Recognition of the First Order by the New Republic

The question of whether the New Republic recognized the First Order as a political entity is a complex one, rooted in the political and military landscape of the Star Wars universe. To some extent, the New Republic did acknowledge the existence of the First Order, albeit with certain reservations.

Recognition and Boundaries

On one hand, the New Republic recognized the First Order as a political entity, particularly as a remnant of the Galactic Empire. By the time of the New Republic's existence, the First Order was bound by the Galactic Concordance, a political treaty that enabled the New Republic to avoid direct confrontation.

However, the extent of this recognition was limited. The New Republic seemed to view the First Order as a continuation of the Empire rather than a clearly distinct entity. This perspective influenced their passive approach toward the First Order, as long as they adhered to the terms of the Galactic Concordance.

Timeline and Diplomatic Relations

Despite the recognition, the New Republic had very limited diplomatic relations with the First Order. A significant portion of this timeframe is shrouded in uncertainty, as detailed records of events between the canonical books "Bloodline" and "Episode VII" remain sparse.

"Bloodline," which takes place seven years before the events of "Episode VII," provides a glimpse into the immediate post-Battle of Endor era. However, the relationship between the New Republic and the First Order is not explicitly detailed in this period.

The book "Phasma," while canonical, does offer some insight into the state of affairs in First Order space between "Bloodline" and "Episode VII." Nonetheless, the New Republic’s relationship with the First Order is notably absent from these accounts.

Events and Hostility

By 23 years after the Battle of Endor, the New Republic had largely dismantled the remnants of the Empire through diplomatic means. Former Imperial worlds, including Coruscant, had become members of the New Republic Senate. However, the New Republic had no diplomatic relations with the First Order and had not even discovered them.

The relationship between the New Republic and the First Order became hostile following a series of events. In the book "Before the Awakening," the New Republic ordered Poe Dameron and his pilots to avoid engaging the First Order. This directive could be seen as a calculated attempt to exert influence over the burgeoning entity while avoiding direct conflict.

Despite the orders, the First Order initiated attacks on New Republic ships. When the New Republic forces were forced to retaliate, Poe Dameron left the New Republic's Starfleet and joined the Resistance, highlighting the increasing tension and the shift in the balance of power.

Conclusion

The recognition of the First Order by the New Republic was a nuanced process, influenced by both the treaty obligations and the evolving political landscape. While the First Order was formally recognized, the relationship remainedstrained and largely diplomatic in nature, driven by the terms of the Galactic Concordance until events forced a more active stance.

Keywords

Galactic Concordance New Republic First Order

Tags: Star Wars, Politics in Star Wars, Galactic Concordance, New Republic vs. First Order