Independence Rules-
At this point in time, every Italian state is an Austrian buffer state, but all have a dream of breaking free of Austrian rule and establishing a Kingdom of Italy. But breaking free of Austrian rule is the first step to that, there is an “independence scale”, that will go from 100% to 0%. Here is how it will work.
Every nation starts at 25% Independence, and will have to build their independence and try to attain 50% independence in order to begin to declare war on other Italian states and begin diplomacy with non-Italians.
Scale-
0% Independent-
Annexed by Austria, you lose.
25% Independent-
Buffer State of Austria, you do not have a foreign policy of your own
50% Independent-
Halfway there, at this point you are able to begin secret diplomat relations with France and other European states for support.
75% Independent-
Practically independent, Austria is bound to have attacked or will attack you at this point.
100% Independent-
You are now, even recognized by Austria, as a sovereign state, they aren't about to attack you in the short term, but may try to claim you once more.
You can gain independence from various actions including beginning revolts, civil disobedience, boycotts, and increasing foreign influence on your own nation.
Independence-Influencing actions
Civil Disobedience- 5 Points-
Simply going against what the Austrian government wants, not necessarily breaking the law. Increases independence by 5% each time.
Revolts- 10 Points-
Actively rioting and attacking Austrian Forces. Much more likely for Austria to send in forces to put it down, but little chance of attacking you unless you frequently do this. Increases independence by 15% each time.
Boycott- 10 Points-
Boycotting taxed goods, like cigars or gambling, on a massive scale. No chance of Austria attacking you unless you frequently do this. Increases independence by 5% each time.
Increasing Foreign Influence will be talked about later.
The Papal State-
Since the Papal State is already independent, they are not affected by the Independence scale. Instead, they are able to assist other factions with becoming independent. They use the exact same "abilities" as normal States use, only they do it to an Italian faction of their choice, at their own expense. However, this may not always be welcomed by the Italians, as some (especially Venice) are under threat by Austria and don't need to PO them. They also have an ability that hopefully will not affect you. Denouncing and excommunication. If the Pope denounces you, you are on the road to excommunication, and because of acting "un-Christian". This will upset much of your Catholic population. However, you may end up being excommunicated, which means that your leader is no longer a member of the Roman Catholic Church. You have two routes that you can take in case of such an event.
1. Road to recovery- Do Christian acts and get on the Pope's good side, and maybe he will reconcile you.
2. Create your own Church- If the first one fails, this is a fallback. If the Pope won't recognize you as a Catholic, maybe you should just accept that and create your own church with the leader of your nation as the head. (Think... the
Anglican Church.)