Why Integrating Bohemia And Austria Is A Bad Idea

Players of the grand strategy game Europa Universalis IV often face the question of whether or not to integrate Bohemia as Austria. Some players suggest that it is better to keep Bohemia as a junior partner or PU minor, as they can be useful during liberation/force conversion wars to increase imperial authority. Integrating them also comes with a penalty for vassalising an elector. However, others argue that integrating Bohemia can make Austria even stronger, especially if combined with Hungary. It is also suggested that integrating Bohemia can provide a boost in income from tax and trade.

Inheriting Bohemia gives Austria an elector status upgrade

Austria starts off as a Duchy, but inheriting Bohemia will allow it to upgrade to a Kingdom. This is because inheriting Bohemia will give Austria the electorate, which will allow it to upgrade its kingdom rank.

Additionally, becoming an elector will allow Austria to vote for itself if it inherits Bohemia. This is beneficial as it does not cost a relationship slot.

Austria can secure a personal union over Bohemia through the 'Secure Electors' mission, which grants a Restoration of Union CB. After 50 years, there is a chance to inherit the personal union junior partners on monarch death, and when this occurs, Austria will become an elector.

However, integrating Bohemia now will result in Austria losing its chance to get the elector status. This is because the elector status will not transfer if Bohemia is integrated. Therefore, it is recommended that Austria inherits Bohemia instead of integrating it.

Integrating Bohemia increases Austria's kingdom rank

However, there are also some potential downsides to integrating Bohemia. Firstly, there is a penalty for vassalizing an elector, which can impact Austria's diplomatic relations. Secondly, integrating larger subjects requires significant time and diplomatic points, which may be a costly endeavour. It is also important to consider the potential impact on income, as integrating Bohemia may not provide the same financial benefits as having a personal union (PU) or a vassal.

One strategy suggested by players is to inherit Bohemia instead of integrating it. Inheriting Bohemia provides the same elector benefits without incurring the penalty for vassalizing an elector. Additionally, inheriting Bohemia can result in lower autonomy in the provinces, whereas integrating may lead to higher autonomy. To increase the chances of inheriting Bohemia, players recommend improving diplomatic relations and stability, as well as maintaining a high diplomatic reputation, which Austria is well-positioned to achieve.

In conclusion, integrating Bohemia can increase Austria's kingdom rank and provide several advantages, such as increased strength, a loyal elector, and higher HRE authority. However, players should also consider the potential downsides, including the time and diplomatic costs of integration, as well as the impact on diplomatic relations and income. Inheriting Bohemia may be a preferable alternative, as it provides similar benefits without some of the negative consequences.

Integrating Bohemia increases Austria's income

Secondly, the integration of Bohemia can enhance Austria's trade income. With Bohemia under its direct control, Austria can more effectively manage and benefit from the trade passing through the region. This can include the collection of tariffs and duties on goods, as well as potentially gaining greater control over lucrative trade routes.

Additionally, integrating Bohemia can provide Austria with more opportunities to develop and exploit the region's natural resources. This could include mining, forestry, or agricultural activities, all of which could contribute to increased state income. Furthermore, with Bohemia as an integral part of its territory, Austria may be able to implement more efficient and effective administrative systems, reducing waste and increasing overall economic productivity.

However, it is important to consider the potential downsides of integrating Bohemia, as mentioned in the sources. There may be diplomatic consequences, such as a penalty for vassalizing an elector, and the process of integration can be time-consuming and costly in terms of diplomatic points. Therefore, while integrating Bohemia can indeed increase Austria's income, it is a complex decision that requires careful consideration of both the benefits and potential drawbacks.

Bohemia's manpower pool is a benefit of keeping them as a PU

As Austria, you may be considering whether to integrate Bohemia, especially if you have already taken Hungary. While there are some potential downsides to integrating Bohemia, one significant advantage of keeping them as a junior partner is their manpower pool.

Bohemia's manpower pool can provide a valuable boost to your military strength. As a separate entity, Bohemia has its own manpower pool and force limits, which are added to your own when they are your subject. This can significantly increase the size and power of your forces, which can be particularly advantageous if you are not yet in a position of overwhelming strength.

Additionally, keeping Bohemia as a PU allows you to maintain a loyal and Catholic ally, who will vote for you as an elector. This can be strategically beneficial, especially if you plan to inherit their kingdom later on. Inheriting Bohemia will grant you elector status, allowing you to raise your kingdom rank and vote for yourself.

Furthermore, Bohemia can serve as a useful buffer state, which can be fed Poland or other territories, ensuring they remain under your control and influence. This strategy can be particularly effective if you are seeking to maintain good relations with Poland or manage their expansion.

In conclusion, Bohemia's manpower pool, along with the other benefits of keeping them as a PU, can provide a significant advantage to Austria. Integrating them may be tempting, but doing so would result in the loss of these benefits, potentially impacting your military strength and diplomatic relations. Therefore, carefully consider the advantages of maintaining Bohemia as a PU before deciding whether to integrate them.

Integrating Bohemia frees up a diplomatic relation slot

Moreover, integrating Bohemia can provide a boost in income. As a personal union, Bohemia may not contribute significantly to Austria's tax base. However, upon integration, the massive tax base of Bohemia would be directly under Austria's control, resulting in a substantial increase in tax revenue. This enhanced financial position can then be leveraged to invest in military, infrastructure, or other areas that strengthen Austria's position.

Another benefit of integrating Bohemia is the potential to add the Bohemian provinces to the Holy Roman Empire (HRE). This addition can grant Austria more imperial authority (IA) within the HRE, increasing their influence and decision-making power within the empire. This is especially advantageous if Austria aims to unite the HRE or pursue specific strategic goals within its structure.

It is worth noting that integrating Bohemia may come with certain drawbacks as well. For instance, there may be a penalty for vassalizing an elector, and the process of integration can be time-consuming and diplomatically costly. However, if Austria has a strong diplomatic reputation and is seeking to expand its diplomatic relations, integrating Bohemia can be a strategic move that provides access to additional resources, territories, and influence within the HRE.

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