10 Epic Star Wars Events That Altered the Fate of the Galaxy

The Star Wars galaxy is a place where the actions of one individual have the potential to alter the course of entire Republics and Empires. George Lucas envisioned Star Wars as a modern myth, a fairy tale where every person possesses the ability to shape the destiny of the galaxy. Each decision holds significance, as it can lead to either progress or downfall.

Spectacle and grandeur define some of the most impactful moments in the Star Wars universe. These moments, ten in particular, have the power to transform the galaxy in an instant. Whether by influencing the trajectories of key figures, establishing new realms, or triggering larger chain reactions, these events determine the entire timeline of Star Wars.

Fives Discovers Chancellor Palpatine's Order 66 Conspiracy

Star Wars: The Clone Wars Season 6, Episode 4 "Orders"

Fives dies in The Clone Wars while being held by Rex - Star Wars: The Clone Wars Season 6, Episode 4 "Orders" - Fives Discovers Chancellor Palpatine's Order 66 Conspiracy

In Star Wars: The Clone Wars, there is a significant moment where Fives uncovers the inhibitor chips that will later control the clones during Order 66. Despite his efforts, Palpatine and Dooku manage to manipulate the situation, leading to Fives not being believed. This emotional event has long-lasting effects, as it is the reason why Rex and Ahsoka Tano survive years later. They were aware of the chips and removed them when Order 66 was enacted.

Bo-Katan Reunites The Mandalorian Clans

The Mandalorian Season 3, Episode 7 "Chapter 23: The Spies"

Bo-Katan wielding the Darksaber next to the Armorer in jetpack flight - The Mandalorian Season 3, Episode 7 "Chapter 23: The Spies" - Bo-Katan Reunites The Mandalorian Clans

Bo-Katan Kryze embarked on her journey in Star Wars: The Clone Wars, dedicating herself to fighting for the freedom of Mandalore and its people. Despite the tragic outcome of her attempt to lead Mandalore against the Empire during the Great Purge, Bo-Katan managed to reclaim the powerful Darksaber. With this iconic weapon in hand, she led her people in the successful mission to retake their homeworld, fulfilling an ancient prophecy and hinting at even greater destinies ahead.

Kylo Ren Kills His Father Han Solo

Star Wars: The Force Awakens

Kylo Ren and Han Solo speak before Kylo kills him in The force Awakens - Star Wars: The Force Awakens - Kylo Ren Kills His Father Han Solo

Formerly known as Ben Solo, the offspring of Leia Organa and Han Solo, Kylo Ren grapples with inner turmoil throughout the earlier films. This internal struggle intensifies after he commits the unforgivable act of murdering his own father, an action that Supreme Leader Snoke believes fractured him irreparably. The repercussions of this pivotal moment echo throughout Kylo Ren's journey, impacting his subsequent choices, including his pivotal role in Snoke's demise. Furthermore, by extinguishing the life of one of the franchise's most beloved characters, Kylo Ren alters the course of the galaxy forever; Han Solo's presence would have undoubtedly shaped the sequels significantly had he not met his tragic end.

The Battle Of The Heroes

Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith

Anakin and Obi-Wan in Revenge of the Sith poster - The duel between Obi-Wan Kenobi and the newly-christened Darth Vader was one that had a massive impact on the entire Star Wars timeline

The duel between Obi-Wan Kenobi and the newly-christened Darth Vader had a profound impact on the Star Wars timeline. Obi-Wan emerged victorious, leaving Anakin severely injured on Mustafar. This marked the beginning of Darth Vader, a powerful cyborg but also the end of Anakin Skywalker's full potential. His injuries were too severe, forever changing him. Palpatine started considering other candidates to wield his power.

Alderaan Is Destroyed By The Death Star

Star Wars

The Death Star launches an attack on Alderaan - Star Wars - Alderaan Is Destroyed By The Death Star

Alderaan may not have been the Death Star's primary target, but its obliteration holds immense significance. The instantaneous loss of millions of lives distinguished it from mere accidents like the one on Jakku. The annihilation of a planet located in the Galactic Core left no room for denial about the Empire's brutal intentions. This catastrophic event compelled individuals to take a stand, solidifying the gravity of the Galactic Civil War from the very moment the Empire unleashed its destructive power.

Chancellor Palpatine Executes Order 66

Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge Of The Sith

Anakin Skywalker and the 501st in Revenge of the Sith - Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge Of The Sith - Chancellor Palpatine Executes Order 66

The Star Wars galaxy is a battleground between the light and dark sides of the Force. Order 66 marked the culmination of Supreme Chancellor Palpatine's ascent to power, leading to the establishment of his Empire and a shift in the galaxy's balance. Following Order 66, only a few Jedi managed to survive, while Palpatine swiftly gained control over a massive army of clone troopers, manipulated through inhibitor chips. It was a pivotal moment that heralded the birth of the Empire.

The Death Star Is Destroyed By The Rebellion

Star Wars

The Death Star explodes after Luke Skywalker hit an exhaust vent with a proton torpedo in Star Wars: Episode IV - A New Hope - The Death Star Is Destroyed By The Rebellion

The obliteration of the initial Death Star, as depicted in the first Star Wars film, sent shockwaves throughout the entire galaxy. The Emperor had been cunningly manipulating rebel leaders through bureaucratic channels, waiting for the superweapon to be operational. However, the Death Star's completion prompted him to dissolve the senate. Palpatine's intention was to instill fear and maintain control, but the destruction of the Death Star proved that the Empire was not invincible. Following this pivotal moment, numerous planets rallied behind the Rebel Alliance.

Darth Vader Reveals He Is Luke's Father

The Empire Strikes Back

Darth Vader raising his hand during the 'I am your father' twist in The Empire Strikes Back - Darth Vader Reveals He Is Luke's Father

One of the most iconic lines in Star Wars history is when Darth Vader reveals to Luke Skywalker that he is his father. Vader's desire to overthrow the Emperor shifted to wanting his son by his side. This pivotal moment caused Luke to question his beliefs and set him on a journey that would ultimately lead to Vader's redemption. Star Wars exemplifies how individuals have the power to shape the destiny of a galaxy, making this moment a prime illustration of that theme.

Darth Vader Kills The Emperor

Return Of The Jedi

Luke and Darth Vader stand next to one another in the Emperor's throne room in Return of the Jedi. - Return Of The Jedi - Darth Vader Kills The Emperor

When the Emperor encounters Darth Vader and Luke Skywalker in Return of the Jedi, he tries to kill Luke. The Emperor's torture pushes Darth Vader to act, leading him to betray his master by throwing him to his assumed death in the Death Star. This act of redemption for Anakin Skywalker, believed to be lost, ultimately brings an end to the Empire and one of the galaxy's greatest threats. It marks the moment when the Chosen One fulfills his destined role, restoring balance to the Force.

Rey Defeats Emperor Palpatine Once And For All

Star Wars: The Rise Of Skywalker

Rey and the Emperor in Star Wars The Rise of Skywalker - Star Wars: The Rise Of Skywalker - Rey Defeats Emperor Palpatine Once And For All

Palpatine's resurrection was unveiled in Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker, exposing him as the hidden orchestrator behind the First Order's emergence. Rey and a redeemed Ben Solo ultimately face him on the Sith planet of Exegol. It is on this battleground where Rey harnesses the collective power of the Jedi predecessors to vanquish Darth Sidious once and for all, fulfilling Darth Vader's initial mission and eradicating the Sith's malevolence from the galaxy.

Editor's P/S:

The article provides a captivating exploration of the impact that pivotal moments in the Star Wars universe have on the overarching narrative. It highlights how the actions of individuals, from the seemingly insignificant to the monumental, can shape the destiny of the galaxy. The meticulous selection of ten significant events showcases the intricate tapestry of the Star Wars saga and its ability to resonate with fans on a profound level.

The article also emphasizes the theme of personal agency and the power of choice in the Star Wars galaxy. It demonstrates how the decisions made by characters, both great and small, have lasting consequences that reverberate throughout the timeline. The article effectively conveys the interconnectedness of the Star Wars universe and the profound impact that each moment has on the galaxy's fate, leaving readers with a deeper appreciation for the epic scope and timeless storytelling of the franchise.