If you doubt my argument, look no further than the reaction of most senators to Emperor Palpatine dismantling the Old Republic and establishing the Empire. Revenge of the SithAs Padme wryly points out, “democracy… died with a bang,” as most senators were quite content to continue supporting Palpatine as long as they held office, but once Palpatine fired everyone, the politicians who had enthusiastically supported him only 18 years earlier transformed into desperate citizens willing to fund terrorists to stop him.
This is not to downplay the heroism of characters like Luke Skywalker and Princess Leia… they were the swords (laser swords, if you will) of the Rebellion and ultimately defeated Emperor Palpatine. But the Rebellion would have had no weapons or significant resources without the Senators. The Senators would have been useless to anyone if they hadn’t been fired. Congratulations, Palpatine… not only did you destroy the Empire, but you played yourself a master manipulator. worst Possible ways.
