How come there are some instances where "request alliance" becomes unavailable

[Amaz]

Sometimes I see that with a few countries.

[Hannibolico]

i think it's because you're allied to an enemy of theirs or something....

[Amaz]

no, I've done that many times. But I can't seem to ally with the Colonies for some reason (not that it makes any difference if I do, but I'm using it as an ex.)

[Hannibolico]

Well the colonies are a protectorate of Great Britain, so that may be the thing. A parent country wouldn't let a protectorate decide it's own allies, so that they wouldn't get dragged into wars. I know in previous total war games allies wouldn't join with you if you were at war with an ally of theirs, and i was fairly certain that was still in place.

[caralampio]

There are also some Natives that don't have the alliance option, but you can ask them to become a protectorate. Not that they will accept it though except at an outrageous price.

[Amaz]

ok thanks