I have talked about this a little before, but I interpret nations as being very...morally gray if not often times worse than that. And in regards other many older nation, especially those who were or are empires, I don't view them as really caring about if another nation was younger or if they were in a vulnerable state. Likewise, and I have included this in past hc posts and fics, I hc nations have historically used sex as form of agreement or form of treaty between themselves/as a way to add an extra layer to the agreements made by humans. And that was the standard and norm for pretty all of history until the 21st century when they started having some HR reform.

Back on topic- No one really knew who America was pre rev war. Francis had met them briefly but hadn't seen them in ages. Arthur never took America to Europe even as a baby like Francis did with Matthew. From the first whisper of rebellion in the colonies, there was intrigue from Gilbert and Antonio.

There was a level of...fetishization I think I want to say from Gilberts and others perspectives (again, not really good "people"). America was of the "new world". They were young. Had an unbroken very spirited attitude with hits of Arthur intertwined. Physically, they were well toned due to the fact they worked along side their people doing actual work. Insane physical strength. They were simply attractive and a blank canvas. There really was an automatic "I want them in my bed and under me".

I like the idea that Americas sexual encounters with the three main European supporters were different and taught them different things that would "help" them in later years.

From Gilbert, I think America learned a lot about restraint and not letting the other person know what you are feeling or thinking. The start one might say to the mask they would come to wear. Gilbert really prepared them for detachment that many nations felt during their sexual encounters with other nations. Nations might get to have sex with nations they find attractive or have a relationship with if they are lucky, but sometimes it is 100% politics and duty or not something they really would rather be doing. As all world powers do, this is a skill America ended up relying on a lot In the future.

I don't really subscribe to the idea of America having a crush, but more so being a fangirl . They were trying their best to copy Gilbert's attitude and traits. America really liked how naturally confident Gilbert seemed. How people just did what he said then he said it. How talented he was on the battle felted and with weapons. America saw Gilbert as being who is wanted to emulate. And he did in many ways. That over confidante cocky attitude he is famous for? 100% came from Gilbert. Except, just like Gilbert, it is covering a much more insecure and sad reality underneath. Gilbert was passing on his harmful coping mechanism long before Ludwig came around.

In regards to sex, I think that was pretty much it for them. Neither of them really sought the other out after that (unlike how I think frus happens several more times in the 1800s). There aren't a tone of in person interactions between them until the world wars. However, Gilbert is the driving force of the matchmaking of America and Germany in the 1880s. Which is actually successful so they run into each other at least once or twice before WW1.