The Brunanter Republic's flag.
The Brunanter Republic (Dutch: Brunanter Republiek) was the preceding state to Kingdom of Brunant.
History[]
In 1427, the convention which was meeting in Grijzestad declared their independence from Venice. A republic was founded, with Marten Sneijder as the leader. Hans Niehorster was the next leader, from 1439-1457, followed by Adrian Bosquera (1457-1463), Jacob van der Ecke (1463-1467), Johannes Neyt (1467-1471) and Leuvis Van Damme. In 1475, Van Damme made himself King of Brunant and abolished the republic.
The founding fathers wrote a constitution in 1427 which served as the national law. The main use was for setting out government institutions and to raise taxes. Despite having taxes at a higher wartime level (4 livres tournois) from 1427-1442, the government was short on revenues and was in danger of going broke. In 1453 the government began issuing letters of marque to privateers so they would collect treasure for the state. Protected by the (rather ineffective) republican government, they raided ships and received 30-40% of the loot, with the remainder going to state coffers. This practice continued until around 1465, after pressure from other states. There was also a very real threat that the Venetians, or more importantly thr Spanish would invade.
The Republic was one of the oldest democracies in the south of Europe, even if not considered a real democracy by modern standards. Hans Niehorster ruled like a dictator, but following his death in 1457 all presidents became elected by the Estates to fixed terms. The later period is frequently used as a model by politicans and people seeking to turn Brunant into a republic again.
Politics and Government[]
Legislature[]
The Republican Estates was the legislative body of the government. These 50 members were elected to represent the towns and regions of Brunant. Members would vote on laws and on handing out positions. The Estates were also responsible for electing the President.
President[]
- Main article: President of the Brunanter Republic
Economy[]
The economy of the Brunanter Republic was very weak and based on farming and agriculture. From 1433-1439 the republic issued 1 and 2 crown coins, but most payments were done in French livres tournois or Venetian ducats.