The Republic of Messier 96 is a colossal, socially progressive nation, renowned for its burgeoning emu population. The quiet, industrious population of 3.086 billion Messier 96ians enjoy extensive civil rights and enjoy a level of social equality free from the usual accompanying government corruption.

The medium-sized, liberal, socially-minded government juggles the competing demands of Law & Order, Defense, and Healthcare. The average income tax rate is 31.1%, but much higher for the wealthy.

The sizeable but underdeveloped Messier 96ian economy, worth 72.6 trillion deniers a year, is quite specialized and led by the Woodchip Exports industry, with major contributions from Trout Farming, Arms Manufacturing, and Cheese Exports. Black market activity is notable. State-owned companies are common. Average income is 23,532 deniers, and distributed extremely evenly, with little difference between the richest and poorest citizens.

Crime is well under control, thanks to a well-funded police force and progressive social policies in education and welfare. Messier 96's national animal is the emu.

Messier 96 is ranked 110,782^nd in the world and 2^nd in Candleflame Glow 15 for Largest Pizza Delivery Sector, scoring 1,720.47 on the Pepperoni Propulsion Productivity Index.