Summary - Dead empire destroyed in a magical calamity over a thousand years ago. Still influentially historically and culturally.
History
The empire of Sula lasted a thousand years and had massive impact upon culture of Sula continent.
Sula expanded rapidly as it had best technology and magic of its day.
Joining Sula brought magical and engineering knowledge in return for moderate taxation.
People
The Sulanese empire had both light and dark skinned humans as members.
Sulanese people are called Suls (pronounced Suels)
This has later become Sulans as Sul and Thule sounded to much alike.
Magical races (demi-humans, etc) were rare until late in the empire when they were adopted into the folds. It is often felt that inclusion of other races towards the end of empire (and the magical disaster that took place) may have led to Albienne's xenephobia.
Law
Law varied widely between territories.
Territories were ruled by regional governors whom mostly adhered to local custom.
National government regulated trade and taxes.
Religion
Religion was not very formalized. No real concept of worship.
People made offerings to gods or spirits in return for services.
Magic
Very powerful magics were worked.
Was no real distinction between mage and divine magic.
Magic was considered a natural element like air and not thought to be good or bad.
Late in the empire cults rose in power.
Magic was corrupted over time and the empire tried to clean magic through a great working of magic it instead destroyed much of the capitol, many powerful casters, and left the empire missing leadership and administration abruptly.
Government
Sula government was representative with advisers.
Many decisions were made only after divination of the effects.
Military service
Strong military. Mandatory service for all males age 16-20.
Many men serve multiple terms of service.
Sexuality
Homosexuality was common among upper class. But tolerance was very regional in nature.
Marriage
Men married after military service (20-30) in a civic ceremony conducted by local leaders.
Woman married slightly younger than men (16-24)
Both families provided gifts to start off new family.
Divorce is allowed by some civic leaders. Varies regionally.
Names (Vary depending on region)
Southern Desert region was middle eastern naming.
Dark skinned tribes had more African naming system.
Northern Caucasians had Latin naming system.
Southern Caucasians had Greek names.
When traveling frequently the territory you were born in was appended to your name.
Female rights
Varied by locality.
Education
Essential for wealthy and ruling class.
Not universally available.
Culture
More a mix of dozen of lesser cultures.
Each territory had its own quirks and traditions.
Very effective at disseminating useful knowledge between regions. (communications, roads, magic, etc)