Martian Steampunk Campaign

The Victorian era in the year 1889. There are a number of differences between our timeline and the timeline of this campaign. 

• Steam technology "Steampunk" is prevalent. This technology creates 21st century results with 19th century apparatus. 
• The American Revolution failed. America is colony of the British Empire.
• Mars has made contact with earth. Travel between planets is possible, although long and dangerous.
• Britain remains the preeminent superpower on the globe. Prince Albert did not die in 1861 and remains Queen Victoria's husband. 
• Italy, France, Spain, Portugal, and Romania are aligned as the "Humanists."
• Victorian beliefs are factual. 
  • Spirits and ghosts are real, and some Mediums can interact with them.
  • Ether (Aether) streams connect the planets, making it possible to breathe in space. Interplanetary travel is possible with sufficient technology and navigation.
  • Extra-terrestrial intelligent life exists on other planets.
  • Nearly any ailment or condition can be cured either with chemistry or electricity.
  • Mirrors are doorways to the deceased and the supernatural.
  • Moral uprightness leads to paradise in the afterlife.
  • Optogram - the eyes of a deceased hold the last image seen.
  • Phrenology - the shape of a person's head determines their personality.
  • Telepathy and Telekinesis are real and can be scientifically measured, although rare and difficult to master. 
  • It is possible for gifted individuals to predict the future using arcane devices.
  • Mesmerism - the ability to hypnotize others to treat ailments or commune with the dead.