History of Subdivisions
Duchies are the subdivisions of land within Shireroth, ruled by a Duke. Each tends to have its own culture, traditions and political system (orientated around Shirerithian feudalism).
History
Duchies are the largest subdivisions possible. In the past, Duchies were divided into Baronies and further into Counties. After the House System (which had dissolved the existence of Baronies), the Barony-status didn't return (at least, not in national law).
Originally, Duchies were the only subdivisions in Shireroth. This made for simpler Landsraad voting, but it did not allow for many positions for deserving people. So, they began to be divided and Baronies appeared. Nowadays, being a Duke does not give you an extra vote in the Landsraad anymore, but it gives you the power to still rule the Duchy. Plans are on the way to give the Dukes their own, new council which should veto Imperial and Landsraad decisions.
There have been numerous duchies in Shireroth's history, and the number keeps changing as subdivisions are annexed, merged, promoted and demoted. Around 4040 ASC, Elwynn and Straylight became independent and were no longer Duchies. Some pieces of their territory was annexed by other Duchies.
Current Duchies
Former Duchies
- Brookshire
- Arminy
- Antica
- Goldshire (Northshire)
- Lothlaria
- Straylight
- Elwynn (for a short while Froyalan, previously the Boreal-Elwynnese Duchy)