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Line 1: + {{Update Needed|[[Shattered Fortress]]}} {{InfoBoxState {{InfoBoxState | image = draccombine.gif | image = draccombine.gif Line 9:
Line 10: | language = | language = | demonym = | demonym = − | Head of State = [[Coordinator]] + | Head-of-State = [[Coordinator]] − | cintel = [[Order of Five Pillars]] (O5P) + | cintel = [[Order of Five Pillars]] (O5P) − | commander = ''[[Gunji-no-Kanrei]]''+ | army = [[Draconis Combine Mustered Soldiery]] (DCMS) − | army = [[Draconis Combine Mustered Soldiery]] (DCMS) + | navy = [[Draconis Combine Admiralty]] (DCA) − | navy = [[Draconis Combine Admiralty]] (DCA) + | mintel = [[Internal Security Force]] (ISF) − | mintel = [[Internal Security Force]] (ISF) }} }} The '''Draconis Combine''' is one of the five [[Successor States]] of the [[Inner Sphere]]. Founded in [[2319]] by the empire-builder [[Shiro Kurita]], the Combine has been ruled as a hereditary dictatorship by the [[Coordinator|Coordinators]] of [[House Kurita]]. The '''Draconis Combine''' is one of the five [[Successor States]] of the [[Inner Sphere]]. Founded in [[2319]] by the empire-builder [[Shiro Kurita]], the Combine has been ruled as a hereditary dictatorship by the [[Coordinator|Coordinators]] of [[House Kurita]]. Line 34:
Line 34: The Combine was the last [[Inner Sphere]] nation to join the [[Star League]]. Following the League's collapse, Coordinator [[Minoru Kurita (28th c.)|Minoru Kurita]] was the first Council Lord to declare himself [[First Lord]], leading to the [[First Succession War]]. The [[Succession Wars (History)|Succession Wars]] were unkind to humanity and created a backslide in technology. The unofficial end of the [[Third Succession War]] is considered to be [[3025]]. The Combine was the last [[Inner Sphere]] nation to join the [[Star League]]. Following the League's collapse, Coordinator [[Minoru Kurita (28th c.)|Minoru Kurita]] was the first Council Lord to declare himself [[First Lord]], leading to the [[First Succession War]]. The [[Succession Wars (History)|Succession Wars]] were unkind to humanity and created a backslide in technology. The unofficial end of the [[Third Succession War]] is considered to be [[3025]]. − Following the [[Fourth Succession War]] and facing the prospect of a superstate, the [[Federated Commonwealth]], on its border, the Combine recognized the independence of the [[Free Rasalhague Republic]] to create a buffer state and secure higher-technology weapons through [[ComStar]]. These proved useful when the Commonwealth did invade in the [[War of 3039]]. + Following the [[Fourth Succession War]] and facing the prospect of a super-state, the [[Federated Commonwealth]], on its border, the Combine recognized the independence of the [[Free Rasalhague Republic]] to create a buffer state and secure higher-technology weapons through [[ComStar]]. These proved useful when the Commonwealth did invade in the [[War of 3039]]. − The [[Clan Invasion]] resulted in a huge loss of territory for the Combine, as even the capital Luthien saw [[Battle of Luthien (3052)|one of the largest battles]] of the war, though many worlds were regained in [[Operation Bulldog]]. Coordinator [[Theodore Kurita]] was also responsible for relaxing some of the rigid traditionalism within the military, allowing more women into higher ranks and lessening the impact of ''bushido'' on his troops so that they would be more willing to accept flexible tactics that would be useful against the [[Clans]]. The reactionary ''[[Kokuryu-kai]]'' or Black Dragon Society opposed his reforms and launched a full-scale rebellion at the same time as the [[Word of Blake]] started their [[Jihad]]. + The [[Clan Invasion]] resulted in a huge loss of territory for the Combine, as even the capital Luthien saw [[Battle of Luthien (Clan Invasion)|one of the largest battles]] of the war, though many worlds were regained in [[Operation Bulldog]]. Coordinator [[Theodore Kurita]] was also responsible for relaxing some of the rigid traditionalism within the military, allowing more women into higher ranks and lessening the impact of ''bushido'' on his troops so that they would be more willing to accept flexible tactics that would be useful against the [[Clans]]. The reactionary ''[[kokuryu-kai]]'' or Black Dragon Society opposed his reforms and launched a full-scale rebellion at the same time as the [[Word of Blake]] started their [[Jihad]]. − The Combine emerged from the Jihad weakened, though still powerful compared to their neighbors. After the blackout in [[3132]], the Combine launched an invasion of the [[Republic of the Sphere]]. A series of assassinations placed [[Yori Kurita]], the illegitimate descendant of Theodore, on the throne. Yori, who was commonly seen as the puppet of [[Warlord (rank)|Warlord]] and ''[[Gunji-no-Kanrei]]'' [[Matsuhari Toranaga]], presided over the Combine's military campaigns against the Republic of the Sphere, as well as renewed hostilities against the Federated Suns. This latter campaign initially went very well for the Combine, with DCMS forces reaching as far as the Suns' capital of New Avalon. As the Dark Age continued, the Combine's progress began to slow, and its borders stabilized around its new conquests - including that swath of conquered territory formerly belonging to the Federated Suns that became known as the [[Dragon's Tongue]]. <ref> ''Shattered Fortress'', p. 28, "The Dragon Strikes" </ref> <ref> ''Shattered Fortress'', p. 31, "Searching for the Grail" </ref> + The Combine emerged from the Jihad weakened, though still powerful compared to their neighbors. After the blackout in [[3132]], the Combine launched an invasion of the [[Republic of the Sphere]]. A series of assassinations placed [[Yori Kurita]], the illegitimate descendant of Theodore, on the throne. Yori, who was commonly seen as the puppet of [[Warlord (rank)|Warlord]] and ''[[Gunji-no-Kanrei]]'' [[Matsuhari Toranaga]], presided over the Combine's military campaigns against the Republic of the Sphere, as well as renewed hostilities against the Federated Suns. This latter campaign initially went very well for the Combine, with DCMS forces reaching as far as the Suns' capital of New Avalon. As the Dark Age continued, the Combine's progress began to slow, and its borders stabilised around its new conquests - including that swath of conquered territory formerly belonging to the Federated Suns that became known as the [[Dragon's Tongue]]. <ref> ''Shattered Fortress'', p. 28, "The Dragon Strikes" </ref> <ref> ''Shattered Fortress'', p. 31, "Searching for the Grail" </ref> ==The Five Pillars== ==The Five Pillars== Line 53:
Line 53: ;The Ministries ;The Ministries − The day-to-day working of the Combine is carried out by five Ministries each headed by a minister, with the ministers of individual bureaus or subministers reporting to them, who in turn are reported to by the heads of bureau subdivisions or committeemen. Head ministers and subministers are all members of the nobility, as are most committeemen. Ostensibly, each ministry has clear-cut responsibilities, but the Byzantine-like nature of the Draconian bureaucracy often means even a simple request might require the fingerprints of multiple agencies, and even lifetime civil servants might not be completely sure of whose authorizations or which forms may be required. Since many bureaucrats are notorious for erring on the side of caution, the best local administrators (besides having the right connections) are adept at ''Rensikuro-bu'' (the Dance of Waiting and Smiling) and ''Rurdu-Koba-tsö'' (Finding the Cheese in the Maze).<ref name=HK96>''House Kurita (The Draconis Combine)'', p. 95-96</ref><ref name=HHK122>''Handbook: House Kurita'', p. 120-122</ref> + The day-to-day working of the Combine is carried out by five Ministries each lead by a minister head, with the ministers of individual bureaus or subministers reporting to them, who in turn are reported to by the heads of bureau subdivisions or committeemen. Head ministers and subministers are all members of the nobility, as are most committeemen. Ostensibly, each ministry has clear-cut responsibilities, but the Byzantine-like nature of the Draconian bureaucracy often means even a simple request might require the fingerprints of multiple agencies, and even lifetime civil servants might not be completely sure of whose authorizations or which forms may be required. Since many bureaucrats are notorious for erring on the side of caution, the best local administrators (besides having the right connections) are adept at ''Rensikuro-bu'' (the Dance of Waiting and Smiling) and ''Rurdu-Koba-tsö'' (Finding the Cheese in the Maze).<ref name=HK96>''House Kurita (The Draconis Combine)'', p. 95-96</ref><ref name=HHK122>''Handbook: House Kurita'', p. 120-122</ref> The formal names of the ministries, and many of their bureaus, can seem purposely designed to obscure their actual function:<ref name=HK96/><ref name=HHK122/> The formal names of the ministries, and many of their bureaus, can seem purposely designed to obscure their actual function:<ref name=HK96/><ref name=HHK122/> Line 71:
Line 71: :* the Combine Support and Engineering :* the Combine Support and Engineering :* the Draconis Combine High Command :* the Draconis Combine High Command − *'''The Ministry of Wealth and the Disbursing of Assets''': The Ministry of the Treasure or ''Ökurashö'' governs the Draconian economy - setting trade policy, workers' rights, and minting [[Ryu (currency)|''ryu'']] - as well as allocating funds to other ministries. It is also one of the more convoluted ministries, containing bureaus which seemingly belong elsewhere (such as the Bureau of Nourishment responsible for food allocation). The divisions of the Ministry of the Treasury are the most convoluted of all the bureaucracy.<ref name="HK(TDC)p96c">''House Kurita (The Draconis Combine)'', p. 96 "TREASURY"</ref> + *'''The Ministry of Wealth and the Disbursing of Assets''': The Ministry of the Treasure or ''Ökurashö'' governs the Draconian economy - setting trade policy, workers' rights, and minting [[Ryu (currency)|''Ryu'']] - as well as allocating funds to other ministries. It is also one of the more convoluted ministries, containing bureaus which seemingly belong elsewhere (such as the Bureau of Nourishment responsible for food allocation). The divisions of the Ministry of the Treasury are the most convoluted of all the bureaucracy.<ref name="HK(TDC)p96c">''House Kurita (The Draconis Combine)'', p. 96 "TREASURY"</ref> :* the Bureau of Nourishment (food allocation), though it really seems to belong in the Ministry of the Interior :* the Bureau of Nourishment (food allocation), though it really seems to belong in the Ministry of the Interior :* the Bureau of Human Growth, that would seem to belong to the Treasury Ministry :* the Bureau of Human Growth, that would seem to belong to the Treasury Ministry Line 93:
Line 93: :* the Bureau of Natural Plants and Animals (forestry) :* the Bureau of Natural Plants and Animals (forestry) :* the all-powerful Bureau of Bureaucracy :* the all-powerful Bureau of Bureaucracy − :* the Bureau of Friendly Interior Comfort and Concerns was created to bring about intercultural harmony after the integration of [[Clan Nova Cat]] into Draconian society after Operation Bulldog and the increasing restlessness of the [[Azami]]. + :* the Bureau of Friendly Interior Comfort and Concerns was created to bring about inter-cultural harmony after the integration of [[Clan Nova Cat]] into Draconian society after Operation Bulldog and the increasing restlessness of the [[Azami]]. *'''The Ministry of Peaceful Order and Honor''': The Ministry of Justice or ''Kakun'' handles law and order within the Combine; while citizens are allowed civil liberties, close cooperation between the courts and police ensures justice is dispensed to those who deserve it. The major divisions of the Ministry of Justice are:<ref name="HK(TDC)p97a">''House Kurita (The Draconis Combine)'', p. 97 "Justice"</ref> *'''The Ministry of Peaceful Order and Honor''': The Ministry of Justice or ''Kakun'' handles law and order within the Combine; while citizens are allowed civil liberties, close cooperation between the courts and police ensures justice is dispensed to those who deserve it. The major divisions of the Ministry of Justice are:<ref name="HK(TDC)p97a">''House Kurita (The Draconis Combine)'', p. 97 "Justice"</ref> :* the [[Civilian Guidance Corps]] (The Friendly Persuaders, the civilian police) :* the [[Civilian Guidance Corps]] (The Friendly Persuaders, the civilian police) Line 121:
Line 121: ===Pillar of Steel=== ===Pillar of Steel=== {{Main|Draconis Combine Mustered Soldiery}} {{Main|Draconis Combine Mustered Soldiery}} − In the time of feudal Japan, the steel used in the creation of [[Katana (Weapon)|''katanas'']] was said to have mystical properties, making them the finest weapons ever created. ''Samurai'' held their blades in high esteem and passed them down through the generations. For a ''samurai'' to lose his blade, however, was an act of great dishonor and to be avoided at all cost. Such is the regard placed on the armed forces of the Draconis Combine, representing the central and most important of the five pillars. As the principal agent in realizing House Kurita's mandate to conquer all, the fortunes of the military are closely tied to that of the state; as the military goes, so goes the Combine.<ref name=HK120>''House Kurita (The Draconis Combine)'', p. 120</ref><ref name=HHK137>''Handbook: House Kurita'', p. 137</ref> + In the time of feudal Japan, the steel used in the creation of [[Katana (weapon)|''katanas'']] was said to have mystical properties, making them the finest weapons ever created. ''Samurai'' held their blades in high esteemed and passed them down through the generations. For a ''samurai'' to lose his blade, however, was an act of great dishonor and to be avoided at all cost. Such is the regard placed on the armed forces of the Draconis Combine, representing the central and most important of the five pillars. As the principle agent in realizing House Kurita's mandate to conquer all, the fortunes of the military are closely tied to that of the state; as the military goes, so goes the Combine.<ref name=HK120>''House Kurita (The Draconis Combine)'', p. 120</ref><ref name=HHK137>''Handbook: House Kurita'', p. 137</ref> The military of the Combine, the Draconis Combine Mustered Soldiery (DCMS), has traditionally been one of the strongest in the Inner Sphere. The Combine was founded upon the principles of ''bushido'', the way of the warrior. Thanks to this, the military has a large pool of skilled individuals from which to draw. Enlistment in the DCMS is seen as the fastest way to get ahead in the world, as every person in the military, even a lowly rifleman, is respected. The DCMS is also referred to as the Arm of the Dragon. The military of the Combine, the Draconis Combine Mustered Soldiery (DCMS), has traditionally been one of the strongest in the Inner Sphere. The Combine was founded upon the principles of ''bushido'', the way of the warrior. Thanks to this, the military has a large pool of skilled individuals from which to draw. Enlistment in the DCMS is seen as the fastest way to get ahead in the world, as every person in the military, even a lowly rifleman, is respected. The DCMS is also referred to as the Arm of the Dragon. Line 130:
Line 130: As decreed by the First Coordinator, Draconian society is highly stratified. At the top are the nobility or ''kuge'', responsible for running much of the government, followed by the warriors or ''buke'', who fight for the glory of the Dragon. The middle class encompass a wide range of professionals, followed by the commoners or ''henin'' who perform the manual labor in society. At the bottom are the Unproductives, composed of society's undesirables including criminal elements like the ''[[yakuza]]''. Rarely is a Draconian able to rise above their station, but surprisingly most are content with their place in society. This is thanks to indoctrination which reinforces a collective identity and adherence to the [[Dictum Honorium]] and instills in the average citizen glorification of the military and suspicion of all outsiders; for many Draconians, the only time they will ever visit a non-Combine world is to conquer it.<ref name=HK152/><ref name=HHK131/> As decreed by the First Coordinator, Draconian society is highly stratified. At the top are the nobility or ''kuge'', responsible for running much of the government, followed by the warriors or ''buke'', who fight for the glory of the Dragon. The middle class encompass a wide range of professionals, followed by the commoners or ''henin'' who perform the manual labor in society. At the bottom are the Unproductives, composed of society's undesirables including criminal elements like the ''[[yakuza]]''. Rarely is a Draconian able to rise above their station, but surprisingly most are content with their place in society. This is thanks to indoctrination which reinforces a collective identity and adherence to the [[Dictum Honorium]] and instills in the average citizen glorification of the military and suspicion of all outsiders; for many Draconians, the only time they will ever visit a non-Combine world is to conquer it.<ref name=HK152/><ref name=HHK131/> [[Image:KuritaArt.jpg|thumb|right|250px|Unlike the lower classes, the nobility and military are encouraged to pursue artistic expression]] [[Image:KuritaArt.jpg|thumb|right|250px|Unlike the lower classes, the nobility and military are encouraged to pursue artistic expression]] − Japanese cultural traditions - such as tea ceremonies, ''geisha'' and Nohkabu theater troupes - dominate the Draconis Combine despite the fact that a majority of Draconians are of non-Japanese ancestry.<ref name=HK152/><ref name=HHK133>''Handbook: House Kurita'', p. 133</ref><ref>''Handbook: House Kurita'', p. 182-183</ref> This cultural hegemony was informal at first, receiving a boost in popularity after the construction of the Imperial City along traditional lines, but quickly became official government policy when [[Urizen Kurita (27th c.)|Urizen Kurita]] instituted the Kokugaku or National Learning program, stressing Japan's history and its language.<ref>''Handbook: House Kurita'', p. 36</ref> Criticisms that such a narrow cultural focus serves as a means to discriminate against non-Japanese have been met by reassurances from various Coordinators that all who show loyalty to the Dragon will always be respected.<ref>''House Kurita (The Draconis Combine)'', p. 45</ref> For example, [[Takiro Kurita]] softened Kokugaku by mandating Japanese language only for those entering government and military occupations,<ref>''Handbook: House Kurita'', p. 37</ref> and the School of Cultural Investigation on [[Al Na'ir]] is dedicated to exploring the diverse traditions which make up the Combine and how aspects of each are incorporated to create a greater Draconian culture.<ref name=HK152/><ref name=HHK133/> + Japanese cultural traditions - such as tea ceremonies, ''geisha'' and Nohkabu theater troupes - dominate the Draconis Combine despite the fact that a majority of Draconians are of non-Japanese ancestry.<ref name=HK152/><ref name=HHK133>''Handbook: House Kurita'', p. 133</ref><ref>''Handbook: House Kurita'', p. 182-183</ref> This cultural hegemony was informal at first, receiving a boost in popularity after the construction of the Imperial City along traditional lines, but quickly became official government policy when [[Urizen Kurita (27th c.)|Urizen Kurita]] instituted the Kokugaku or National Learning program, stressing Japan's history and its language.<ref>''Handbook: House Kurita'', p. 36</ref> Criticisms that such a narrow cultural focus serves as a means to discriminate against non-Japanese have been met by reassurances from various Coordinators that all who show loyalty to the Dragon will always be respected.<ref>''House Kurita (The Draconis Combine)'', p. 45</ref> For example, [[Takiro Kurita]] softened by Kokugaku by mandating Japanese language only for those entering government and military occupations,<ref>''Handbook: House Kurita'', p. 37</ref> and the School of Cultural Investigation on [[Al Na'ir]] is dedicated to exploring the diverse traditions which make up the Combine and how aspects of each are incorporated to create a greater Draconian culture.<ref name=HK152/><ref name=HHK133/> − This adherence to traditional norms explains the position of women in Combine society, which is often that of housewife and mother. There are no formal barriers against women entering into higher education or joining the military, and some (especially high-born) have attained important positions in the political, corporate and military spheres, but few achieve the same level of equality as their male counterparts.<ref name=HK152/><ref name=HHK133/><ref>''House Kurita (The Draconis Combine)'', p. 80</ref> When [[Siriwan McAllister-Kurita]] became the first female Coordinator, the idea of a woman sitting on the Chrysanthemum Throne did not sit easily among the patriarchal nobility, though her successes opened the door for future female rulers.<ref>''House Kurita (The Draconis Combine)'' p. 37-40</ref><ref>''Handbook: House Kurita'', p. 30-33</ref> Within the military, few women had achieved the rank of General and none had been made a Warlord before the [[thirty-first century]],<ref>''House Kurita (The Draconis Combine)'', p. 130</ref> but that changed under Theodore Kurita as more women were promoted into the higher ranks and [[Tomoe Sakade]] became the Combine's first female Warlord in [[3062]].<ref name=HHK133/> + This adherence to traditional norms explains the position of women in Combine society, which is often that of housewife and mother. There are no formal barriers against women entering into higher education or joining the military, and some (especially high-born) have attained important positions in the political, corporate and military spheres, but few achieve the same level of equality as their male counterparts.<ref name=HK152/><ref name=HHK133/><ref>''House Kurita (The Draconis Combine)'', p. 80</ref> When [[Siriwan McAllister-Kurita]] became the first female Coordinator, the idea of a woman sitting on the Chrysanthemum Throne did not sit easily among the patriarchal nobility, though her successes opened the door for future female rulers.<ref>''House Kurita (The Draconis Combine)'' p. 37-40</ref><ref>''Handbook: House Kurita'', p. 30-33</ref> Within the military, few women had achieved the rank of General and none had been made a Warlord before the 31st century,<ref>''House Kurita (The Draconis Combine)'', p. 130</ref> but that changed under Theodore Kurita as more women were promoted into the higher ranks and [[Tomoe Sakade]] became the Combine's first female Warlord in [[3062]].<ref name=HHK133/> ===Pillar of Ivory=== ===Pillar of Ivory=== Line 141:
Line 141: These ideals of Purity and Harmony appear, in various forms, among the pan-Asian religions and philosophies on which Shiro grew up, and to which he assigned each of the social classes within Combine society. As befitting the needs of their position, the nobility are theoretically free to follow any tradition, although Confucianism and Taoism have traditionally been encouraged by the Coordinator to instill a sense of obligation to one's superiors and the capability to react to fluid situations. For the military, Confucianism, Zen Buddhism and ''bushido'' were assigned to focus the warrior's mind and leave them free to make the necessary decisions during combat. A more intensified version of Confucianism was indoctrinated in the vast middle class, ensuring loyalty in a stratum of society which is most vulnerable to inappropriate philosophies. For the working classes, and the Unproductives below them, Shintoism help occupy their minds during grueling work days or a rootless existence. Control of the Shinto temples and priesthood, however, rest firmly with the nobility, who ironically are themselves dissuaded from believing in the religion they administer.<ref>''House Kurita (The Draconis Combine)'', p. 116-119</ref><ref>''Handbook: House Kurita'', p. 107-109</ref> These ideals of Purity and Harmony appear, in various forms, among the pan-Asian religions and philosophies on which Shiro grew up, and to which he assigned each of the social classes within Combine society. As befitting the needs of their position, the nobility are theoretically free to follow any tradition, although Confucianism and Taoism have traditionally been encouraged by the Coordinator to instill a sense of obligation to one's superiors and the capability to react to fluid situations. For the military, Confucianism, Zen Buddhism and ''bushido'' were assigned to focus the warrior's mind and leave them free to make the necessary decisions during combat. A more intensified version of Confucianism was indoctrinated in the vast middle class, ensuring loyalty in a stratum of society which is most vulnerable to inappropriate philosophies. For the working classes, and the Unproductives below them, Shintoism help occupy their minds during grueling work days or a rootless existence. Control of the Shinto temples and priesthood, however, rest firmly with the nobility, who ironically are themselves dissuaded from believing in the religion they administer.<ref>''House Kurita (The Draconis Combine)'', p. 116-119</ref><ref>''Handbook: House Kurita'', p. 107-109</ref> − Inevitably, alternative religions and philosophies will appear along the margins of a society as tightly control as Draconian, but with great effort such threats to the social harmony and stability of society are just as inevitably rooted out and destroyed. A few notable exceptions have been made in the history of the Combine. When Rasalhague formally joined the Combine after the McAllister Rebellion, its people practiced a form of Christianity based on Eastern Orthodox Catholicism. As part of a political compromise, the people were allowed to retain their religion, so long as all mentions of "the Lord" in public ceremonies were in reference to the Coordinator. A secular form of Judaism is also tolerated, with those maintaining its religious trappings forced to join secretive ''minyans'' to avoid persecution. Among the Azami, who practice a form of Shia Islam, the Dragon turns a blind eye to their practice. Under the precept of ''taqiya'' the Azami outwardly adopt the rules of the Dictum Honorium, and so long as they keep their religious practices to Azami-controlled worlds the security services do not inquire deeply into the Azami's faithfulness to the Honorium.<ref>''House Kurita (The Draconis Combine)'', p. 108-110</ref><ref>''Handbook: House Kurita'', p. 108-111</ref> + Inevitably, alternative religions and philosophies will appear along the margins of a society as tightly control as Draconian, but with great effort such threats to the social harmony and stability of society are just as inevitably rooted out and destroyed. A few notable exceptions have been made in the history of the Combine. When Rasalhague formally joined the Combine after the McAllister Rebellion, its people practiced a form of Christianity based on Eastern Orthodox Catholicism. As part of a political compromise, the people were allowed to retain their religion, so long as all mentions of "the Lord" in public ceremonies were in reference to the Coordinator. A secular form of Judaism is also tolerated, with those maintaining its religious trappings forced to join secretive ''minyans'' to avoid persecution. Among the Azami, who practice a form of Shia Islam, the Dragon turns a blind eye to their practice. Under the precept of Taqiya the Azami outwardly adopt the rules of the Dictum Honorium, and so long as they keep their religious practices to Azami-controlled worlds the security services do not inquire deeply into the Azami's faithfulness to the Honorium.<ref>''House Kurita (The Draconis Combine)'', p. 108-110</ref><ref>''Handbook: House Kurita'', p. 108-111</ref> ===Pillar of Jade=== ===Pillar of Jade=== While other gems or minerals may hold special significance elsewhere, jade is particularly valuable within the Draconis Combine as a symbol of commerce and industry. For thousands of years jade has been sought out not just for its aesthetic beauty but also its supposed mystical properties for calming the mind and driving away evil spirits. Even the less superstitious Draconians, when under the immense pressure to succeed, will stop and meditate on jade as a way of clearing their thoughts. As such, examples of jade artwork can be found in offices and factories across the Combine, most commonly taking the shape of a pillar, tree or pierced disk, as reminders to workers and executives alike to focus on their assigned task. The pierced disk in particular suggests against fixating too much on material wealth compared to the vastness of the heavens.<ref name=HKTDC159>''House Kurita (The Draconis Combine)'', p. 157-159</ref><ref name=HHK157>''Handbook: House Kurita'', p. 155-157</ref> While other gems or minerals may hold special significance elsewhere, jade is particularly valuable within the Draconis Combine as a symbol of commerce and industry. For thousands of years jade has been sought out not just for its aesthetic beauty but also its supposed mystical properties for calming the mind and driving away evil spirits. Even the less superstitious Draconians, when under the immense pressure to succeed, will stop and meditate on jade as a way of clearing their thoughts. As such, examples of jade artwork can be found in offices and factories across the Combine, most commonly taking the shape of a pillar, tree or pierced disk, as reminders to workers and executives alike to focus on their assigned task. The pierced disk in particular suggests against fixating too much on material wealth compared to the vastness of the heavens.<ref name=HKTDC159>''House Kurita (The Draconis Combine)'', p. 157-159</ref><ref name=HHK157>''Handbook: House Kurita'', p. 155-157</ref> − Despite its size the Draconis Combine has historically been resource-poor (except in population), and the Succession Wars did much to destroy what little of what existed, but the remaining wealth is exploited to the maximum extent under an economic system which can be described as "state-run capitalism." Independent, publicly-traded corporations with their own boards of directors exist within the Combine, but the degree to which they can exert their independence depends strongly on the nature of their business. In [[2985]], Treasury Minister [[Tadaki Nagai]] decided that all businesses would be designated as either Direct Service (Military) or Indirect Service (Civilian)<ref name=HKTDC159/>. Those with direct ties to the military - manufacturers of weapons or 'Mechs - were designated "Direct Service" corporations in the late [[thirtieth century]]. Such corporations are guaranteed protection against all military and economic threats, but are subject to the decisions of an military board of officers which can overrule any actions taken by the civilian directors. All other corporations were labeled "Indirect Service", and while maintaining more control over their own affairs many are under some level of direct supervision of at least one military officer, depending on how much of their business directly affects the military.<ref name=HKTDC159/><ref name=HHK157/> Although the Kurita economy is government-run it is not a communist economy. It can be best described as controlled-market capitalism, where new businesses can start up only with the permission of the government, and must be run under close government supervision, but where the corporations are not owned by the government, as they have their own directors and may issue stock if they wish. There is a tolerance of small operations on most worlds, such as the independent farmer's markets. If they become too successful, they are usually closed down or absorbed by a large firm.<ref name=HKDCp159>''House Kurita (The Draconis Combine)'', p. 159 "THE CORPORATE STRUCTURE"</ref> + Despite its size the Draconis Combine has historically been resource-poor (except in population), and the Succession Wars did much to destroy what little of what existed, but the remaining wealth is exploited to the maximum extent under an economic system which can be described as "state-run capitalism." Independent, publicly-traded corporations with their own boards of directors exist within the Combine, but the degree to which they can exert their independence depends strongly on the nature of their business. In [[2985]], Treasury Minister [[Tadaki Nagai]] decided that all businesses would be designated as either Direct Service (Military) or Indirect Service (Civilian)<ref name=HKTDC159/>. Those with direct ties to the military - manufacturers of weapons or 'Mechs - were designated "Direct Service" corporations in the late 30th century. Such corporations are guaranteed protection against all military and economic threats, but are subject to the decisions of an military board of officers which can overrule any actions taken by the civilian directors. All other corporations were labeled "Indirect Service", and while maintaining more control over their own affairs many are under some level of direct supervision of at least one military officer, depending on how much of their business directly affects the military.<ref name=HKTDC159/><ref name=HHK157/> Although the Kurita economy is government-run it is not a communist economy. It can be best described as controlled-market capitalism, where new businesses can start up only with the permission of the government, and must be run under close government supervision, but where the corporations are not owned by the government, as they have their own directors and may issue stock if they wish. There is a tolerance of small operations on most worlds, such as the independent farmer's markets. If they become too successful, they are usually closed down or absorbed by a large firm.<ref name=HKDCp159>''House Kurita (The Draconis Combine)'', p. 159 "THE CORPORATE STRUCTURE"</ref> − For the average worker, loyalty to the corporation is second only to loyalty to the Coordinator themselves. While the state provides many of the same services, most workers' entire lives revolve around the corporation: born in hospitals, living in housing, and entombed in cemeteries owned by the corporation. The only honorable means of escaping a particular company is to be transferred to a different one or to join the military; to actually be fired brings disgrace not only on the worker but the family as well for failing to raise a productive member of society. Some are allowed the honor of starving to death so that the rest of their family may continuing working at the same firm, but with little to no prospects of working anywhere else those who don't take their own lives are relegated to the ranks of the Unproductives. Here the only legal work that may be found are the bottom of the barrel jobs: cleanup crews for toxic environments, research test subjects, or cannon fodder for local militia units.<ref name=HKTDC159/><ref name=HHK157/><ref>''Handbook: House Kurita'', p. 129</ref> + For the average worker, loyalty to the corporation is second only to loyalty to the Coordinator themselves. While the state provides many of the same services, most workers' entire lives revolve around the corporation: born in hospitals, living in housing, and entombed in cemeteries owned by the corporation. The only honorable means of escaping a particular company is to be transferred to a different one or to join the military; to actually be fired brings disgrace not only on the worker but the family as well for failing to raise a productive member of society. Some are allowed the honor of starving to death so that the rest of their family may continuing working at the same firm, but with little to no prospects of working anywhere else those who don't take their own lives are relegated to the ranks of the Unproductives. Here the only legal work that may be found are the bottom of the barrel jobs: clean-up crews for toxic environments, research test subjects, or cannon fodder for local militia units.<ref name=HKTDC159/><ref name=HHK157/><ref>''Handbook: House Kurita'', p. 129</ref> − ===Manufacturing Centers=== + ====Manufacturing Centers==== A detailed list of some DCMS manufacturer and company centers. A detailed list of some DCMS manufacturer and company centers. ;3152 ;3152 Line 190:
Line 190: *Dominant Language(s): Japanese (official), Arabic, English *Dominant Language(s): Japanese (official), Arabic, English *Dominant Religion(s): Shinto (official), Buddhism, Islam *Dominant Religion(s): Shinto (official), Buddhism, Islam − *Unit of Currency: [[Ryu (currency)|''Ryu'']] (1 ''ryu'' = 0.94 C-Bills / 2.30 C-Bills ([[3145]])<ref> ''Era Report: 3145'', p.194, "Currency Conversion Table"</ref>) + *Unit of Currency: [[Ryu (currency)|Ryu]] (1 ryu = 0.94 C-Bills / 2.30 C-Bills ([[3145]])<ref> ''Era Report: 3145'', p.194, "Currency Conversion Table"</ref>) ==Maps== ==Maps== Line 202:
Line 202: ==Historical Maps== ==Historical Maps== + <gallery> <gallery> File:Draconis Combine Foundation 2319.jpg|Draconis Combine at their founding in 2319 File:Draconis Combine Foundation 2319.jpg|Draconis Combine at their founding in 2319 Line 215:
Line 216: File:Draconis Combine after FedCom Civil War 3067 Map.jpg|Draconis Combine after the [[FedCom Civil War]] 3067 Map File:Draconis Combine after FedCom Civil War 3067 Map.jpg|Draconis Combine after the [[FedCom Civil War]] 3067 Map File:DC-3075.png|during [[Jihad]] File:DC-3075.png|during [[Jihad]] − Draconis Combine Map-3079.png|after [[Jihad]]+ File:DC-3079.png|after [[Jihad]] File:DC-3081.png|in [[3081]] File:DC-3081.png|in [[3081]] − Draconis Combine Map-3085.png|creation of the [[Republic of the Sphere]]+ File:DC-3085.png|creation of the [[Republic of the Sphere]] File:DC-3130.png|before [[Gray Monday]] File:DC-3130.png|before [[Gray Monday]] File:DC-3135.png|in [[3135]] File:DC-3135.png|in [[3135]] File:DC-3145.png|in [[3145]] File:DC-3145.png|in [[3145]] + </gallery> </gallery> + + ==See Also== + + * [[/History | History]] + * [[House Kurita Family Tree]] + * [[/Timeline | Timeline]] ==References== ==References== <references /> <references /> ==Bibliography== ==Bibliography== − <div class="desktop-3-col">+ *''[[20 Year Update]]'' *''[[20 Year Update]]'' *''[[Black Dragon (novel)|Black Dragon]]'' *''[[Black Dragon (novel)|Black Dragon]]'' Line 251:
Line 259: *''[[Patriots and Tyrants]]'' *''[[Patriots and Tyrants]]'' *''[[Prince of Havoc]]'' *''[[Prince of Havoc]]'' − *''[[Shattered Fortress]]'' *''[[Storms of Fate]]'' *''[[Storms of Fate]]'' *''[[Strategic Operations]]'' *''[[Strategic Operations]]'' Line 259:
Line 266: *''[[Warrior: En Garde]]'' *''[[Warrior: En Garde]]'' *''[[Warrior: Riposte]]'' *''[[Warrior: Riposte]]'' − *''[[Wolves on the Border]]'' + *''[[Wolves on the Border]]'' − </div> [[Category:Nation States|Draconis Combine]] [[Category:Nation States|Draconis Combine]] − [[Category:Draconis Combine Related Categories]]
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| − | | Head of State = [[Coordinator]] | + | | Head-of-State = [[Coordinator]] |
| − | | cintel | + | | cintel = [[Order of Five Pillars]] (O5P) |
| − | + | | army = [[Draconis Combine Mustered Soldiery]] (DCMS) | |
| − | | army | + | | navy = [[Draconis Combine Admiralty]] (DCA) |
| − | | navy | + | | mintel = [[Internal Security Force]] (ISF) |
| − | | mintel | ||
}} | }} | ||
The '''Draconis Combine''' is one of the five [[Successor States]] of the [[Inner Sphere]]. Founded in [[2319]] by the empire-builder [[Shiro Kurita]], the Combine has been ruled as a hereditary dictatorship by the [[Coordinator|Coordinators]] of [[House Kurita]]. | The '''Draconis Combine''' is one of the five [[Successor States]] of the [[Inner Sphere]]. Founded in [[2319]] by the empire-builder [[Shiro Kurita]], the Combine has been ruled as a hereditary dictatorship by the [[Coordinator|Coordinators]] of [[House Kurita]]. | ||
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The Combine was the last [[Inner Sphere]] nation to join the [[Star League]]. Following the League's collapse, Coordinator [[Minoru Kurita (28th c.)|Minoru Kurita]] was the first Council Lord to declare himself [[First Lord]], leading to the [[First Succession War]]. The [[Succession Wars (History)|Succession Wars]] were unkind to humanity and created a backslide in technology. The unofficial end of the [[Third Succession War]] is considered to be [[3025]]. | The Combine was the last [[Inner Sphere]] nation to join the [[Star League]]. Following the League's collapse, Coordinator [[Minoru Kurita (28th c.)|Minoru Kurita]] was the first Council Lord to declare himself [[First Lord]], leading to the [[First Succession War]]. The [[Succession Wars (History)|Succession Wars]] were unkind to humanity and created a backslide in technology. The unofficial end of the [[Third Succession War]] is considered to be [[3025]]. | ||
| − | Following the [[Fourth Succession War]] and facing the prospect of a | + | Following the [[Fourth Succession War]] and facing the prospect of a super-state, the [[Federated Commonwealth]], on its border, the Combine recognized the independence of the [[Free Rasalhague Republic]] to create a buffer state and secure higher-technology weapons through [[ComStar]]. These proved useful when the Commonwealth did invade in the [[War of 3039]]. |
| − | The [[Clan Invasion]] resulted in a huge loss of territory for the Combine, as even the capital Luthien saw [[Battle of Luthien ( | + | The [[Clan Invasion]] resulted in a huge loss of territory for the Combine, as even the capital Luthien saw [[Battle of Luthien (Clan Invasion)|one of the largest battles]] of the war, though many worlds were regained in [[Operation Bulldog]]. Coordinator [[Theodore Kurita]] was also responsible for relaxing some of the rigid traditionalism within the military, allowing more women into higher ranks and lessening the impact of ''bushido'' on his troops so that they would be more willing to accept flexible tactics that would be useful against the [[Clans]]. The reactionary ''[[kokuryu-kai]]'' or Black Dragon Society opposed his reforms and launched a full-scale rebellion at the same time as the [[Word of Blake]] started their [[Jihad]]. |
| − | The Combine emerged from the Jihad weakened, though still powerful compared to their neighbors. After the blackout in [[3132]], the Combine launched an invasion of the [[Republic of the Sphere]]. A series of assassinations placed [[Yori Kurita]], the illegitimate descendant of Theodore, on the throne. Yori, who was commonly seen as the puppet of [[Warlord (rank)|Warlord]] and ''[[Gunji-no-Kanrei]]'' [[Matsuhari Toranaga]], presided over the Combine's military campaigns against the Republic of the Sphere, as well as renewed hostilities against the Federated Suns. This latter campaign initially went very well for the Combine, with DCMS forces reaching as far as the Suns' capital of New Avalon. As the Dark Age continued, the Combine's progress began to slow, and its borders | + | The Combine emerged from the Jihad weakened, though still powerful compared to their neighbors. After the blackout in [[3132]], the Combine launched an invasion of the [[Republic of the Sphere]]. A series of assassinations placed [[Yori Kurita]], the illegitimate descendant of Theodore, on the throne. Yori, who was commonly seen as the puppet of [[Warlord (rank)|Warlord]] and ''[[Gunji-no-Kanrei]]'' [[Matsuhari Toranaga]], presided over the Combine's military campaigns against the Republic of the Sphere, as well as renewed hostilities against the Federated Suns. This latter campaign initially went very well for the Combine, with DCMS forces reaching as far as the Suns' capital of New Avalon. As the Dark Age continued, the Combine's progress began to slow, and its borders stabilised around its new conquests - including that swath of conquered territory formerly belonging to the Federated Suns that became known as the [[Dragon's Tongue]]. <ref> ''Shattered Fortress'', p. 28, "The Dragon Strikes" </ref> <ref> ''Shattered Fortress'', p. 31, "Searching for the Grail" </ref> |
==The Five Pillars== | ==The Five Pillars== | ||
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;The Ministries | ;The Ministries | ||
| − | The day-to-day working of the Combine is carried out by five Ministries each | + | The day-to-day working of the Combine is carried out by five Ministries each lead by a minister head, with the ministers of individual bureaus or subministers reporting to them, who in turn are reported to by the heads of bureau subdivisions or committeemen. Head ministers and subministers are all members of the nobility, as are most committeemen. Ostensibly, each ministry has clear-cut responsibilities, but the Byzantine-like nature of the Draconian bureaucracy often means even a simple request might require the fingerprints of multiple agencies, and even lifetime civil servants might not be completely sure of whose authorizations or which forms may be required. Since many bureaucrats are notorious for erring on the side of caution, the best local administrators (besides having the right connections) are adept at ''Rensikuro-bu'' (the Dance of Waiting and Smiling) and ''Rurdu-Koba-tsö'' (Finding the Cheese in the Maze).<ref name=HK96>''House Kurita (The Draconis Combine)'', p. 95-96</ref><ref name=HHK122>''Handbook: House Kurita'', p. 120-122</ref> |
The formal names of the ministries, and many of their bureaus, can seem purposely designed to obscure their actual function:<ref name=HK96/><ref name=HHK122/> | The formal names of the ministries, and many of their bureaus, can seem purposely designed to obscure their actual function:<ref name=HK96/><ref name=HHK122/> | ||
| Line 71: | Line 71: | ||
:* the Combine Support and Engineering | :* the Combine Support and Engineering | ||
:* the Draconis Combine High Command | :* the Draconis Combine High Command | ||
| − | *'''The Ministry of Wealth and the Disbursing of Assets''': The Ministry of the Treasure or ''Ökurashö'' governs the Draconian economy - setting trade policy, workers' rights, and minting [[Ryu (currency)|'' | + | *'''The Ministry of Wealth and the Disbursing of Assets''': The Ministry of the Treasure or ''Ökurashö'' governs the Draconian economy - setting trade policy, workers' rights, and minting [[Ryu (currency)|''Ryu'']] - as well as allocating funds to other ministries. It is also one of the more convoluted ministries, containing bureaus which seemingly belong elsewhere (such as the Bureau of Nourishment responsible for food allocation). The divisions of the Ministry of the Treasury are the most convoluted of all the bureaucracy.<ref name="HK(TDC)p96c">''House Kurita (The Draconis Combine)'', p. 96 "TREASURY"</ref> |
:* the Bureau of Nourishment (food allocation), though it really seems to belong in the Ministry of the Interior | :* the Bureau of Nourishment (food allocation), though it really seems to belong in the Ministry of the Interior | ||
:* the Bureau of Human Growth, that would seem to belong to the Treasury Ministry | :* the Bureau of Human Growth, that would seem to belong to the Treasury Ministry | ||
| Line 93: | Line 93: | ||
:* the Bureau of Natural Plants and Animals (forestry) | :* the Bureau of Natural Plants and Animals (forestry) | ||
:* the all-powerful Bureau of Bureaucracy | :* the all-powerful Bureau of Bureaucracy | ||
| − | :* the Bureau of Friendly Interior Comfort and Concerns was created to bring about | + | :* the Bureau of Friendly Interior Comfort and Concerns was created to bring about inter-cultural harmony after the integration of [[Clan Nova Cat]] into Draconian society after Operation Bulldog and the increasing restlessness of the [[Azami]]. |
*'''The Ministry of Peaceful Order and Honor''': The Ministry of Justice or ''Kakun'' handles law and order within the Combine; while citizens are allowed civil liberties, close cooperation between the courts and police ensures justice is dispensed to those who deserve it. The major divisions of the Ministry of Justice are:<ref name="HK(TDC)p97a">''House Kurita (The Draconis Combine)'', p. 97 "Justice"</ref> | *'''The Ministry of Peaceful Order and Honor''': The Ministry of Justice or ''Kakun'' handles law and order within the Combine; while citizens are allowed civil liberties, close cooperation between the courts and police ensures justice is dispensed to those who deserve it. The major divisions of the Ministry of Justice are:<ref name="HK(TDC)p97a">''House Kurita (The Draconis Combine)'', p. 97 "Justice"</ref> | ||
:* the [[Civilian Guidance Corps]] (The Friendly Persuaders, the civilian police) | :* the [[Civilian Guidance Corps]] (The Friendly Persuaders, the civilian police) | ||
| Line 121: | Line 121: | ||
===Pillar of Steel=== | ===Pillar of Steel=== | ||
{{Main|Draconis Combine Mustered Soldiery}} | {{Main|Draconis Combine Mustered Soldiery}} | ||
| − | In the time of feudal Japan, the steel used in the creation of [[Katana ( | + | In the time of feudal Japan, the steel used in the creation of [[Katana (weapon)|''katanas'']] was said to have mystical properties, making them the finest weapons ever created. ''Samurai'' held their blades in high esteemed and passed them down through the generations. For a ''samurai'' to lose his blade, however, was an act of great dishonor and to be avoided at all cost. Such is the regard placed on the armed forces of the Draconis Combine, representing the central and most important of the five pillars. As the principle agent in realizing House Kurita's mandate to conquer all, the fortunes of the military are closely tied to that of the state; as the military goes, so goes the Combine.<ref name=HK120>''House Kurita (The Draconis Combine)'', p. 120</ref><ref name=HHK137>''Handbook: House Kurita'', p. 137</ref> |
The military of the Combine, the Draconis Combine Mustered Soldiery (DCMS), has traditionally been one of the strongest in the Inner Sphere. The Combine was founded upon the principles of ''bushido'', the way of the warrior. Thanks to this, the military has a large pool of skilled individuals from which to draw. Enlistment in the DCMS is seen as the fastest way to get ahead in the world, as every person in the military, even a lowly rifleman, is respected. The DCMS is also referred to as the Arm of the Dragon. | The military of the Combine, the Draconis Combine Mustered Soldiery (DCMS), has traditionally been one of the strongest in the Inner Sphere. The Combine was founded upon the principles of ''bushido'', the way of the warrior. Thanks to this, the military has a large pool of skilled individuals from which to draw. Enlistment in the DCMS is seen as the fastest way to get ahead in the world, as every person in the military, even a lowly rifleman, is respected. The DCMS is also referred to as the Arm of the Dragon. | ||
| Line 130: | Line 130: | ||
As decreed by the First Coordinator, Draconian society is highly stratified. At the top are the nobility or ''kuge'', responsible for running much of the government, followed by the warriors or ''buke'', who fight for the glory of the Dragon. The middle class encompass a wide range of professionals, followed by the commoners or ''henin'' who perform the manual labor in society. At the bottom are the Unproductives, composed of society's undesirables including criminal elements like the ''[[yakuza]]''. Rarely is a Draconian able to rise above their station, but surprisingly most are content with their place in society. This is thanks to indoctrination which reinforces a collective identity and adherence to the [[Dictum Honorium]] and instills in the average citizen glorification of the military and suspicion of all outsiders; for many Draconians, the only time they will ever visit a non-Combine world is to conquer it.<ref name=HK152/><ref name=HHK131/> | As decreed by the First Coordinator, Draconian society is highly stratified. At the top are the nobility or ''kuge'', responsible for running much of the government, followed by the warriors or ''buke'', who fight for the glory of the Dragon. The middle class encompass a wide range of professionals, followed by the commoners or ''henin'' who perform the manual labor in society. At the bottom are the Unproductives, composed of society's undesirables including criminal elements like the ''[[yakuza]]''. Rarely is a Draconian able to rise above their station, but surprisingly most are content with their place in society. This is thanks to indoctrination which reinforces a collective identity and adherence to the [[Dictum Honorium]] and instills in the average citizen glorification of the military and suspicion of all outsiders; for many Draconians, the only time they will ever visit a non-Combine world is to conquer it.<ref name=HK152/><ref name=HHK131/> | ||
[[Image:KuritaArt.jpg|thumb|right|250px|Unlike the lower classes, the nobility and military are encouraged to pursue artistic expression]] | [[Image:KuritaArt.jpg|thumb|right|250px|Unlike the lower classes, the nobility and military are encouraged to pursue artistic expression]] | ||
| − | Japanese cultural traditions - such as tea ceremonies, ''geisha'' and Nohkabu theater troupes - dominate the Draconis Combine despite the fact that a majority of Draconians are of non-Japanese ancestry.<ref name=HK152/><ref name=HHK133>''Handbook: House Kurita'', p. 133</ref><ref>''Handbook: House Kurita'', p. 182-183</ref> This cultural hegemony was informal at first, receiving a boost in popularity after the construction of the Imperial City along traditional lines, but quickly became official government policy when [[Urizen Kurita (27th c.)|Urizen Kurita]] instituted the Kokugaku or National Learning program, stressing Japan's history and its language.<ref>''Handbook: House Kurita'', p. 36</ref> Criticisms that such a narrow cultural focus serves as a means to discriminate against non-Japanese have been met by reassurances from various Coordinators that all who show loyalty to the Dragon will always be respected.<ref>''House Kurita (The Draconis Combine)'', p. 45</ref> For example, [[Takiro Kurita]] softened Kokugaku by mandating Japanese language only for those entering government and military occupations,<ref>''Handbook: House Kurita'', p. 37</ref> and the School of Cultural Investigation on [[Al Na'ir]] is dedicated to exploring the diverse traditions which make up the Combine and how aspects of each are incorporated to create a greater Draconian culture.<ref name=HK152/><ref name=HHK133/> | + | Japanese cultural traditions - such as tea ceremonies, ''geisha'' and Nohkabu theater troupes - dominate the Draconis Combine despite the fact that a majority of Draconians are of non-Japanese ancestry.<ref name=HK152/><ref name=HHK133>''Handbook: House Kurita'', p. 133</ref><ref>''Handbook: House Kurita'', p. 182-183</ref> This cultural hegemony was informal at first, receiving a boost in popularity after the construction of the Imperial City along traditional lines, but quickly became official government policy when [[Urizen Kurita (27th c.)|Urizen Kurita]] instituted the Kokugaku or National Learning program, stressing Japan's history and its language.<ref>''Handbook: House Kurita'', p. 36</ref> Criticisms that such a narrow cultural focus serves as a means to discriminate against non-Japanese have been met by reassurances from various Coordinators that all who show loyalty to the Dragon will always be respected.<ref>''House Kurita (The Draconis Combine)'', p. 45</ref> For example, [[Takiro Kurita]] softened by Kokugaku by mandating Japanese language only for those entering government and military occupations,<ref>''Handbook: House Kurita'', p. 37</ref> and the School of Cultural Investigation on [[Al Na'ir]] is dedicated to exploring the diverse traditions which make up the Combine and how aspects of each are incorporated to create a greater Draconian culture.<ref name=HK152/><ref name=HHK133/> |
| − | This adherence to traditional norms explains the position of women in Combine society, which is often that of housewife and mother. There are no formal barriers against women entering into higher education or joining the military, and some (especially high-born) have attained important positions in the political, corporate and military spheres, but few achieve the same level of equality as their male counterparts.<ref name=HK152/><ref name=HHK133/><ref>''House Kurita (The Draconis Combine)'', p. 80</ref> When [[Siriwan McAllister-Kurita]] became the first female Coordinator, the idea of a woman sitting on the Chrysanthemum Throne did not sit easily among the patriarchal nobility, though her successes opened the door for future female rulers.<ref>''House Kurita (The Draconis Combine)'' p. 37-40</ref><ref>''Handbook: House Kurita'', p. 30-33</ref> Within the military, few women had achieved the rank of General and none had been made a Warlord before the | + | This adherence to traditional norms explains the position of women in Combine society, which is often that of housewife and mother. There are no formal barriers against women entering into higher education or joining the military, and some (especially high-born) have attained important positions in the political, corporate and military spheres, but few achieve the same level of equality as their male counterparts.<ref name=HK152/><ref name=HHK133/><ref>''House Kurita (The Draconis Combine)'', p. 80</ref> When [[Siriwan McAllister-Kurita]] became the first female Coordinator, the idea of a woman sitting on the Chrysanthemum Throne did not sit easily among the patriarchal nobility, though her successes opened the door for future female rulers.<ref>''House Kurita (The Draconis Combine)'' p. 37-40</ref><ref>''Handbook: House Kurita'', p. 30-33</ref> Within the military, few women had achieved the rank of General and none had been made a Warlord before the 31st century,<ref>''House Kurita (The Draconis Combine)'', p. 130</ref> but that changed under Theodore Kurita as more women were promoted into the higher ranks and [[Tomoe Sakade]] became the Combine's first female Warlord in [[3062]].<ref name=HHK133/> |
===Pillar of Ivory=== | ===Pillar of Ivory=== | ||
| Line 141: | Line 141: | ||
These ideals of Purity and Harmony appear, in various forms, among the pan-Asian religions and philosophies on which Shiro grew up, and to which he assigned each of the social classes within Combine society. As befitting the needs of their position, the nobility are theoretically free to follow any tradition, although Confucianism and Taoism have traditionally been encouraged by the Coordinator to instill a sense of obligation to one's superiors and the capability to react to fluid situations. For the military, Confucianism, Zen Buddhism and ''bushido'' were assigned to focus the warrior's mind and leave them free to make the necessary decisions during combat. A more intensified version of Confucianism was indoctrinated in the vast middle class, ensuring loyalty in a stratum of society which is most vulnerable to inappropriate philosophies. For the working classes, and the Unproductives below them, Shintoism help occupy their minds during grueling work days or a rootless existence. Control of the Shinto temples and priesthood, however, rest firmly with the nobility, who ironically are themselves dissuaded from believing in the religion they administer.<ref>''House Kurita (The Draconis Combine)'', p. 116-119</ref><ref>''Handbook: House Kurita'', p. 107-109</ref> | These ideals of Purity and Harmony appear, in various forms, among the pan-Asian religions and philosophies on which Shiro grew up, and to which he assigned each of the social classes within Combine society. As befitting the needs of their position, the nobility are theoretically free to follow any tradition, although Confucianism and Taoism have traditionally been encouraged by the Coordinator to instill a sense of obligation to one's superiors and the capability to react to fluid situations. For the military, Confucianism, Zen Buddhism and ''bushido'' were assigned to focus the warrior's mind and leave them free to make the necessary decisions during combat. A more intensified version of Confucianism was indoctrinated in the vast middle class, ensuring loyalty in a stratum of society which is most vulnerable to inappropriate philosophies. For the working classes, and the Unproductives below them, Shintoism help occupy their minds during grueling work days or a rootless existence. Control of the Shinto temples and priesthood, however, rest firmly with the nobility, who ironically are themselves dissuaded from believing in the religion they administer.<ref>''House Kurita (The Draconis Combine)'', p. 116-119</ref><ref>''Handbook: House Kurita'', p. 107-109</ref> | ||
| − | Inevitably, alternative religions and philosophies will appear along the margins of a society as tightly control as Draconian, but with great effort such threats to the social harmony and stability of society are just as inevitably rooted out and destroyed. A few notable exceptions have been made in the history of the Combine. When Rasalhague formally joined the Combine after the McAllister Rebellion, its people practiced a form of Christianity based on Eastern Orthodox Catholicism. As part of a political compromise, the people were allowed to retain their religion, so long as all mentions of "the Lord" in public ceremonies were in reference to the Coordinator. A secular form of Judaism is also tolerated, with those maintaining its religious trappings forced to join secretive ''minyans'' to avoid persecution. Among the Azami, who practice a form of Shia Islam, the Dragon turns a blind eye to their practice. Under the precept of | + | Inevitably, alternative religions and philosophies will appear along the margins of a society as tightly control as Draconian, but with great effort such threats to the social harmony and stability of society are just as inevitably rooted out and destroyed. A few notable exceptions have been made in the history of the Combine. When Rasalhague formally joined the Combine after the McAllister Rebellion, its people practiced a form of Christianity based on Eastern Orthodox Catholicism. As part of a political compromise, the people were allowed to retain their religion, so long as all mentions of "the Lord" in public ceremonies were in reference to the Coordinator. A secular form of Judaism is also tolerated, with those maintaining its religious trappings forced to join secretive ''minyans'' to avoid persecution. Among the Azami, who practice a form of Shia Islam, the Dragon turns a blind eye to their practice. Under the precept of Taqiya the Azami outwardly adopt the rules of the Dictum Honorium, and so long as they keep their religious practices to Azami-controlled worlds the security services do not inquire deeply into the Azami's faithfulness to the Honorium.<ref>''House Kurita (The Draconis Combine)'', p. 108-110</ref><ref>''Handbook: House Kurita'', p. 108-111</ref> |
===Pillar of Jade=== | ===Pillar of Jade=== | ||
While other gems or minerals may hold special significance elsewhere, jade is particularly valuable within the Draconis Combine as a symbol of commerce and industry. For thousands of years jade has been sought out not just for its aesthetic beauty but also its supposed mystical properties for calming the mind and driving away evil spirits. Even the less superstitious Draconians, when under the immense pressure to succeed, will stop and meditate on jade as a way of clearing their thoughts. As such, examples of jade artwork can be found in offices and factories across the Combine, most commonly taking the shape of a pillar, tree or pierced disk, as reminders to workers and executives alike to focus on their assigned task. The pierced disk in particular suggests against fixating too much on material wealth compared to the vastness of the heavens.<ref name=HKTDC159>''House Kurita (The Draconis Combine)'', p. 157-159</ref><ref name=HHK157>''Handbook: House Kurita'', p. 155-157</ref> | While other gems or minerals may hold special significance elsewhere, jade is particularly valuable within the Draconis Combine as a symbol of commerce and industry. For thousands of years jade has been sought out not just for its aesthetic beauty but also its supposed mystical properties for calming the mind and driving away evil spirits. Even the less superstitious Draconians, when under the immense pressure to succeed, will stop and meditate on jade as a way of clearing their thoughts. As such, examples of jade artwork can be found in offices and factories across the Combine, most commonly taking the shape of a pillar, tree or pierced disk, as reminders to workers and executives alike to focus on their assigned task. The pierced disk in particular suggests against fixating too much on material wealth compared to the vastness of the heavens.<ref name=HKTDC159>''House Kurita (The Draconis Combine)'', p. 157-159</ref><ref name=HHK157>''Handbook: House Kurita'', p. 155-157</ref> | ||
| − | Despite its size the Draconis Combine has historically been resource-poor (except in population), and the Succession Wars did much to destroy what little of what existed, but the remaining wealth is exploited to the maximum extent under an economic system which can be described as "state-run capitalism." Independent, publicly-traded corporations with their own boards of directors exist within the Combine, but the degree to which they can exert their independence depends strongly on the nature of their business. In [[2985]], Treasury Minister [[Tadaki Nagai]] decided that all businesses would be designated as either Direct Service (Military) or Indirect Service (Civilian)<ref name=HKTDC159/>. Those with direct ties to the military - manufacturers of weapons or 'Mechs - were designated "Direct Service" corporations in the late | + | Despite its size the Draconis Combine has historically been resource-poor (except in population), and the Succession Wars did much to destroy what little of what existed, but the remaining wealth is exploited to the maximum extent under an economic system which can be described as "state-run capitalism." Independent, publicly-traded corporations with their own boards of directors exist within the Combine, but the degree to which they can exert their independence depends strongly on the nature of their business. In [[2985]], Treasury Minister [[Tadaki Nagai]] decided that all businesses would be designated as either Direct Service (Military) or Indirect Service (Civilian)<ref name=HKTDC159/>. Those with direct ties to the military - manufacturers of weapons or 'Mechs - were designated "Direct Service" corporations in the late 30th century. Such corporations are guaranteed protection against all military and economic threats, but are subject to the decisions of an military board of officers which can overrule any actions taken by the civilian directors. All other corporations were labeled "Indirect Service", and while maintaining more control over their own affairs many are under some level of direct supervision of at least one military officer, depending on how much of their business directly affects the military.<ref name=HKTDC159/><ref name=HHK157/> Although the Kurita economy is government-run it is not a communist economy. It can be best described as controlled-market capitalism, where new businesses can start up only with the permission of the government, and must be run under close government supervision, but where the corporations are not owned by the government, as they have their own directors and may issue stock if they wish. There is a tolerance of small operations on most worlds, such as the independent farmer's markets. If they become too successful, they are usually closed down or absorbed by a large firm.<ref name=HKDCp159>''House Kurita (The Draconis Combine)'', p. 159 "THE CORPORATE STRUCTURE"</ref> |
| − | For the average worker, loyalty to the corporation is second only to loyalty to the Coordinator themselves. While the state provides many of the same services, most workers' entire lives revolve around the corporation: born in hospitals, living in housing, and entombed in cemeteries owned by the corporation. The only honorable means of escaping a particular company is to be transferred to a different one or to join the military; to actually be fired brings disgrace not only on the worker but the family as well for failing to raise a productive member of society. Some are allowed the honor of starving to death so that the rest of their family may continuing working at the same firm, but with little to no prospects of working anywhere else those who don't take their own lives are relegated to the ranks of the Unproductives. Here the only legal work that may be found are the bottom of the barrel jobs: | + | For the average worker, loyalty to the corporation is second only to loyalty to the Coordinator themselves. While the state provides many of the same services, most workers' entire lives revolve around the corporation: born in hospitals, living in housing, and entombed in cemeteries owned by the corporation. The only honorable means of escaping a particular company is to be transferred to a different one or to join the military; to actually be fired brings disgrace not only on the worker but the family as well for failing to raise a productive member of society. Some are allowed the honor of starving to death so that the rest of their family may continuing working at the same firm, but with little to no prospects of working anywhere else those who don't take their own lives are relegated to the ranks of the Unproductives. Here the only legal work that may be found are the bottom of the barrel jobs: clean-up crews for toxic environments, research test subjects, or cannon fodder for local militia units.<ref name=HKTDC159/><ref name=HHK157/><ref>''Handbook: House Kurita'', p. 129</ref> |
| − | ===Manufacturing Centers=== | + | ====Manufacturing Centers==== |
A detailed list of some DCMS manufacturer and company centers. | A detailed list of some DCMS manufacturer and company centers. | ||
;3152 | ;3152 | ||
| Line 190: | Line 190: | ||
*Dominant Language(s): Japanese (official), Arabic, English | *Dominant Language(s): Japanese (official), Arabic, English | ||
*Dominant Religion(s): Shinto (official), Buddhism, Islam | *Dominant Religion(s): Shinto (official), Buddhism, Islam | ||
| − | *Unit of Currency: [[Ryu (currency)| | + | *Unit of Currency: [[Ryu (currency)|Ryu]] (1 ryu = 0.94 C-Bills / 2.30 C-Bills ([[3145]])<ref> ''Era Report: 3145'', p.194, "Currency Conversion Table"</ref>) |
==Maps== | ==Maps== | ||
| Line 202: | Line 202: | ||
==Historical Maps== | ==Historical Maps== | ||
| + | |||
<gallery> | <gallery> | ||
File:Draconis Combine Foundation 2319.jpg|Draconis Combine at their founding in 2319 | File:Draconis Combine Foundation 2319.jpg|Draconis Combine at their founding in 2319 | ||
| Line 215: | Line 216: | ||
File:Draconis Combine after FedCom Civil War 3067 Map.jpg|Draconis Combine after the [[FedCom Civil War]] 3067 Map | File:Draconis Combine after FedCom Civil War 3067 Map.jpg|Draconis Combine after the [[FedCom Civil War]] 3067 Map | ||
File:DC-3075.png|during [[Jihad]] | File:DC-3075.png|during [[Jihad]] | ||
| − | + | File:DC-3079.png|after [[Jihad]] | |
File:DC-3081.png|in [[3081]] | File:DC-3081.png|in [[3081]] | ||
| − | + | File:DC-3085.png|creation of the [[Republic of the Sphere]] | |
File:DC-3130.png|before [[Gray Monday]] | File:DC-3130.png|before [[Gray Monday]] | ||
File:DC-3135.png|in [[3135]] | File:DC-3135.png|in [[3135]] | ||
File:DC-3145.png|in [[3145]] | File:DC-3145.png|in [[3145]] | ||
| + | |||
</gallery> | </gallery> | ||
| + | |||
| + | ==See Also== | ||
| + | |||
| + | * [[/History | History]] | ||
| + | * [[House Kurita Family Tree]] | ||
| + | * [[/Timeline | Timeline]] | ||
==References== | ==References== | ||
<references /> | <references /> | ||
==Bibliography== | ==Bibliography== | ||
| − | + | ||
*''[[20 Year Update]]'' | *''[[20 Year Update]]'' | ||
*''[[Black Dragon (novel)|Black Dragon]]'' | *''[[Black Dragon (novel)|Black Dragon]]'' | ||
| Line 251: | Line 259: | ||
*''[[Patriots and Tyrants]]'' | *''[[Patriots and Tyrants]]'' | ||
*''[[Prince of Havoc]]'' | *''[[Prince of Havoc]]'' | ||
| − | |||
*''[[Storms of Fate]]'' | *''[[Storms of Fate]]'' | ||
*''[[Strategic Operations]]'' | *''[[Strategic Operations]]'' | ||
| Line 259: | Line 266: | ||
*''[[Warrior: En Garde]]'' | *''[[Warrior: En Garde]]'' | ||
*''[[Warrior: Riposte]]'' | *''[[Warrior: Riposte]]'' | ||
| − | *''[[Wolves on the Border]]'' | + | *''[[Wolves on the Border]]'' |
| − | |||
[[Category:Nation States|Draconis Combine]] | [[Category:Nation States|Draconis Combine]] | ||
| − | |||