Literature
If Aegon the Conqueror Had Conquered the Free Cities Instead of Westeros
If Aegon the Conqueror Had Conquered the Free Cities Instead of Westeros
Imagine a world where Aegon the Conqueror did not attempt to unify the Seven Kingdoms but instead turned his attention to the Free Cities. The consequences would be dramatically different and far more complex. This essay explores the potential challenges and outcomes had Aegon's ambition been directed to the independent city-states of the Free Cities.
Geographical and Political Landscape
The Free Cities present a diverse and politically fragmented landscape, starkly different from the Seven Kingdoms. Each city-state has its own unique government, culture, and military, making them substantially more difficult to conquer. Unlike the relatively unified Seven Kingdoms under Targaryen rule, the Free Cities would present a varied and fragmented resistance, each with its own motivations and defenses.
Diverse City-States
Each Free City has its own distinct character and government. For instance, Braavos is renowned for its political and economic power, while Tyrosh and Pentos are known for their strategic importance. Lys, famous for its skilled merchants, would provide a unique challenge with its mercantile prowess and alliances with other cities.
Strategic Locations
Many of the Free Cities are strategically positioned along trade routes and have robust defensive fortifications. Cities like Braavos, with its powerful naval fleet, and Lys, with its strong walled districts, would present formidable opposition. Even securing control over ports and routes would be critical, especially in a region known for its maritime prowess.
Military Strategy
Aegon the Conqueror's dragons would undoubtedly provide a significant advantage in battle, instilling fear among potential enemies and potentially leading to a quick surrender. However, the effectiveness of dragons would depend on the defenses and fortifications of each city. In cities like Pentos and Tyrosh, where walls and port structures might better withstand dragon attacks, dragon alone might not be enough to guarantee success.
Dragon Advantage
Dragons can spread panic and destruction, but the strategic use of these formidable beasts would need to be carefully planned. In cities with strong fortifications, dragons might not be as effective, and Aegon would need to adapt his strategy accordingly.
Naval Power
Multitudes of Free Cities have formidable naval capabilities. Braavos, for example, has a powerful fleet that would need to be defeated before land conquests are feasible. Aegon would need to secure naval dominance, not just control over land routes but also over the sea routes that facilitate the Free Cities' dependence on trade and commerce.
Cultural Factors
The resistance to foreign rule in the Free Cities is a significant factor. The Free Cities are known for their pride in independence and the strong cultural and ethical standards that define their society. Aegon would face fierce resistance, including guerrilla tactics and counter-insurgency measures. Maintaining control would require a long-term commitment to governance and diplomacy that might not have been Aegon’s strong suit.
Resistance to Foreign Rule
The Free Cities have a long history of independence, and their citizens value their autonomy deeply. Aegon would likely struggle to suppress such resistance without an overwhelming military presence. The potential for prolonged warfare and a rigid military occupation would strain both the attackers and the attacked.
Alliances and Rivalries
The Free Cities often engage in complex trade and diplomatic relations. Aegon might find potential allies or adversaries among these city-states, complicating his campaign. For instance, the recent alliance between Braavos and Lys might provide a formidable front against Aegon's forces.
Historical Context
Previous attempts by other powers to conquer the Free Cities have been largely unsuccessful, setting a precedent for Aegon's own endeavours. The reality is that the Free Cities are not only politically divided but also economically and culturally distinct, making them a formidable challenge for any conqueror.
Previous Attempts
In the lore, various groups have tried to conquer the Free Cities, often with limited success. The historical context suggests that Aegon would face similar challenges, making the idea of conquest less plausible due to the varied and resilient nature of the city-states.
Different Focus
Aegon's primary objective was to create a unified realm under Targaryen rule. A shift in focus to the Free Cities would require a different strategy and allocation of resources. The hierarchical structure of the Seven Kingdoms was more amenable to centralised control compared to the diverse and independent Free Cities.
Conclusion
While Aegon the Conqueror could have made initial gains using his dragons and military prowess, the fragmented and independent nature of the Free Cities, combined with their strong defenses and naval capabilities, would likely lead to a protracted and costly campaign. Maintaining control over the Free Cities would be a significant challenge, and the likelihood of a less successful conquest compared to his achievements in Westeros is high.
Ultimately, Aegon might have struggled to subdue the Free Cities, leading to a more limited and decentralized form of governance, if he were able to control them at all. The potential for a protracted and costly war could have left his forces depleted and reduced the effectiveness of his rule over the entire region.
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