The Tragic Story of Star Wars: Why Anakin Skywalker and Obi-Wan Kenobi Are Key Players

The Star Wars saga is marked by numerous tragic narratives, particularly highlighting the figures of Anakin Skywalker and Obi-Wan Kenobi. Yet, among the myriad of heart-wrenching tales, the most poignant belongs to those who accompanied these Jedi on their journey. The prequel trilogy, which chronicles the downfall of a celebrated hero who succumbs to the dark side, encapsulates the profound tragedy that entrapped many characters during this chaotic period in the galaxy.

Within this turmoil, one specific group found themselves ensnared between the Galactic Republic and the Galactic Empire. These characters were intentionally designed to endure the devastation resulting from the Republic’s demise, while ironically contributing to its downfall. Their existence was a tragic consequence of a system that would ultimately reject them, as they were thrust into one of the most catastrophic purges in the galaxy’s history. These were the clone troopers, the men who fought under the command of Anakin and Obi-Wan during the Clone Wars.

The Clones: The Most Tragic Story in Star Wars

Forced to Fight & Kill Against Their Will

The clones’ tale is undeniably the most tragic story woven into the Star Wars narrative. These individuals were engineered for warfare, compelled to engage in battles that were never theirs to fight, and executed their duties on behalf of the Republic with no say in the matter. Throughout the conflict, while most Jedi generals showed camaraderie and respect for the clones’ individuality, this connection only deepened the sorrow experienced during the infamous Order 66.

Unbeknownst to the clones, their lack of autonomy was exacerbated by hidden inhibitor chips implanted in their brains. These chips were activated during Order 66, forcing the clones to betray and murder their Jedi commanders. After their betrayal, they were relegated to serve the Empire, which quickly began phasing them out in favor of stormtroopers. The clones, once the pride of the Republic, were left abandoned and adrift in a new regime they had never signed up to join.

Anakin & Obi-Wan’s Role in Their Tragedy

They Led These Men Into Battles

Unfortunately, Anakin and Obi-Wan, who served as Jedi generals during the Clone Wars, inadvertently contributed to the clones’ tragedy. Commanding units such as the 501st Legion and the 212th Attack Battalion, they led their troops into numerous battles. Although both Jedi were often sympathetic to their men’s plight, they also enforced discipline, sometimes leading clones to seek ways to escape their grim destinies.

Neither Jedi intended to exacerbate the suffering of their troops, yet their leadership placed them squarely in the middle of the tragedy that unfolded. Anakin and Obi-Wan formed strong bonds with their clones and aimed to minimize casualties, especially compared to other commanders like the malevolent Pong Krell, who coldly sacrificed clones for his own dark ends.

Hopes for a Happy Ending for the Clones

More Than Just Rex, Wolffe, and Clone Force 99

Amidst the overwhelming tragedy, some clones emerged with narratives that afford a glimmer of hope. Notably, Rex, Wolffe, and Gregor survived into the Age of Rebellion; Rex even witnessed the pivotal Battle of Endor. Recently, we discovered that Clone Force 99, excluding Tech and Echo, enjoyed a peaceful life on the island of Pabu after rescuing Omega and fellow clones from Mount Tantiss. Omega later joined the Rebel Alliance, embodying the enduring spirit of hope.

Currently, these survivors represent the closest thing to happy endings for the clones, but one hopes their story is not singular. Many clone prisoners from Tantiss were likely relocated to the planet Pantora, enjoying a peaceful existence under the protective eye of Senator Riyo Chuchi, a known advocate for clone rights. Despite knowing their rebellion efforts may not have succeeded completely, we dare to believe they may have liberated even more of their kin in the repeated struggles for their dignity.

Source & Images