CONCLAVE OF THE 49ERS
AGENDA
Navigating the impact of the Gold Rush in California
About Committee
In the crisp winter air of January 24th 1848, amidst the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains, a moment of serendipity unfolded with the potential to forever alter the course of the region's destiny. James W. Marshall, a skilled carpenter toiling away at John Sutter's sawmill, caught site of the glint of something extraordinary in the South Fork American River - glistening gold particles. Hushed murmurs of Marshall's astonishing discovery soon gave way to frenzied excitement, as news of the gold find spread like wildifre, transforming the tranquil setting into a bustling scene of feverish prospectors, each eager to unearth their share of the newfound treasure. This singular event marked the birth of the California Gold Rush, a chapter in history that unfolded against the backdrop of the untamed West, forever etching its allure into the hearts of those who chased dreams of golden fortune.
More than a year later, we arrive in Monterey. Mayors, politicians, businessmen and merchants from all across California (and some overseas) find themselves gathering at the behest of Governor Riley. They may share the same space and breathe the same air, but their goals are manifold. Some come with frank intentions, others with hidden motives and plans of discreet activities. As they move their pieces on the four-dimensional chessboard, playing a game of both cooperation and competition, they must learn to separate that which is gold from that which merely glitters. And they must learn quickly, for time is of the essence; the thread by which the fate of the region hangs in the balance grows thinner. They must step cautiously in the interest of achieving their collective aim - to navigate the chaos of these times, to deliberate upon the gold reserves, and to determine a future for California.
Chairpersons' Address
Greetings Delegates,
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The concept of 'risk' is quite an interesting one - a game so alluring to many, based on this tantalising possibility of an untold reward. It choreographs this intricate dance between strategy and uncertainty - captivating the human psyche with a promise of the unknown. And that is the one thing you can be sure to encounter in the Conclave of the Forty Niners - the unknown. As delegate, be prepared for anything anytime, to navigate through uncharted territories, and to overcome the wildest of obstacles in your quest for gold (however its appearance be for you).
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In the Conclave, emphasis will be laid on fast-paced debate, dynamic committee proceedings and a blatant avoidance of the static. Writing innovative and succinct communiques will be key to unlocking each allotment's true potential. As you assume the personas of different individuals and learn their trade, whether it be a merchant or a mayor, you will discover the unique perspective that each of them brings to the conclave. Manoeuvring and balancing these perspectives to respond to crises forms the core of survival in this committee, as you unravel and build a fitting narrative. However, amidst threads of deceit and fulfilling personal agendas, it is the acts of cooperation and collaboration that will ultimately determine your collective and individual success.
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Rishi Banerjee Ghosh is what you would imagine a classic nerd to be like, with a keen interest in Dungeons and Dragons and anything up the street of board games. An avid football enthusiast and supporter of FC Barcelona, he would much rather bide time by binging TV shows ranging from Fleabag to Doctor Who, rather than spend any effort in creating a hint of a social life. Though seldom one to pick up a conversation, he is quite open and approachable, and a pop culture reference will never go unnoticed around him.
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Debarko Dutta is the perfect definition of an eccentric character and perhaps the only guy who listens to Pink Floyd in the day and Kanye West at midnight. Despite suffering from frequent mood swings and the ever-present burden of science, he never fails to maintain his charisma and humour. A prominent speaker and a consistent blogger, he is a true workaholic. He always manages to find some obsession or the other, despite being caught up in a massive workload - be it writing online, learning coding or reading self-improvement books. A huge fan of 80s and 90s culture ranging from Oasis to Scorsese, he was definitely born in the wrong era.
But that's all in the real world. In the world of Monterey, 1849, be prepared for a scintillating few days of committee, where we venture into the unknown together.
Until May,
Debarko Dutta and Rishi Banerjee Ghosh,
Chairpersons,
The Conclave of the Forty-Niners,
La Martiniere Calcutta Model United Nations, 2024.
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