Dominion of Albemarle-Clarendon
Pendant que je respire, j'espère (While I breathe, I hope)
 

Location within the BNAC

Overview
The Dominion of Albemarle-Clarendon is a British dominion located in the southeastern region of North America. Established in the aftermath of the British victory in the American Revolutionary War, it is one of the key components of the British North American Confederation. The dominion encompasses the modern territories of South Carolina and parts of Georgia, with its capital at Charles Town (modern Charleston).

The dominion derives its name from the Dukes of Albemarle and Earls of Clarendon, two prominent supporters of the early Carolina colony during the Stuart era. Its motto, "Pendant que je respire, j'espère," reflects the region's resilience and aspirational spirit, a holdover from its colonial heritage.

History
Formation
Following the Treaty of Paris (1783), which marked the formal end of the American Rebellion, Britain reorganized its North American colonies to strengthen imperial governance. The provinces of South Carolina and Georgia were combined into a single dominion to serve as a southern stronghold for British authority in the Americas.

The dominion adopted a semi-autonomous structure under the British North American Act of 1792. This act granted local legislatures certain powers while ensuring ultimate authority remained with the British Crown and Parliament.

Colonial Legacy
Albemarle-Clarendon inherited much of its culture, economy, and traditions from its colonial past. It became a center for plantation agriculture, with a significant reliance on enslaved labor for the cultivation of rice, indigo, and cotton. The dominion's social structure mirrored the stratified hierarchy of the British Empire, with landowning elites wielding significant influence.

Government
The Dominion of Albemarle-Clarendon operates under a constitutional monarchy within the British Empire. The government is headed by a Governor-General, appointed by the Crown, and a bicameral legislature consisting of the Legislative Council (appointed) and the General Assembly (elected).

Key Institutions
Governor-General: The Crown’s representative, with authority over military and foreign affairs.
General Assembly: An elected body that manages local legislation, taxation, and public infrastructure.
Royal Court of Albemarle-Clarendon: The highest judicial authority in the dominion.

Culture
The dominion is a melting pot of British, French, African, and Native American influences. British traditions remain dominant in law, education, and governance, while French, African, and Caribbean cultures have significantly influenced music, cuisine, and folk traditions.

Festivals and Traditions
Royal Week: A week-long celebration of the monarch’s birthday, featuring parades and balls.
Harvest Festival: Honoring the agricultural roots of the dominion.
Carolina Jubilee: A celebration of regional heritage and the dominion’s unique identity within the empire.

Modern Relations
As a dominion, Albemarle-Clarendon remains a loyal member of the British Commonwealth. Its unique history and strategic location make it a vital player in transatlantic relations.