Wunderland (Alpha Centauri)
The closest colony to Earth, Wunderland is a fairly Earth-like world. The "19 Families" who landed with the first colony
ship declared themselves an aristocracy, and vestiges of their attitude can be seen today in the unique asymmetric beard worn by many
of Wunderland's upper class. A strong germanic tradition pervades the society; the capitol city is called Munchen.
Wunderland suffered for many years under Kzin occupation during the First Man-Kzin War. In the years to follow, Wunderland has
produced some impressive technology, including amazing kitchen computers for use on starships, and the Wunderland Treatymaker,
one of the few weapons that can actually cow Kzinti into surrender (or so they claim). The U.N. has had a foothold on Wunderland
since retaking the planet from the Kzinti, which has led to various underground "Free Wunderland" movements and even
a revolution by Louis Wu's time.
The Serpent Swarm is Alpha Centauri's asteroid belt. It is not actually a full belt but a semicircle, hence the name.
The capital asteroid, Tiamat, houses a large postwar Kzinti population.
Oh, and some Wunderlanders, notably the aristocracy, have highly moveable ears.
Notable Wunderlanders: Richard Schultz-Mann
For Further
Reading: Protector, "A Relic of the Empire"