Persian Empire 1845

Chapter 326 Southern Railway Plan
As the war between the American South and the North progressed, it also affected Europe. The North deployed naval forces to blockade the South, making it impossible to transport cotton produced in the South. Meanwhile, cotton stocks in European factories were running low, leading many factory owners to search for cotton.

The price of cotton on the Liverpool exchange changes daily, and don't complain about the price; nobody has cotton these days, and it's all going for this price.

"The price of cotton has now risen to 20 cents a pound, more than double. Textile workers in places like Manchester have already started to be laid off."

"Let's wait a bit longer. Even if they want to grow cotton elsewhere, it will take a year. We just need to wait."

Sheriff checks the Liverpool Stock Exchange data daily; cotton is an essential raw material for Britain. All he has to do is wait; this is a big deal.

The northern navy acted swiftly, blockading most of the south's access to the sea. This prevented cotton exports from reaching the mainland. As cotton exports decreased, prices would rise further unless the war ended immediately, which seemed unlikely.

Confederate troops have entered Missouri and West Virginia, fighting with such fervor that some northern towns have succumbed to the pressure and fallen. The capital, Washington, D.C., is not far from the front lines; its fall would be an unimaginable blow to the North.

By this time, almost every Northern state had exceeded its conscription quota. Inadequate training, lack of weaponry and equipment, lack of discipline, and a shortage of officers were common problems in the Northern states. But none of that mattered; they were all cannon fodder anyway, as long as they had a burning passion.

Although Mexico has recognized the Southern government, it's not a big problem. All that's needed is for California to send troops. Everything is moving towards a bright future.

But in Mexico City, negotiations concerning the future of the Confederate States of America were underway. Confederate Secretary of State Robert E. Lee and the ambassadors of Britain, France, and Iran discussed the situation.

"The pressure from the North on our country has reached an unprecedented level, and our country needs more weapons to resist their attacks. If your country is willing to recognize our country, this will be the greatest help our country can receive."

Charles and Louis had already discussed the matter; both countries couldn't do without cotton from the south, but the north's foreign policy seemed flawless. A catalyst was needed for them to acknowledge it.

"Our country is very concerned about the current situation. Rest assured, Britain will support all countries that act for freedom."

While the Southern government appeared to have some advantages, it shared a common problem: internal strife. As a hastily assembled, makeshift government, its execution capabilities were naturally unreliable. Most matters required the cooperation of the state government to proceed. Under dual leadership, various forms of chaos were inevitable.

They were originally supposed to concentrate their efforts on one point, either capturing Washington or advancing directly into the Great Lakes industrial region. Instead, the Southern government launched attacks on all sides, initiating offensives against all bordering territories.

This kind of all-out attack, while seemingly impressive and successful in keeping the enemy at bay, also cost the opportunity to end the war quickly.

If it's a contest of national strength, they have no chance of success. They need to get more countries involved. Furthermore, President Davis and Mexican President Lawrence discussed the situation and decided to lure them in with incentives.

"Thank you for your country's support. Actually, I have another matter to discuss today. In order to transport cotton, tobacco, and other products to the port quickly, our country plans to build a railway from Richmond to New Orleans." A railway? Upon hearing this, everyone immediately became interested. In this era, investing in railways meant investing money. And most of America's railways were in the North, with only a paltry 900 miles in the South—practically a blank slate. It was a perfect investment opportunity.

Robert unfolded a map, detailing the railroad route from Richmond to New Orleans. This railroad would traverse the main agricultural region of the South, connecting several important cities and ports.

"This railway will not only speed up the transportation of agricultural products such as cotton and tobacco, but also promote the development of local factories and cities. Investors can obtain substantial returns by collecting freight charges and developing land along the line."

If funding and technology are in place, this railway could be built within three years. However, it will require $1000 million to even begin.

As soon as Robert Hunt finished speaking, the atmosphere in the meeting room immediately became lively. The British and French ambassadors exchanged glances, clearly showing great interest in the Confederate railway construction plan.

Charles leaned forward slightly, his eyes gleaming with shrewdness. “Mr. Hunt, your proposal is very interesting. Britain has extensive experience and expertise in railway construction. If we can participate in this project, it will not only accelerate economic development in the south but also bring substantial returns to our investors.”

Louis nodded and added, "France is also very interested in railway construction. We can provide financial and technical support, and even consider sending engineers and workers to participate in the construction."

The Iranian ambassador remained silent, which was indeed quite tempting. But in the face of Britain and France, it was best to keep a low profile.

The Iranian ambassador smiled slightly. Although he didn't display the same level of enthusiasm as the British and French, his statement was equally important. He spoke slowly, his tone calm and firm: "This is indeed an excellent proposal. Iran will fully support your country's railway construction. We are willing to provide financial support and assist in procuring the necessary materials."

According to the plan, the railway construction will be divided into three phases, expected to be completed within three years. The first phase will run from Richmond to Atlanta, the second from Atlanta to Montgomery, and the third from Montgomery to New Orleans. The railway construction will greatly enhance the economic strength of the South, enabling agricultural products such as cotton and tobacco to be transported to ports faster and cheaper, and then exported to Europe.

The Confederate States of America pledged to provide comprehensive military protection for the railroad construction. Multiple military outposts would be established along the route, and patrols would be deployed to ensure construction safety.

In terms of resource allocation, the Confederate States of America will establish a railroad company with an investment of $1000 million, which will be funded by Britain, France, and Iran, temporarily resolving the Confederate States of America's financial problems.

With the railway construction plan officially finalized, the Confederate government and representatives from Britain, France, and Iran began to work diligently to advance the project. The railway was seen not only as crucial to the South's economic development but also as a potential game-changer in the war.

　Let me explain why my update times have been getting later and later since mid-February. Last month I registered for the provincial civil service exam and was also busy with work, so naturally my update time has been less. I hope you readers will understand. I will make it up to you properly after this is over.

　　
　
(End of this chapter)