User:TheKnightOfOyashiro/The Great War

The Great War was series of related conflicts taking place in various settings around the globe from the beginning of the so-called Pacific War -- predominantly a naval war between Japan and the American states -- to the end of the European War.

The War was one of the most influential in human history -- it saw the rise of both Communist and Fascist governments in the losing powers, as well as the decline of several previously very powerful nationstates.

Background
The Great War began as a localized colonial conflict between the United States of America, her allies, and the Empire of Japan; the source of the strife was contested ownership of Wake and Midway island. In Europe, decades of German complete domination of the political scene left the other powers feeling very resentful, especially France and Russia. Germany had long had a vested interest in Central Europe following their successful partition of Austria which saw Galicia made an independent state.

Meanwhile, the Qing, who had always seen themselves as being slighted by the westerners, had attained a degree of westernization which would lead to them aligning with Germany and America against their two primary enemies -- Japan and Russia.

In South America, the Empire of Brazil had outstanding claims to several provinces which had long been held by Peru.

Genesis: The Pacific War
For about a decade, Japan and the United States had been locked in a race to gain control over two key islands -- Wake and Midway. Japan, having already been denied colonies elsewhere, was keen to establish their own overseas empire. The Emperor, Taishou, had refused to back down from the challenge the United States presented, and ultimately hostilities broke out in June of 1906. Having already made preparations, the Imperial fleet was already set on a course for Hawaii -- a staging point for further operations in the area.