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The reborn Prince Hechingen of the Swabian branch of the Hohenzollern family perceives the unfolding situation in Europe, where war is imminent. Europe cannot afford to delay. The strategy involves establishing a presence in East Africa, fostering immigration and development, and laying the foundations for agriculture. This gradual approach leverages the crisis to expedite the process of industrialization

African Entrepreneurship History

In St. Petersburg, Sergey, who has taken on the mission from the Hechingen Consortium, gathers his co-conspirators to discuss the situation. He informs them about the opportunity to persuade the Russian Empire to sell the Alaska colony to the Hechingen Consortium.

Sergey explains the financial rewards, stating that they will receive an initial deposit of 20,000 rubles, with the potential to earn more by helping reduce the purchase price. The ministers express surprise at the seemingly low offer from the Hechingen Consortium for such a vast land.

Sergey reassures them, highlighting that Alaska's northern region is mostly barren and of little value. He also mentions that the Hechingen Consortium is more interested in the northern part of Alaska, north of 56 degrees north latitude, leaving the south to the Russian Empire.

The ministers discuss the potential involvement of the United States in purchasing Alaska and express concern about a higher bid. Sergey emphasizes that despite historical ties with the United States, they wouldn't receive any extra payment if the Americans bought Alaska.

Sergey then presents their plan to Alexander II, proposing the sale of Alaska's northern region to the Hechingen Consortium for five million rubles. Alexander II is initially shocked by the price but becomes intrigued when he learns that the Hechingen Consortium only wishes to acquire the northern part of Alaska, while the empire retains the more habitable southern region.

Sergey explains that the Hechingen Consortium's decision is influenced by the presence of powerful potential adversaries in North America, including the British and Americans. By selling the less desirable northern part to the Consortium, Russia can maintain a presence in the Americas while mitigating the British threat.

The ministers support Sergey's proposal, highlighting the strategic benefits and long-term interests for Russia. Alexander II is swayed by their arguments and the potential to secure a foothold in North America while avoiding a confrontation with the British.

The plan is accepted, and Alexander II considers the sale of the northern Alaska region to the Hechingen Consortium as a mutually beneficial arrangement. The ministers acknowledge the strategic significance of retaining the southern part of Alaska and foresee the advantages of this decision for Russia's expansion in North America.

Chapter 68