Wow, thanks for all the great tips guys... I'm gonna go implement some serious changes the next chance I get to play.

I've been a little worried about my overgrown empire after reading another thread on civil war yesterday. I guess the game mimics how in reality most large empires begin to erode themselves and to disintegrate internally.

Last night I reevaluated everyone who held a provincial title and "removed" those not exceedingly loyal. Also, taking a very close look at my young Princes I saw some were quite disloyal so I added them to the fighting armies of my very loyal generals and charged my Princes into anything that had a spear, halberd, pike or polearm.

The next time I watch a movie or read a book about some King who murdered members of his family or court I won't think him a monster but instead see the prudence of his actions.