1871

William H Seward is sworn in as Chancellor of America following the sudden death of Robert E Lee. Seward wishes for an increased involvement in the Cuban War, seeking to attack Spanish controlled Philippines. The opposition to this plan is great, while others seek to involve themselves only in Cuba for the sake of taking the island. American inaction sees the Colombian government garner even more say over Cuban affairs.
  With the end of the Third Mexican Civil War, American politicians quickly attempt to take control of the situation. In order to retain ownership of the Nicaragua Canal, Central America is propped up as an independent Grand Duchy with Miguel as sovereign. Colombia protests, claiming the region is being puppeted by America.