Chapter 148: Throne
Education in the East African colonies has been highly effective in reducing the outbreak of local diseases and improving the health and survival rates of immigrants. Despite its recent establishment, the East African colony excels in disease prevention and control compared to colonies in South America with centuries of development.
While the appearance of buildings and clothing in East Africa may seem less refined, the colony prioritizes investments in education, health, and infrastructure construction. Infrastructure projects, such as road and canal construction, are underway to address transportation challenges. Roads are being built with drainage ditches to prevent damage during the rainy season.
One hundred thousand indigenous laborers are actively contributing to road construction, as specialized machinery is lacking. Rainwater collection systems are also being established, directing water into canals and temporary reservoirs to prevent it from flowing into the Indian Ocean. These measures not only improve local environmental conditions but also provide potential arable land.
East Africa's focus is on solving transportation and food supply issues, while clothing and housing are considered secondary concerns. The colony specializes in agricultural development, benefiting from a sparse population and abundant resources. East African immigrants enjoy a high standard of living concerning food and shelter.
Prince Constantine and his son, Ernst, discuss recent developments in Spain. The Spanish monarch has fled to France, leaving the Spanish monarchy in a state of uncertainty. While Constantine is concerned about the potential impact on European stability, Ernst remains pragmatic and focused on the family's interests.
Ernst points out that Spain's internal problems, such as regional autonomy and a lack of unity, are significant obstacles. He emphasizes that Hechingen's interests lie in Germany and East Africa, not Spain. Ernst believes that the risks of intervening in Spain far outweigh the potential rewards.
Constantine acknowledges his impatience and agrees with Ernst's assessment. He recognizes that Spain's complexity and the strength of its entrenched interests make it a risky venture. Instead, they agree to maintain their focus on the prosperous East African colony.
In September 1868, the Spanish military government overthrows Queen Elizabeth Alexandra Mary's rule, leading to her flight to France and a vacant Spanish throne. Similar to history, the Spaniards consider the Hohenzollern family as potential candidates for the throne, with the influence of Prussian Prime Minister Bismarck playing a significant role.
However, the Habsburg royal family of Hechingen shows no interest in the Spanish throne. Both Constantine and Ernst make it clear that the family has no intentions of getting involved in Spanish affairs. The Hohenzollern-Sigmaringen royal family's Prince Leopold is eventually chosen for the Spanish throne, but not without external influence, particularly from the French.
The Habsburgs of Hechingen remain committed to their interests in Germany and East Africa, avoiding the complexities of Spanish politics.