From Annabelle's perspective, an economic depression was absolutely a great opportunity. While economic downturns were tough for ordinary people, the simple truth was that if you couldn't benefit from a depression, you just weren't rich enough.
During an economic depression, bonds collapse, gold reserves dwindle, factories shut down, and masses of workers lose their jobs. Therefore, the vast majority of people won't benefit. But no matter what, people still need to eat, and agricultural products remain essential even during a crisis. So, while industrial goods may face deflation, agricultural products remain unaffected.
Even if there is some impact, it's possible to manipulate prices to offset losses by passing them on to others. Of course, ordinary farmers can't do this—they lack the land and resources to pull it off. But Annabelle believed she could.
Those daring enough to take countermeasures during such times are few and far between. Not many can pull it off, as it requires substantial capital and the ability to predict the bottom of the crisis. In reality, danger breeds opportunity. Without great risk, you'll never seize the chance to change your life.
"I believe the federal government has the ability to solve this problem. If all else fails, they can always take out loans from London. Though if the Morgan and DuPont channels aren't available, I have some friends in London and Paris," Annabelle said with an unchanged expression, utterly unfazed by the so-called economic depression. Her lofty attitude left several congressmen envious...
"Compared to domestic economic fluctuations, it seems both parties have been at each other's throats lately. I don't believe those Republican scoundrels would dare to go to war with Britain. They know Cleveland is staunchly isolationist—they're just making noise," Annabelle casually mentioned the economic situation before shifting to ask about Washington's stance on the Caribbean.
"Since when can Republicans wage war? From the Union's history to now, which war was led by them? It's always been the Democrats who fought for the Union we have today," the man sitting next to Anderson stroked his thick beard and scoffed. "Before the Civil War, the Republicans were just a regional party with no real voice."
"The Whigs have long since dissolved. Stop bringing up the past," Anderson frowned slightly, cutting him off. He then turned to Annabelle and explained softly, "Indeed, many in Congress feel we should make our stance clear to the British."
"With what? The Union's 30,000-strong army?" Annabelle chuckled with a hint of mockery. "Shouldn't we build up our military before considering such posturing? When have Yankees ever been this brave? Why is it so hard for the Rifle Association to operate in Yankee territory? What does today's Union have to do with them? Did they vote it into existence?"
After her usual jab at the Yankees and Republicans, Annabelle fell silent for a moment, then shook her head slightly. "But those British hypocrites are indeed going too far. They need to give the Union some breathing room. Meddling everywhere is truly unbearable."
The relationship between the Union and Britain has always been one of superficial cordiality, especially in recent years. However, this isn't because the Union is provoking trouble—it's because the British Empire's presence in Latin America has grown increasingly strong.
Britain's primary influence had been in Brazil, Argentina, Peru, and Chile. While it had significant sway in countries like Venezuela and Colombia at the northern tip of South America, it didn't dominate. Starting in the 1880s, Britain began intensifying its infiltration into these regions. At the same time, it turned its attention to the Caribbean and Mexico, particularly the Caribbean islands.
Two years ago, Britain established a military base on Antigua, using it as a foothold to gradually dominate the Caribbean. This was part of Britain's "Northward Plan."
To put it bluntly, although President Monroe declared "America for the Americans" seventy years ago, to this day, the Monroe Doctrine holds almost no weight in the eyes of European nations. His declaration might as well have been hot air—something for American commoners to cheer about domestically, but no one takes it seriously.
The primary means for nations to protect their interests and assert their international standing is war, and the most important tool is the military. During Monroe's era, the Union had fewer than 10,000 troops. While the situation has improved slightly, the Union's military now stands at only 30,000. On paper, the Union's army is less threatening than Italy's. Combined, its navy and army are only a tenth the size of Britain's.
The problem is that Britain's Northward Plan has already alarmed Venezuela. Small nations facing such situations have few options—only bad ones and slightly less bad ones. Since the Union has always claimed "America for the Americans," why not drive the British out?
"We must make the Union's stance clear!" Anderson, part of the Democratic faction advocating a show of force against the British, said firmly. "Venezuela has already offered us benefits. If we don't respond, the consequences will be severe."
"What benefits? Be specific!" Annabelle nodded slightly, signaling him to continue. As for "America for the Americans," she didn't care—it had nothing to do with her family. But benefits? That was worth hearing.
"Madam, it's the land in the Orinoco River delta. Venezuela is prepared to lease it to us," Anderson whispered, lowering his voice. "This is information I obtained from the Venezuelan embassy."
"Hmm." Annabelle's eyelids flickered slightly, a thoughtful expression crossing her face. She turned and called out, "Bring me the map!"
Soon, Annabelle, now wearing glasses, addressed her guests. "President Monroe was right—America is for the Americans!" The Orinoco River plains seemed like excellent land for agriculture and livestock, close to Guyana and suitable for building factories. With the Democrats in power, if they could intimidate the British, the Sheffield family stood to gain significantly.
If they failed and were humiliated by the British, well, that had nothing to do with the Sheffield family. Given the poor state of the domestic economy, the Democrats' chances of re-election were already slim. Might as well grab some benefits before stepping down.
"I knew you'd stand with us, Madam. I'll contact other congressmen and propose a protest against the British to the president," Anderson said, overjoyed by Annabelle's stance.
"The Sheffield family has always been patriotic!" Annabelle stood up calmly and walked to the window, gazing at the flagpole nearby. The Southern Cross flag still fluttered in the wind.
After the men left, Annabelle picked up the phone and said, "In the name of the Texas Agricultural and Livestock Association, notify the associations in New Mexico, Virginia, Arkansas, Mississippi, Georgia, and Louisiana via telegram. All agricultural and livestock products heading north via rail or water routes will increase in price by 5% to 10% starting five days from now. Each farm or ranch can adjust accordingly. Make it happen."
(End of Chapter)