The Republic of Ulm 274 is a massive, efficient nation, remarkable for its multi-spousal wedding ceremonies, infamous sell-swords, and pith helmet sales. The compassionate, cynical, devout population of 1.542 billion Ulm 274ians are kept under strict control by the oppressive government, which measures its success by the nation's GDP and refers to individual citizens as "human resources."

The medium-sized, corrupt, moralistic, well-organized government juggles the competing demands of Law & Order, Industry, and Defense. The average income tax rate is 67.0%.

The frighteningly efficient Ulm 274ian economy, worth 197 trillion Ducats a year, is broadly diversified and led by the Arms Manufacturing industry, with major contributions from Information Technology, Tourism, and Furniture Restoration. Black market activity is notable. State-owned companies are common. Average income is an impressive 127,958 Ducats, and evenly distributed, with the richest citizens earning only 3.2 times as much as the poorest.

Giggling elementary school newspaper reporters want to know why Leader is a silly poophead, leisure is a crime in ski towns, immigrants are required to salute the flag five times a day, and Leader reduces citizens' commute times by giving away their homes. Crime, especially youth-related, is totally unknown, thanks to a well-funded police force and progressive social policies in education and welfare. Ulm 274's national animal is the Bear, which frolics freely in the nation's many lush forests.

Ulm 274 is ranked 174,201^st in the world and 120^th in Swabian autonomous region for Largest Insurance Industry, scoring 456.69 on the Risk Expulsion Effectiveness Rating.