23rd of July 2025

Shardiland Gazette
23rd July 2025

Founders Decree No. 6 Establishes the National Archives:

A Digital Fortress to Preserve the Legacy and Identity of Shardiland

In a defining moment for the Republic of Shardiland, the Founders Council has formally issued Founders Decree Number Six, mandating the creation of the National Archives of Shardiland. This institution will serve as the official guardian of the nation’s historical memory, cultural heritage, and governmental legacy — ensuring that the foundation of Shardiland is preserved in perpetuity for all present and future citizens.

The National Archives will be housed within a secure, encrypted digital infrastructure known as the ShardCloud, reflecting the modern and innovative spirit of the Republic itself. Until such time as the Republic attains its sovereign territory, this digital sanctuary will serve as the sole repository of the nation’s defining documents and symbols.

The Archives will include the full corpus of Founders Decrees, the Provisional Constitution, records of parliamentary sessions, official communications, treaties, and honours bestowed by the government. Additionally, it will safeguard national symbols, anthems, and cultural works that express the ethos and aspirations of the Shardilandi people.

Crucially, the decree guarantees public access to the Archives, affirming the principle that the history of the nation belongs to its citizens. Educational initiatives will be implemented to promote historical awareness and civic pride, particularly among youth, encouraging a deep and enduring connection to Shardiland’s origins and future.

The Ministry of Science, Culture, History, and Journalism will oversee this monumental task. The Head of state and presidentof the National Science Federation, Marco Sanz, stated:

“Memory is the architecture of freedom, and the Archive shall be its cathedral. It is through knowledge of our past that we forge the strength to shape our future.”

The decree further establishes an official Archival Seal, to be designed under the guidance of the Founders, bearing the national motto: Cogitamus ergo Praevalemus — “We Think, Therefore We Prevail.” This seal will certify all documents deemed of permanent historical significance, embedding them with the dignity and solemnity befitting the Republic’s legacy.

The Birth of Shardiland Football Club:

Sporting Spirit as a Beacon of Unity and National Identity

In a joyous complement to the solemn establishment of the National Archives, the Provisional Government today announced the founding of Shardiland Football Club (Shardiland FC) — the Republic’s first national football institution and a dynamic symbol of the unity and vitality of its people.

Though Shardiland is yet to possess sovereign territory, the club will begin as a digital team, engaging in international online tournaments and friendly matches designed to foster goodwill and cultural exchange. Shardiland FC is conceived not merely as a sports team, but as an ambassador of national pride, identity, and the indomitable spirit that characterises this nascent Republic.

The club’s motto, Virtus et Unitas — “Strength and Unity” — encapsulates the values it will embody both on and off the virtual pitch. Plans for unveiling the club’s official colours, crest, and anthem are already underway and will be presented at a forthcoming national event entitled “A Nation in Stripes.”

Eduardo Baz, the Head Coach-designate and cultural attaché responsible for the club’s inception, remarked:

“Shardiland FC will wear the heart of a nation on its chest. Our strength is not measured merely by goals scored, but by the unity and pride with which we carry our colours. Though we lack a physical stadium, our spirit knows no bounds.”

Applications to join Shardiland FC as citizen-players or honorary international members are now open, heralding the beginning of a vibrant sporting culture that promises to unite Shardilandi at home and across the globe.

A Dual Milestone in Nation-Building

Today’s announcements signal two essential pillars of Shardiland’s ongoing nation-building: the preservation of our historical and cultural heritage and the cultivation of community and international presence through sport.

By establishing the National Archives, the Founders affirm their commitment to transparency, education, and respect for history — vital components in the consolidation of any enduring Republic. In parallel, the creation of Shardiland FC breathes life into the nation’s social fabric, offering a rallying point for citizens to express collective identity and ambition.

Both initiatives reflect the Republic’s determination to transcend physical constraints. Without land, Shardiland’s soul and governance manifest through the innovative use of technology, cultural initiatives, and a steadfast belief in the power of ideas.

Looking Ahead

As Shardiland continues to mature and move closer to its territorial realisation, these foundational efforts will form the bedrock of a resilient, proud, and vibrant nation. The National Archives will stand as a testament to our origins and values, while Shardiland FC will inspire generations through the universal language of sport.

In these acts, the Republic sends a clear message to the world: nationhood is not defined solely by geography but by the spirit, unity, and vision of its people.

Long live Shardiland.