The example used in this guide will the Emirate of Socotra and how I ultimately formed a Merchant Republic from that start. This guide will also give some tips on how to change ones culture and religion. Introduction This guide is meant for players who wish to start Feudal and end up as a Merchant Republic. This guide is Ironman compatible as it requires no mods to be used. Note: This guide can be used in other starts, as will be noted further into the guide itself. This guide will lead you through the steps necessary to change your government from Feudal to Merchant Republic, specifically on the island duchy of Socotra.