This is an article about the Rossan head of state. For the aquatic animal, learn to read, and see Ducks.
The Dux of La Rossa is the head of state of the Republic of La Rossa. Democratically elected to two-year terms by nation-wide popular vote, the Dux holds immense executive power over the island. Although they are joined by an Advisory Council, representing the opinions of the island's city-provinces, and meant to place judgement on the Dux's decisions, the Advisors hold almost no formal power, unlike traditional legislatures, and all power to pass decrees lies in the hands of the reigning Dux. A 4/5ths vote of the Advisors is necessary in order to halt a decree. No term limits have ever been set for Duxes, and most have continued being re-elected until their deaths or retirement throughout the nation's history. Alessandro Spadi is the current reigning Dux, a position he has held since 7-2 79 PC.
History
The position was first established in 1044 TT, following the unification of the nation. In order to stop bloody skirmishes between the Six Families and cool tensions over territory between the city-states, a single central state was placed over the island. Since then, its ruler has been determined by vote amongst the Families. Giuseppe Giannone di Salino, often hailed as the "Father of the Nation", was crowned the first Dux. Although much power remained in regional hands for many centuries, the state began to centralize over time, and the Dux's power was understood to be more absolute. In 106 TT, the violence of the Spirit Revolution prompted the election of the reformist Dux Michelangelo Giannone di Salino, who expanded voting rights to all men in ownership of property. After the violent period of La Denunzia and the popular installation of Dux Giulio Falcone in 5 PC, the nation underwent several years without any elections, before pressure caused the ruling Dux to step down. Ever since, elections were determined by total nation-wide vote, with universal suffrage for all citizens over the age of 16. The following elections led to the victory of Ducissa Alessandra DeGaio, the only woman to hold such a position.
The son of Giuseppe Giannone. Taking the position of Dux after the death of his father, he would soon be ousted by the Families due to fears that he would establish a hereditary dynasty, almost leading to the union's collapse.
Commanded regulation over the Rossan market to allow for the continued and uninterrupted flow of the economy. Reorganized the Miglio Family bank into Banca Nazionale, a national bank to ensure stable and centrally-managed monetary policy.
Populist firebrand, installed after the popular uprising of La Denunzia. The father of the modern welfare state. The only Dux to never be elected. Presided during the period of Second Calming. Resigned following public pressure.
First woman to hold office. A revolutionary leader during La Denunzia. Former Advisor and great critic of Dux Falcone. Dismantled the silver standard, and privatized many previously nationalized industries.
A revolutionary leader during La Denunzia, served as an Advisor during the reigns of Dux Falcone and Ducissa DeGaio. Oversaw a period of economic stagnation, marked by high inflation.
First reign as Dux. Short-ruling technocrat. Rule marked by a period of austerity, meant to account for the high deficit spending of the previous administration. Voted out of office.
The first member of the Six Families to be elected after La Denunzia. Opened La Rossa to the wider archipelago. One of the founders of the House of Light.
Oversaw the expansion of the House of Light, and the formalization of Rossan political parties. Embroiled in major corruption scandal that escalated into the establishment of a short-lived attempt at a military dictatorship. Fled the country in disgrace.
Transitional leader who usurped the Barozzo regime with the backing of Deysachin. Established foundations for a post-Barozzo state-of-affairs, although he had little accomplishments to speak of. Lost a bid to continue governing in favor of Moretti, a friendly rival.
Second reign as Dux. Implemented a number of workers' rights reforms, including transferring ownership of Family-owned companies to their respective unions. Stimulated economic growth following Barozzo's fall through expansionary monetary policy, with major government investment. Resigned after health issues.
The following is a timeline of the reign of Duxes elected after La Denunzia. No political parties existed in La Rossa until 49 PC, following the creation of the Isola and Mare parties, supporting internationalism and isolationism, respectively, however, the parties formed from previously existing factions present in the political class. Whereas members of Isola trace their lineage down to the revolutionary leaders and the period after La Denunzia, the internationalist Mare party was born out of the rejuvination of the island's old aristocracy.
