Cahokia

Cahokia stands as the largest and most influential city-state in Makasing, celebrated for its thriving diversity, progressive governance, and unmatched cultural vibrancy. A beacon of trade, technology, and diplomacy, Cahokia is pivotal not only to the Free Lands but also to the continent as a whole, wielding substantial soft power in a rapidly evolving world.

Government and Politics:

Cahokia’s government operates under a unique blend of market socialism and gifting economy principles, with a core belief that land belongs to all citizens, framing them as caretakers rather than owners. The city-state is led by the Council of Twelve, whose members serve lifetime appointments and are drawn primarily from the region’s most influential families. Although the Council ensures Cahokia’s sovereignty, its policies are a delicate balance of the city’s best interests and the political objectives of its ruling families, with diplomatic alliances that maintain Cahokia's independence.

One hallmark of Cahokia’s governance is its emphasis on civic responsibility. All citizens are expected to complete two winters of community service to obtain full citizenship, whether through infrastructure, public safety, or resource management roles. This instills a shared commitment to the city’s well-being, reinforcing Cahokia’s reputation as a model of civic harmony and mutual responsibility.

Economy and Technology:

Cahokia’s economy thrives on a sophisticated network of trade spanning Makasing, Abayang, and beyond. As a center for technological innovation, the city specializes in areas like sustainable energy, biotechnology, and precision manufacturing, attracting visitors, traders, and scholars alike. The Mizizibi River plays a critical role in its economic success, serving as a vital artery for trade and a source of agricultural irrigation, especially for the western Papanshin district.

Gats, or specialized 3D printers, are ubiquitous in Cahokia and reflect the city's technological prowess, providing everything from essential tools to luxury goods. Furthermore, Cahokia’s role as a cultural hub is bolstered by its currency, the nizi, which is widely accepted across Makasing, affirming its economic reach. The city’s generosity in sharing its technological advancements has cemented its place as a leader, although some question if future generations will continue this open approach.

Society and Culture:

Cahokian society is known for its openness and emphasis on community. Artistic expression, science, and storytelling are woven into the fabric of daily life, and each district proudly supports public spaces, markets, and venues for performers and healers. The influence of diverse Indigenous traditions is evident, with customs from across Makasing blending into a distinct Cahokian identity. The Nabanamo district, renowned for its entertainment and culinary offerings, showcases this richness, housing everything from intimate comedy clubs to expansive markets featuring goods from around the continent.

Cahokia’s education system, based in the Hapaki Mininan district, is one of its greatest achievements. Set on islands within the Mizizibi River, this educational district symbolizes Cahokia’s commitment to nurturing young minds, and each city district contributes to providing the best for the students. This unyielding focus on education ensures that Cahokia will remain at the forefront of cultural and intellectual leadership.

Major Districts and Locations:

Chizi: The northern district, known for its bustling port and the Chizi Market, where traders and locals alike seek out exotic technologies and crafts.
Hapaki Mininan: The educational islands in the Mizizibi River, where Cahokia’s youth receive their education, serving as a proud showcase of the city’s investment in future generations.
Mataawi: The political heart of Cahokia, hosting the Council of Twelve’s chambers and key administrative offices.
Nabanamo: A vibrant entertainment district packed with restaurants, theaters, and nightclubs, where residents enjoy cultural performances and celebrate the arts.
Nahikoongi: A lush residential district.
Papanshin: The agricultural district on the western shore of the Mizizibi, known for its intricate canal system and responsible for feeding much of the city’s population.
Wiijiwanka: A district focused on health and personal care, home to the esteemed Natsoo Wanka Hapaki hospital and botanical gardens where healers cultivate medicinal plants.