Unlocking the Power: An Exciting Guide to the Four Nations in Avatar: The Last Airbender

Good worldbuilding is key to a captivating fantasy story, as the creation of a fictional world and culture can either make or break a piece of media. If the details are lacking, the world may feel unreal and fail to immerse the audience in the story. On the other hand, if the world is overly complex, it may confuse and distract the audience from the main plot. However, there are stories that have achieved perfection in their worldbuilding, becoming iconic pieces of literature or film. Examples such as Lord of the Rings and Star Wars immediately come to mind when discussing enduring fictional worlds.

One such example of beloved and iconic worldbuilding is found in Avatar: The Last Airbender. The opening of the show presents a compelling description of the four nations that shape this world, along with the historical context that drives the events of the story. Fans of the show may even have committed this opening to memory, word-for-word, after watching the entire series. The four nations play a vital role in the plot, allowing each place and culture to be explored throughout the show's run. But what exactly are these four nations, and what sets them apart from each other?

The Water Tribe

The Water Tribe is the starting point of the ATLA story, and it encompasses two key characters - Katara and Sokka. This culture is not restricted to a single region, as there are two distinct divisions of the tribe located at the North and South Poles. The term "Water Tribe" refers to the group of individuals living in these regions who practice waterbending. However, non-benders are also part of the Water Tribe, which is primarily composed of naturally-born waterbenders. In addition to the North and South Poles, there is a small community of waterbenders in The Foggy Swamp, located in the Earth Kingdom, who specialize in plantbending. The members of the Water Tribe are known for their peaceful and resilient nature, as well as their close connection to the natural world. Despite this, they are the least influential nation due to their smaller population and geographical location, in comparison to the Earth Kingdom and Fire Nation.

Both the Northern and Southern Water Tribes possess unique cultures and beliefs. For instance, the Northern Water Tribe historically prohibited women from practicing waterbending or having the freedom to choose their own spouses. Each tribe is traditionally led by a Chief. However, the Southern Water Tribe faced a leadership gap during the Hundred Year War, as all able-bodied men were engaged in battle. The harsh climate of the Water Tribes influences their traditional clothing and style, which is designed to provide warmth. Citizens typically wear blue anoraks and fur-lined pants, along with thick mittens and mukluk boots. The Water Tribe draws inspiration from real-life Indigenous cultures like the Inuit and Yupik, as evident in their attire and customs. Notable Water Tribe figures include Avatar Kuruk, Princess Yue, Chief Tonraq, and Avatar Korra from The Legend of Korra.

The Earth Kingdom

The Earth Kingdom is the largest nation out of the four, both in terms of geography and population size. It is governed by a monarchy, with an Earth Monarch as its ruler. The Earth Monarch is typically based in Ba Sing Se, the capital city of the Earth Kingdom. Ba Sing Se is a significant location in the Avatar series, as the main characters spend a substantial amount of time there during their journey. However, they eventually find themselves trapped within the city, as it remains oblivious to the war happening outside its walls. The Earth Kingdom, although it was once an empire, constantly faced attacks from the Fire Nation during the war and dedicated extensive resources to defend against them.

The Earth Kingdom's clothing, culture, and architectural influences are heavily inspired by various dynasties in China. The government of Ba Sing Se, in particular, shares similarities with the Chinese government under the Ming Dynasty, specifically the Jinyiwei, which focused on propaganda and exerted total control over its inhabitants. Notably, the Earth Kingdom is also home to the Kyoshi Warriors, an exceptional group of female fighters who draw inspiration from Avatar Kyoshi, the longest-living Avatar. Their attire and combat style reflect the characteristics of Avatar Kyoshi. The people of the Earth Kingdom, much like the element of earth, are known for their strength and resilience.

The Fire Nation

In Avatar: The Last Airbender, the Fire Nation is consistently portrayed as the adversary. Led by the Fire Lord, it seeks to conquer other nations, making it an empire. The Fire Nation is a monarchy where Firebenders reside, and it holds the most economic and military power. Its identity is tied to fire, as evident in its symbols, colors, and stone structures. While primarily influenced by East and South Asian cultures, there are also aspects resembling Polynesian cultures, such as the inclusion of small islands within the Fire Nation.

Respect and honor are highly regarded in the Fire Nation. The tradition of the Agni Kai, originally a non-lethal duel for honor among firebenders, has transformed into a fight to the death over time. Additionally, the Fire Nation is recognized for promoting gender equality, enabling women to pursue various occupations and hold leadership positions. Complete access to higher education is granted to women, contributing to their societal advancement. Notable individuals from the Fire Nation's royal family in ATLA include Zuko, his uncle Iroh, his sister Azula, and his father, Fire Lord Ozai.

The Air Nomads

The Air Nomads, one of the four nations, no longer exist when the events of Avatar: The Last Airbender take place. However, their restoration begins in The Legend of Korra. Known for their pacifism, the Air Nomads were a peaceful clan of airbenders who followed a monastic lifestyle. They were nomadic and had four air temples located in different parts of the world. They relied on air bison for transportation and had a strong spiritual connection. Their culture was greatly influenced by Himalayan cultures, Buddhism, and Hindu practices. Tragically, the Fire Nation virtually eradicated them in their desire for ultimate power and to eliminate the next Avatar within their ranks. Ironically, the very person they attempted to exterminate - Aang himself - survived and returned after 100 years to defeat the Fire Nation's tyranny.