One of the core thematic elements of both Star Wars continuities is the conflict between democracy and authoritarianism. Palpatine didn’t conquer the galaxy through brute force. Instead, he gradually twisted the Republic into the authoritarian Empire and convinced its populace to support the coup. Using the Jedi as a scapegoat, he framed the order as the architects behind the Clone Wars (in truth, his machinations as the Sith Lord Darth Sidious), stoking the fires of xenophobia and portraying himself and the Republic’s citizens as victims of a Jedi conspiracy. Long after Palpatine’s apparent death during the Battle of Endor, the cult-like supporters of his ideology kept the Empire’s oppression alive and well long after the Rebellion’s decisive victory.

The heavy focus on politics was one of many aspects of the prequel trilogy that viewers criticized, but it ultimately added context to the original trilogy and nuance to the lore of both continuities. The original trilogy itself kept things simple: the heroes sought to overthrow a fascist state and reinstate democracy. The politics of the sequel trilogy and non-movie material set after the original trilogy dealt with the reestablishment of democracy and the lingering ideology of fascism, which wasn’t helped by the literal resurrection of their leader in both continuities. The Star Wars franchise is renowned for its lore and world-building, and the politics of all eras helped reinforce the immersion.