DarkStar Star Wars Character Database: Emperor Palpatine 10 May 2023  |  Captain Rex

Emperor Palpatine - The Dark Lord of the Sith

Emperor Palpatine, also known as Darth Sidious, was the mastermind behind the rise of the Galactic Empire and the fall of the Galactic Republic. As one of the most powerful Sith Lords in the history of the Star Wars galaxy, he was responsible for the near-eradication of the Jedi Order and the decades-long reign of the Empire. His immense power in the dark side of the Force, coupled with his cunning and manipulative nature, allowed him to shape the course of galactic history from the shadows.

Character Description

Born on the planet Naboo, Sheev Palpatine was discovered by the Sith Lord Darth Plagueis, who took him under his wing and trained him in the ways of the dark side. As Darth Sidious, he orchestrated the rise of the Separatist movement and manipulated the political landscape of the Republic, eventually becoming its Supreme Chancellor. During the Clone Wars, he played both sides, secretly controlling the Separatist leaders as well as the Republic's forces.

Upon the conclusion of the Clone Wars, Palpatine executed Order 66, a command that resulted in the extermination of most of the Jedi. He then declared himself Emperor and transformed the Republic into the Galactic Empire. For years, he ruled unopposed, with his apprentice, Darth Vader, enforcing his will. However, his reign ultimately came to an end at the hands of Vader, who sacrificed himself to save his son, Luke Skywalker, during the Battle of Endor.

Despite his apparent death, Palpatine's influence continued to be felt throughout the galaxy. He had prepared for his demise with a contingency plan known as Operation: Cinder, which sought to destroy the Empire in the event of his death. Furthermore, it was later revealed that he had been secretly manipulating events from the shadows, eventually returning in a cloned body to challenge the galaxy once more during the events of Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker.

Appearances in Star Wars Media

• Film: Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace
• Film: Star Wars: Episode II - Attack of the Clones
• Film: Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith
• Film: Star Wars: Episode V - The Empire Strikes Back (as hologram)
• Film: Star Wars: Episode VI - Return of the Jedi
• Film: Star Wars: Episode IX - The Rise of Skywalker
• TV Series: Star Wars: The Clone Wars
• TV Series: Star Wars Rebels (as hologram)
• Comic: Star Wars: Darth Vader
• Comic: Star Wars: Darth Maul
• Various novels, comics, and games in Star Wars Legends