<b>At last—an analysis of the historical patterns that influenced the creation and storyline of the <i>Star War</i>s saga</b><p><i>Star Wars</i> took place long ago in a galaxy far, far away, but its epic stories are based on our own history. From Ancient Egypt and the Roman Empire to the French Revolution and the Vietnam War, <i>Star Wars and History</i> explores the major historical turning points, heroes, and villains in human history and their impact on the creation of the <i>Star Wars</i> saga. <i>Star Wars and History</i> shows how the atomic and hydrogen bombs led to the Death Star; how Princess Leia's leadership in the Rebel Alliance resembled the daring work of intrepid women in the French Resistance during World War II and the Mexican Revolution; historical parallels between the Jedi Code and Bushido as well as those linking the Jedi culture with that of the Templar Knights and other warrior monks; and all of the history that underlies the <i>Star Wars</i> galaxy. Read how our own civilization's civil wars, slavery, international corporation states, and teenage queens were transformed into the epic <i>Star Wars</i> history and discover how Tatooine reflects the lawless frontiers of the past and Coruscant our own history of glittering and greedy capitals.</p><ul><li>The first book devoted to analyzing the actual historical events in our past that influenced the creation of the space fantasy, <i>Star Wars</i></li><li>Features 11 essays by a wise "council" of history scholars, written in close collaboration with George Lucas and Lucasfilm</li><li>Gives new insights into central <i>Star Wars</i> characters and historical figures who helped inspire them (including Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia, Han Solo, Darth Vader, Obi-Wan Kenobi, Queen Amidala, Yoda, Jabba the Hutt, Lando Calrissian, Emperor Palpatine, and others)</li><li>Includes both stunning photos from the Lucasfilm Image Archives and historical photos that demonstrate the parallels between both worlds </li></ul><p>Filled with fascinating historical comparisons and background that will take your experience of the Star Wars saga to a new level, <i>Star Wars and History</i> is an essential companion for every <i>Star Wars</i> fan.</p>