Grimmdawg

One Spanish clan was 'allied' with a couple of British clans. Nothing to do with nations.

Spanish didn't seem to mind negotiating with Americans in 1898...

Not really. Anyone who has been following the game and is invested in it is well aware of the likelihood of a wipe before the full release. It's a product that is still in development, after all. The devs have to ensure as level a playing field as possible upon release.