The Aztec Empire
Between 1855-1859, most of the countries in the northern half of South America began to disappear, slowly absorbed into the reborn Aztec Empire. Over the next decade, the Aztec forces overwhelmed the vast majority of South America. Outside of Mexico, Texas, and Argentina, little is known about the Aztecs other than their fearsome reputation in battle, the rumors of human sacrifice, and their ability to call upon evil spirits to aid them in their conquests.
Player characters may not be from the Aztec Empire.
The Argentine Republic
Formerly a Spanish colony, the Argentine Republic won its War of Independence in 1818. There followed a long civil war that lasted until 1861, when the threat of the Aztec Empire arose. Rich in wheat and beef, the Argentine economy continues to prosper through trade with Europe and North America. The elevated lands act as natural barriers to the encroaching Aztecs.
In 1872, the Republic sent troops into Patagonia, fearing the tribes of their southern neighbor would side with the Aztecs. Called the Conquest of the Desert, it was hailed as by the government as “bringing civilization” while detractors have called it a genocidal land grab.
The Argentine gauchos, brave and unruly cowboys, are traditional heroes and their skills with the lariat easily rival their North American counterparts. Pre-Calamity it was not uncommon for gauchos to travel to Texas or The Territory to work for a few seasons as cattle hands.
Patagonia
Largely populated by nomadic tribes, the peoples of Patagonia make their living from their extensive herds of cattle and sheep. Their lack of central government and no standing army have left them vulnerable to both the encroaching Aztec Empire and their land-hungry neighbor, the Argentine Republic.
