Tough Village, Weak City

[Titus Marcellus Scato]

Yup. Example:

+80% garrison, +20% governor, +20% buildings and +30% low taxes = 150%. Should be a very happy city.

But then add:

-30% distance from capital, -60% Unrest, -20% Culture penalty = -110%.

Total City Happiness Value = 30%. Very unhappy city, red face.

City will riot, then rebel. Not even exterminating the populace will be enough on its own to solve the problem, although it will reduce the number of troops needed to reach 80% garrison value.

You'll need a superb governor, a large garrison, lots more law/happiness buildings, and a well-trained spy permanently based in this city to hold onto it.