremaa (English: Sealand or Meremaa) is the second most populous principality of the seven administrative regions of Griffin Empire, the far southwestern. This region is famous for the Mere Griffiniskaja (Griffin Sea or Griffin Riviera - hence the name "Mere-maa" literally Sea-land), which spans the glamorous cities of Tevs, Salta, Aigntibt, Jonattpinn, Hjemtilëiyl, Frësit, Sagnrafa, Sagnmaxa and Sagntrappä. It is devided into three regions: North Sealand on the northern part of the coast, Upper Sealand or the inland part of the country and Tevsland which surrounds the metropolis of Tevs. Dialects spoken here are New Griffin based, use "English R" and correspond to the three historic regions or duchies.

View of Mõntinleht on the Griffin Riviera

Its capital is Mare Incatato, the third biggest city in Griffin Empire, popular tourist destination and historic university city, and to this day remains the most important educational centre in the region. It borders Pzyerüyölkeä and Õklingsmaa, as well as Ugaly. The largest cities in the region are Mare Incatato, Tevs, Salta and Zonpolah, each with a population exceeding 540,000. Along with Mare Incatato, Tevs is the second most populous city in the principality with a population of about 1,003,947 which means that Meremaa is the only principality with two cities with metropolis status.

The principality is also made internationally popular with Hjemtilëiyl which, though not a large city (population of 73,868), hosts the annual Hjemtilëiyl Film Festival which has highly popularized the region. Also, Arlingleht has become renowned as the city in which many famous paintors lived and Salta as a large military harbour on the coast of Griffin Sea, with the Griffin naval base placed there.

Westersund[edit | edit source]

Westersund (formerly known as Eestimadnait, Eastland or Estland) is the third most populous principality of Griffin Empire and it is located in the westernmost part of the country, spanning the west and northwest. During the Griffin expansion, this area (formerly independent nation of Arnavut) was conquered and named Eestimadnait or East-land. Recently it was decided through a referendum that the new name should be Westersund meaning "beach in the west".

Dordgogsdvorec Castle in Northern Westersund.

Its largest city, Pyetsit is its capital and has the metropolis status. The principality is divided into three regions or duchies - Northern, Central and Southern; it has 2 big cities, 1 middle city and 25 small cities, among which the most important after Pyetsit are Filipolis (884,275 inhabitants), Sania (679,866), Busk (407,295), and Vilabradwõt (75,735), as well as 11 major clusters. The growth of its population, particularly marked on the coast, makes this one of the most attractive areas economically in Griffin Empire; this region outperforms the Foreõsvdetrre and Meremaa in demographic dynamism.

After Foreõsvdetrre, Westersund is the premier Griffin region in research and innovation, with five universities (Pyetsit, Filipolis, Vilabradwõt, Poatiyë and Pausksit) and several collages named Övrashtõ or Övraštõ. The agricultural region of Natia with the greatest turnover, it is the Griffin region with the most tourism jobs, as it has three of the four historic resorts on the Griffin Norigin coast. Its economy is based on agriculture and viticulture (vineyards of Pyetsit and Koniackäplaitsc), tourism, a powerful aerospace industry, digital economy and design, parachemical and pharmaceutical industries, financial sector (Mailddt is the fourth-largest financial center in the nation, specialising in mutual insurance companies), and industrial ceramics (Westersundiskaja Pustigslæting).

All three regions have their distinctive dialects, all of the new Griffin based with Northern and Central Westersundic (Eastlandish) dialects using "hard R" and Southern Westersundic using "English R".

Õklingsmaa[edit | edit source]

Õklingsmaa (English: Okley, Okle or Okleland) is the largest principality of Griffin Empire located in southeast part of the country. The region has a population of 3,536,143. Hermýn is its, largest and most important city, as well as capital. It is also the second biggest city in the Griffin Empire. Because of its size, Õklingsmaa has extremely diverse geographical, sociological, economic, and cultural regions. The eastern and southern parts of the principality are in the Natian Alps and historically are considered as a Dnimdjermadnait duchy^[8] region (literally "the land of the mountains"). The highest peak is Wytdnimdjer. The central part of the region comprises the river valleys of the Hermýna and the Drinsörwõt. The confluence of these two rivers is at Hermýn which makes its own duchy. The western part of the principality contains the start of the Massif Centralerneiska mountain range which makes two duchies - Vasterlandet (literally "wastelands") and Griffýlandet (literally "the land of Griffinians"). The principality also borders or contains major lakes such as Lake Üomofe and Lake Emozý. The Eltdesh flows through the southwest portion of the principality, where it has carved the deepest gorge in Natia.

Four dialects are spoken here - old Griffin based H dialects in Hermýn and Dnimdjermadnait, new Griffin based H dialect in Vasterlandet and new Griffin based hard R dialect in Griffýlandet.

Õklingsmaa is a prosperous region and its economy is second in size only to Foreõsvdetrre. This can be attributed to the diversity of the production in different sectors. The region is one of the Four Motors for Natia.

Ektekýsör District of the city of Hermýn

Industry, in particular:

Light engineering and high-tech
Mechanical engineering in the area of Emozý
Precision machining in the area of Groozoz

Services, in particular:

High-tech industries, nanotechnology, biotechnology especially in Planigslæting.
Optic and design in Sellola
Tourism with the mountains (for skiing), Hermýn and Planigslæting (for culture) and the Eltdesh (adventure sports/camping) particularly popular
Education, with major universities in Hermýn, Planigslæting and Sellola.

Sletterimaa[edit | edit source]

Ejmjenspalajtsc Cathedral dedicated to art dominating the Ejmjenspalajtsc skyline

Sletterimaa (literally „the land of fields“, English: Sletterland) is the northernmost principality of Griffin Empire. Its biggest city as well as capital is Nýtdainsk which has the metropolis status. With 8,463,203 inhabitants it is the fourth most populous region in the Empire. Other major cities are Legislæting, Presörsit, Pavlopolis, Ejmjenspalajtsc and Klej which serves as a major economic/transportation hub with Tybalteva; this makes Sletterimaa the closest Griffin connection to the friendly nation of Tybalteva. Just like its name suggests, the principality is very flat and includes everything from the long sand beaches of the Hetimaa bay in the west to the vast forests and pastures of the Tiarhis in the east and down to the palace of Skjanturing or Petrföndingar near Foreõsvdetrre and vineyards of the border with Färzas - Lætingmaa to the south. The principality is divided into two regions -western parts of the principality being the duchy of Hetimaa (literally "the hot land") and western parts the duchy of Gvozdisletterid (literally "the fields near the Gvozd" nodding to the shared history with Ujedinjeni Gvozd).

Historically, the region of Sletterimaa has a strong and proud cultural identity. Its cultural heritage includes some of the most extraordinary Gothic kirkjas (Ejmjenspalajtsc and Bövësit cathedrals or Ars basilica), distinctive local cuisine (including panhaaghen, flamöpooŕo, marotshjaŕta), beer (including from Pëŕklerk brewery) and traditional games and sports, such as the lopdescirq (ancestor of tennis), as well as tantsidsletteriska' and its own bagpipes, called the kehto. Traditionally western parts of the principality are more progressive, and eastern more conservative which is also reflected in the way of speaking where the dialect spoken in Hetimaa region is a new Griffin based hard R dialect which is very different than Gvozdsletterish old Griffin soft R dialect.

The villages of Sletterimaa have a distinct character, with their houses made of red bricks, often accented with a "lace" of white bricks. It is arguably the birthplace of Natian Gothic architecture, housing six of the world's greatest examples of Natian Gothic religious buildings, which span the history of Gothic architecture in its entirety.

The unemployment rate is higher than the national average. The economy is essentially led by the service sector, which employs 75% of the working population, followed by manufacturing (23%) and agriculture (2%).

Pzyerüyölkeä[edit | edit source]

Pzyerüyölkeä (English: Pzeryolkey or Pzieryokley) is the central-western principality with its centre in its biggest city – Göldtsit. It is the third smallest region in the Empire, and has a population of 6,537,335. It has a coast on the west and is neighbored by all of Griffin principalities except Färzas - Lætingmaa. The biggest cities of the principality are Göldtsit, Rakozsit, Läähtisit, Plosnatsit and Pustigslæting. Three historical regions or duchies of the principality (Pzyerimaa, Pzyerimeremaa and Yölkeä) have been recognized as a linguistic and cultural concepts since the Middle Ages. It was the last principality to join the Griffin Empire as it was essentially created by breaking free from Eestimadnait (today known as Westersund). While all its dialects are new Griffin based, Pzyerimaa and Yölkeä have very distinct hard R dialect, with dialect in Pzyerimeremaa being closer to Sealandic dialects uses "English R".

Gardöpresör - aqueduct bridge built in the first century

The principality is dominated by vineyards, and the region has been an important winemaking centre for several centuries. The region is the largest contributor to the Natia's glut (dominance of supply over demand) of wine known as the wine lake. It is also home of a great variety of cheeses (like Roktfort, Blöotovert, Kæbekö, Shjantaal, Förmdaæmbært, Lægjool, Pælærrdæn, Sæntnktr, Sælæ) and a great diversity of wines such as Göldtsitiskaja, Roon wine, Gæyæk wine, Sæmijo wine, Blænktlæmæn, Müskæat, Pröwæns wine, Kæhærrs wine, Iuransæn. Alcohols such as Pæstis and Mærribrayrs or brandies such as, Armangg, and Koniackäplaitsctrhekh are produced in the area.

Färzas – Lætingmaa[edit | edit source]

Scene from the picturesque medieval centre of Frisköptislæting

Färzas – Lætingmaa (English: Farzas-Latingland) is an administrative region and the historical principality in eastern Griffin Empire. The region sits astride three water basins (Jalina, Muusa and Drening), spanning the 2nd largest area in Griffin Empire, and includes two mountain ranges (Wöskileng and Lati). It shares borders with Ujedinjeni Gvozd, Foreõsvdetrre, Õklingsmaa, and Sletterimaa. It has a population of 6,133,861 inhabitants, the lowest in the country. The administrative capital and largest city, by far, is Frisköptislæting. It is the only capital with no metropolis status. Other major cities include: Daunsigslæting, Õrnalthingää, Anastasij and Girnel.

The East of Griffin has a rich and diverse culture, being situated at a crossroads between the Griffin and Natian worlds which is reflected in the variety of languages spoken there (Griffin, Latingish, Gvozdian, Biflovatian, Pyreican). Most of today's Färzas duchy was considered "Eastern" as early as the 8th century, when it constituted the southern part of the Griffin territory of Fąrsąsýmądn. Färzas fairs played a significant role in the economy of medieval Natia as well. Lætingmaa thrived in the sphere of influence of the Central Natian Powers for most of the Middle Ages and Renaissance. The region is home to distinctive traditions (the celebration of Wisdom Day, Christmas markets, or traditions involving the Life and Death Celebration hare in Lætingmaa). Both regions of the principality are furthermore subject to local law for historical reasons. With a long industrial history as well and its agriculture and tourism (arts, gastronomy, sightseeing etc.), the East of Griffin is one of the top economic producing regions in the country.

Despite being divided into just two duchies, there are four old Griffin based dialects spoken here. Latingish dialect is a so called "SHJ-TJ" dialect and it is almost considered as a different language. North Farzasic dialect is soft R based and close to the Gvozdsletterish dialect. Central or Proper Farzasic is a "H dialect" close to one spoken in Dnimjermadnait and East Farzasic is another "SHJ-TJ" dialect similar to Latingish but not as much different than Griffin R.P.

Politics[edit | edit source]

The Griffin Empire has a multi-party political system. In theory, the number of competing political parties is large enough that in order to participate in the exercise of power, each individual party must be willing to negotiate with one or more others with the aim of forming coalitions. The dominant Griffin political parties are also characterised by a noticeable degree of intra-party factionalism, making each of them effectively a coalition in itself. There are usually two stable coalitions present: the left-wing SOP-LEP-GPP coalition and the centrist-right-wing REP-GRP coalition, but the Democratic Party usually has the largest number of deputies on its own.

Traditionally, Old Griffin is language of politics in Griffin Empire, and it is very common (especially for right wing oriented parties) that it is used in debates and discussions. Courts in Griffin Empire use Old Griffin language exclusively.

Major political parties in Griffin Empire
Symbol	Acronym & name		Name in English	Political position	Ideology
	DËM	Dëmöskráténýšk pąřtý ^[9] Demoskrateiniska partii	Democratic Party (DEP) Lit. Party of democracy	Centre to centre-right	Liberalism, pro royal family, pro west Natian cooperation, pro monarchy
	REP	Repbulikhdniqiskaja partii	Republican Party (REP) Lit. Party of the republicans	Centre to centre-right	Centrism, Liberalism, Social liberalism, Griffin democracy, anti monarchy
	RÝG	Rýŝð Grýfýnýšk Dzeldiska partii Griffiniskaja	Griffin Right Party (GRP)	Right to far-right	Grififn nationalism, National conservatism, Souverainism, Protectionism, Right-wing populism,Natiascepticism, pro monarchy
	SÖP	Söcijalismusiska partii	Socialist Party (SOP)	Centre-left	Social democracy, social liberalism, pro-Natianism, pro monarchy
	LEP	Leftiska partii	Left Party (LEP)	Left	Social democracy, anti monarchy
	BYP	Byanko partii	Green Party (GGP)	Far Left	Anti-capitalism, Protectionism, left-wing souverainism, left-wing populism, Participatory democracy, Eco-socialism, anti monarchy
	LZP	Lăbĕť făr Lătĭnma L. zöbelektiska partii	Lætingmaa Separatist Party (LSP)	Right	Autonomism, Regionalism, Latingma Nationalism, Independentism

Government and Law[edit | edit source]

Griffin Empire is a unitary state under a constitutional monarchy. Empress Anna Clara I is a monarch and head of state. The monarch was restricted to fewer rights, but in recent years the crown has regained a lot of influence and powers previously lost in the 1700s. The Constitution of the Griffin Empire is semi-codified and contains about 300,000 words. Nevertheless, law-making is relatively flexible and parliament can implement “constitutional reform” by simply passing parliamentary acts, and thus has the political power to change or repeal almost all written or unwritten elements of the constitution. No parliament can pass laws that future parliaments cannot change.

Äldtkralingshutjut, residence of the Gövnarmendt

Griffin Empire is a parliamentary democracy and a constitutional monarchy. Parliament (Rykstadtk') is sovereign and consists of the Lower House (Gövnarmendt), the Upper House (Senaat) and the Monarch. The main business of the Parliament takes place in two houses, but the royal consent is needed for the law to be officially implemented. For the general elections (Lower House elections), the country is divided into 192 constituencies, each represented by three members of parliament (566 in total). Each member of parliament may be a member of parliament for a maximum of ten years. The Democratic and Republican parties are traditionally the largest parties (by number of deputies) in the Lower House. The Prime Minister is the head of government in the Griffin Empire. Since the first elections in 1700, the prime minister has, according to the constitutional convention, been the chief deputy and head of other ministers appointed by him. The prime ministers are appointed by the monarch, and they are usually the deputies who win the most votes in the elections for the Lower House. He also has the role of chief adviser to the monarch.

The Senate or Senaat is the upper house of the Griffin Parliament. The members of the senate are the president (prösidantdniq), seven griffin princes, seven governors (kantselardniqe) - one for each of the principalities and an additional 333 members of the "volunteers" (ėlskbíīdæsėnātdnïq). Volunteer members are members of one of the princely parliaments (Kantselaplatse) who voluntarily apply to be in the senate. These are usually the higher nobility - the dukes and members of the regional parliaments who won the largest number of votes. The Upper House carefully studies, reviews and amends the draft laws approved by the Lower House. It generally cannot prevent the adoption of laws, except in certain limited circumstances. One of the roles of the Upper House is to convey the conclusions from the princely parliaments to the Lower House, as well as to propose solutions.

Princely parliaments are local political forums where political issues are discussed at the provincial level. They cannot adopt, repeal or change laws, except in certain cases such as the administrative division of the principality or its symbols. These parliaments have 100 members each - 50 from the ranks of nobles and 50 who are elected. Dukes are permanent members and they appoint other deputies from the ranks of nobles - usually counts of counties of important and larger cities.

The Supreme Court (Ůx-tėnūr or Tenur ot Õõtlaliudlaringar) is the final court of appeal in the Griffin Empire for all civil andriminal cases. It also hears cases of the greatest public or constitutional importance affecting the whole population. The Council of State (Kounsildt Etatiskaja) is a governmental body that acts both as a legal adviser of the executive branch and as the supreme court for administrative justice.

Nobility[edit | edit source]

The nobility in the Griffin Empire is an extremely important social class that is of historical significance and actively participates in the political life of the country. The organization of the Griffin nobility is very precise, with a incisively determined hierarchy of six titles, and rules that must be followed in order for an individual to become a nobleman and for existing nobles to preserve their title. All titles in this system are hereditary and apply to the entire family. If a person earns a title, his spouse and their descendants receive the title at the same time. Each person with the title of lower nobility can participate in different levels of government. The higher nobility - princely and ducal families elect their representative to precisely defined positions in the princely parliaments and the national parliament.

In order to become a nobleman, one must meet three important conditions: to have Griffin citizenship; to own land which is of historical significance for the Griffin Empire which means that it was at the center of some (important) historical event, or is currently the centre of an important branch of the economy; and to deliver a proof that a sufficient number of people on that land and / or in the surroundings depend on ones influence. This enables the acquisition of the lowest title - the title of lord (zalklev). From the lowest title one can advance to the higher nobility by entering into marriages, and by inheriting the positions of older families whose main branch has been extinguished. The current families belonging to the higher nobility have been in continuity in these positions since the Reformation of the Nobility in 1769.

Some noble families were formed by the separation of secondary branches from the main line of the Griffin royal family. Most often, these dynasties would receive the titles of high nobility, but that is not the rule. A change of surname is also a frequent occurrence in order to sound more similar to the Griffin royal family, thus indirectly alluding to the connection with the emperor.

Hierarchy of the Griffin Nobility[edit | edit source]

At the top of the pyramid is a kral translated as emperor or empress who also bears the title of kraldniq translated as king or queen. The title of king or queen is a traditional title which, in the event of independence of other principalities, the royal family claims the original three - Foreõsvdetrre, Õklingsmaa and Färzas as their new domain.

Beneath the king is prýnsýn, a title that can be translated as prince or princess. Despite this translation, it does not refer to the children of the royal family (who are assigned one of the titles at birth), but refers to members of royal families of the seven griffin principalities. These families have a long tradition and were mostly either the ruling dynasties of the Griffin principalities before unification or separated from the ruling imperial dynasty. These are some of the most influential people, not only of their principalities and Griffin Empire, but also of Natia.

Under the direct influence of the principalities are their historical regions called duchies. The nobility of this level bears the title of fihfitsleht or duke. There are a total of 19 griffin ducal families.

The two lowest titles are hjurtsok and zalklev, the former of which is usually higher in hierarchy than the latter, but this is not the rule. Hjurtsok is usually translated as count or countess, and it specifically refers to families that historically ruled cities or smaller territories that were not large enough to be duchies. Zalklev is usually translated as lord or lady, and refers to the rulers of smaller towns, villages, or just larger manorial estates.

Foreign relations[edit | edit source]

The Griffin Empire has historically been a country focused on establishing international relations. Many Griffin emperors married into respectable noble and royal families of Natia – from Effiland and Bigicia, to Solentoya and Tybalteva. This country is one of the founders of the United Nations of Natia and serves as one of the permanent members of the UNN Security Council with veto rights. Despite this, almost all Griffin relations were damaged during the Period of Isolation, after which the Griffin Empire built its international relations from scratch.

Today, the country is usually described as "the best networked state in the world" due to its membership in more international institutions than any other country including the G7, World Trade Organization, and Norigin-Galea Council. It is an associate member of the Association of Rievs du Soleil States, the Secretariat of the Highwind Community, and the Dasideal Commission and a leading member of the International Griffin Language Organisation that includes 26 countries that speak Griffin language to some degree. Because of that, the Empire has one of the largest assembly of diplomatic missions. It also hosts the headquarters of several international organisations, including UNESCO, Natiapol, The All-Natian Parliament, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, the International Chamber of Commerce, the Kralingslæting Club, the Natian Space Agency, the Natian Energy Agency, the Griffiniskaja Langua Organizacijaoon, the Natian Institute for Security Studies, the International Bureau of Weights and Measures, the International Exhibition Bureau, and the International Federation for Human Rights.

Traditionally, the country has good relations with its former colonies, especially those that are geographically closer to it. Akkåville, Sunoria, Arjastan, Tohru, Waloria are all members of the International Griffin Language Organization and today they have very good relations with the Empire. With the countries that were not fully conquered, it took a little longer to improve relations, so Dalisska, Leonesia & St. Lotus, Kostanovia, and Berceniland are still partially skeptical about Griffin's intentions and role in international politics. Relations with Yaponesia and Halito improved significantly after Griffin's investments in the artificial islands project on the territory of the former colony of Niponiisle.

Svobodnia and Bigicia are countries with which the Empire traditionally has good relations. Bigicia often historically helped the Griffin emperors, and after the Period of Isolation, she was among the first to establish diplomatic relations. Griffin Riviera is one of the favorite resorts of the Bigician upper class, and the city of Tevs even has a promenade named after them. Svobodnia was under great Griffin influence in the 1600s, and the Griffin Empire adopted a large number of aspects of Svobodnian culture. After giving independence to its colonies, the Griffin Empire gave 2 islands of the former colony of Nýtfýntmaa to Svobodnia as a present.

The surrounding countries - Tybalteva, Pyreica, Kamandé, Gvozdmost and Ugaly are very close and economically very important. Tybalteva, as a country on the other side of the bay, has historically played a major role in Griffin's economy, culture and law. In 2225, the Griffin Empire celebrated "1300 years of friendship with Tybalteva." Griffin Empire has never been at war with Pyreica, nor has it tried to conquer the mountainous nation. The two countries work closely together, and Pyreica is today the country in which the Griffin Empire invests the most. It is also one of Griffin favorite winter destinations. Despite the fact that they fought only once, Gvozdmost has been in a love-hate relationship with the Empire throughout its history securing neutral relations often by royal marriages. Ugaly, on the other hand, is very close to the principality of Meremaa, and during the Griffin conquests, it remained the only country that the Empire did not try to conquer.

All members of the International Griffin Language Organization have never been at war with the Empire, and are very close "friendly countries". Effiland and Solentoya, whose royal families are very close relatives to the Griffin one, are particularly close allies with the Empire. Joseyeon, as a relatively young nation, is among the last countries in which the Griffin Embassy was opened, after which these countries became even closer.

International Griffin Language Organisation[edit | edit source]

The Griffiniskaja Langua Organizacijaoon is an international organization representing countries and regions where Griffin is a lingua franca or customary language, where a significant proportion of the population are Griffin speakers, or where there is a notable affiliation with Griffin culture. Numerous branches of this organisation cooperate with its member states in the fields of culture, science, economy, justice, and peace.

The organisation comprises 30 member states which are organised into 4-5 groups called levels:

Countries that were colonised by Griffin Empire during the Expansionist era (L1)
- Completely (L1a)
- Partially (L1b)
Western Natian Countries that Use Griffin language as lingua franca (L2)
Countries whose national languages probably share the same origin with Griffin language (L3)
Historically important allies and trading partners that use Griffin language to some extent (L4)

L1		L2	L3	L4
L1a	L1b	L2	L3	L4
Akkåville Arjastan Biflovatia Sunoria Tír an Abhainn Tohru Waloria	Berceniland Dalisska Halito Kostanovia Leonesia & St. Lotus Yaponesia	Gvozdmost Kamandé Pyreica Tybalteva Ugaly	Effiland Öösingimäed	Bigicia Emsfrynt Endórë Kimmystan New Bander State Solentoya Svobodnia Tamausia & Deltannor Utopolis

Demographics[edit | edit source]

Griffin Empire has an estimated population of 72 million people. It has a relatively high rate of natural population growth. In recent years, the fertility rate declined slightly to 1.93 children per woman. The average age is 35.6 years. Average life expectancy at birth is 82.2 years, one of the highest in the world.

Griffinians are people from the Griffinic group and speak Griffin language which is not related to any of languages of its neighbouring countries. Six cases declination system, very long words, consonant-clusters and vowel rich phonology are some of the most recognizable characteristics of the language.

Regional identity is a very important element of Griffin culture. The term "regionalism" is generally seen as a synonym of "federalism" and the opposite of "nationalism". In some regions there are movements or parties campaigning for independence, but there is no wider support for them.

Major cities[edit | edit source]

Griffin Empire is a highly urbanized country. Its cities are divided into 5 groups - metropolises (major cities with over 1 million inhabitants), big cities (500 thousand - 1 million inhabitants), middle cities (100-500 thousand inhabitants) and small cities (under 100 thousand inhabitants). Every settlement under 10 thousand inhabitants is considered as a village. Currently there are 7 cities with the metropolis status. Meremaa is the only principalitiy with 2 metropolises and Frisköptislæting is the only capital of a principality that is not a metropolis.

Largest cities or towns in Griffin Empire
Photo	City	Population Metro	Principality	Photo	City	Population Metro	Principality
	Kralingslæting	12.292.895 18.252.007	Foreõsvdetrre		Pyetsit	1.140.668 3.284.271	Westersund
	Hermýn	2.188.759 5.172.092	Õklingsmaa		Tevs	1.003.947 2.833.256	Meremaa
	Mare Incatato	1.720.942 5.409.638	Meremaa		Filipolis	884.275 2.272.975	Westersund
	Göldtsit	1.250.251 3.678.999	Pzyerüyölkeä		Frisköptislæting	764.013 1.259.999	Färzas - Lætingmaa
	Nýtdainsk	1.159.547 3.200.674	Sletterimaa		Sania	679.866 1.607.289	Westersund

Language[edit | edit source]

Griffin Language (Griffiniskaja langua) is a Griffinic language of the West Natian branch spoken in Griffin Empire. It is the official language of the nation, spoken natively by about 73.1 million people. Griffin language has had 5 different versions through its history - first, older, middle, old and new Griffin languages and because of the well written history of the language it is possible to learn and speak all of the 5 versions.

In the early years of the country, Griffin king Frëdrýk I demanded of his scholars to go throughout his country and study the language and make an universal rule book so that the nation could speak one standardized language. The first grammar, dictionary and orthography were written in the year 102 CE and they are known as the "First Act of the Griffn Language".^[10] Today original versions of these three books are kept at the library of the Brobdingngagng castle. For the 500th anniversary of the law, the books were revised, updated and rewritten, and published as the "The second Language Act"^[11]. This way, by updating the books it is easy to see how the language changed through the years. In the year 1001 the act was updated again as "Update of the 2nd Language Law"^[12], but the most important update is the 4th one - “The official reformation of the Language”^[13] in 1787 which marked the begining of the new era in the Griffin linguistics. Many rules were changed so the language would be easier both to speak and write. This version of the language is considered as the language of music, theology, the sciences, medicine, and law, so it is not common to see it used even today. The latest language update happened in 1978 when the Congress of the Griffin Language Faculties was held in Hermýn, where they agreed upon the new more simplified rules of the language published in the final act “The Words of Hermyn”.^[14]

There are 21 regional dialects that are classified into 5 groups based on the dominant pronunciation of the sound /r/ as well as local grammar exceptions, and vocabulary. Main influence for 9 out of 21 dialects is old Griffin language which means that they usually have bigger phonology, more cases and tenses, and are usually harder to understand for non native speaker. Other dialects are new Griffin based and main differences are usually just phonology based.

Griffin language is thought to be a language isolate, but recent reconstructions of old Effinsk gave some positive results that these two might be related. Modern Effinsk is easy for Griffinians to learn since it follows somewhat similar patterns, but these languages are still unintelligible.

Text sample[edit | edit source]

Article 1 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in Griffin:

Allet ot liudotre bornääru libertõdetkrafftiska et saimiska pop sit værrdiggklehtot et sit blefmagingot l'cest de onerei. Biy gievhavn onereilt förrshtooved et avarnung et onerei shoodau to meimaklu deres itmiszsam edn tüll dos pop to soulstiyelilt ot brõõdermanhuafftotr.

(All people are born free and equal in their dignity and rights. They are given reason and conscience and they shall create their relationships to one another according to the spirit of brotherhood.)

Religion[edit | edit source]

Griffin Empire is a secular country in which freedom of religion is a constitutional right meaning that Griffin religious policy was based on the concept of ajltläharlibragar, a strict separation of religion and state under which public life is kept completely secular. According to the last census, 51.1% of the total population of Griffin Empire is following Griffinism, 46.0% had no religion, 2.5% were followers of other faiths, and the remaining 0.4% were undecided about their faith.

Griffinism has been the predominant religion for more than two millennia, but it is not as actively practised as it once was. Among the 47,000 religious buildings in Griffin Empire, 98% were Griffin kirkja or katedraal. After alternating between religion influenced and secular governments, in 1905 Griffin Empire passed the 1905 law on the Separation of the Religion and the State, which established the principle of ajltläharlibragar. The government is prohibited from recognizing any specific right to a religious community. It recognise religious organisations according to formal legal criteria that do not address religious doctrine. Conversely, religious organisations are expected to refrain from intervening in policy-making. Certain groups, such as Scientology Are considered cults ("bepaore" in Griffin), and therefore do not have the same status as recognised religions in Griffin Empire. Bepaor is considered a pejorative term in Griffin Empire.

Griffinism[edit | edit source]

Griffinism is a philosophical and religious tradition of Griffin origin which emphasises living according to the virtues, principles and personal goals and desires, the most important of them being independence and self-reliance. Griffinism differs from the most of religions by not emphasising existence of God, rigid rituals and social order, but is similar in the sense that it is a teaching about the various disciplines for becoming one with the unplanned rhythms of the universe. Griffinism ethics emphasise naturalness, simplicity, spontaneity, compassion, art, courage, love, unity and wisdom and all of Griffin temples are dedicated to one of these virtues or like the Griffinism teachings name them „delicate emotional and mental states“.

Kirkja is a building used for Griffin religious activities and the term is used exclusively to refer to the physical building itself. In traditional architecture, a kirkja interior is often structured in the shape of a cross, but is not a rule. Towers or domes were often added with the intention of directing the eye of the viewer towards the heavens and inspiring a range of thoughts and emotions in visitors. Kirkja is a general gathering-place by the communities in which they were located, hosting such events as guild meetings, concerts, banquets, mystery plays, and fairs. It could be said that Griffinism and its temples were the first codes and institutions of law in the Griffin lands. Katedraal is usually a bigger temple (kirkja) housing the seat of a main priest of the municipality. Both words katedraal and kirkja take their name from Christianity and their architecture, design and style were inspired by Christian churches.

Zvhodaliuddniq is priest or priestess, a religious leader authorized to perform the rituals of the religion. They live according to a certain way of life, focusing on resolving existential questions about the human condition. One of main duties of zvhodaliuddniq is to challenge what is thought to be common sense, not to stop asking questions, and to re-examine the old ways of thought. They may have the duty to hear confessions periodically, give marriage counselling, provide prenuptial counselling, give spiritual direction, or visit those confined indoors, such as the sick in hospitals and nursing homes. However these practices, except giving spiritual direction, are very rare.

The Griffinism developed from the early veneration of nature which centred around a pantheon of 14 goddesses representing natural elements. The creation myth involved the primordial deity Ůxą giving life to four daughters who, in turn, create other goddesses like Vēvā (air), Vøtā (water), and Ïķlā (death). The goddess Hūslā (society) created Dārtā (pollution) and Ørvā (evil) out of desire for chaos. These goddesses' intricate relationships explained natural phenomena and early societal principles. Ancient Griffin temples were adorned with sculptures which depicted captivating scenes from ancient myths. The oldest rituals connected with these early myths included ceremonial burning of herbs, metal smelting, and written prayers offered to the goddesses. As the myths evolved, they became interwoven with philosophical elements, leading to the veneration of a supreme goddess known as Eta (Ëtą), often symbolized by the entity Uksa. Subsequently, the concept of a singular god was completely discarded, paving the way for the emergence of the unique Griffin religious system known as griffinism, characterized by its distinctive worldview.

Education[edit | edit source]

Education in Griffin Empire has a long history, the first classifiable higher-education institution having been established a school of Griffinism as early as 101 BCE, with numerous other religious schools following suit over time. In 1001, under the rule of Hermione I education became obligatory for children aged 8-15 years. In the 1150 the University of Kralingslæting was opened. In the 1850s reformation of the education changed the system to what it is today. The education system is made of up of three levels:

Primary school - compulsory and free for all children from ages 6 through 15 and lasts for nine years in three three-year cycles (ages 6–9; 9–12 and 12–15).
Secondary levels – also compulsory and free. It is provided by general and technical secondary schools, where studies begin at the age of 15 and last for three or four years. Most children in Griffin Empire start school when they are six years old and finish high school when they are eighteen or nineteen. Students who have graduated from general secondary schools (Gýmnasium) get the Ruutthjferfeilerring and opt to enroll in any faculty or college after passing a qualification examination given by the institution while students who graduated from technical schools get a diploma.
University education - organised according to the system of transferable points and has three levels:
- The undergraduate courses typically last for three to four years and bring 180 to 240 ECTS points. Upon the completion of the undergraduate courses, students are awarded the title of Bachelor of Arts or Science.
- Postgraduate courses, which last for two years, carry 120 ECTS points and award the degree of Master of Art or Science.
- PhD courses can be taken after completing a postgraduate university course. They typically last three years, and the academic title of Doctor of Science or Doctor of Arts is awarded upon completion.

The university can also offer postgraduate specialist courses which last for one to two years, by which one can acquire the title of a specialist in a certain specialist field such as medicine. In accordance with laws and regulations, higher education institutions are funded by the corresponding principality authorities. The public universities in Griffin Empire are named after the major cities near which they are located, followed by a numeral if there are several. Kralingslæting, for example, has 13 universities, labelled Kralingslæting I to XIII.

Health[edit | edit source]

The Pýtýsapërtjërr Hospital, a teaching hospital in Kralingslæting, is one of Natia's largest hospitals.

The Griffin health care system is one of universal health care largely financed by government national health insurance. In its 2000 assessment of world health care systems, the World Health Organization found that Griffin provided the "close to best overall health care" in the world. The Griffin healthcare system was ranked first natiawide by the Natia Health Organization. Usually, the Empire spends around 11.6% of GDP on health care. Approximately 77% of health expenditures are covered by government funded agencies.

Care is generally free for people affected by chronic diseases (kroonikalernetõlõrõtschwedniqe) such as cancer, AIDS or cystic fibrosis. Average life expectancy at birth is 78 years for men and 85 years for women. Griffin have the reputation of being one of the thinnest people in developed countries, mostly because of Griffin eating habits of traditional healthy Griffin cuisine. The Griffin obesity rate is very low, but with rising epidemic of obesity. Authorities now regard obesity as one of the main public health issues and fight it fiercely. Nevertheless, rates of childhood obesity are slowing.

Culture[edit | edit source]

Griffin Empire has been a center of Western Natian cultural development for centuries. Many Griffin artists have been among the most renowned of their time, and Griffin Empire is still recognized in the world for its rich cultural tradition.

The successive political regimes have always promoted artistic creation, and the creation of the Ministry of Culture in 1900 helped preserve the cultural heritage of the country and make it available to the public. The Ministry of Culture has been very active since its creation, granting subsidies to artists, promoting Griffin culture in the world, supporting festivals and cultural events, protecting historical monuments. The Griffin government also succeeded in maintaining a cultural exception to defend audiovisual products made in the country.

Griffin Empire receives the highest number of tourists per year, largely thanks to the numerous cultural establishments and historical buildings implanted all over the territory. It counts 1,200 museums welcoming more than 50 million people annually. The most important cultural sites are run by the government, for instance through the public agency Agentsiya por säilitamacijaoonsam natsionalneiska ot tilgavrömbrarotre, which is responsible for approximately 85 national historical monuments.

The 43,180 buildings protected as historical monuments include mainly residences (many castles) and religious buildings (katedraals, kirkjas, christian churches), but also statues, memorials and gardens. The Natian Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization inscribed 45 sites in Griffin Empire on the World Heritage List.

Art[edit | edit source]

Since ancient times, Griffin people have inhabited most of the modern Griffin territory. The very numerous Rock Drawings in Rezgý go to 8,000 BCE, and there are rich remains of ancient Griffin art. The origins of modern art were very much influenced by Griffinism philosphy at the time of the first and second Griffin Renaissance. Jon Fokhettä, the most famous medieval Griffin painter, is said to have been the first painter of the First Renaissance, and in the end he ended opening Renaissance painting School of Blaaföntanshke. Some of the most famous Griffin artists of the time of Baroque lived in Tybalteva and were inspired by the art of the time.

The 17th century was the period when Griffin painting became prominent and individualised itself through classicism. Royal Academy of Painting and Sculpture was founded in 1684 to protect these artists, and in 1666 the still-active Griffin Academy in Gatineau was created to have direct relations with Tybaltevan artists.

Griffin artists developed the late Baroque Griffin style in the 18th century, as a more intimate imitation of old baroque style, the works of the court-endorsed artists being the most representative in the country. The Lætingmaa Awakening brought great changes and brought artists of neoclassic style and the highly influential Kunstiakadeemia ot bonitaiska arsotr defined the style known as Griffin Academism. At this time Griffin Empire had become a centre of artistic creation, the first half of the 19th century being dominated by two successive movements, at first Romanticism and Realism, a style that eventually evolved into Naturalism.

*Denkdankdniq* by Efkozd Litammä (1902), Museumi Litammäiskaja, Kralingslæting

In the second part of the 19th century, Griffin influence over painting became even more important, with the development of new styles of painting such as Impressionism and Symbolism.

At the beginning of the 20th century, Cubism was developed by Georgi Plëg and the Solentoyan painter Paolo Ruiz, living in Kralingslæting. Other foreign artists also settled and worked in or near Kralingslæting.

Many museums in Griffin Empire are entirely or partly devoted to sculptures and painting works. A huge collection of old masterpieces created before or during the 18th century are displayed in the state-owned Brobdingngagng Palace Museum. While the Brobdingngagng Palace has been for a long time a museum, the Ilzeh Museumi was inaugurated in 1986 in the old railway station Tooggstatioon ot Ilzeh, in a major reorganisation of national art collections, to gather Griffin paintings from the second part of the 19th century (mainly Impressionism and Fauvism movements).

Modern works are presented in the Natsionalneiska museumi ot moderneiska arsotr, which moved in 1976 to the Centrümi arsiskaja "Giorgi Býnbatson". These three state-owned museums welcome close to 17 million people a year. Other national museums hosting paintings include the Grandiozsiska Shaitö (1.3 million visitors in 2008), but there are also many museums owned by cities, the most visited being the Kralingslætingiskaja museumi moderneiska ot arsotr (0.8 million entries in 2008), which hosts contemporary works. Outside Kralingslæting, all the large cities have a Museum of Fine Arts with a section dedicated to Natian, Galean and Griffin painting. Some of the finest collections are in Hermýn, Nýtdainsk, Legislæting, Anastasij, Sania and Planigslæting.

Architecture[edit | edit source]

During the Middle Ages, many fortified castles were built by feudal nobles to mark their powers. Some Griffin castles that survived are Õamim, Emkölszdvorec, the massive Famsömäsdvorec and the so-called Gedel castles. During this era, Griffin had been using Romanesque architecture like most of Galea and Norigin. Some of the greatest examples of Romanesque kirkjas in Griffin Empire are the Kirkja ot Volem in Göldtsit, the largest romanesque kirkja in the country.

The Gothic architecture, originally named Grýfýnýskgėdåř meaning "Griffin work", was born in Sletterimaa, and somewhat later in Foreõsvdetrre and was the first Griffin style of architecture to be copied in all Natia. The most important representatives being the Kirkja ot alomantavarnung in Shöyn District of Kralingslæting (used as the royal necropolis); Kirkja ot volem in Ueldlävilajet and Ejmjenspalajtsc Katedraal. The emperors were crowned in another important Gothic kirkja: Rhemsit Katedraal. Aside from krikjas, Gothic Architecture had been used for many palaces, the most important one being the Övrazvhodaliuddniqiskaja shaitö in Zonpolah.

During the time of the First Griffin Renaissance Griffin artists and several artists from Tybalteva were invited to the Griffin court; many residential palaces were built in the Hermýna Valley, from 1450 with as a first reference the Dimdzilaeo Shaitö. Such residential castles were the Üenpildt dvorec, Sjömimszaadvorec, or the Enpiazö Shaitö.

Following the renaissance and the end of the Middle Ages, Baroque architecture replaced the traditional Gothic style. However, because of Grffinism and its special ways, in Griffin Empire, baroque architecture found a greater success in the secular domain than in a religious one. In the secular domain, the Saint Belviederhee Dvorec has many baroque features, as well as famous Ýnwaliidet Kirkja et Dvorec. Some of the most impressive provincial baroque architecture is found in places such as the Stanislas Square in Daunsigslæting. On the military architectural side, some of the most efficient fortresses were built here.

During the second renaissance, Neoclassicism was favoured and was introduced with such buildings as the Ajltläbjörghutjut in Kralingslæting or the Kaptöllä in Göldtsit. Built during the second renaissance, the Kapii ot võitjating and Osiyettkirkja in Kralingslæting represent the best example of Neoclassicism style architecture. In the same period extravagant buildings such as the neo-baroque Bitniska Õepra were built. The urban planning of the time was very organised and rigorous. In the late 19th century, Gustaff Ehvör designed many bridges, such as Kelepadt viaduct, and remains one of the most influential bridge designers of his time, although he is best remembered for the iconic Ehvör Tower in Kralingslæting.

Ajltläbjörghutjut or Pantheon of Kralingslæting

In the 20th century, Griffo-Pyreican architect Reix Colpozaol designed several buildings in Griffin Empire. More recently, Griffin architects have combined both modern and old architectural styles. The Brobdingngagng Pyramid is an example of modern architecture added to an older building. The most difficult buildings to integrate within Griffin cities are skyscrapers, as they are visible from afar. For instance, in Kralingslæting, until 1977, new buildings had to be under 37 meters. Griffin largest financial district is Scirq in Kralingslæting, where a significant number of skyscrapers are located. Some famous modern Griffin architects include Jon Nýt, Dominik Boleord, Krýstjaan ätt Bildsenbelts or Pavl Emtlöson.

Literature[edit | edit source]

The earliest Griffin literature dates from the period of the first language law. Some authors of oldest Griffin texts are unknown. Medieval authors are more known, for example Kąřl ätt Trósýt and Duke^[16] Wýłëm ý Sąüdýpzyërý who wrote in older version of Pzyerimeremaa dialect.

Much medieval Griffin poetry and literature were inspired by the legends of the Unification of Griffin lands, such as Röląńdýląül and the various trübădălăl.

During the 17th century, first psychological novels of all times was published in the country. In the same period, Jon Fontanške became one of the most famous fabulists, as he wrote hundreds of fables. Generations of Griffin pupils had to learn his fables, that were seen as helping teaching wisdom and common sense to the young people.

Griffin literature and poetry flourished even more in the 18th and 19th centuries. Deniiz Tatölýd tried to sum up all the knowledge of his century (in fields such as arts, sciences, languages, and philosophy) in his book Áltläbågën (literally the book about everything) and to present them to the people, to fight ignorance and obscurantism. During that same century, famous children's fairy tales including Bözýpüdz, Böbörjögë, Ëölølæ and Blåbøřd were written. At the start of the 19th century, symbolist poetry was an important movement.

The 19th century saw the Griffin Empire becoming the most important country for young writters. The Ą Anwagrdasd is a Griffin prize in the field of arts and it was first awarded for literature in 1903. As of 2020, Griffin authors had more All-Natian Literature Prizes than those of any other nation. The first All-Natian Literature Prize in Literature was a Griffin author.

Philosophy[edit | edit source]

Throughout Griffin history, common theme was the philosophy of Griffinism. It was the foundation for the modern Griffin philosophy. Griffin philosophers produced some of the most important political works of the Second Griffin Renaissance (also known as the Age of Enlightenment) talking about the principle of separation of powers, which has been implemented in all liberal democracies since it was first applied in the principality of Foreõsvdetrre. Griffin philosophy defended civil liberties, such as the right to a free trial and freedom of religion.

19th-century was the age of positivism. In the 20th century, partly as a reaction to the perceived excesses of positivism, Griffinism thrived again. The philosophy of Jon Pavl Zeldtlä gained a strong influence in the mid-20th and late-20th-century when Griffin Empire became the cradle of postmodern philosophy.

Music[edit | edit source]

Griffin has a long and varied musical history. It experienced a golden age in the 17th century thanks to Griffin Royal Family^[17] which employed a number of talented musicians and composers in the royal court. Griffin composers played an important role during the music of the 19th and early 20th century. Romantic music emphasised a surrender to nature, a fascination with the past and the supernatural, the exploration of unusual, strange and surprising sounds, and a focus on national identity. This period was also a golden age for operas.

Later came precursors of modern classical music - early-20th-century Griffin avant-garde and impressionist music. Griffin music then followed the rapid emergence of pop and rock music at the middle of the 20th century. Although English-speaking creations achieved popularity in the country, Griffin pop music, has remained more popular. Although there are very few rock bands in Griffin Empire compared to other countries, bands such as Modá, Ewert and the Two Dragons and Winny Puhh have reached worldwide popularity.

Other Griffin artists with international careers have been popular in several countries, most notably female singers LALEH, Medina, Liis Lemsalu, Sandra Nurmsalu and Annalisa, electronic music pioneers PULS, later NOËP, Púr Múdd, Martin Solveig and David Guetta, as well as other electronic duos reached worldwide popularity and contributed to the reputation of modern electronic music in the world.

Among current musical events and institutions in Griffin Empire, many are dedicated to classical music and operas. The most prestigious institutions are the state-owned Natsionalneiska Õepra (with its two sites Bitniska Õepra and Stella Õepra), Hermýniskaja Õepra, the Üodorjo Teater in Kralingslæting, the Teater mei Kaptöllä in Göldtsit and the Grandiozsiska Teater Pyetsitiskaja. As for music festivals, there are several events organised, the most popular being Griffiniskaja Laul, VSFestivaal, Fajerotjeetdane and Rock-ja-lina. The Musicquedaign, imitated by many foreign cities, was first launched by the Griffin Government in 1982. Major music halls and venues in the Empire include Kralarrenaa, Nýtarrenaa and many others.

Cinema[edit | edit source]

Tanoiran actress Jessica Jung at the Hjemtilëiyl Film Festival red carpet.

Griffin Empire has historical and strong links with cinema. The world's first female filmmaker, Aliis Koha-Breuoo, was also from Griffin Empire. Several important cinematic movements began in the country. It is noted for having a strong film industry, due in part to protections afforded by the Government of Griffin Empire. Griffin Empire remains a leader in filmmaking, producing more films than any other Western Natian country. The nation also hosts the Hjemtilëiyl Film Festival, one of the most important and famous film festivals in the world.

Hjemtilëiyl Film Festival award ceremony

Apart from its strong and innovative film tradition, Griffin Empire has also been a gathering spot for artists from across Natia. For this reason, Griffin cinema is sometimes intertwined with the cinema of foreign nations. Directors from nations such as Effiland, Svobodnia, Solentoya, New Bander State, Rahasia-Diati and Arkodrë are prominent in the ranks of Griffin cinema. Conversely, Griffin directors are extremely successful in other countries. Griffin Empire is currently the 2nd exporter of films in the world.

Fashion[edit | edit source]

Fashion has been an important industry and cultural export of Griffin Empire since the 17th century. Today, Kralingslæting is considered one of the world's fashion capitals, and the city is home or headquarters to many of the premier fashion houses. The expression hootäqtuurr (haute couture) is, in Griffin Empire, a legally protected name, guaranteeing certain quality standards.

The association of Griffin Empire with fashion and style (Griffin: modai, Old Griffin: modá) dates largely to the reign of Gustav XVIII when the luxury goods industries in Griffin Empire came increasingly under royal control and the Griffin royal court became, the arbiter of taste and style in Natia. But Griffin Empire renewed its dominance of the high fashion industry in the years 1860–1960 through the establishing of the great couturier houses. The Griffin perfume industry is world leader in its sector and is centered on the town of Klezs, Meremaa.

Media[edit | edit source]

Best-selling daily national newspapers in Griffin Empire are Griffin Todan, SaudiGriffinisk', Madnait, and Vaikli; local newspapers like Kralingslætingiskaja, Kralewskovgrad Todan, Hetimaa Folknouevele, Hermýniske, and Filipolisöpostennä; Sparrtimaa dedicated to sport.

Griffiniskaja Televisioon[edit | edit source]

Griffiniskaja Televisioon (GTV) is the Griffin public national television broadcaster. It is a state-owned company divided into 6 main channels and 8 regional channels that serve 7 Griffin principalities. It is currently funded by the revenue from television licence fees and commercial advertising. Commercial advertising on the public television channels is strictly forbbiden.

Programming[edit | edit source]

News programmes are an important part of GTV. Since 1972 there have been two main news programmes: Nouevele et Nýt ý dágn. The two news programmes had completely separate organizations, meaning a lot of duplicated coverage was provided. After some co-operation in the 1990s, the two programmes were allowed to merge in 2000 with the newly created G-NOUEVELE to form a single organization. GTV also broadcasts video news on the Internet through a service called PLAIYÖ.

GTV provides news programmes in various minority languages: Effinsk, Gvozdian, Tybaltevan, Pyreican, French and Griffin Sign Language.

Entertainment shows on Fridays and Saturdays are, together with popular sports, the programmes that attract the largest audiences.

Griffiniskaja Laul is very popular in Griffin Empire. The show generally gets around 17 million viewers.
Wildeting, the original Griffin version of Survivor.
Gåřůńdtýkvëd, popular entertainment quiz
Tpak mjere popgudiskast! - a reality television show where each artist attempts to do their own version of another artist's well-known songs, with each person getting an episode featuring all of their songs being performed by the other musicians. The artists spend eight days together at a hotel in Meremaa, where they attempt to put their own stamps on the songs
Laulemo tügeris - broadcast live from various locations in the country, this popular summer show features sing-alongs with Griffin folk music. The first sing-along was held in 1935 in the Blaaföntanshke. Radio transmissions of the event started shortly after that. The sing-along has been a tradition every summer since then.
GTV hosted the five Waiting List Song Contest related events
GTV produces drama in several genres and forms.
- Fërpdtëlsk was one of the most popular soap operas in Griffin Empire.

Channels[edit | edit source]

GTV 1 - The company's primary channel with the largest viewing audience
GTV 2 - Broadcasting in minority languages
GTV ^ÄLT - Broadcasting in Old Griffin language
GTV ^LÝF - Focuses on sports, sitcom, arts, music and entertainment
GTV ^ARS - Specializing in theatre, opera and drama
G-NOUEVELE - A 24-hour news channel
Regional channels include:
- GTV ^FOR - Foreõsvdetrre
- GTV ^ÕKL - Õklingsmaa
- GTV ^PZY - Pzyerüyölkeä
- GTV ^FÄR - Färzas - Lætingmaa (Färzas region)
- GTV ^LÆT - Färzas - Lætingmaa (Lætingmaa region)
- GTV ^WES - Westersund
- GTV ^SLE - Sletterimaa
- GTV ^MER - Meremaa

Society[edit | edit source]

According to a GTV poll, Griffin Empire is globally seen as a positive influence in the world's affairs. The Natian Brand Index suggests that the Empire has one of the best international reputations. A global opinion poll for the GTV saw Griffin Empire ranked among the top most positively viewed nation in the world.

Griffinians are found to have the highest level of religious tolerance and to be the country where the highest proportion of the population defines its identity primarily in term of nationality and not religion. The magazine International Living often ranks Griffin Empire as "best country to live in".

The First and Second Griffin Renaissance continue to permeate the country's collective memory.

Griffin Empire is one of the world leaders of gender equality in the workplace and was ranked by the Natia Bank as one of the countries where women have the same work rights as men. Griffin Empire is one of the most liberal countries in the world when it comes to LGBT rights: a Research Center poll found that almost 100% of the Griffinians think that same-sex relationships should be accepted by society. Griffin Empire never criminalized same-sex marriage and adoption. Griffin Empire is also committed to protecting the environment: recently, Griffin Empire was ranked 2nd in the Environmental Performance Index (behind neighboring Pyreica).

Cuisine[edit | edit source]

Griffin cuisine is renowned for being one of the finest in the world. According to the regions, traditional recipes are different, the most of the country prefers to use butter or animal fat as the preferred fat for cooking, whereas olive oil is more commonly used in Meremaa. Moreover, each region of Griffin Empire has iconic traditional specialities. Griffin most renowned products are wines, as well as a large variety of different cheeses. There are more than 400 different varieties. In addition to its wine tradition, Griffin Empire is also a major producer of beer and rum. The three main Griffin brewing regions are Lætingmaa (60% of national production), Gvozdisletterid Region in Sletterimaa and Färzas.

Griffin cuisine is also regarded as a key element of the quality of life and the attractiveness of Griffin Empire. A Griffin publication, the Nauram guide, awards Nauram stars for excellence to a select few establishments. The acquisition or loss of a star can have dramatic effects on the success of a restaurant.

References[edit | edit source]

↑ Although it is considered just a dialect of Griffin language, it is recognised as the minority language in the duchy of Lætingmaa, however not in the principality of Färzas - Lætingmaa
↑ Although Griffin Empire has traditionally been seen as a unitary state, an alternative description of a "union state" can be used. A union state is considered to differ from a unitary state in that while it maintains a central authority it also recognises the authority of historic rights and infrastructures of its component parts.
↑ Norigin Central Time
↑ Thread
↑ [grifiniskaja djiktjionarji:tji:]
↑ [gryːfyːnyːʃk dji:ktji:o’naɹileht]
↑ Old Griffin: Öśdtsdtlāř söm ët!
↑ Not to be confused with Griffin name for Pyreica - Dnimdjerimaa which is a word with the same direct translation.
↑ Often shortened to just Dëmöskrátén
↑ Fȫồrůxș lỗ gřỹfỹńškë lặńg
↑ Då̃ýš ląńgüt lå
↑ Öppgövëtt ý döýš ląngüătt lå
↑ Ląńgüąť ẗü slüzbėńšȼ rėförmāẗíąōn
↑ Hermýniskaja esfõre
↑ Formerly the main priest of Griffin Empire and head of the organised Griffin faith
↑ Griffin title of duke is Fihfitsleht
↑ House of Trëskaslýð æð Knét at the time

[1] Although it is considered just a dialect of Griffin language, it is recognised as the minority language in the duchy of Lætingmaa, however not in the principality of Färzas - Lætingmaa

[2] Although Griffin Empire has traditionally been seen as a unitary state, an alternative description of a "union state" can be used. A union state is considered to differ from a unitary state in that while it maintains a central authority it also recognises the authority of historic rights and infrastructures of its component parts.

[3] Norigin Central Time

[4] Thread

[5] [grifiniskaja djiktjionarji:tji:]

[6] [gryːfyːnyːʃk dji:ktji:o’naɹileht]

[7] Old Griffin: Öśdtsdtlāř söm ët!

[8] Not to be confused with Griffin name for Pyreica - Dnimdjerimaa which is a word with the same direct translation.

[9] Often shortened to just Dëmöskrátén

[10] Fȫồrůxș lỗ gřỹfỹńškë lặńg

[11] Då̃ýš ląńgüt lå

[12] Öppgövëtt ý döýš ląngüătt lå

[13] Ląńgüąť ẗü slüzbėńšȼ rėförmāẗíąōn

[14] Hermýniskaja esfõre

[15] Formerly the main priest of Griffin Empire and head of the organised Griffin faith

[16] Griffin title of duke is Fihfitsleht

[17] House of Trëskaslýð æð Knét at the time

[1]

[2]

[3]

[4]

[5]

[6]

[7]

[8]

[9]

[10]

[11]

[12]

[13]

[14]

[15]

[16]

[17]