The Hidden Value of the Clone Wars Movie Star Wars
Though not originally well-received, the 2008 Star Wars: The Clone Wars film has startling relevance given the development of the Galactic Empire. Although Anakin Skywalker's rescue of Jabba the Hutt's son takes front stage in the movie, a seemingly small element - Palpatine's acquisition of Hutt trade channels – sets the stage for the Empire's vast might.
Strategic Acquisition by Palpatine of Hutt Trade Routes
Leader of the Confederacy of Independent Systems Count Dooku tries in the movie to protect the Separatists' trade routes from the Hutts. Ever the manipulator, palpatine inspires the Jedi to act, therefore guaranteeing the paths for the Republic. Though apparently a tactical triumph for the Republic, this action turns out to be a key component of Palpatine's overall plan.
Moving soldiers and supplies requires these trade routes, which provide the Republic access to the Outer Rim, therefore avoiding Separatist blockades. But palpatine understands their larger strategic worth. Controlling the Hutts' trade channels helps him to seize control of a large network linking the Core Worlds to the Outer Rim, therefore enabling the Empire to grow.
Hutt Trade Routes: Gateway to Outer Rim Domination for the Empire
The Middle and Outer Rims' border is formed in great part by the Hutts' trading paths. Their east of the Core Worlds location, including Coruscant, makes travel to the Outer Rim simple, allowing the Empire to swiftly seize and control planets like Ryloth and Lotaly. Unavailable to the Republic, this access becomes a crucial instrument in Palpatine's scheme of consolidation of power.
The Empire gains much from its access to the border even if it does not have total control of the Outer Rim. This access confirms Palpatine's authority over the galaxy by enabling him to apply his will on worlds that stayed sovereign during the Clone Wars.
The Clone Wars: A Methodically Planned Journey to the Empire
A major factor in the Empire's ascent was the cruel Clone Wars, driven by Palpatine's manipulation. Among the people living in the galaxy, the war—which is rife with death and devastation—causes weariness and hopelessness. Having controlled both sides of the war, palpatine presents himself as the rescuer, guaranteeing stability and order following it. This opens the path for the Empire's founding together with his dominance over the commerce routes of the Hutts.
Palpatine aims not only for battle victory but also for a condition when the galaxy yearns for an end to the struggle, regardless of the expenses. Thus, the Clone Wars provide a forum for Palpatine to establish himself as the required, if autocratic, fix for the planetary unrest. This, together with his authority over the Outer Rim, helps him to unite strength so securing the Empire's rule.
Review of the Clone Wars Movie Star Wars
Originally seen as a mere stepping stone in the series, The Clone Wars movie turns out to be a turning point in the narrative of the Empire's ascent. A seemingly little matter, Palpatine's acquisition of the Hutt trade channels becomes a vital weapon in his strategy for galactic dominance. The movie emphasizes how the Clone Wars were a well planned performance meant to open the path for a new, totalitarian government, not only a fight.
