Persian Empire 1845

Chapter 319 The Princes Assemble
Iran has no intention of escalating the conflict and knows when to back down. It can fight Russia openly, but to confront Britain, it must do so covertly.

Abdullah invited his brothers to a gathering. Over the years, they had achieved some success in other industries. Their political rights had been severely restricted after the civil war, and to avoid political suspicion, they turned to other avenues, most importantly industry, commerce, and colonization.

Driven by the need for economic development, the Iranian government has implemented measures to encourage industry and commerce. Royal families, with their substantial cash reserves, have invested heavily in sectors such as textiles, food, and machinery. Statistics show that royal investment currently accounts for 29% of capital in the textile industry, 35% in the food industry, and 18% in the machinery industry. Some members of the royal family also participate in international trade and commerce, generating income through the export of agricultural and industrial products.

To prevent the royal family from becoming economically weak, they established the United Iranian Companies to jointly manage their funds. Furthermore, in response to the Shah's policies, they vigorously promoted Persian culture.

But these are only small parts; the real wealth lies in the land. The produce belongs to them and can be exported. However, Iranian territory is already under government control and cannot be expanded arbitrarily. Therefore, they set their sights on Africa, willing to help the Iranian government colonize the region in exchange.

By this time, the land in Somalia had been divided, with the Iranian royal family controlling 62% of the territory. This land not only produced abundant agricultural products but also became a significant source of wealth for the royal family. They amassed enormous profits by exporting cotton, coffee, and spices.

In Kenya, the royal family also reaped considerable profits. Vast amounts of land were acquired as their property, either through forced labor by black slaves or by leasing it to the ever-increasing influx of Far Easterners, who then collected a fee. To maximize profits, they heavily employed diligent Far Easterners, instructing them to use any means necessary to guarantee their annual earnings, with the remainder going to them.

Under these circumstances, the royal family's profits increased annually. They also began investing in workshops in Africa to boost profits, which indirectly promoted African development and local trade. The shipping route to Lake Nasser al-Din also flourished, with large quantities of gold and ivory being traded there.

But all of these things are subject to taxation, and how could the Shah allow you to make money in Africa? The annual land tax is a fixed tax they need to pay, in addition to the income tax that Iran introduced from Europe this year, which the nobles will have to pay as well.

Of course, if neither of these paths worked out, they had a third option: study abroad or join the military and become officers. These paths were all tailor-made for the royal family by Nasser al-Din, limiting their power while maintaining their status.

"It's been a long time since I've seen you all. I wonder what you've been up to. As your younger brother, I'm hosting a get-together so we can all get together."

The princes all shared a remarkably similar sentiment: nothing they did could compare to your life. You became Foreign Minister at such a young age; the rest of them could only live off money.

“That’s true, it’s been a long time since we’ve all gotten together. Time flies,” Prince Lotfra said. He’s currently in Muscat handling business, and making money and investing in culture are his only remaining interests.

"To be honest, since the Shah took power, Iran has been getting better and better. Even Russia has had to bow down and beg for peace, all thanks to the Shah."

Friends, cheers to our Shah! May he enjoy good health and a long life.

Everyone raised their glasses in celebration, and then Abdullah finally got down to business.

"Your brothers should know what happened in Herat, right?"

Everyone nodded. "They were too audacious to collude with Russia. If their scheme hadn't been discovered, who knows what kind of trouble would have ensued."

"Yes, but Daoud's collusion isn't limited to Russia." This unexpected remark made the princes serious; it sounded like there was more to the story.

“We discovered secret letters linking the British to Daoud, as well as weapons supporting him.”

A sharp gasp escaped his lips; this situation was extremely serious. The fact that both Britain and Russia were courting him meant that Iran was in danger.

“Shah hasn’t been able to sleep these past few days, but shouldn’t we share his burden?”

"What's your idea?"

Abdullah looked into everyone's eyes, thinking to himself that they still craved political power, and this time he would see if they could seize it.

“I studied in Britain and found that Britain’s strength mainly relies on three pillars. The first is the navy, the second is industry, and the third is India.”

"India?"

"Yes, it's India."

Britain was highly dependent on India, which was not only its most important colony but also a core pillar of its global hegemonic system. India was a vital source of raw materials for British industry, providing resources such as cotton, jute, tea, spices, and minerals, thus supporting British industry and daily life.

At the same time, India was an important market for British industrial goods, with Britain exporting textiles, machinery, railway equipment, and other manufactured goods to India. This provided Britain with a huge trade surplus, helping to balance its trade deficits with other countries. It also generated substantial fiscal revenue, supporting Britain's fiscal system.

Furthermore, Britain reaped enormous profits by acquiring Indian raw materials at low prices and selling industrial goods at high prices. Their banks and financial institutions controlled India's financial system, supporting their global trade and investment.

Besides its economy, India's manpower was also a major source of British reliance. The Indian army was a vital component of Britain's global military power, with Indian soldiers serving in numerous wars. Furthermore, India utilized its large population to emigrate to other colonies to supplement its manpower.

More importantly, India's geographical location was central among all of Britain's colonies. It connected all of Britain's existing colonies. To the west of India were African colonies such as South Africa, and to the east were Southeast Asian colonies as well as Oceania countries like Australia and New Zealand. Controlling India would be highly beneficial for controlling the other colonies.

“Brothers,” Abdullah said, his gaze sweeping over everyone present, “if we can make a move on the India issue, we might be able to change the entire landscape of the region.”

Everyone knew that the Shah intended to use them again to give India a small shock. Since Britain was ruthless, they had no more reservations.

Moreover, India is also envious of its local resources. Since the British are unwilling to share, why don't they take them themselves?
(End of this chapter)