Construction of the first eastern dam
Construction of the first eastern dam under Jakob II. belongs to the most important economic projects of the Silver Age. The dam made it possible to better supply water to the more arid steppe regions in the east of the empire and significantly improved the agricultural possibilities of the farmers there.
Water for the arid east
The eastern regions of the empire suffered for a long time from worse conditions for agriculture. The steppe landscape was only fertile in good years, and during the weaker periods of the weather it quickly became apparent how vulnerable the villages and farms there were. Jakob II therefore he supported the construction of the first large dam in the east of the empire. It was not just a technical project, but a clear signal that the imperial power wants to invest in more peripheral regions as well.
Changing the lives of farmers
The dam made it possible to better retain and distribute water to areas that previously depended on erratic rains. Farmers gained more certainty and could plan crops with less risk of complete crop failure. This project was quickly reflected in the improvement of the economic situation of the region. At a time when the weather still remained unpredictable, it was one of the most practical reforms of Jacob's reign.
Construction as a politics of trust
The dam also had political significance. It showed that the emperor is not only the ruler of the capital and the great families, but also the protector of the common people in the areas where the crisis is most rapidly manifested. Just similar projects explain why Jakob II. he gained a reputation among the people as a benevolent ruler.