Empire of Ela'r'oech
The Empire of Ela'r'oech is a micronation founded in 2018 by Charles Madgett, based in Louisiana, United States. Originally established as the Kingdom of Ela’r’oech, the state transitioned into an empire in 2022 and later became a core constituent of the United Kingdom of the Great Bayou in November 2025. Ela’r’oech historically played a central role in the “Bayou Sector,” influencing neighboring micronations through diplomacy, culture, and conflict.
Etymology
The name Ela’r’oech comes from the Dangaro language, where it means “Other World.” The term reflects the government's intention to create a separate civic and cultural identity distinct from surrounding macronational systems.
History
Early History (2018–2019)
Ela’r’oech began on 11 August 2018 under the name First Artillery as a small micronational project founded in Texas by Charles Madgett and Anthony Ramirez. The group later expanded and formalized its identity, adopting the name Ela’r’oech. Independence from the United States was declared on 19 May 2019.
Conflict and Expansion
Shortly after independence, Ela’r’oech entered the First Alarian War against the Kingdom of Alaria. Despite its small size, Ela’r’oech became increasingly active in regional diplomacy and conflict mediation. Throughout 2020 and 2021, the nation expanded its cultural reach and engaged heavily with other Bayou Sector micronations.
Transition to Empire (2022)
On 3 March 2022, Ela’r’oech adopted an imperial structure, transforming from a kingdom into the Empire of Ela’r’oech. This reform centralized authority under the Emperor while establishing a parliamentary system and a clearer constitutional framework.
Integration into the UKGB (2025)
On 2 November 2025, the Empire dissolved its full sovereignty and joined the United Kingdom of the Great Bayou as one of its core countries. This move was framed as a step toward “Bayou unity,” providing a broader political framework while preserving Ela’r’oech’s unique cultural identity.
Government
Ela’r’oech operated as a constitutional imperial monarchy. The Emperor (Charles I) served as head of state for life and could not abdicate. Legislative power rested in the Parliament of Representatives. A President provided executive oversight with veto authority, and the Chancellor served as the main intermediary between the people and the Emperor.
Following integration into the UKGB, these institutions continue in reduced or advisory capacities but remain historically relevant.
Administrative Divisions
Ela’r’oech consisted of:
- Five districts
- Two principal internal states: Mabo and Hanpo
All territorial claims were located within the U.S. state of Louisiana. The climate is humid subtropical with mild winters and storm-prone summers.
Economy
Ela’r’oech historically used several national currencies:
- Stix (early virtual currency)
- United Elarian Dollar (valued at approx. 0.5 USD)
- Later replaced by the UKGB’s shared economic standards post-2025
Economic activity was primarily digital. Notable enterprises included:
- Photon Economy
- ACBIC
- Firefly
- Various media and technology ventures
Foreign Relations
Ela’r’oech maintained a wide network of micronational diplomatic relations. Key affiliations included:
- League of Elarian Nations (founding member)
- CHASM
- Multiple alliances within the Bayou Sector
Earlier foreign policy was expansionist but later shifted toward diplomacy, stability, and regional integration.
Culture
Ela’r’oech developed a distinct cultural identity, with emphasis on:
- Media production (film, streaming, rating systems)
- National ceremonies
- Community events rooted in Elarian lore
National Holidays
- Goku Day – 9 May
- Kakapalooza – 10–20 January and 15–22 May
- Victory Day – 11 August
The Elarian language is commonly used in ceremonial or symbolic contexts, with English serving as the primary functional language.
Trivia
- Early predecessor laws under Kakato included strict social policies such as a two-child policy and restricted rights for women and minorities; these were largely symbolic or unenforced.
- The nation produced merchandise, ID cards, and media projects to expand cultural presence.
- Ela’r’oech became known for its extensive digital identity systems and its connection to the MicroDev Institute.