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      SHŌWA 45 | AUGUST 1970

        理髪店帝国
        BARBERSHOP EMPIRE

     L U X U R Y    B A R B E R 

         オー・スネイル 富士山に登ろう でも、ゆっくり、ゆっくり 
        
        O Snail; Climb Mount Fuji But slowly, slowly!

    OSAKA, OSAKA — EVENING
    OSAKA PREFECTURE, Nippon-Nihon

    | With money scarce and hairstyles getting longer, many men take time between haircuts. In some cities, barbers say their business is down between 25% and 50%. However, barbers’ problems seem small when compared to those of barber chair manufacturers. It was a cozy industry for many years; Several national companies saw their profits grow, constantly selling around 10,000 chairs a year to the 100,000 American barbershops. Then, in 1957, with the establishment of Osaka’s Takara Belmont Co. in the United States, a classic Japanese takeover began. Takara’s copying skills were so deft that a kind of Japanese record for daring was set. Its first models were almost exact copies of chairs produced by the leading American manufacturer, Chicago’s Emil J. Paidar Co. The parts were interchangeable. Therefore, if chair parts broke, Takara simply purchased replacement parts from Paidar, eliminating the need for expensive shipping or an even more expensive service network. |

    | In addition to selling its chairs for 20% to 30% less than American chairs, Takara introduced a concept of planned obsolescence. New models are now released every 18 months. As a result, the firm’s chairs are often more advanced than anything the competition has. Takara’s latest model, sold in the United States for $1,000, is the ultimate in tonsorial care. It has a wraparound shape and a hydraulic system that automatically raises the seat and carefully lowers the backrest for massages or hot towel treatments; while clients’ hair is cut, an electrical system in the chair massages their back and calves. The firm’s salespeople boast that their chair is only for a king. Two users of the chairs are Emperor Hirohito, who has one in the Imperial Palace, and King Bhumibol of Siam. Takara holds 70% of the American market and earns $25 million worldwide. It inaugurated an assembly plant in Somerset, New Jersey, last year and acquired the Koken Companies, Inc.’s barber chair subsidiary. Currently, there is only one major American-owned manufacturer left: Paidar. The firm once held 70% of the market, but is now so troubled that President RICHARD NIXON gave it government assistance. |

    | Takara’s head is HIDENOBU YOSHIKAWA, 70, having founded the firm 49 years ago. A devout Buddhist, Yoshikawa says that all of his business ideas are conceived, including entering the American market, during his daily periods of prayer. Takara’s $1,000,000 “Beautilion” at the Osaka World Expo is a pile of steel tubes and rounded capsules, reflecting YOSHIKAWA’s extravagant sense of promotion. 48 lotus leaf-shaped barber chairs lift visitors nearly nine feet into the air to view a display projected onto the ceiling; the melancholy soundtrack incorporates YOSHIKAWA’s voice in prayer. Although he is almost bald, YOSHIKAWA never fails to go to the barber, who trims the rest of his hair and gives him a massage. |

International Association Football Federation | Fédération internationale de football association

FIFA World Cup 1970 | Copa Mundial de la FIFA 1970

THE GROUP STAGES (PART 3)

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After some intense matches thus far, we come to the final day of the group stage, with many groups already set for the knockout stages and some that are going down to the wire. We've seen some strong performances from some of the debut teams, with some in a strong position to advance to the next round, and already others having done so, and some shocking first-round exits from the giants of football. The World Cup hasn't failed to excite so far, and this final round of matches should provide some nail-biting football for the fans across the world to get ready for. It all comes down to this ahead of the next round, let's join our commentary team for the full match recaps.

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Group A

China PR v Bulgaria

Both sides competing today are well within a chance to qualify for the next round as we enter this match, with both teams in reach of the next round. China have not had the wonder-run that other debutants have had, and Bulgaria look in danger of not repeating their Round of 16 performance in the previous tournament. A win for either side should be enough to send them through, depending on the performance of the next match. The match begins and both sides start fighting for possession, hoping to use their skill to push for the advantage early on. China playing some strong offensive play to press the Bulgarians, but to no avail. The breakthrough comes in the 30th minute, a well-delivered corner finding Petar Zhekov to make it 1-0. From here, the Europeans settle into the match, and Hristo Bonev makes it two after a fantastic strike before the end of the first half. Hoping to redeem themselves, China make some excellent chances in the early stages of the first half, but still aren't able to penetrate the Bulgarian defence. Georgi Asparuhov makes it 3 after a superb run, showcasing his skill, and striking home to seal Bulgaria's lead in place. Not long after, it's 4 goals to nil as Bonev heads it from a corner kick, holding the score until the end of the match. A disappointing but encouraging result for China, making it to the World Cup ahead of staunch opposition, but not enough to secure a wonder-run. Bulgaria take home their only win, 4-0 against China.

South Africa v Colombia

Colombia already have their foot in the door for the knockout stages, but it's South Africa who will have to fight to make their way through to the next round. The kick-off sees the two teams clamoring for the ball, Colombia making some strong plays in the early match, clearly the superior side. The South Africans aren't prepared to give up that easily though, playing extremely well from the counter attack and pushing forward to try and secure an early lead. Poor defending leads to a South African penalty just 18 minutes in, neatly tucked away by the captain August Makalalane to give the Springboks the lead. However, within minutes, Colombia find the answer, as Luis Paz secures a fantastic header from a free kick to bring the match level again. The first half drags on as both sides make good plays into each-others halves, but neither can secure that all-important goal. As the second half commences, Colombia look eager to complete a perfect group stage, but it's the South Africans that hold possession. With just 20 minutes of play, young striker Kenneth Mazibuko secures a wonder strike from an excellent counter-attack to give the African side a well-deserved lead. Colombia try to push for the counter, looking for that equaliser, but to no avail as the scoreline stays the same at the final whistle. South Africa qualify for the Round of 16 for the first time in their history, a dramatic finish to an incredible group, beating the hosts 2-1.

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Group B

Korea v Uruguay

Both teams here need a win to advance to the next round, it's the battle of Group B as Korea face Uruguay. Korea haven't been able to replicate their performance in the previous tournament, struggling in their opener whilst Uruguay look to make it to the knockout stages after missing out on the tournament for some time. The teams spring into action and the Uruguayans immediately look more comfortable in possession, forcing Korea to chase the ball from them. Within 10 minutes, Roberto Matosas delivers a fantastic header from the corner to give the South Americans the lead. Korea look for a response, pressing hard into the Uruguayan box, and are rewarded when a handball awards them a penalty, slotted away by Chung Ho-seon for the equaliser. The first half sees the teams run back and forth, with counter-attack after counter-attack exhausting them. The second half begins and Korea look to be on the offensive, learning their lessons from the first half. By the 51st minute, it's Kim Jin-kooks header that sends the Koreans into the lead and renews their hopes for qualification. Seeking to drop back and defend, the Uruguayans now face the Korean midfield as they look for a way through. Pedro Rocha delivers in an incredible shot from outside of the box that thunders into the back of the net, delivering them the goal they needed to equalise. Despite their best efforts, Korea fail to find an answer by the final whistle. Uruguay triumphant as they march to the next round, Korea wishing they could've done better as they tumble out of this tournament.

Costa Rica v Yugoslavia

Yugoslavia proved dominant in their group with two wins under their belt, facing against Costa Rica, notable giant killers, for the final match. The first half looks to be fairly even, with the Central Americans having some extremely good chances to take the lead in the first half, but unable to capitalise on any of them. Yugoslavia look out of shape, struggling to find their rhythm as the manager plays reserve players, no doubt to rest their main squad for the upcoming knockout round. The first half sees no credible chances by it's close, with both sides underperforming. Costa Rica enter the second half with a mission, outplaying the Yugoslavs in the early stages and rapidly countering any efforts to score, trying to get the lead. The Yugoslav keeper is put to the test as he fends off attack after attack. As the match enters the closing stages, it's looking like a tie until a tackle in the Costa Rican box awards a controversial penalty, with Dragan Dzajic slotting the ball away to give Yugoslavia a late lead. Yugoslavia will advance to the next round with a perfect group stage record, confident of a strong performance in this years tournament.

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Group C

Iran v West Germany

Iran may be out of the tournament but that won't step them from bringing their best to face the reigning World Champions. The match begins with Iran looking to try and disrupt the traditionally strong German midfield, holding them back from making any credible runs at goal. The Iranians look to try and counter but the formidable German defence led by Beckenbauer doesn't let anything through, with the scoreline remaining level by the end of the first half. The second half sees a now tired Iranian side contend with the German offensive, who within 6 minutes see the first goal coming from a superb long-strike from star forward Gerd Muller to give them the lead. Not moments later, Uwe Seeler and 1966 hero secures the second goal with a comfortable tap in from a cross. The Germans fail to score again as Iran try their best to claw back points from this encounter, but fail to do so, as West Germany secure their spot in the next round.

Haiti v France

A rivalry for the ages as Haiti face against France in this final match, both sides capable of advancing to the next round. Haiti have proven a dangerous opponent in this tournament thus far, with France being among the strongest competitors they've ever faced. Nevertheless, as the match starts, France appear in control of the match, holding possession in the midfield. However, in a shock turn of events, Claude Barthelemy seizes possession from the midfield and makes a wonder run towards goal, securing a strike that sends Haiti into the lead against their rivals. Stunning the French, Haiti approach the rest of the half with confidence, and by the 41st minute, secure a second goal from an incredible free-kick from Philippe Vorbe to give the Caribbeans a two-goal lead into the second half. France now have it all to do as they fight to reclaim the lead against their opponents, their first coming from a thunderous shot by Charly Loubet that nearly tears the net from the goalposts. However, Haitian defending prevents any immediate equalisers, and the French fans look tense and worried that they will be eliminated in the first round for the second year running. In the final 10 minutes, however, Marc Molitor secures the equaliser, his header bringing France back into contention. Haiti try to find the counter attack, but their fate is sealed when a tap in from Herve Revelli sends France into the lead with only 3 minutes remaining. Haiti may be out but they've proven themselves a force to be reckoned with, and they can take a lot of positives away from this tournament.

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Group D

Ghana v Norden

Norden face against Ghana in this match, where Norden need to win in order to keep themselves in with a chance to qualify for the next round in the face of poor performances. As the first half begins, within 3 minutes, the Nordic side find themselves ahead after an early goal from Bosse Larsson, giving the Scandinavians some early hopes. Ghana hold their ground for much of the first half, hoping not to give any more ground against their opponents whilst looking for an opportunity to fight back and claim an equaliser. However, Leif Eriksson manages to secure Nordens second with a driven ball finding it's way into the Ghanaian net. 2-0 at the break, Ghana needed to find something to keep them into the match, despite early efforts not bearing any fruit. Ibrahim Sunday finally manages to get Ghana back into the match with a fantastic goal from the counter-attack. Just when hopes were renewed, however, Egil Olsen secured Norden's third goal with a header from a long cross, giving Ghana another mountain to climb which in the final 10 minutes, they fail to do. Final score 3-1 to Norden, Ghana go home after a difficult first tournament.

Kurdistan v Italy

Kurdistan needed to secure a point against Italy to keep themselves ahead of Norden, against Italy who had already qualified. The 1966 runners-up were a difficult opponent for the debutants to face. As the match began, spirits were high in the Kurdish camp, looking to cause yet another upset as they had done against Norden. However, their enthusiasm was challenged with Giga Riva's opening goal within 11 minutes sending the Italians into the lead. Kurdistan held on for the remainder of the first half, racking up a lot of chances but failing to breach the Italian keeper and get the equaliser. As the second half began, Italy looked to take control of the match and secure their lead. Angelo Domenghini managed to do just that, with a strike from the corner kick sending Italy 2-0 up. Now facing an insurmountable challenge, the Kurdish side tried their best to find the equaliser, coming close on many occasions, but their fate was sealed with a second goal from Riva bringing the score up to 3-0, and sending the Asian hopefuls out of the tournament. A strong performance from Kurdistan, but not enough as they find themselves out of the World Cup.

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Group E

Nigeria v Brazil

Nigeria face off against Brazil, in an all important match for the African side that could see them with a chance to go through. The Brazilians are the favourites for the tournament, which could hinder their hopes for the next round. The match begins and the teams clash, their fast-paced play styles creating some entertaining football for the fans as the first half progresses. Despite some good chances from the Nigerians, it's Brazil that take the lead in the 33rd minute, Pele heading the ball home for the South Americans. In just a matter of minutes, star striker Tostao gets his name on the scoresheet with a fantastic run into the box resulting in yet another goal as the first half is dominated by the Brazilians. The second half sees Nigeria struggle to find an answer but fight nonetheless, with some excellent football seeing them outpace the Brazilian midfield and secure some good chances. Nigeria's fate is ultimately sealed when Jairzinho fires home the third and final goal to give Brazil a comfortable win over the African debutants.

Poland v Portugal

With Nigeria out of the running, Poland and Portugal fight for the final qualification spot, with both sides capable of heading through given the right circumstances. Poland looking strong after their first match scoring 3 against Brazil but suffering that defeat against Nigeria, they head into the first half confident, looking for early control of the match against the Portuguese. Portugal stand firm in the early stages of the match, making use of an experienced midfield to prevent the Poles from making any early gains. Despite this, the Polish side look firmly in command of the match, recording better statistics for the early stages of the match than their opponents. As the second half begins, Poland remain in control and push to try and get the first goal, which comes from a free-kick deflection as striker Lubanski sends the Eastern Europeans into the lead. The goal rattles the Portuguese defence, now on the back foot, and pushing their midfielders to do more to maintain the status quo. Their efforts see some chances form from some counter-attacks but not enough to secure the equaliser. Lubanski makes it 2 for Poland after an excellent volley, sending the Poles into the lead which they hold for the rest of the match. However, by the end, it's not enough as they fall short of the goals needed, sending Portugal through to the next round.

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Group F

Argentina v Spain

In dramatic fashion, both of these sides were eliminated after the last match, with this match being the one many were expecting to be the highlight of the group and the potential battle for first place. In a shocking turn of events, neither of these teams will go through, as they battle for what will ultimately be a consolation prize. As the match begins between these old rivals, Spain look to try and get an early goal against their frankly deflated opponents, making some early runs into the box to try and secure the goal. Argentina hold on the defensive to try and prevent any attacks, stopping a number of early Spanish chances from hitting the net. The deadlock was broken when Spaniard Juan Manuel Asensi struck a fantastic free-kick. The goal, warmly received by the fans, did not do much to improve the mood of the Spanish team for the remainder of the first half. The second half saw little movement, with Spain still firmly in control of the match, and Argentina seemingly unable to respond to the mounting pressure. By the end of the match, Spain leave with a consolation win to mark an unremarkable campaign for both sides.

Cameroon v Netherlands

Cameroon shocked the world with their successive defeats of both Spain and Argentina, can they make it 3 for 3 with their final match against the similarly dominant Dutch? The match begins with Cameroon looking to strike early, trying to take the advantage and hold onto an early lead. However, the Dutch midfield proves too strong for them, implementing total football to extents not seen in this tournament as they retain possession away from the African side. Despite holding the ball, they don't seem able to do much with it, as they struggle to find a path through before the end of the first half. The second half bodes similar with very little movement from either side, Cameroon struggling to make use of the counter-attack that did wonders in their first games, whilst the Netherlands struggle to out--play the more physical African side. Final whistle, and despite an underwhelming 0-0 draw, both teams advance to the next round, Cameroon making history as they secure one of the all-time great debut performances.

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Group G

Peru v Australia

It's one or the other to advance to the knockout stages, as Peru take on Australia for a spot in the Round of 16. Both sides level on points with Australia just ahead on goal difference, a win will take either side through to the next round. The match begins and Peru demonstrate their dominance in the early stages, their talented side holding onto the possession and displaying some superb skill to weave around the Australians, who are forced to defend. Teofilo Cubillas opens up scoring with a wonder strike that rattles the frame of the goal to send the Peruvians ahead after 18 minutes, to the adoration of the crowd. Australia struggle to fight back, with their counter attacks swamped by the Peruvian defence, with the statistics favouring Peru in the first half. Five minutes into the second half, and Peru make it a two nil lead with Chumpitaz' header finding the back of the net to secure their lead. Peru drop back to defend, not looking to over-extend themselves, whilst the Australians batter their keeper with shot after shot. A few close calls but Peru hold on to secure three points and send them through to another knockout stage.

Guatemala v England

England look to complete a perfect group stage against already eliminated Guatemala, as the Central Americas hope to at least secure some token achievements from this difficult match. England looked in charge of the match from the get go, dominating nearly all statistics and holding nearly all possession for the first ten minutes of the match. The breakthrough for England came when Bobby Charlton converted a fantastic free kick to give England the lead. This lead was again secured after a corner ball found Geoff Hurst just moments later, securing a 2-0 lead and setting Guatemala on the back-foot. The relative ease of the match lead to England opting for some early changes when the half-time came, looking to rest some of their key players for the next round. Substitute Francis Lee was rewarded with his first World Cup goal, converting a penalty in the 46th minute to make it 3-0. With that goal, England's victory was secured, with Guatemala fighting to try and secure a consolation goal but finding themselves unable to do so by the end of the match.

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Group H

Romania v Sudan

Romania had been experiencing a strong return to the World Cup whilst Sudan had struggled, especially after their harsh defeat to Mexico in the previous match. This match would therefore be all important to determine who will go through to the next round. The two sides came into the match even, with both sides enjoying strong runs of form and boasting talented squads. However, clumsy defending lead to an early penalty for Sudan, Ali Gagarin giving them the lead in just 10 minutes. Romania did not let up, with their impressive midfield gradually fighting to get Romania back into position, and Nicolae Dobrin striking to bring the Romanians level at the 27th minute. Romania managed to secure their lead before the end of the first half, with Gheorghe Tataru striking to make the score 2-1 in the 35th, Sudan failing to find an answer before the end of the first half. In the second half, Sudan looked to be more proactive, leading possession and shooting statistics as the Romanians dropped back to defend. Despite fierce resistance, Jaksa Abbas managed to weave his way past the Romanian defenders to equalise in the 73rd minute and bring the score level again. However, despite many efforts, neither side could secure the winning goal, leaving both teams with a point apiece and Romania with a ticket to the next round.

Czechoslovakia v Mexico

The final group stage match would be contested between the Czechoslovaks, a team on a visible decline for international glory, and Mexico, who had performed excellently in recent years. Mexico already through to the next round, Czechoslovakia would need a win to try and secure their place in the next round. The first half saw a constant back and forth between the two teams, with Mexico taking a narrow advantage but neither side able to make a serious dent against one another. This play seemingly exhausted many of the players, especially at the altitude of the stadiums. The score remained level at the end of the first half, and looked to remain that way in the second. However, a poor tackle at the very edge of the box lead to Mexico being awarded a free kick, which flew towards the goal but deflected from the keeper, before being slotted away by Gustavo Pena for the lead. Mexico held onto this lead until the very end, securing their spot and sending Czechoslovakia home from yet another World Cup.

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International Association Football Federation | Fédération internationale de football association

OFFICIAL WORLD CUP FACTBOOK

GLOBAL PARTNERS

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THE WINDS OF CHANGE...

August 1, 1970
Vientiane, Laos Province, Kingdom of Siam

| The air was oppressively thick, even in the ornate office of Phoui Sananikone, as Laos Province sweltered through the middle of its wet season. A fan spun rapidly and hummed as the Governor read over a report from the garrison at Muang Het, who had just held off their second incursion from the PAVN in three months, this one far less confidently than the first it seemed. |

| The inaugural Governor of the 'Laos Province' formed following the Siamese invasion of 1967, Phoui, former Prime Minister of the now-defunct Kingdom of Laos, was highly popular, having been born into an aristocratic family and served various roles in the Royal Lao Government, before it was overthrown by the communist Pathet Lao. Somewhat reluctantly joining the Siamese collaborationists following the Pathet Lao coup and resulting Civil War - he'd sooner put a handgun in his mouth than support communists - Phoui had done his best to help combat the communists in the eastern reaches of Laos, while not squeezing his people dry of resources in doing so. Chief among his proudest achievements in this mission was convincing King Rama IX not to enact conscription among Laotians, arguing this would only turn favour further against the intervention in both Laos and Vietnam, and risk more soldiers deserting and defecting. |

| As Phoui pored over the frightening casualty figures in the report before him, there was a thump on the door, and before he could draw himself from the report and ask who it was, a voice he had heard a few times over the phone, and only once in-person, spoke from the other side of the door. |

    | Rama IX, King of Siam: | "Phoui, I hope we are not interrupting anything. May we come in?"

| The Governor paused, fully recognising the voice after a moment but surprised that it would be here, this far from the heartland. He gripped his desk before standing at attention. |

    | Phoui Sananikone, Governor of Laos Province: | "...Y-Your Majesty! Please, come in!"

| With that, the King entered the office, flanked by a stocky man who, like Phoui, was decorated with several military honours upon his breast. Phoui didn't fully recognise him, but had a feeling he had seen the man before. The duo sat at the chairs across from Phoui's, and Phoui sat back down too. |

    | Rama IX, King of Siam: | "Phoui, this is Vang Pao. Vang, Phoui Sananikone, Governor of this fine province."

| Vang smirked slightly and bowed his head. From his appearance Phoui could tell he wasn't Lao, but as the King mentioned his name, his eyebrows raised slightly. |

    | Phoui Sananikone, Governor of Laos Province: | "Vang Pao...Major General of the Royal Lao Army during the Civil War?"

    | Major General Vang Pao: | "The same. And now Major General of the Royal Siamese Army."

    | Phoui Sananikone, Governor of Laos Province: | "Oh...my congratulations to you."

    | Major General Vang Pao: | "I thank you. Your Majesty?"

| The King nodded, clasping his hands together, and looked into Phoui's eyes. |

    | Rama IX, King of Siam: | "...Yes, well, I thought it best to...do you the courtesy of delivering this news to you in-person, rather than over the phone."

| The Governor shifted slightly, both at the eye contact from his sovereign, and the tone of his voice. Vang's smirk seemed to widen. |

    | Phoui Sananikone, Governor of Laos Province: | "...News from Krung Thep, Your Majesty?"

    | Rama IX, King of Siam: | "In a manner of speaking...yes. Phoui...I thank you for your service as Governor of Laos Province over the past three and a half years. But I am here to tell you that you are relieved of your duty."

| Phoui's eyes widened, and he sat there, stunned and silent for a moment. |

    | Phoui Sananikone, Governor of Laos Province: | "...Y-Your Majesty? I...I don't understand. I have performed to my utmost in my capacity as Governor, I-"

    | Rama IX, King of Siam: | "In your capacity, yes. I understand. But I fear you have been too...hmm...soft, Phoui. You have been like a patient mother to your fellow Lao, and perhaps that was needed when your people were first liberated by mine. But Laos needs a firmer hand, one that will guide her to a stronger future. And I believe Vang here is that firmer hand."

| Phoui's eyes widened further, and he looked to Vang, whose smirk was wider than ever. He understood now. Vang was not Lao, not among the ethnic majority of what was once the nation of Laos, now the province. Vang was Hmong, a historically oppressed minority whom the Lao had committed genocide against. |

    | Phoui Sananikone, Former Governor of Laos Province: | "I...I understand, Your Majesty...shall I pack up my things?"

    | Rama IX, King of Siam: | "Yes...you will have 48 hours to vacate the premises. We will leave you be."

| Phoui bowed his head as the King left, Vang flashing Phoui a final smug grin before following the King out. A light, warm rain had begun to fall, and Vang extended an umbrella over the King's head as the two began to walk towards the waiting car. Vang opened the rear left door for the King, who turned to him. |

    | Rama IX, King of Siam: | "Vang...garner more support for the war effort here...ensure we and the Americans watch Ho Chi Minh hang...and your people shall have the homeland they have been denied by the Lao for so long."

    | Major General Vang Pao, Governor of Laos Province: | "It will be done, Your Majesty."

| The King looked into his new Governor's eyes for a moment, then nodded in approval at the conviction he saw in them, before getting into the car. Vang closed the door behind him and saluted as it began its journey to the airport, before turning to the Governor's Palace...what would soon be his new home. |

WHATUUUUUUUUUUUUUUP

| AUGUST | SANZA YA MWAMBE |
| 1970 |

        DRC ★ DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO
        RDC ★ RÉPUBLIQUE DÉMOCRATIQUE DU CONGO  |

PRESIDENT MOBUTU OVERSEES THE ESTABLISHMENT OF EDZ AND SMEI :
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ZONES {EDZ} AND STRATEGIC MUNICIPALITIES OF ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE {SMEI} ESTABLISHED ACROSS THE CONGO TO ALLOW FURTHER LOCAL INITIATIVE TO DEVELOPMENT OF THE REPUBLIC!
PRESIDENT MOBUTU AZO SUIVEZ ESTABLISHMENT YA EDZ NA SMEI :
BA ZONES YA DEVELOPPEMENT ECONOMIQUE {EDZ} NA BA MUNICIPALITÉS STRATÉGIQUES YA IMPORTANCE ECONOMIQUE {SMEI} ESI ETABILÉ NA KONGO PO NA KOTIKA LISUSU INITIATIVE LOCAL PO NA DEVELOPPEMENT YA RÉPUBLIQUE!

| THE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ZONES - BA ZONES YA DÉVELOPPEMENT ECONOMIQUE |

 - Kinshasa Economic Development Zone [KEDZ] | Zone ya Développement économique Kinshasa [ZDÉK] - Provinces within: Bas-Congo, Kinshasa, Bandundu
 - Equatorial Economic Development Zone [EEDZ] | Zone ya développement économique équateur [ZDÉÉ] - Provinces within: Équateur, Orientale
 - Kivu-Lakes Economic Development Zone [KLEDZ] | Zone ya Développement économique ya Kivu-Mabeke [ZDÉKM] - Provinces within: North Kivu, South Kivu
 - Central Economic Development Zone [CEDZ] | Zone Katikati ya Développement économique [ZKDÉ] - Provinces within: Kasaï-Occidental, Kasaï-Oriental, Maniema
 - Shaba Economic Development Zone [SEDZ] | Zone de développement économique ya Shaba [ZDÉS] - Provinces within: Shaba

| STRATEGIC MUNICIPALITIES OF ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE - MUNICIPALITÉS STRATÉGIQUES YA IMPORTANCE ECONOMIQUE |

| Kinshasa, Kinshasa
| Matadi, Bas-Congo
| Banana, Bas-Congo
| Bandundu, Bandundu
| Mbandaka, Équateur
| Kisangani, Orientale
| Kindu, Maniema
| Goma, North Kivu
| Bukavu, South Kivu
| Kanange, Kasaï-Occidental
| Mbuji-Mayi, Kasaï-Oriental
| Lubumbashi, Shaba
| Likasi, Shaba
| Kolwezi, Shaba
| Kalemie, Shaba
| Kikwit, Bandundu
| Bumba, Équateur
| Bunia, Orientale
| Lodja, Kasaï-Oriental

| An intense drive to develop the Congo has always been a strong ideological goal of President Mobutu. The Democratic Republic of The Congo is one of the most vast nations within the continent and its geography and environments were not advantageous to modern development goals. The vast jungles and marshland hindered road and rail developments. A secondary issue to this is the ease that rebels are able to disappear into the bush of the Nation, a headache for the National Security Forces. The Central government decided to allow local initiative to build the interior of the nation with the formation of Economic Development Zones (EDZ). These EDZ will be headed by twenty men who make up the Development Board and all appointed by Mobutu personally. These Boards will be allowed to host foreign intellectuals, businessmen, and politicians to advise in the development of their EDZ. Each EDZ will be required to hold bi-annual meetings for locals to come and discuss issues of infrastructure and security concerns directly to the board. This will promote local involvement in development and assist in building a national identity through involvement in local government. |

| While the boards look at the grand scheme of a Zone development (with approval by President Mobutu) the Central Government and Party have decided that certain areas are to be prioritized and the focus of the Central Government. These are the Strategic Municipalities of Economic Importance (SMEI) which will be under the control of the National Development Board headed by the President. This board will focus on the building of transit infrastructure between these urban/growing municipalities to be the start of a diverse transport network to allow people, goods, materials, and the military to be swiftly moved through the Congo. President Mobutu claims that this program's first phase will see each of these municipalities connected by paved road, rail, air, and water. Paved modern highways would be promised to connect each municipality alongside rail connections, small to large airports based on the size of the municipality, and safe built up river ports to assist in river travel especially along the Congo River. The NDB is made up of thirty men and like the EDZs would be able to bring foreign experts to advise the Board on policy, but unlike the EDZs the NDB will not be required to hold citizen conferences for input. |

      PEACE-JUSTICE-WORK!

      PAIX-JUSTICE-TRAVAIL !

West Indies Federation - August 1970

April-June, Changing Winds

The state of the Black Power Movement has forced the government to attempt reform. With a larger section of the population joining on to the ideals of the movement, failing to meet the call for reform will cost the West Indies Federal Labor Party its control of the government in the next election. In several meetings and cabinet discussions Prime Minister Williams publicly fired 3 ministers who had called for more suppression of the protests, two of whom were white, and replaced them with reformers. He even managed to pull 3 senators, and get the governor-general to appoint new ones who would be more neutral on any bill that passed through. With an executive now more willing to talk reform, that's when the first of those reforms start arriving.

First was the Equal Development Act of 1970, which decreed that the state will create the means by which disenfranchised citizens may achieve business growth and support. The act saw the creation of the National Agricultural Bank, Development Bank and Workers Bank, two financial institutions meant to support farmers, local business, local utilities and services. It would be a start on the road to the new plan on taking control of the Federation's mostly foreign owned industries. Several other acts in line with the Equal Development Act would follow, aiming to address poverty, absentee landlords and other small-scale challenges to the larger goal.

The pattern of ownership in 1970 is reflected in the following statistics:

  • 90% of the oil industry wholly owned by foreigners,

  • 60% of the money made in transport, storage and communications went to foreigners,

  • 43% of the money made in construction was earned by foreign firms,

  • In the Wholesale and Retail distribution sector, foreign ownership was dominant in the larger establishments, e.g. the Cannings group, Bookers (Ross, Stephens, Woolworths, etc.),

  • Almost half (½) of the land in estates over two hundred (200) acres was owned by foreigners.

Prime Minister Williams was not afraid to use the ideals of central authority to steer the economy, and he will need to do it again to weather this storm.

July-August, Filling the Sails

With smaller legislation providing a bed where citizens can be organized effectively, the larger legislation can now begin. The goal of the cabinet is not to hit the country with a sledgehammer, going too fast can cause financial panic and do more harm than good. What they need is a strategic approach that not only gets the country to where they want now but allows them to prepare for the future. The first target it was chosen, would be the oil industry. Consolidating the few state-owned oil industries together, the government formed the West Indies Petroleum Corporation as the nation's largest state oil producer. Through the power of a new bill, the National Oil Act of 1970, the government when on to acquire control over the assets of Shell, Texaco, Tesoro and British Petroleum, taking large amounts away through sales and buyoffs. In a very sudden and rapid change, the new W.I. Petroleum managed to secure a total of 70% of the West Indies Federation's oil industry.

It was a remarkable success for the federal government, one which gave it far more power and leverage, while also placating the ideals of the Black Power Movement. The NJAC even commended the government on its actions in listening to the national call. For the time being, the government is now planning the next set of laws and policies to fight against the foreign ownership of land, the expansion of the public sector in communications, and the overall development of the local private sector. Through a coordinated series of tax breaks, investments, and a change in the national industrial policy, the West Indies Federation is setting itself on track for a Japanese style social democracy and, hopefully, its own economic miracle.

١٩٧٠, Augustus — August, 1970 

Parliament House, Barlama Avenue, Khartoum, Khartoum Province (Mukata’et Khartoum)

    The Republic Of Sudan • جمهورية السودان

      THE ELECTION OF 1970 — MODERATE INFIGHTING FAILS TO CREATE GOVERNMENT — PARLIAMENT SHUTDOWN WITH THE CITY UNDER MARTIAL LAW

The scenes within the Sudanese Parliament have gotten increasingly intense, the assembly has now entered its 2nd week of resumed contentions between members of parliament, amidst the chaos of 1970 election results. Day after day MPs had been locked into heated and hostile debates with one another, what had first started as confusion and uncertainty had transpired into anger, paranoia, bickering, and the exchange of vile insults and threats within a week. It was only a matter of time before things were getting worse.

Al-Tigani Al-Mahi’s party, the Democratic Unionist Party, had emerged as the victors of the 1970 election, triumphing over their liberal counterparts, who had found their popularity dwindling in the face of the last three years. Nevertheless, the DUP and Liberal Coalition had collectively failed to gain the 75 or more majority seats needed in Parliament to establish their moderate government, only coming up to 67 seats in total. Al-Mahi’s prospects of courting the Islamists into being part of a coalition government had fallen short within the first few days after the election. The Islamists themselves had been amid a political scuffle within the Mahdi Umma Party, as the theocratic party was split between hardline Islamists led by Sadigg al-Mahdi, and the moderate Islamist order of Hadi Al-Mahdi.

The ideological split within the MUP had transpired around the nature of the Islamist role within the coalition government, which the hardliners had staunchly opposed political cooperation with a Western-aligned government. Those same hardline viewpoints were ironically beginning to emerge within President Lwoki’s Liberal Party as well, as they now became increasingly opposed to the political coalition to what they see as radical religious extremism. This viewpoint was now threatening the moderate coalition, and their relationship with the DUP, who found the task of establishing a government difficult.

1970 ELECTION RESULTS BY SEATS
150 Available Seats, 75 Needed To Create Government

Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) — 35 Seats
Liberal Party (LP) — 32 Seats
Sudanese Communist Party (SCP) — 31 Seats
National Homeland Party (SCP) — 28 Seats
Umma Party (MUP) — 24 Seats
DUP, LP failed to form a government with a combined total of 67 Seats in Parliament.

The moderate infighting however did not shadow the political struggle occurring in the backgrounds, in the recent weeks of the elections. Tensions between the Communists and Arab Nationalists, as well as the Islamists, were reaching boiling levels, in some cases turning into physical violent alterations, prompting increased military presence in the streets of the capital city and urban centers, followed by SIRA surveillance of the opposition parties.

Nevertheless, the chaos of the political theater had failed to provide Parliament with a government. Lwoki remains the de facto President of the Sudanese Republic, with his eventual successor Al-Mahi of the DUP still acting as Vice President. The infighting within the coalition was beginning to create notions that painted Lwoki as illegitimate, with some DUP members seeking to have Lwoki deposed to recognize the election results. But without a majority in Parliament, Al-Mahi cannot be declared President, creating an obstacle in the transfer of power, a perceived dangerous error in Sudan’s democratic system. As Lwoki entered a second week serving as the temporary President, his proposals to call for a special reelection were met by outrage from the opposition parties, eventually even prompting a certain communist MP to hurl a literal chair at the direction of the President in the middle of his speech. By then emotions were at an all-time high, and hell was let loose. Though the chair didn’t get close to the President, it had hit a DUP MP in the head, sustaining heavy injuries. Soon a brawl broke out on the floor of the assembly for the first time in the history of the Sudanese Parliament. Sticks, chairs, and documents went flying around the room as some MPs engaged in physical combat, with a handful of others trying to pull those fighting apart. Soon after the President had been long gone intelligence services relocated him to a safer location, all whilst armed police and military infiltrated parliament to restore peace and civility on the assembly floor.

The day after, news of the brawl had been spreading nationwide. The public was left stunned and confused by the increase of misinformation flooding the airwaves about the “Parliamentary Brawl” as it came to be known. Confusion and anger were quickly setting in on the streets of the capital, all while the opposition factions carried out a campaign of slander on one another. By then Parliament was closed under orders of the President, under the excuse of national security and stability. Overnight fearful over his life, President Lwoki had then authorized the SIRA’s Director, Gaafar Nimiery, full control and authority over the military and police units within the capital city. Nimiery was tasked with restoring the peace in the capital city by all means, he went about setting up a secure perimeter around Parliament, as crowds and demonstrators began to gather in protest against the incompetence of the Assembly. A second group of protesters has also shown up demanding the President resign and hand the transition of power to President-Elect Al-Mahi, who still has no hopes of creating a coalition government in sight.

Another week it had passed, Khartoum is under martial law. Parliament had yet to return in session, and the Vice President, that is the President-Elect, had not been seen in public since his supporters rioted on Qasr Avenue earlier in the week. Certain radical Communist militias have been engaged in a low-grade exchange of fire and combat with military and police units in the city’s industrial center. The Islamist civil war continues between the Mahdi family. And the Arab nationalists strangely lurk in the background of the chaos. And amidst all the boiling tensions in Khartoum, Gaafar Nimiery had virtually taken full control of the province and the capital city, the men under his command were going door to door not only arresting trouble makers and anarchists but also intimidating and arresting those the Director views as a threat to his plot. Soon all that was left was President Lwoki, whose trust in Director Nimiery had reached a dangerous level. High-ranking staff within the Presidential Office have stated that Lwoki has reached a level where he is prepared to resign and hand the office to his VP. Still, it has also reached a point where the faith of the country now relied a lot more on the powers of the SIRA, than it relied on the office of the President, perhaps it’s too late for the Government to stop Nimiery from what he had plotted all along, ceasing this government, its powers, and the highest office of the Republic.

———————————————
AL-NASRU LENA!
AL-NASRU LE SUDAN!

The Three Princes

| Scene I, Act III |
| Old Rivals, New Challenges |

______________
November, 1970

By November of 1970, President Balewa was much more optimistic about the years ahead, with the ousting and downfall of his closest rival during the April Crisis and managing to consolidate his own powerbase in the influential and powerful Ministry for Finance and Commerce, placing a rising star in Mathew Mbu to head the Ministry and to place former general of the Nigerian Army during the early years of the NRF in 62 and 63, T O S Benson, as the new Senior Minister for Foreign Affairs. Unlike Azikiwe, Mbu did not have the experienced backing to challenge the Presidency, as of yet, but to Balewa’s eyes, he could be the next in line to rival his rule. But for now, the President needed to keep his strongest and most senior allies closest to him, and Mbu was one of them, if not the most influential of them all. But a challenge to his Presidency was maybe not to come inside the party, but outside in Gowon’s Nigerian Renewal Party. Whatever it stood for, it was a threat which was a completely different entity than Azikiwe. Not only was he outside the party, but Yakubu portrayed even greater influence within the military ranks and the media itself and so was not as simple as simply sacking him when the time came, such was for the former Finance minister’s rapid demise.

An economy recovering, slowly, but recovering nonetheless perhaps didn’t place Gowon on the backfoot, but kept him in his place in the pecking order of the political elite. For the sake of popularity and keeping the NRP quiet, he needed an economy growing at a quicker rate, even if his approval ratings had improved throughout the September and October months. He would open up the Assembly earlier than usual in a bid for a large swath of legislative victories, aiming to focus on social reforms on gender, education and protection of rights. With a much more supportive and loyal party in the fall-out of the April Crisis, the President would announce a new set of constitutional adjustments focusing on;

Right to Free Education at a Primary and Secondary Level
Right to Equal Pay between men and women.
Right to the Freedom of Religion and Religious Prayer.
Protection against any gender, racial or age-related discrimination.
Establishment of the Nigerian Supreme Court as an upper body of protecting rights and hearing judicial cases from the public.
Right to a free trial with the establishment of the Judicial Protection Body, which will offer public funds to individuals taking a case to the Supreme Court.

Supported by the vast majority of Assemblymen across the isles, any constitutional amendments, that being all bar the creation of the Supreme Court, would need 2/3 of the Assembly in support. Fortunately the measures put in place by Balewa were not only popular amongst most of the parties bar a few dissidents in the Christian party, but was always going to popular with the public. Passing through with 537 AYE and 13 NAY, the President now looked forward with a boost in the polls and much more popular amongst the NDP. But despite this, the President still wanted to make further reforms, although this time concerning more economically-inclined reforms. While more risky than the amendments passed previously due to having no financial attachment bar the JPB, if he was to win a second term for 1973, Balewa was determined to take advantage of his large parliamentary majority and support from other parties. While the NDP were a big tent party leaning to the right merely due to the economic liberalisation policy and favouring a moderate and more progressive form of social conservatism, Balewa’s key allies were perhaps more inclined to move on more left-leaning reforms such as free university education and the introduction of devolution.

In his second wave of wide-ranging social reforms, the NDP announced 3 separate bills to head through during the late November window in a long-standing session of debate, squabbling, delaying and eventually, voting. The 3 bills on display the General Assembly were;

Free Education Bill - A bill which guarantees that higher education, or university education, will be free of charge and instead see government and local businesses make investments to pay the cost of this.

State Rights Protection Bill - A bill which will set up a referendum in the states of Northern Nigeria, Western Nigeria, Eastern Nigeria, Mid-Western and Biafra region over the creation of a Regional Assembly with the subsequent creation of a Regional Premier.

Federal Devolution of Powers Bill - A bill, with the need of the State Rights Protection Bill to pass, will offer some devolution powers to regional governments. All regions will offered some powers concerning local budgets and some control of social policy, education and healthcare.

The aim of the bills was to decentralise power from the central government in both a bid to empower loyalists who had remained sidelined since the NDF’s victory last year and to increase the popularity of the party and government. While much of the cabinet and party supported all 3 of the bills, Balewa himself was cautious of giving away too much power regions, for which had been one of the factors for the 7-year long civil war. However, if he gave too little, the regional governments would merely act as political blockades for implementing policy rather than a proactive government able to deal with more regional and local issues.

By the end of the session on the 29th November, all 3 bills entered statue and the President would close the assembly for 7 days in preparation for it’s reopening and yearly address in December. Following the success of the two waves of wide-ranging and to an extent, progressive reforms, he would announce the regional elections of both the regional assemblies and Premiers to take place in June, 1971 and would turn to 1973 as the fixed election date, to the same dates of the parliamentary and presidential elections taking place that year.

A success nonetheless for Balewa and his government. While not an attack on Gowon, it was smoke and mirrors offering the NDP and the Nigerian government much-needed time to spur the economy on and prevent the continued rapid climb of the NRF. The battle for Kingship looks to slowly move back into the grasp of the President.

  • Nigerian Democratic Party - 40%

  • Liberal Alliance for Nigeria - 24%

  • Socialist Party of Nigeria - 15%

  • Nigerian Renewal Party - 10%

  • Christian Alliance Party - 5%

  • Biafra Nationalist Party - 3%

The Three Princes

| Scene I, Act III |
| On the front foot of Reform |

______________
September, 1970

By September of 1970, President Balewa was much more optimistic about the years ahead, with the ousting and downfall of his closest rival during the April Crisis and managing to consolidate his own powerbase in the influential and powerful Ministry for Finance and Commerce, placing a rising star in Mathew Mbu to head the Ministry and to place former general of the Nigerian Army during the early years of the NRF in 62 and 63, T O S Benson, as the new Senior Minister for Foreign Affairs. Unlike Azikiwe, Mbu did not have the experienced backing to challenge the Presidency, as of yet, but to Balewa’s eyes, he could be the next in line to rival his rule. But for now, the President needed to keep his strongest and most senior allies closest to him, and Mbu was one of them, if not the most influential of them all. But a challenge to his Presidency was maybe not to come inside the party, but outside in Gowon’s Nigerian Renewal Party. Whatever it stood for, it was a threat which was a completely different entity than Azikiwe. Not only was he outside the party, but Yakubu portrayed even greater influence within the military ranks and the media itself and so was not as simple as simply sacking him when the time came, such was for the former Finance minister’s rapid demise.

An economy recovering, slowly, but recovering nonetheless perhaps didn’t place Gowon on the backfoot, but kept him in his place in the pecking order of the political elite. For the sake of popularity and keeping the NRP quiet, he needed an economy growing at a quicker rate, even if his approval ratings had improved throughout the September and October months. He would open up the Assembly earlier than usual in a bid for a large swath of legislative victories, aiming to focus on social reforms on gender, education and protection of rights. With a much more supportive and loyal party in the fall-out of the April Crisis, the President would announce a new set of constitutional adjustments focusing on;

Right to Free Education at a Primary and Secondary Level
Right to Equal Pay between men and women.
Right to the Freedom of Religion and Religious Prayer.
Protection against any gender, racial or age-related discrimination.
Establishment of the Nigerian Supreme Court as an upper body of protecting rights and hearing judicial cases from the public.
Right to a free trial with the establishment of the Judicial Protection Body, which will offer public funds to individuals taking a case to the Supreme Court.

Supported by the vast majority of Assemblymen across the isles, any constitutional amendments, that being all bar the creation of the Supreme Court, would need 2/3 of the Assembly in support. Fortunately the measures put in place by Balewa were not only popular amongst most of the parties bar a few dissidents in the Christian party, but was always going to popular with the public. Passing through with 537 AYE and 13 NAY, the President now looked forward with a boost in the polls and much more popular amongst the NDP. But despite this, the President still wanted to make further reforms, although this time concerning more economically-inclined reforms. While more risky than the amendments passed previously due to having no financial attachment bar the JPB, if he was to win a second term for 1973, Balewa was determined to take advantage of his large parliamentary majority and support from other parties. While the NDP were a big tent party leaning to the right merely due to the economic liberalisation policy and favouring a moderate and more progressive form of social conservatism, Balewa’s key allies were perhaps more inclined to move on more left-leaning reforms such as free university education and the introduction of devolution.

In his second wave of wide-ranging social reforms, the NDP announced 3 separate bills to head through during the late November window in a long-standing session of debate, squabbling, delaying and eventually, voting. The 3 bills on display the General Assembly were;

Free Education Bill - A bill which guarantees that higher education, or university education, will be free of charge and instead see government and local businesses make investments to pay the cost of this.

State Rights Protection Bill - A bill which will set up a referendum in the states of Northern Nigeria, Western Nigeria, Eastern Nigeria, Mid-Western and Biafra region over the creation of a Regional Assembly with the subsequent creation of a Regional Premier.

Federal Devolution of Powers Bill - A bill, with the need of the State Rights Protection Bill to pass, will offer some devolution powers to regional governments. All regions will offered some powers concerning local budgets and some control of social policy, education and healthcare.

The aim of the bills was to decentralise power from the central government in both a bid to empower loyalists who had remained sidelined since the NDF’s victory last year and to increase the popularity of the party and government. While much of the cabinet and party supported all 3 of the bills, Balewa himself was cautious of giving away too much power regions, for which had been one of the factors for the 7-year long civil war. However, if he gave too little, the regional governments would merely act as political blockades for implementing policy rather than a proactive government able to deal with more regional and local issues.

By the end of the session on the 29th September, all 3 bills entered statue and the President would close the assembly for 7 days in preparation for it’s reopening and yearly address in December. Following the success of the two waves of wide-ranging and to an extent, progressive reforms, he would announce the regional elections of both the regional assemblies and Premiers to take place in June, 1971 and would turn to 1973 as the fixed election date, to the same dates of the parliamentary and presidential elections taking place that year.

A success nonetheless for Balewa and his government. While not an attack on Gowon, it was smoke and mirrors offering the NDP and the Nigerian government much-needed time to spur the economy on and prevent the continued rapid climb of the NRF. The battle for Kingship looks to slowly move back into the grasp of the President.

  • Nigerian Democratic Party - 40%

  • Liberal Alliance for Nigeria - 24%

  • Socialist Party of Nigeria - 15%

  • Nigerian Renewal Party - 10%

  • Christian Alliance Party - 5%

  • Biafra Nationalist Party - 3%

AUGUST , 1970
The "No Free Banks" Act

| As part of the Third Malaysian Plan, the No Free Banks Act would be drafted. To serve as a act of government that establishes a system of national banking and the removal of privately owned banks, otherwise called the "Free Banks", within official documents. |

| The No Free Banks Act states that:

    Section 1:
    There will be an establishment of a official "Central Bank Of Malaysia".
    Section 2:
    To serve as the administrative body of the central bank. There are four levels of directors. The highest level are the Federal Directors Of The Central Bank Committee, which oversees the management of the central bank on a nation wide scale. Next is the State Directors Of The Central Bank Committee, which oversees the management of central banks within their respective states their the committee for. Next is the Directors Of The Central Bank Commune, which oversees the management of central banks within the city/town their commune is in. The lowest level is the Individual Director Of The Central Bank, which is a administrative director for just the one central bank they are stationed in.
    Section 3:
    The Central Bank of Malaysia is responsible for managing the country's money supply, managing inflation and deflation of the currency and making loans.
    Section 4:
    There will be an establishment of the "Emergency Income Committee" which functions as a lender of "last resort". Members of this committee are appointed by the prime minister or the minister of finance, albeit with approval from either the prime minister or legislation.
    "Last resort" is a tool of liquidity to a financial institution which finds itself unable to obtain sufficient liquidity in the market, when other facilities or such sources have been exhausted. It is, in effect, a government guarantee to provide liquidity to financial institutions and the general market as well.
    Section 5:
    All present, Free Banks in Malaysia. Have two options to decide their fate within a 16 days window. Either sell off their ownership of the property to the government for it to become a branch of the central bank or officially disband their free banking enterprise and repurpose the property as a new business.
    If failed to make a decision within that 16 days window. The government will be allowed to seize ownership of the property by force and label the former owner as a "man of treason against the economy".
    |

| With the passage of this act. Immediate effects would not be shown, but as days turn to weeks. Some effects were manifesting, as the Free Banks began cancelling each account that they had under their banks. Some people who weren't particularly aware of news relating to the economy, attempted to sue an organisation that by law wouldn't exist as a legal entity. Some demanded for explanations to why their account was cancelled. However as the news of the No Free Banks Act began to spread, as some former Free Bank owners and lawyers had to explain the current situation of banking in the country. Aside from the common citizen. The former owners of Free Banks were highly critical of the act, due to the acts function as a means of eliminating bank privateering. Some went as far as labelling the current administration as:

    " The true communist threat to the nation. "

Or proclaiming:

    " The communist have already infiltrated Malaysia's government. "

Which began to lower the popularity of Goh Hock Guan and his Prosperity Coalition Party, among the wealthy men with multiple connections. |

______________________________________________

T H E  K I N G D O M  O F  P O R T U G A L  |  O  R E I N O  D E  P O R T U G A L

    𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐂𝐎𝐋𝐎𝐍𝐈𝐀𝐋 𝐖𝐀𝐑𝐒

      -𝐏𝐀𝐑𝐓 𝐎𝐍𝐄 - 𝐑𝐈𝐒𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐑𝐈𝐆𝐇𝐓𝐅𝐔𝐋 𝐅𝐋𝐀𝐆-

| August 16th, 1970 | Praia Military Base, Cape Verde |

| Military Personnel Surrounded the new planes; Portuguese built. The planes were brand new models inspired by the americans. They had brand new features; though they only had four. They were given to the squadron captains, the most notable was Afonso Sousa, a legendary pilot who had previously fought in the Angolan Airforce Bases. Now, he was fighting in Guinea. He marched proudly on the left wing, and he squinted to the thousands of personnel on sight, and waved, they waved in return. The new planes were about to go on a test flight, to see if they even worked. These planes had no previous testing, so who knew how it would turn out.

| Not only was this one of the first planes to be built in Portugal since World War Two, it was one of the most powerful models ever built (in the Portuguese Airforce, that is) multiple Portuguese pilots were told that the americans had much more advanced weaponry, and for that they admired the americans for that. Even though they were enemies up until 1968, they now were allies in this insurgent war.

| AFONSO SOUSA Captain of the 13th Guinean Squadron | "Have the plans been made, Agostinho?"

| AGOSTINHO RIBEIRO 15th Admiral of the 3rd Interior Army | "I believe so, yes."

| AFONSO SOUSA Captain of the 13th Guinean Squadron | "Whats the route through the jungles?"

| AGOSTINHO RIBEIRO 15th Admiral of the 3rd Interior Army | "Through the Bissau Base, then into Quinara, through Tangali, than through the easternmost Bafata Jungles. The land army will be guarding Bissau during our absence, as to protect from well organized forces. We also are planned to request aid from Rhodesia in Angola, however such aid is unrecognized right now."

| AFONSO SOUSA Captain of the 13th Guinean Squadron | "Good. I recall that the Militarist Secretariat would visit Cape Verde to convince the Prime Minister to give funding towards the acts?"

| AGOSTINHO RIBERO 15th Admiral of the 3rd Interior Army | "Yeah, thats right. You should probably get into your form, your squadron is about to go. Good luck out there, Afonso. Follow the route I gave you on the map. Lead your squadron this way, do not go through Oio unless completely necessary. Do not go through otherwise. Good luck, Afonso."

| Afonso gave a charming smile, he then left into the cockpit and did normal procedure. They were ready to unload over the Tangali jungle, where the PAIG base was apparently located. It would be about an hour until they reached Bissau, then the rest of Guinea. The local Verde Portuguese Supporters had volunteered to help the army, in which they proved to be adapted to these conditions. The Independence Movement in Cape Verde started to be extinguished, however rebellions were inevitable to the point where it became regular. The Cape Verde, and the Praia Military had become very loyal to the local enforcement. The jet engines fired, the smell of burning fuel put into the air, and the eardrum splitting sound of the jets blasting and launching across the base. The newest model was an American T-35, which had been sold years prior. The plane was in good condition and was nicknamed the 'Falcão da Morte' for its service in the Squadron and how it operated, in fact, there is a story of the plane going so fast it killed those without even firing any weapons, though this story was obviously, exaggerated. Military funding had really ramped up military production numbers. However, now, the Kingdom has a viable protection to protect itself from the insurgents in Africa and give them a bloody nose; a lesson to not rebel against the rightful crown.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

| Bombing of the Tangali, 1970 |

| Tangali jungle was hit with a suprise attack on the dawn of the morning on August 15th, after efforts from the FAP preserved the colonial air superiorty. The land was still dominated by the PAIG, however, Bissau remained firmly defended with Portuguese forces taking strategic positions around the city. Outside the city, efforts were raging on with the Battle of Oio, which completely depleted PAIG resources. On the legislative scene, the Prime Minister and Parliament passed a resolution for increased military focus on the colonies, especially Angola and Mozambique. The continued defense of the major cities keeps the colonies under the control of the Portuguese, but holds weaken elsewhere. Tangali Base was taken and pillaged by Portuguese forces to make resources out of the base, in order to better keep the colonial unity, the Portuguese enforced new (more fair) laws and removed unfair taxes. The continued adolescence of the colonies had proven through multiple Portuguese defenses in the jungles in the south. Continued advances in Guinea promise a quick end to the 'Portuguese Vietnam' and a new begenning of Colonial Dominance. The French donated weapons given by the French Military have also proven adept to the jungle enviorment.

| Guerrilla Warfare became the bane of the Portuguese forces, increased dozens of militias and different rebel squadrons terminated and annihilated multiple Portuguese forces in the Jungles, while the more open fields were dominated by Portuguese forces. The immense support from outside empires proved to be even more of an annoyance to the Portuguese Soldiers and the PAIG became more and more adept at training, military skill, and marksmanship. The worrying aspect of losing Guinea was not a worry, though, as major progress in cities continued and Portuguese Dominance also was adept and guaranteed on the mainland. The war was becoming a horrible side topic for the Portuguese as the brand new laws passed on the mainland also angered some normal Portuguese. The Sao Tome rebels were dissipated, the island was absent of natives when discovered, thus most were native Portuguese immigrant, and many were faithful to the mainland government, and disregarding the natives, the Cape Verde was the same. It became the Autonomous Regions of Cape Verde and Sao Tome were both admitted and given almost complete autonomy. The brand new incentives introduced new opportunities to the locals and new laws improved life, further lowering independence movements in the two regions.

THE PORTUGUESE COLONIAL WAR


JULY, 1970


Guinea-Bissau

Sao Tome y Principe

KEY
Red- Known Liberation Fronts
Green - Portuguese Occupied


Logo of the Movimento Popular de Libertação de Angola


Military Personnel in the Angolan Jungle

THE BEGINNING OF A COSTLY WAR

La Guerra do Ultramar (EN; The Overseas War) is a conflict that began on the first of July, 1970. The conflict is between multiple different present African Colonies that rebelled against Portuguese Occupation. The Portuguese had previously put a lid on it, but with the international support, the political parties fighting for the independence of their countries increased, and soon, most of the colonial population either supported and fought or rebelled and fought. Guerrilla Warfare became an almost common occurrence. The Portuguese military got an influx of supporters into local militaries or rebel squadrons. The Overseas battles were officially confirmed by the Congress on the 5th of July, and then passed as a deceleration of war against the insurgency on the African mainland. The movement gains traction as multiple Portuguese, ethnic or supporters, conscript into the military to fight for the colony's territorial recognition. In response to the rebel attacks, Portuguese Armed Forces instituted a harsh policy of reciprocity by torturing and massacring rebels and protesters. Some Portuguese soldiers decapitated rebels and impaled their heads on stakes, pursuing a policy of "an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth". Much of the initial offensive operations against Angolan UPA and MPLA insurgents was undertaken by four companies of Caçadores Especiais (Special Hunter) troops skilled in light infantry and antiguerrilla tactics, and who were already stationed in Angola at the outbreak of fighting. Individual Portuguese counterinsurgency commanders such as Second Lieutenant Fernando Robles of the 6ª Companhia de Caçadores Especiais became well known throughout the country for their ruthlessness in hunting down insurgents. The Portuguese Army steadily pushed the UPA back across the border into Congo-Kinshasa in a brutal counteroffensive that also displaced some 150,000 Bakongo refugees, taking control of Pedra Verde, the UPA's last base in northern Angola, on 20 September 1961.[100] Within the next few weeks Portuguese military forces pushed the MPLA out of Luanda northeast into the Dembos region, where the MPLA established the "1st Military Region". For the moment, the Angolan insurgency had been defeated, but new guerrilla attacks later broke out in other regions of Angola such as Cabinda province, the central plateaus, and eastern and southeastern Angola. By most accounts, Portugal's counterinsurgency campaign in Angola was the most successful of all its campaigns in the Colonial War. Angola is a large territory, and the long distances from safe havens in neighboring countries supporting the rebel forces made it difficult for the latter to escape detection. Distances from the major Angolan urban centres to neighbouring Zaïre and Zambia were so large that the eastern part of Angola's territory was known by the Portuguese as Terras do Fim do Mundo (the lands of the far side of the world). Another factor was internecine struggles between three competing revolutionary movements – FNLA, MPLA, and UNITA – and their guerrilla armies. For most of the conflict, the three rebel groups spent as much time fighting each other as they did fighting the Portuguese. For example, during the 1961 Ferreira Incident, a UPA patrol captured 21 MPLA insurgents as prisoners, then summarily executed them on 9 October, sparking open confrontation between the two insurgent groups. These divisions grew so deep, that by 1972, UNITA ceased military operations entirely against the Portuguese and began coordinating with them against the MPLA by providing intelligence on MPLA positions, numbers, and troop movements saw limited but successful action in Angola. Strategy also played a role, as a successful hearts and minds campaign led by General Francisco da Costa Gomes helped blunt the influence of the various revolutionary movements. Finally, as in Mozambique, Portuguese Angola was able to receive support of South Africa. South African military operations proved to be of significant assistance to Portuguese military forces in Angola, who sometimes referred to their South African counterparts as primos (cousins).



AUGUST, 1970


Guinea-Bissau

KEY
Red- Known Liberation Fronts
Green - Portuguese Occupied


Portuguese soldiers loading on the St. Maria Destroyer for Operation Trident

THE PRECIOUS HOMELAND

In Portuguese Guinea (also referred to as Guinea at that time), the Marxist African Party for the Independence of Guinea and Cape Verde (PAIGC) started fighting in January 1963. Its guerrilla fighters attacked the Portuguese headquarters in Tite, located to the south of Bissau, the capital, near the Corubal river. Similar actions quickly spread across the entire colony, requiring a strong response from the Portuguese forces. The war in Guinea has been termed "Portugal's Vietnam". The PAIGC was well-trained, well-led and equipped and received substantial support from safe havens in neighbouring countries like Senegal and the Republic of Guinea (Guinea-Conakry). The jungles of Guinea and the proximity of the PAIGC's allies near the border proved to be of significant advantage in providing tactical superiority during cross-border attacks and resupply missions for the guerrillas. The conflict in Portuguese Guinea involving the PAIGC guerrillas and the Portuguese Army proved the most intense and damaging of all conflicts in the Portuguese Colonial War, blocking Portuguese attempts to pacify the disputed territory via new economic and socioeconomic policies that had been applied with some success in Portuguese Angola and Portuguese Mozambique. In 1965 the war spread to the eastern part of Guinea; that year, the PAIGC carried out attacks in the north of the territory where at the time only the Front for the Liberation and Independence of Guinea (FLING), a minor insurgent group, was active. By this time, the PAIGC had begun to openly receive military support from Cuba, China, and the Soviet Union. Portuguese troops board NRP Nuno Tristão frigate in Portuguese Guinea, during amphibious Operation Trident (Operação Tridente), 1964, In Guinea, the success of PAIGC guerrilla operations put Portuguese armed forces on the defensive, forcing them to limit their response to defending territories and cities already held. Unlike Portugal's other African territories, successful small-unit Portuguese counterinsurgency tactics were slow to evolve in Guinea. Defensive operations, where soldiers were dispersed in small numbers to guard critical buildings, farms, or infrastructure were particularly devastating to the regular Portuguese infantry, who became vulnerable to guerrilla attacks outside of populated areas by the forces of the PAIGC. They were also demoralized by the steady growth of PAIGC liberation sympathizers and recruits among the rural population. In a relatively short time, the PAIGC had succeeded in reducing Portuguese military and administrative control of the territory to a relatively small area of Guinea. The scale of this success can be seen in the fact that native Guineans in the 'liberated territories' ceased payment of debts to Portuguese landowners and the payment of taxes to the colonial administration. The branch stores of the Companhia União Fabril (CUF), Mario Lima Whanon, and Manuel Pinto Brandão companies were seized and inventoried by the PAIGC in the areas they controlled, while the use of Portuguese currency in the areas under guerrilla control was banned. In order to maintain the economy in the liberated territories, the PAIGC established its own administrative and governmental bureaucracy at an early stage, which organized agricultural production, educated PAIGC farmworkers on how to protect crops from destruction from aerial attack by the Portuguese Air Force, and opened armazens do povo (people's stores) to supply urgently needed tools and supplies in exchange for agricultural produce. In 1968, General António de Spínola, the Portuguese general responsible for the Portuguese military operations in Guinea, was appointed as governor. General Spínola began a series of civil and military reforms designed to weaken PAIGC control of the Guinea and rollback insurgent gains. This included a 'hearts and minds' propaganda campaign designed to win the trust of the indigenous population, an effort to eliminate some of the discriminatory practices against native Guineans, a massive construction campaign for public works including new schools, hospital, an improved telecommunications and road network, and a large increase in recruitment of native Guineans into the Portuguese armed forces serving in Guinea as part of an Africanization strategy.

Read dispatch

 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐏𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐮𝐠𝐮𝐞𝐬𝐞 𝐅𝐨𝐨𝐭𝐛𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐅𝐞𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧

New Team Captains; Better Hopes

| With the continued successes of the Portuguese in the World Cup, progressing further into the World Cup by default. The continued marches of Portuguese success has been a boosting morale for the Portuguese Team and people, with the ongoing war overseas, football has been a escape from real world problems and issues that surronund Portugal.

| World Cup morale has been at a all time high, with the win against Poland and Nigeria, the hopes of Portugal entering into the World Cup seem to be one of the most possible outcomes, players have been playing their best this time around with the FPF overlooking most games. Otto Gloria, the current head coach of the team, has been praised for leading the team through multiple succsess throughout the season, and the new wins the team is scoring in the World Cup has also imporved hopes. Portugal advanced to another round and is progressing rapidly throughout the World Cup season, and it seems the team is in the ring to win the cup. If won, this will be the first international that Portugal has won in its history. A win like this would prove Portuguese superiority in the Football Scene, with the new president encouraging protection and strength throughout the season, new hopes create new dreams with this brand new and renewed hope in the season. The next match is currently being scheduled, and the World Cup could be in Portuguese hands.

International Association Football Federation | Fédération internationale de football association

FIFA World Cup 1970 | Copa Mundial de la FIFA 1970

THE ROUND OF 16 (PART 1)

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With the Group stages now behind us, we head into the knockout stages. 16 teams have made it this far, battling hard to overcome the challenges of the first round in their campaigns and now begins the road to the final. We see some familiar faces join us in the first round, favourites Brazil and England making it through with ease, defending champions West Germany and 1966 runners-up Italy, along with some new arrivals, with Peru, South Africa and stunning debutants Cameroon make it through to the next round. Despite all the teams that have failed to make it this far, the footballing world commends them for producing some of the most exciting football seen at this tournament in years. Haiti, Korea and Sudan proving themselves amongst the very best in the world and showing they can fight to keep themselves in the tournament even in the face of superior opposition. France, Yugoslavia, Uruguay and Mexico look to be dark-horses in this tournament, with strong chances to cause upsets and to advance in this round. Without further ado, let's head down pitch-side with our commentary team for our match reports today.

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Colombia v Uruguay

We're underway here in Pereira at the Estadio Hernán Ramírez Villegas as the hosts Colombia look to try and secure their best ever World Cup performance against South American rivals Uruguay. Uruguay charge into the knockout stages after some lack-luster performances in recent years, the two-time champions looking to try to take that all-important third world title that many nations will be chasing here today. From the get go, the teams look even, slow play in the midfield as the two sides size each-other up. The Colombians hold onto possession, and get some good balls forward to try and secure that all important opener. It's knocked out to the left wing, where a cross is delivered, and finds Luis Paz in space... GOAL! Colombia take the lead only 10 minutes in! What a statement from the hosts here!

The first half continues on, it's looking tense as Colombia look for a second, whilst Uruguay push for the counter-attack. There are some good chances here, Uruguay's top scorers Rocha and Zubia having some good attempts on goal but they're fumbled by the defence, landing the ball squarely into the keepers hands. Colombia know their defence will be vital in this game to keep their advantage, the Uruguayans are deadly when given the chance. Nevertheless, the first half drags on into a monotonous back and forth, both teams trading chances with Uruguay edging just ahead in the statistics as the first half ends. It's looking like an evenly matched tie, with chances for an equaliser rising. If Colombia can't secure their defence in the second half, it looks like only a matter of time before Uruguay find the answer.

The second half begins and Colombia start strong, pushing towards the Uruguayan goal bolstered by the home fans. The stadium here a sea of yellow shirts as they cheer on their team, and the effects are noticeable as they maintain their possession into the opening moments of the half, keeping the ball firmly away from the awaiting Uruguayan forwards. Uruguay are experts at coming back from a goal down, and the team is among the most talented in the World Cup, it will be without question a matter of moments before we see an equaliser.

As the half continues on, and we creep into the final moments of the game, Uruguay can't seem to convert any of their chances. Despite pressing the Colombian defence and dominating over three-quarters of the second-half attacking plays, the keeper is putting in a serious shift to prevent any of the shots becoming goals here. A fantastic display of athletic ability as the keeper makes leap after leap to knock the Uruguayan shots away from goal. The final ten minutes, and both teams look exhausted, a number of changes for both sides bringing fresh legs into the match. Uruguay make a fumble in the midfield to open up a few good chances from Colombia, but none go in. Nevertheless, the Colombians battle to hold possession in the Uruguayan half, trying to run down the clock and prevent any counter-attacks. As we meet the final whistle, Uruguay push for one final attack, charging down the pitch trying to beat out the defenders, but it's the keeper who bravely comes out of his box to tackle the ball out of possession.

And the whistle blows, and it's the hosts that will advance to their first ever quarter-final! Uruguay leaving knowing they should have done better, but a strong performance from them that will set them up for the years to come. It's party time in Pereira as Colombia advance, 1-0.

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West Germany v Norden

We travel to Medellin to watch yet another instalment in the Northern European Derby, it's the reigning champions West Germany against tournament hopefuls Norden. Norden are generally a solid squad in these tournaments, they regularly make it out of the group stages in every tournament they qualify for, but the Germans are on form and looking to break the three-title record, as they head into this match. Tensions run high as the match begins, and the Germans are quick to dominate possession in the midfield in the early stages. Norden pushing to try and find a break in the midfield, but they have to accept being pushed back as they fend of chances from the experienced German forwards. Germany opting for a three-attacker set up, seeing a far more aggressive strategy than they've played in the past with this team. However, it remains level as the match continues on.

As we head into the rest of the first half, it becomes clear that it's Germany's game as they dominate the match statistics and have only had to do some minimal defending against the Nordic side. With some excellent play, the ball finds it's way into the box, and a scramble seeing shot after shot fired at the keeper ends up with no goals but a well-deserved corner, one of the first in the game. As the ball flies in, the keeper leaps out to defend it, knocking it into the path of Helmut Haller who strikes from just outside the box... GOAL! Germany take the lead and what a shot that was! Haller proving he still deserves a space on the team as his teammates rush to celebrate with him. The advantage is held through the remainder of the first half, and its difficult for Norden to find an answer. Despite some chances for Eriksson to find an equaliser, the score remains 1-0 as we head into the second half.

The second half begins with Norden trying some new strategies, some faster play than we're used to seeing from them as they start peppering the German goal with shots. Some clever man-on-man marking makes any German advances difficult, as the play becomes relatively bogged down in the midfield. Despite this, the West Germans are still able to push for some chances, sending the ball forward to the strikers but they get closed down quickly and efficiently as the match progresses. Frustration from both sides, Germany looking for the second goal and Norden desperate to find the equaliser to keep themselves in the match. The chance comes when Beckenbauer delivers a perfect ball down the line to Haller, who rushes to get the shot forward and he finds himself in some excellent space to strike... GOAL!! Haller makes it two and secures West Germany's lead! What a fantastic goal from the veteran striker!

Norden find themselves in trouble now as they desperately need to find a goal to bring themselves back into this match. Some good forward play but it's ultimately sloppy, the Nordic forwards failing to organise themselves as some runs go without any support. The second goal clearly rattled the Nordic players, who feel their chances slipping away from them as the half goes on. Into the final ten minutes and it's Germany who are on the offensive, potentially looking for a third as Norden lose their footing in this match. The defence do well to prevent any further goals but they're struggling to get the ball forward.

And that's it! 2-0 to West Germany and Norden crash out of the tournament at the knockout stages once again. Disappointing for them, but still a strong campaign from them to get this far. It'll be West Germany against the hosts in the quarter-final.

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Yugoslavia v South Africa

European giants Yugoslavia face off against knockout round debutants South Africa, in what could be a thrilling match. Yugoslavia looking to advance to yet another World Cup quarter-final after losing out to the eventual champions in 1966, with South Africa hoping to continue their wonder-run in this tournament, as one of two African nations making it this far in the tournament. The match begins with the South Africans playing some quick football to hold onto possession, looking to try and get an early goal to give them the advantage. It's all square though as the vastly experienced Yugoslavian midfield controls the pace of play, preventing any quick counter attacks. One might wonder if this early play could prematurely exhaust the South African players, but their determination is commendable as the match continues.

The first half sees very little movement as the play gets bogged down in the centre. Both sides coming up with some impressive chances, and as the minutes tick on, Yugoslavia begin to dominate in both possession and shooting, registering a lot of chances on target. Yugoslavia relying on their forwards to strike from distance and create space whereas the South Africans are looking to rely on set-plays, with corner kicks becoming abundant and plenty of chances from headers and deflections being created. The defenders of both sides have to be commended as they resist efforts for either side to take the lead. As the first half comes to a close, it's been frustrating for the players but the South Africans give themselves a breather and come leave the pitch confident they've resisted the superior Yugoslavian side.

The second half begins, and Yugoslavia are pushing to take the advantage, now charging towards the South African goal with some vigour to try and get the opening goal. They're forcing the younger African side on the defensive as their box begins to fill with defenders and midfielders alike, the strikers playing out of position to come and support. Jerkovic gets an opening, runs into some better space battling off the defenders to strike... GOAL! It's Yugoslavia who take the lead in this tie, and after 58 minutes it's later than we might've expected. The seal is now broken and both sides will want to get moving to either extend or level the tie. The confidence of that first goal is seen as Yugoslavia now press into the South African box registering several shots on target, the keeper holding them off. A corner kick delivered into the box to find Dragan Holcer... GOAL! 2-0 and it's all running away from the South Africans. Yugoslavia cement their lead and it looks like they might have more in store for them!

Yugoslavia firmly in the lead here and South Africa are scrambling to get the ball back, trying to find a way to secure their spot in the next round. The Yugoslav attack is relentless, they're hungry for more as they dominate possession here. Jerkovic with a fantastic chance to make it three... GOAL! It's 3-0 and that could be the goal that does it! South Africa with just 10 minutes to find an answer, they've been struggling here as it looks like Yugoslavia will be taking the victory here in Bogota! South Africa go on the offensive, they're looking for something here as they press in the box, some last minute changes bringing on more attackers as they look for the chance. Their efforts are rewarded with a corner, which flies in to meet the head of Jacobs... WHO SCORES! It's a consolation goal and might be too little too late as we head into stoppage time!

And that's the final whistle! Yugoslavia book another quarter-final appearance with that dominating display! South Africa could have done more there but they can go home proud of their achievements in this tournament.

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Italy v France

One of our big match-ups here, it's a rivalry as old as time as Italy face off against France. Italy seeking that third title but their opponents will likely consider it a matter of pride not to let them get there. France have been rebuilding themselves after a few years in the wilderness and the team looks far more capable than this time last tournament, where they exited controversially in the group stages. The match begins and the Italians take the advantage, controlling possession and using their fast strikers to get into position. Within just 10 minutes they're already registering chances against goal, it's a nightmare scenario for France. A handball awards the penalty, it's Giga Riva to take... SCORES! 1-0 and Italy take the lead! The defenders are furious, they're arguing with the referee, a controversial call no doubt as we hear the reaction from spectators in the stands.

Italy with the advantage, but they look like they have more to give as they advance onwards into the half. Riva playing some excellent football today as he dominates in the French half. Not the start France would have wanted but it's still too early to count them out as they defend well against the oncoming onslaught. Riva with some good space finds his teammates, who deliver an excellent through ball into the box, and Riva is there to meet it... GOAL! 2-0! Italy cement their lead and make a clear statement to their opponents! That will be a serious blow to French hopes this early in the match! The first half sees the Italian dominate, with France seemingly finding it difficult to respond as the fight to try and keep possession from their opponents. Some chances from the French strikers but the Italians prevent anything from coming to fruition as the first half ends, and France have it all to do.

The second half begins and already some tactical changes from France, looking to secure the goals they need to keep themselves in this match. They're playing a lot more aggressively, their fear of challenging in the midfield seemingly gone as they fight to reclaim possession from the Italians. Georges Bereta has space, he gets the ball in from a long cross and he's weaving his way through the defenders, some incredibly skill from the attacking midfielder as he looks for the space, and he finds it with a strike... GOAL! France get one back and no time for celebration as he brings the ball straight back to the centre. France determined not to let those Italian goals go unanswered as the French look renewed in their efforts to win this match. With just a single goal defecit, it's looking likely as the Italian fans start to worry that this tie may not be as smooth as they hoped for.

France pressuring the Italian midfield, they've change the tide of the game as they push for that all important equaliser. The minutes go on and there are a number of chances, despite Italian efforts for the counter-attack, they're looking strong as they push harder into the box. The Italian defenders are working overtime, and clearly becoming quite tired, prompting a number of changes that sees Antonio Juliano, top scorer of the previous tournament, make an appearance to support in the midfield. After some strong attacking play, an Italian defender brings Bereta down and it's a free kick from a dangerous distance. Charly Loubet, France's star striker to take, as they look for the chance in the last 10 minutes of the match. He steadies himself, the whistle blows and he strikes... GOAL! There's the equaliser they've been hoping for! It's all level at the Estadio Manuel Murillo Toro as the team rushes to celebrate with their man. It looks like Italy can't find the response and we'll now be heading into extra-time.

It's all down to these last 30 minutes, both sides wanting to end this before it gets to the dreaded penalty shootout. Italy looking to try and retake the lead with some early shots, brining on Sandro Mazzola to complement their attack at the expense of the defenders. The French stand firm, denying the Italians a chance whilst simultaneously looking for a chance to counter attack. The first 15 minutes comes and goes as if it were nothing, both sides recording some good chances but neither being able to convert. The pressure is on as France try to find the lead, they push into the Italian box where Revelli tries his luck nearly at the open goal... but it's caught by Dino Zoff, some impressive goalkeeping there and that might've been the chance that France couldn't afford to waste. Fatigue hits the pitch as the pace slows down, and it doesn't look like there's any chances left as the final whistle blows, and we head to the penalty shootout.

Italy to take the first, winning the coin toss. Goalscorer Gigi Riva to take the first shot. An expert at this range, he lines his shot up... GOAL! No doubt about that as the Italians take the lead!

Revelli to take France's first penalty. He's been good this tournament, racking up some good goals, can he convert... HE CAN'T! Dino Zoff with the save and it's dangerous now for France!

Bertini to take the second for Italy. He steps up to the mark, pressure mounting, and takes his strike... MISSED! He can't believe it as the ball rockets over the bar into the crowd!

Loubet to take the second for France, and he has the chance now to level it. Calmly he steps up, makes his run and shoots... GOAL! France have levelled it, and Loubet roars towards the French fans!

Boninsegna for Italy, he sets up his shot. The referee orders the French keeper behind the line, he blows the whistle and Boninsegna shoots... AND SCORES! Italy back in the lead!

Henri to take France's third penalty. He waits for his moment, the whistle blows and there's a second delay, a slow run towards the ball and... GOAL! France keep themselves in the match!

Sandro Mazzola to take the Italian fourth penalty. He lines himself up, takes a deep breath, and shoots... SAVED!! Into the arms of the keeper, and France have a chance to take the lead!

Bereta to take France's fourth, a lot of pressure on this man now, if he scores France are in touching distance of the quarter-finals. He takes his shot... AND IT HITS THE POST!! Head in his hands he walks away from the spot, a wasted chance for him there!

Antonio Juliano to take Italy's fifth, they need to score here to keep themselves safe in this match. Juliano steadies himself, and fires away... GOAL! A powerful strike and it's all in France's hands now!

Bosquier to take the French fifth penalty. He needs to score here to keep France in this match. He waits for the whistle, visibly nervous, and strikes... SAVED!! Zoff gets a hand to it and taps it away!!

Italy find themselves in another quarter-final after an incredible match, disappointing for France there, they looked really strong but they just couldn't convert it. Yugoslavia awaits the Italians as we move on to the next round!

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★ UNITED ARAB REPUBLIC ★

        "Fear is, I believe, a most effective tool in destroying the soul of an individual - and the soul of a people."
        ANWAR EL-SADAT
        

_________________

    𝐎𝐍𝐄 𝐇𝐔𝐍𝐃𝐑𝐄𝐃 𝐌𝐈𝐋𝐋𝐈𝐎𝐍 𝐎𝐑𝐏𝐇𝐀𝐍𝐒
    SEP 1970 - UNITED ARAB REPUBLIC

      "God Almighty, have mercy on Gamal and take him to Your paradise. He has devoted his whole life to us and to the entire Arab nation. peaceful soul, return to, your God reassured. Be one of my faithful and enter paradise." There was a distinct silence that dawned upon the usually bustling metropolis that is Cairo in the early hours of morning. The masses of the United Arab Republic awoke to the gravest of news, the knight of Arabism, the liberator who threw off the chains of imperialism, the educator who taught the Arabs to fight, he was gone. The beating heart of the Arab world stopped beating.

      Over 6 million citizens from all across the United Arab Republic, from Benghazi and Tripoli, from Alexandria and Aswan, poured onto Cairo to take part in the last cry for their leader. The United Arab Republic refused to believe that its leader was dead, perhaps a rouse perhaps a nightmare, but it was instead the despairing reality. Millions chanted for the President, "Nasser will never die!", commonly heard across the districts of Cairo, rich and poor alike, men and women. Crowds outpoured their grief openly and without shame, the worst fate that could have befallen them had already came, what their was to hide anymore?

      The death of Nasser served as a reality slap to the leadership in the National Progressive Party, the initiation of the Mass Revolution and the creation of the NPP had brought over a euphoric sense of progress not observed since the unification of the United Arab Republic, however in the wake of this euphoria the glaring issues that were at hand still were not solved. The death of Nasser had the effect of once again exposing these problems back to the surface. The most pressing question in the wake of the President's death was succession.

      Per the constitution, the Vice-President, currently Anwar el-Sadat, would take over as acting President. However questions arose over whether Sadat should continue as the President or if another should be nominated as the new President. The question of leadership mostly fell across three spectrums, the leftist-socialist current which supported former General-Secretary Ali Sabry, tactically supported by the man that ousted him General-Secretary Khalid Muhyi al-Din, a rightist current that supported the rehabilitation of former vice-president Zakaria Muhyi al-Din, and a third more moderate current led by General Fawzi - current Minister of Defense - that supported Sadat's bid for presidency.

      For the time being, Sadat will be instituted as the President for the time being until a new candidate could perhaps make his way into power. A 40 day mourning period has already been declared, with many still in deep grief over the death of the great leader. Even within the top leadership, Sadat, Aly Sabry, and Mu'mmar al-Gaddafi have all suffered fainting during the funeral due to grief. Such is the effect of a giant of history.

      | V E R E N I G DㅤㅤK O N I N R I J KㅤㅤB E N E L U X
      | "ㅤE E N D R A C H TㅤㅤM A A K TㅤㅤM A C H Tㅤ"

          Voor de welvaart van mijn natie zal
          ik mijn leven aan jou geven, beste Holland...

        // 01 SEPTEMBER 1970, WOENSDAG
        BOETENBEEK, NEDERLAND //

      Ā L E AㅤㅤI E C T AㅤㅤE S Tㅤㅤ:ㅤㅤT H EㅤㅤB I R T HㅤㅤO FㅤㅤAㅤㅤM E T R O P O L E

        ㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤThe demise of Benelux unfolded with an abruptness that caught many off guard, yet in hindsight, it bore the hallmarks of inevitability. Internecine strife, simmering ethnic tensions, and local disputes conspired to plunge the union into a maelstrom of chaos, eroding the very foundations upon which it stood. The resounding success of the Walloon independence plebiscite in 1967 sounded the death knell for Benelux, splintering it into two distinct entities: Holland and Wallonia. However, the implementation of the Wolsheijner-Bakker plan, devised to delineate the new borders, brought to light a contentious issue. The plan's demarcation along the easternmost reaches of Liège Province left Wallonia with a slender corridor, separating it from neighbouring West Germany. This strip of land, known as the Luik Corridor, was intended to serve as a vital land bridge between Holland and Luxembourg, the latter opting to remain within the union following a similar referendum. Yet, a significant obstacle lay in the path of this envisioned link: the corridor itself. Predominantly rural, it lay in dire need of development. Comprising mostly forests, small towns, and meadows, this narrow strip of land offered little beyond a tenuous connection from Amsterdam to Letzebuerg. Its sparse population, barely exceeding twenty thousand citizens, belied its vast expanse, equivalent to that of Italy's Gargano region.

        The underdeveloped, scarcely inhabited region cried out for transformation. Adrian Wolsheijner, then at the helm of the Privy Council, possessed a bold vision when he etched the lines of the corridor during the drafting of the Wolsheijner-Bakker Plan alongside Lodewijk Bakker. This swath of land represented an untapped potential, a blank canvas awaiting the strokes of innovation, projects, and fresh infrastructure. It stood as a pristine slate upon which the Dutch Kingdom could inscribe its blueprint for a post-Benelux era. The concept of establishing a new Dutch city within the corridor was first championed by urban developer Mathijn Meeske. This proposal aimed not only to alleviate the looming issue of overpopulation in Holland in the forthcoming decades but also to harness the economic potential of the "Lagerlandswonder." Several candidate locations were mooted for the new city, but ultimately, Boetenbeek (formerly known as Bütgenbach), a modest town nestled within the strip, emerged as the preferred site. Boetenbeek, once a quiet abbey town, had endured significant devastation during the German invasion of Belgium and the subsequent Battle of the Bulge. Reduced to a shell of its former self, it languished in a state of stagnation, yearning for revitalization. With its flat terrain, sparse population, and latent promise, Boetenbeek embodied untapped potential. Upon approval from the Van Veerenjans Administration, construction efforts swiftly commenced, heralding the transformation of Boetenbeek into a vibrant modern metropolis poised for economic prosperity.

        In its initial phase, the city planners designated two industrial zones, eight residential districts, and four commercial precincts for Boetenbeek. The heart of the city underwent a rapid and remarkable metamorphosis over the ensuing years. Lined roads, verdant boulevards, and towering apartment complexes emerged as tangible symbols of the burgeoning Dutch nation's ambition. The transformation drew settlers from bustling urban centres such as Amsterdam, Brussels, Rotterdam, and The Hague, alongside guest workers hailing from Italy, Greece, Portugal, and Slovenia. By 1970, with construction reaching 65% completion, Boetenbeek's streets bustled with the activity of over eighty thousand inhabitants, all from different walks of life, a staggering increase from its original population of merely six thousand. However, the breakneck pace of growth brought with it challenges, particularly concerning infrastructure and transportation. Plans were set in motion for the construction of a metro line to emulate the efficient transit systems of Amsterdam and Brussels, alongside the expansion of the nascent bus network. Despite these hurdles, Boetenbeek emerged as a burgeoning European hub, poised to host exhibitions, draw tourists, and celebrate its rich cultural tapestry. While the city remained a work in progress, the future shimmered with promise, buoyed by the government's substantial investment of billions of guilders to address its myriad needs.

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Post self-deleted by Nippon-Nihon.

Hello! I’m Sealand :D Your Freindly new neighbor here to say that, i be staying in this neighborhood now :D

| Jaguar-1A1 |

[ Joint Military Base: Brasília, Brazil ]

| August, 1970 |

| The time allotted to the military for the project concerning the Jaguar battle tank was fairly lengthy, as the company was involved in the designing and production. Engesa, the company selected for the contract, was ready to unveil the first of the Jaguar tanks for inspection of the chief of staff and Frederico himself. Currently, Federico and other members of his cabinet were standing underneath a pavilion-like building. Waiting for the tank to arrive at the testing range, as the designers and creators wanted the design to be a surprise for the president. Minutes passed before the growl and hum of a tank motor got closer and closer, causing those present to turn their eyes to the dirt and gravel road leading towards and past the building. A very impressed smile crossed Frederico’s face when the tank finally came into view, the chassis of the tank itself was not massive by comparison to the American tanks, but it appeared well armored and well built. Much like the rest of the chassis, the turret was not too big either and was more of a flat rounded shape as the main cannon jutted out from the front. Staring at the tank, he admired that it had a rugged and more streamlined approach while still being able to maintain a very mean look to it. The tank rumbled past them as it turned towards the resting range, allowing the king to look down at the information pamphlet the designers had given him. Staring back up at the tank, he and those with him would watch as it went about its initial tests. Maneuverability and speed being the first tests, which given its size was nothing too insane. Luckily the President was realistic, and he knew that they wouldn’t have a tank that could go eighty or more kilometers per hour. Despite that, the maneuverability of the tank was impressive and even off of a main road it kept relatively good speed. The more he saw, the more Frederico was beginning to love the idea of the Jaguar as the new main battle tank of the Brazilian Army.

Ultimately, the decision would fall to him if the tank would be approved for adoption into the Brazilian Army, or if it would fall to the wayside. Looking up from the pamphlet, he would watch with wrapped attention as the tank went into its various gunnery testing stages. A smile seemingly etched itself into Frederico’s face as the main cannon roared when fired, sending a 125mm round down range and impacting into the armor of the M48 Patton that was being used for target practice. The round had punched through the side plate of the tank, as a small fire erupted from left over fuel within the decommissioned vehicle. A laugh escaped Frederico, clapped his hands at such a magnificent showing of the tank and its capabilities. While he could not foretell the future, he believed that this tank could be the next standard for Latin American tanks to build off of. At the very least, it could be a tank that other nations build their own designs off of. Following the roar of the cannon was the heavy chatter of the 12.7x108mm gun on top of the turret for the commander to use, all of which in case of an emergency or in the support of infantry troops. Looking away from the testing, Frederico would sign his signature on the paper for the approval of the tank itself. Even the designers themselves were not paying attention when he signed the paper, as all of them were enraptured as they watched the tank do its gunnery testing. Needless to say, Frederico did not interrupt any of them as he himself returned to watching the tank as well. A satisfied smile on his face and pride in his eyes, as he saw the future of Brazil in this tank and its production. Amongst many other things to come, as the sky was truly the limit for all of them. A new type of beast had arrived on the American continent, The ‘Jaguar’. |

Mass-39 Tonnes

Length- 10.225m

Width- 3.415m

Height- 2.172m

Crew- 4 (driver, gunner, commander, designated radio operator/mechanic)

Armor- (Turret-50mm) (Hull-80mm)
(Composite)320-350mm KE, 400mm CH,

Main Armament- 125mm Smoothbore gun

Secondary- 7.62mm coaxial machine gun, 12.7mm turret mounted above commanders hatch

Engine- 6-Cylinder Diesel 14.7litre 700hp

Suspension- Torsion Bar

Operational Range- 500km-700km (External fuel tanks added for long distance operations)

Maximum Speed- 45–60 km/h (28–37 mph)

БЪЛГАРСКО НАЦИОНАЛНО РАДИО

Созопол, община Созопол, област Бургас

10 септември 1970 г

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ТУРИЗМЪТ Е ВЪВ ВЪЗХОД, ТЪЙ КАТО БЪЛГАРСКОТО КРАЙБРЕЖИЕ СЕ ПРЕВРЪЩА В РАЙ ЗА ПОСЕТИТЕЛИ

TOURISM ON THE RISE AS BULGARIA'S COAST BECOMES A HAVEN FOR VISITORS

As of 1970, Bulgaria has developed a reputation in the Eastern Bloc for being one of the most popular tourist destinations, with millions of visitors flocking to the nation each year from the Soviet Union, East Germany, Romania and other allied nations. What once formed a nominal contribution to the wider economy has begun to grow into one of the key economic sectors of the People's Republic, with millions of Leva being poured into the economy year on year. Tourism has only recently begun it's unprecedented growth as a contributor to the economy, with the initial policies of Dimitrov and Chervenkov focusing primarily on the rapid industrialisation and collectivisation of the nation. Once these policies had been more-or-less achieved in the late 1950s, and with the rise of Todor Zhivkov as the General Secretary of the Communist Party, the economy has refocused and now aims to meet the needs of consumers in a time where the overall quality of life now exceeds pre-war levels.

Bulgaria's attractiveness as a tourist destination is owed to a number of factors. By far the most popular destinations are along the Black Sea coast, where pristine beaches and warm weather, coupled with a distinct maritime culture and the clear waters of the Black Sea, attract visitors from across the Socialist bloc. This popularity has seen the rise of many towns and cities into major tourist centres, such as Sozopol where we report from, the other tiny town built atop the ruins of the old Byzantine fortress, has turned from a small village into a bustling township with the local population benefiting from local investments. Other Black Sea resorts, such as Burgas, Varna, Pomorie, Slunchev Vrah, the ancient town of Nesebar and others have seen a similar rise in both population and local economic production. The coastal regions have otherwise been overlooked, with little industrial activity being present as compared with further inland on the Thracian Plains and the Danube Basin.

But it's not only the summer tourism that Bulgaria intends to target. The abundance of mountain resorts have become a popular destination for skiing and alpinism, the resorts of Bansko, Pamporovo and Borovets receiving the most visitors per year. Skiing is becoming a far more popular sport as Bulgaria also expands its athletic infrastructure, with the Winter Olympic squads now training exclusively at Bansko as they prepare for the upcoming 1972 Winter Olympics in Sapporo, Japan. Alpinism has also risen in popularity, with recent news that mountaineering and trekking would become a core activity of the Pioneers, with the Party announcing the "10 Peaks" challenge for those to climb the ten highest peaks in Bulgaria. Musala, the highest mountain in the Balkans and South-Eastern Europe, has become of particular interest, despite the more difficult peaks of Vihren and Malyovitsa being favoured by more experienced mountaineers. The rising popularity of mountaineering is partly owed to Hristo Prodanov, who three years ago became the first Bulgarian to climb Lenin Peak in the Soviet Union, and has been backed by the Party for expeditions into the Himalayas within the next 10 years.

As well as the natural beauty of the nation, the rich cultural history of the nation has begun to attract visitors in their thousands. Archaeological sites across the nation, having been uncovered only in the last 20 years, have attracted both scholars and visitors alike. As historians begin to uncover and unravel the mysteries of the nations history, many have come to see the various sites that have been preserved. Among these are the discoveries of rich Thracian sites, packed with findings and information linking the modern nation to it's ancestors. Roman and Byzantine heritage has also been painstaking preserved, with the small town of Hisarya being among the best preserved and now finding an economic renaissance as a spa resort. With new discoveries made each year, the National Museum of Bulgaria becomes filled with cultural treasures, with museums in Sofia, Plovdiv, Pleven, Stara Zagora, amongst others becoming among the most popular. The ancient citadel of Veliko Tarnovo and the rock-hewn fortress at Belogradchik have also become top destinations for visitors, and have been protected by the Party as national heritage sites.

As Bulgaria seeks to open itself to the world, following over two decades of relative isolationism, the Party have proposed the creation of limited tourist visas open to the West. After the success of small private enterprises implemented in the mid-1960s, the hopes that Western tourists will bring in more money and more popularity has risen. The move is controversial, and there is some debate amongst Party officials as to whether the opening of the nation, albeit in small, controlled groups, will pose a threat to the security of the People's Republic. The matter is expected to be discussed at the 10th Congress of the Bulgarian Communist Party just next year.

EXPO 1970 | ЕКСПО 1970

Осака, Япония

НАРОДНА РЕПУБЛИКА БЪЛГАРИЯ - НОВАТА ЗОРА

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After making its first appearance at the 1967 World Expo, the Bulgarian Communist Party authorised the return of the nation to the 1970 Expo, hosted this time in the historic city of Osaka, Japan. The popularity of the previous pavilion, alongside the lobbying of Lyudmila Zhivkova, has prompted the Ministry of Culture to allocate a far larger budget to the pavilion, the total funding have increased by around four times that of the previous pavilion. The Expo, previously unknown to many in Bulgaria, has now solidified it's reputation in Bulgaria as a opportunity for the nation to display it's cultural heritage and achievements to the world amongst a community of like-minded nations. Colloquially referred to in Bulgaria as Културната олимпиада (The Cultural Olympics), the Expo has become not only a source of excitement but also of pride for the nation and has formed the centre of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs missions abroad.

The pavilion itself stands out as a crowning achievement, regardless of the presentations that have been brought. The pavilion is the product of two years of design and construction, mixing elements of modernist ideas with socialist brutalist architecture to create the outstanding structure. The pavilion is located just across from the pavilion of the Soviet Union, in the northwestern sector of the Expo grounds, and stands tall being amongst the highest pavilions built at the Expo, though appearing dwarfed by the triumphant Soviet design. The design is credited once again to Zhivkova, who according to documents, proposed the design as a way to bring "a piece of Bulgaria's natural landscape across the World for all to see". The design team was a primarily Bulgarian squad headed by L. T. Hristov, with support from Soviet Mosproject, and supervison from the Ministry of Culture. The pavilion stands as a set of four pyramids, of glass and steel construction, with the central pyramid standing the tallest, followed by the rear pyramid and then the two smaller pyramids on either side. In front of the pyramids is a single-story structure with a wooden facade in which the 'guest' area of the pavilion is located. The facade itself contains a small restaurant, with a specially crafted Bulgarian menu which has seen popularity especially amongst Japanese visitors.

The pyramids are representative of mountain peaks, with the four represented being (according to mixed sources); Musala, Vihren, Botev and Bezbog, among some of the highest and most prominent peaks in the nation. The silhouette of the pavilions architecture is also representative, with the rising peaks a symbol of the impetus of socialist Bulgaria towards progress, both culturally and scientifically. This has reported to symbolise the consistent policies of the Communist Party to ensure peaceful relations between the people of the Balkans and to extend the desire of the state for progress and harmony across the World.

In 1967, the Bulgarian pavilion focused on a tour of the history of the nation. Similarly, the topic of history and cultural heritage has been at the very centre of the pavilion. Split into four distinct sectors, correlating with the four pyramids. The themes of the pavilion focused on: the upcoming 1300 year statehood of the Bulgarian nation, the struggle for national and social liberation, the natural beauty of Bulgaria and celebrating 25 years of socialism in the nation.

Beginning with the first theme, archaeologists and historians across Bulgaria were gathered to curate a special exhibition of cultural artifacts for viewing at the pavilion. Similar to the previous Expo, many Thracian, Roman and Byzantine artifacts collected around Bulgaria were assembled for the viewing of the Expo guests. This featured a wide variety of gold treasures uncovered from newly discovered Thracian tombs, some of which are the oldest known in the world. Historians have also assembled a number of recreations of old townships and settlements, dating back to the neolithic period, in a special model display showing the evolution of Bulgarian cities. This is mainly focused around the city of Plovdiv, founded as Philippopolis, which is a reported site of the Thracian capital Odryssa and was renamed likely in honor of Philip II of Macedonia, the father of Alexander the Great. The model shows a wide view of the city from it's humble origins into a Thracian city, to a Roman Metropolis into the state it is today. The display is also intended to show the achievements of the socialist construction projects as the city now stands as an achievement of socialist design.

Moving on, the second sector focuses on the struggle for liberation. This sector of the pavilion features four in-depth historical representations of key Bulgarian revolutionaries:

  • Vasil Levski: The national hero of Bulgaria, dubbed the Апостол на свободата (The Apostle of Freedom), is the most significant figure in the Bulgarian struggle for liberation. Born in Karlovo, Levski was the founder of the Internal Revolutionary Organisation, and the Bulgarian Revolutionary Central Committee, which helped to train, arm and support anti-Ottoman liberation activities during the mid-1800s. Eventually murdered by the Ottoman Empire, Levski became a martyr of the Bulgarian people and is venerated to this day. His display includes various artifacts including his pistols and his uniform.

  • Hristo Botev: Botev was one of the key writers of the revolution, who's poetry helped to inspire the revival of Bulgarian culture under the Ottoman Empire. Born in Kalofer but growing up partly in Odessa, his writings would become integral to the revolutionary movement and remain popular even today. A collection of his original poems and notes are displayed on loan from the National History Museum in Sofia.

  • Georgi Benkovski: Benkovski was a key military leader and revolutionary fighter who helped to orchestrate the April Uprising of 1876, a major uprising against Ottoman Rule and the one that is often referred to as the predecessor of Bulgarian liberation. Benkovski was a key fighter who inspired many Bulgarians and is venerated today as a military hero. His sword and rifle are displayed in the pavilion.

  • Hadzhi Dimitar: Dimitar was a Воевода (Voidoda, "Warlord") who fought alongside the Bulgarian Revolutionaries to disrupt Ottoman trading routes along the Стара планина (Old Mountains, the Balkan mountain range). His efforts would greatly support both the revolutionaries and the eventual liberation of Bulgaria in 1878. The flag of Hadzhi Dimitar, with the inscription На оружя мили братя (Take up arms, my dear brothers) is on display.

The exhibition also features a special section dedicated to the April Uprising, and the subsequent Българските ужаси (Bulgarian Horrors) which was the massacre of thousands of Bulgarian citizens in retaliation by Ottoman irregular troops from Circassia. It also features a special painting dedicated to the Battle of Plevna and the Battle of Shipka, two key battles in the 1877-78 Russo-Turkish War that resulted in the eventual liberation of Bulgaria.

Following on from this, a special display on the natural beauty of Bulgaria could be found in one of the smaller pyramids. The display was created in conjunction with biologists and geologists from the top Universities and Research Centres in Bulgaria. The display focused on the various eco-systems of Bulgaria, including the mountainous alpine terrain and the lowland terrains of the Thracian plains. A floral display of Bulgarian wildflowers and national flowers such as the Rose and the alpine Edelweiss plants were displayed in the very centre of the area. Preserved specimens of some of the many indigenous fauna that inhabited Bulgaria were also displayed. Though smaller than the larger, more historically focused exhibitions, this particular sector drew a lot of attention in highlighting the natural landscape of the nation. A selection of photographs adorned the walls of the exhibition, collected by a national competition held just the previous year.

Finally, the largest exhibition is dedicated the 25th anniversary of socialism in Bulgaria. Entering the largest pyramid are large busts and displays of Bulgarian leaders Georgi Dimitrov, Valko Chervenkov and current General Secretary Todor Zhivkov. The busts and accompanying murals were designed especially for the Expo. Alongside this are a variety of achievements, with a number of products built in Bulgaria, ranging from consumer goods to industrial tools were displayed and some allowed to be handled and tried by visitors. A special display of models showing the construction achievements of the Bulgarian state, including the purpose built housing blocs and a scale model of the Kozludoy Nuclear Power Plant, due to be completed some time in the next decade and once completed will be among the largest reactor buildings in Europe. A special section was dedicated to information technology, with components and demonstration models of computers displayed, though far smaller than their counter-parts currently in use. Finally, a display of some of the industrial activity including a rotating podium with a Balkan M-250 motorcycle and the first look at the new Balkan Rallye sports car.

The exhibition and pavilion at the Expo has been reported as a symbol of national pride, receiving widespread attention across Bulgaria partly due to the effective work of Lyudmila Zhivkova in it's promotion. The second consecutive pavilion could mean yet another pavilion will be displayed at the next Expo in 1973.

International Association Football Federation | Fédération internationale de football association

FIFA World Cup 1970 | Copa Mundial de la FIFA 1970

THE ROUND OF 16 (PART 2)

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The first set of Round of 16 matches saw Colombia, West Germany and Yugoslavia go through with some ease, and a thrilling display between Italy and France where the former side went through. After an exciting collection of matches, we can only assume that the matches today will be just as interesting. On the roster today is Brazil who take on debutants Cameroon in our first match. Following that, tournament favourites England make their Round of 16 appearance against Romania. The Netherlands, after dominating their group face off against Portugal. Finally, we see Mexico take on Peru in the final match. Four quarter-final spots up for grabs here, as we enter the last four matches of the Round of 16, tensions will be high here and we'll be expecting some thrilling football. Let's head down to our correspondents pitch-side for the recap on today's matches.

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Brazil v Cameroon

We get underway here on the Caribbean coastline at Santa Marta for this match-up between favourites Brazil and the stunning debutants Cameroon. At the start of this tournament, we might've expected Spain or Argentina to be in this match, perhaps even the Netherlands, but Cameroon have pulled off one of the all-time great shocks of the World Cup, managing to secure their spot in the Round of 16 against all odds. Can they continue that great run of form as the match begins against Brazil, a team that has been dominant from the start of qualification and are looking like probable candidates to win the tournament this year. The early stages of this match run slow, with Brazil making some good attacking play to match the fast-paced Cameroonian tactics. Both teams playing some extremely athletic football, it's looking fairly level here.

As the first half rolls on, we see Brazil taking more of an advantage as Cameroon get pushed back towards defending. Though the Africans are playing well, that Brazilian attack is just too much for them as they get themselves into some good space and record some chances against the Cameroonian net. A few set-pieces troubling the Africans as the match progresses, as they try to get back to the centre the ball is picked up by Tostao, who makes an excellent run towards goal and he's in space to strike... GOAL!! Brazil take the lead just at the end of the first half! After a difficult half for them the South Americans get themselves ahead and Cameroon will need to find their way back out of this situation in the next half.

The second half begins and Cameroon try to fight for possession, but it's Brazil who are firmly in charge of this match, pushing forward as they keep looking for a second goal. Cameroon have barely managed to secure any shots on target today, such is the domination of the Brazilian midfield who are simply playing superb football today, they're looking very calm and collected as the match goes on. The ball comes into the Cameroonian box more times than we care to count, with Brazil peppering the goal with chances. The ball goes out for the corner kick, and delivered in to find the head of Carlos Alberto... GOAL!! A stunning header gives Cameroon the second goal and puts them firmly in the lead now. The African side looking furious with themselves for letting the game run away from them like this.

We head into the latter stages of the match and it's still Brazil who are putting the pressure on Cameroon, with Pele now in possession to make an excellent run down the line. He finds himself boxed in, but an excellent bit of skill gets him out and in space to shoot... AND IT'S IN!! 3-0 for the South Americans and surely it's all over for Cameroon now! An excellent run of form in the group stage but they simply can't overcome the Brazilians here, what fantastic play from them to get that goal in. As the minutes tick on, Brazil make a number of tactical changes, no doubt resting their key players in for the next round, and Cameroon find some opportunities to try and get back into the game, but it's too little too late as they fail to secure a goal before the final whistle.

Brazil make it back to back World Cup quarter-final appearances with that victory, Cameroon leave their mark in the history books but sadly will have to wait until next time before they can try to go further. It's Brazil 3-0 against Cameroon in Santa Marta.

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England v Romania

Romania and England repeat their qualifying performances by facing each-other off here in Bucamaranga. England breezing through their group, looking strong and one of the favourites to win this tournament, whilst Romania managed to secure their spot in this round by the last match, marking a memorable return to the tournament for them after years in the international wilderness. As the match begins, we see both sides trying to fight it out for early possession, England looking a little slower than we tend to anticipate with them they head into this half, and Romania looking to set up some early chances. Leading the way is Nicolae Dobrin, a fantastic player who's shown his ability as a strong central midfielder to help Romania achieve what they've achieved thus far.

First half goes on and little chances are being had here, Romania leading the way statistically but something seems off about England's performance, perhaps trying to slow the pace down from the younger Romanian side. Nevertheless, Romania's chances may be plenty but none are making it past Gordon Banks, who's standing firm to prevent any goals through here. England's strong defence looks to be frustrating the Romanian side, who feel they should've had a goal by now. As the first half comes to a close, England begin racking up some chances on the offensive here, trying to secure an opening goal, but they find themselves unable as the first half comes to a close, a goalless draw so far.

The second half begins and it looks as though England are starting to wake up, registering some good efforts on goal early on and troubling the Romanian defenders. Some impressive midfield play sees the first 15 minutes or so of the half happen almost exclusively in the Romanian half, with the English getting more players out front to start applying pressure of the Romanian defence. As they come forward, the ball starts flying towards the goal from all angles, forcing the keeper to put in a serious shift to keep the balls out. Eventually, a free kick is given after some rough defending results in a yellow card. The ball flies in from the free kick but it's deflected out, but it finds it's way into the path of Geoff Hurst who strikes... AND SCORES! England take the lead late in the game! Romania will have to fight back now to get that equaliser but as it stands, England are in the lead.

Romania spring into action and start aggressively playing into the English half, trying to get the equaliser. Romania are no strangers to coming back from a goal down and it looks like England are full aware of that as they drop their midfield back to support their defenders. It's a difficult task, with some of Romania's finest strikers firing shot after shot towards the goal, but Banks stopping any chances from going through. England saved a few times by offside rulings as the Romanians get more risky with their plays. Despite this, England look to try and get some counter-attacks forward, but they're stopped by the defenders, determined not to let another goal past. The minutes tick on and it's looking like the end for them, no chances left for the Romanians to get the ball through as they heavily defend against the English.

The final whistle blows, and England will face Brazil in the quarter-finals! Strong performance from Romania, shame they weren't able to level the match but it shows promise for the upcoming tournaments and they should be in a good position to challenge in the future.

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Netherlands v Portugal

We come to you from the Estadio General Santander where the Netherlands face off against Portugal. Both sides playing some pioneering football here, with the Netherlands developing their total football style that has done Ajax wonders in the UEFA club competitions, whereas Portugal follow in Brazil's footsteps with a fast-paced attacking form that has proven strong in recent years. Both teams should be evenly matched on paper as the match begins and already the Dutch look to dominate possession. They're having a harder time of it than usual as the Portuguese chase them down around the pitch, and already begin moving for the counter-attacks. Within the first 25 minutes Portugal register some fantastic chances, but they find it hard to get past that solid Dutch defence that continues to hold them back.

The first half progresses and Portugal continue their offence, trying to find a goal to set them ahead. However, the Dutch are still holding a majority of possession, lead by Cruyff in the midfield who pushes his team to get forward. As the first half comes to a close we start seeing the tables turn in favour of the Dutch, who begin striking at the Portuguese goal, but they're fended off by the Portuguese defenders who rush to get back. Overall, Portugal looking stronger as the first half comes to a close with some great chances early on, but the Netherlands still have a lot to offer in this match and as the first half ends, both teams are still level here, and the second half is wide open for them.

The second half gets underway and already we're seeing much of the same here, possession dropping back into the Dutch half with the Portuguese chasing. Portugal really looking strong on the attack here but that midfield is struggling as the Dutch pass the ball around, tiring out the Portuguese players. Some tactical changes from Portugal to get some fresh legs onto the field, maybe a change in tactics might be needed. However, a pass intercepted and Portugal are on the run, Joao getting the ball forward to Eusebio, who beats his marker and he's making some excellent runs towards the box. He gets in position to strike... GOAL! Portugal get the goal they've been looking for and take the advantage as we head into the second half! Fantastic play from Portugal's talisman striker to get them ahead, and the Dutch will have to rally now and find the answer.

The Netherlands opt for a more aggressive play-style as they look to find the equaliser. That goal really rattled them, they were hoping to tire out the Portuguese to try and pick them apart in the latter stages of the match, but you can rarely ever plan those kind of things and so they rush to the offensive. Balls come flying into the Portuguese half as they look to find a way forward, trying to get themselves ahead. Some good chances from Cruyff and his fellow strikers, but it comes to nothing as the Portuguese race to get as many men in their box as possible. Defending strong, the Portuguese prevent any chances going through but the lack of forward players mean that their opportunities to put themselves further in the lead are far and between. The Netherlands fight until the very last second of the match, producing some incredible tactical football, but it's just not to be.

Final whistle, and Portugal book a second consecutive quarter-final appearance. Disappointing for the Netherlands, but they've proven themselves one of the top European sides and we'll be sure to keep an eye on them going into the next few years.

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Mexico v Peru

It's the final Round of 16 match, and it's an all-American battle between Mexico and Peru. Two teams that have high expectations, both touted as dark-horses to win the tournament, and here they meet one another in the knockout stages. The Estadio Olimpico Pascual Guerrero in Cali records a record attendance, over 45,000 people here to watch these two teams with many more outside the stadium listening in on the radio or watching from local bars. The excitement surrounding this match is incredible. The match begins and both sides rush to gain possession, it's some incredible football here as they push to try and secure the lead early on. Some incredible talent on both sides here, it's definitely looking to be a good match today. The half goes on, and it's Peru who get the advantage, Cubillas delivering a good ball into the box to find Leon... GOAL!! Peru take the lead and the crowd goes wild!! 1-0 after 17 minutes and it's Pedro Pablo Leon who takes them there!

The first half goes on and Mexico now need to fight their way back from a goal down, the stadium vibrating from the sounds of the fans as the atmosphere is just biblical. Mexico producing some good attacking play as they press into the Peruvian half, but at the slightest slip-up they're forced the other way as Peru rush to counter-attack, looking very dangerous as they try to put themselves two-goals ahead. Some incredible displays of athleticism here as both sides rush to try and get up and down the pitch. Mexico get a good run in, pushing from the right side as the cross goes in, deflecting from the defender but intercepted by Enrique Borja, who tries his luck... AND IT'S IN! Mexico get the equaliser and they bring it level before the end of the first half, what an incredible display of skill there! Mexico aren't done yet though, they still press Peru as the minutes tick down, and their play gets them awarded a free kick in a fantastic location. The free kick comes in, the keeper stops it but fumbles the catch, the ball drops to floor where Salgado meets in... GOAL!! Mexico make it two and they take the lead before the end of the first half! What a mistake that was, the keeper will be furious with himself!

With the second half beginning, Peru don't look disturbed at all by the score-line as they go straight back to it, pressing Mexico back into their half as Cali erupts in support. Cubillas holding possession, the pace slows down now as they look for chances, and the ball comes through to Baylon, who gets it back to Leon who's now in some good space here, and he looks to shoot... but he dummies the keeper and passes it back to Baylon who has an open goal... SCORES!! Only 6 minutes into this half and Peru level the score! Mexico's hard work from the first half almost nullified and they'll have to push yet again to get themselves in front here. Peru definitely not giving up as they continue their aggressive play, prompting changes on either side as both teams push to secure their spots in the next round. As it stands, the match looks level and we still can't call this match.

Mexico back on the offensive here, looking to try and secure a goal to get themselves back in the lead. Their star strikers trying as hard as they can now to convert their shots, but Peru's keeper is working overtime to prevent any of those shots going through. Diaz gets the ball through, strikes but the balls deflected, and against as Borja tries his luck but the ball is deflected and kicked out, where it's caught by Hernandez, who fancies his luck from the distance... SCORES!! What a fantastic shot that was to bring Mexico back into the lead! From that far out he's hit that ball with such speed and precision to get themselves ahead, that's absolutely incredible! Mexico celebrate as Peru steady themselves again to fight back, mercilessly attacking as the Mexico's defence works hard to try and prevent them from striking. Peru struggle to get the ball into the box and Mexico run for a few counter-attacks but nothing comes of it. The Mexican fans are already singing as if they're won, but Peru aren't finished here yet. Cubillas in the centre, he's an excellent play-maker this young man as he finds Leon and sends the ball forward. He's onside and very much in space, touches the ball once before striking... GOAL!!! Peru level it!! Mexico looking shocked that they've allowed that to happen but Peruvian fans go wild both in and out of the stadium! What an incredible goal in an incredible match, absolutely unbelievable!

It's extra time and the two teams make some changes here, looking to go for the long haul as they both have their eyes set on the prize. Definitely a contender for match of the tournament as both teams force the attack with the ball flying back and forth across the midfield. Both sides seemingly unaffected by the high-altitude here, with both teams used to playing at these altitudes, perhaps a warning to Portugal who await the winner of this match in the next round. It's still all to play for as both sides register some good chances, but are ultimately unable to convert as they struggle to keep their shots on target. With the final whistle impending, Peru launch a final run towards goal, recording at least five shots on target, but the Mexican keeper does an incredible job to prevent it there, securing them as the match heads onto the dreaded penalty shoot-out.

It's Mexico to take first, Isidoro Diaz lines up against the keeper. He's on track to become the tournaments top scorer, he's lethal at this range, can he convert?... HE CAN! Mexico in the lead and it never looked in doubt!

Cubillas now, this young man one of the finest players in the world at the moment, he steps up to take the penalty... SCORES! No stopping that an the keeper could only watch it fly past him.

Aaron Padilla now to take Mexico's second, the veteran player looking like a sure thing to score. He makes his run and... MISSED! Push to the post by the Peruvian keeper!

Pedro Pablo Leon now to give Peru the lead. He's got two goals on the score-sheet, can he make it three... SAVED!! Mexican keeper having none of it as he clutches the ball to his chest!

Salgado now to give Mexico the lead. He steadies himself to shoot... AND SCORES! 2-1 Mexico!!

Baylon to strike now. There's a lot of pressure on this man and he makes a run up to shoot... SAVED!! The crowd roar in support of the keeper, and Mexico sit in the lead!!

Borja for Mexico's fourth penatly. He really needs to score this to keep them comfortable, can he do it?... HE CAN! Mexico extend their lead and take a step closer to the quarter-finals!

Gallardo for Peru, he needs to score this to keep Peru in this match. Waiting for the whistle, you can see the nerves on his face, as he strikes... AND SCORES! Neatly put away into the bottom corner of the net!

Munguia to take Mexico's fifth penalty. If he scores, Mexico will advance to the quarter-finals for the first time in their history. He steps up, makes sure the ball is in the right place, makes his run and... GOAL!! He does it!!

Mexico through to the next round in triumphant fashion, what an incredible match! Peru will be disappointed in that result but they played amazingly to keep themselves ahead. It's Mexico's night in Cali though, as they book their spot in the next round to face Portugal!

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International Association Football Federation | Fédération internationale de football association

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    January 1970
    Politics

      SOCIAL DEMOCRAT BRUNO KREISKY ELECTED PRESIDENT OF ALPENLAND

      DER SOZIALDEMOKRAT BRUNO KREISKY WIRD ZUM PRÄSIDENTEN DES ALPENLANDES GEWÄHLT
      LE SOCIAL-DÉMOCRATE BRUNO KREISKY ÉLU PRÉSIDENT DE L'ALPENLAND
      IL SOCIALDEMOCRATICO BRUNO KREISKY ELETTO PRESIDENTE DELL'ALPENLAND
      SOCIALNI DEMOKRAT BRUNO KREISKY IZVOLJEN ZA PREDSEDNIKA ALPSKA

BERN
CAPITAL CITY OF THE ALPINE REPUBLIC

| For a fourth time since the founding of their republic, the citizens of Alpenland would prepare to vote on who would represent them and their government to the world. Public squares, town halls, and community centers across the Alps from Geneva to Vienna would buzz with lively political debates, rallies, and campaigns. When the day would finally come they would eagerly cast their votes with a profound understanding of the significance of their choices. Peering down at their ballots, voters would have dozens of candidates to choose from for every level of federal office. |

| In Alpenland’s past, three major parties had been at the forefront of the political world. The Free Democratic party had seen the most success of them, with its predecessors in former Switzerland and Austria having been in power for the 20 years after the end of WWII. It would represent the centrist traditional liberal views of the Alps. However in recent years, the Free Democratic party had seen a large-scale decline, with polls indicating they had lost nearly half of their support which had been split between the left-wing Social Democrats and right-wing Christian Democrats. This decline could be attributed to Alpenland’s most recent president Hans Schaffner’s perceived reluctance to support any sort of change to the status quo. |

| And so the election of 1970 would come down to only two realistic options: |

| The Christian Democratic People's Party had been a well-established faction in Switzerland, and had merged with the Austrian People’s Party to become the go-to center to center-right party of Alpenland. Ludwig von Moos had been chosen as the presidential candidate. He had been elected Landeshauptmann, or governor, of the small, mountainous state of Obwalden in 1966, and had captured the nation’s attention with his unique speeches on popular political topics. His base of conservative rural and middle-class families would form nationwide support, but many would question if his qualifications would be enough for the presidential office. |

| The Social Democrats of Switzerland and Austria had also quickly joined forces as the progressive, left-wing party of the nation. A still enthusiastic Bruno Kreisky would be taking the Social Democratic Party’s presidential ballot space for the fourth time in the row. He had been the obvious pick due to his working-class background which had drawn him to the party at age 15 and his experience on the Austrian presidential cabinet. A practicing Jew, Kreisky had escaped the holocaust to Stockholm and had returned to rebuild the government of his home country. He had been chosen for a seat in the first cabinet of Alpenland formed in 1958. While in office, he had made promises of sweeping housing reform, transportation, and increased representation of Alpenland on the international stage, which he had claimed were only being held back by low support in other parties in the National Council. |

| Voter turnout in 1970 would be 92%, beating 1958’s 91% as the highest in Alpenland’s history. |

RESULTS
A SOCIAL DEMOCRATIC VICTORY

| With 46% of the vote, up from 35% in 1966, Bruno Kreisky would win the presidential race over Ludwig von Moos’ 44% and the Free Democratic Party’s 8% (2% would vote for others, such as the Communist Party). The election of 1970 would mark the largest single party in Alpenland ever, only being a few seats away from an absolute majority in the National Council. Part of Kreisky’s success would be his promises. Millions of supporters had been disappointed with previous governments’ non-responses to major world issues, such as the Yugo-Slovenian crisis that had developed right on Alpenland’s border, and would hope Kreisky would handle things differently. This would mark yet another step away from absolute neutrality, which had been embraced for the past 12 years in Alpenland, and had gone back centuries in the preceding Helvetic Republic. The election of 1970 would be a historic one, especially with it being at the dawn of a new decade. The 1970s would be the dawn of a new era in Alpenland. |

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