The Workings of the Twelve ColoniesThe Government of Twelve Colonies is a federal republic that was established 52 years ago during the Cylon War.
Each Colony Operates Independently and has Laws regarding various areas of Life as well as Attitudes Towards Other Colonies that Will be Discussed.
[/li][li] Most wars , the Cylon War being an exception, do not occur on an interplanetary level. They are usually limited to what would be called "civil" wars, since each insular colony is largely unified (aside from the obvious aforementioned internal strife). This is why you have such differing views regarding and individual such as Zarek (it didn't affect worlds outside of his own....well not as nearly nearly as intimately.... ) .
AerilonAn agricultural planet known for being responsible for at one point supplying over 80% of the Twelve Colonies produce. Despite this the Colony remains extremely poor, leading some to speculate they have been exploited. The Aerilons are largely on good terms with the other Colonies so this line of thought has not gone far with local politicians. Likely because they don't have the means (read: technology or man power ) to do anything about it.
Worship of Aeries is common.
Aquariaaka the Water Planet has no official center of power. Known for holding communal meetings weekly in which all are invited to attend (citizen and non). Aquaria can be viewed as a rather progressive Colony or at least communally minded.
The population on Aquaria is very small compared to the rest of the colonies and considered by some to be little more than an scientific research outpost. Although there are various small communities located on the various land masses. As well as a few small volcanic land masses.
One hears the occasional story of the adventurer curious to brave the seas of Aquaria. Usually such stories end poorly.
CanceronCapital :Hades
An overpopulated and humid colony that had earned the nickname "The Largest Democracy" due to the size of its population. Canceron had no shortage of slums in its cities and some view the Democratic colony as little more than a corrupt Oligarchy.
CapricaCaprica was the central seat of power of the current administration, as well as one of the wealthiest colonies. It's planet was balanced in terms of land mass, climate and abundance of resource. But it was also a melting pot of various degrees of religious fervor which led to various degrees of civil unrest and violence.
GemenonAn arid and xeric red world that shared it's orbit with Caprica. Gemenon is a colony known for it's literal interpretation of the Scriptures. In addition they are one of the poorer Colonies.
LeonisLibranHome of the Inter-Colonial Court . They, like Aquaria , have no Capital. While they are one of the richer Colonies and are known largely for having established what we now know as the sport of Pyramid today. Libran is considered an undesirable place to live by many.
PiconSagitarronScorpiaTauronVirgonNice Map of the Colonies (thanks to simon for pointing this out)