Coruscant

Overview

At the heart of the Galactic Republic lies Coruscant, a planet in the Core Worlds that serves as the main hub for governance, diplomacy, economics, and administrative coordination. For years, it has been the center of Republic institutions, holding the title of the most politically significant world in the galaxy.

Coruscant is an ecumenopolis, meaning it is one giant city. There are no forests, deserts, or open plains. Instead, there is an abundant amount of buildings, transit systems, and infrastructure. The city streets are stacked in layers that go thousands of meters below the surface. From space, the planet looks anything but natural, a colossal living machine that never sleeps or slows down.

Senator Varkis Drayce has been the voice of Coruscant in the Galactic Senate since 961 RSY. With a rich political legacy and a decorated career in the Grand Republic Navy, Drayce quickly made a name for himself as a formidable presence in the Senate. His vision for a stronger, more centralized, and militarized Republic has not only shaped Coruscant's political identity, but has also sparked both passionate support and fierce opposition.

Society and Culture

The difference between the upper and lower levels of Coruscant isn't just geographical, it shapes every facet of life for the planet's inhabitants. 

In the upper levels, you'll find the noble houses, government officials, military leaders, and the Republic's business elite. The Drayce family is the pinnacle of the upper-level lifestyle: they come from old money, boast deep-rooted connections, and have a long-standing military and political legacies. Life here is all about formality and competition, with the Senate and its associated institutions taking the center stage in social interactions. 

On the other side, the lower levels paint a different picture. Here, poverty, overcrowding, and the lack of basic resources are the norm for many of Coruscant's residents. A lot of people in these lower levels work in factories or sell goods in informal markets, struggling every day just to meet their basic needs, all while the immense wealth of the upper levels looms above them. Crime is abundant, fueled by desperation and the absence of legitimate job opportunities. Theft, smuggling, robbery, and illegal trade are everyday occurrences. The 401st Legion is present in both levels, but its effectiveness in the lower levels is often questioned and debated by the public.

Government

Coruscant stands as the political heart of the Galactic Republic, operating under a constitutional system. At the top is the Supreme Chancellor, who acts as the Head of State, overseeing the governance of the Republic and serving as the executive authority for both the planet and the Republic itself. The Galactic Senate, made up of representatives from various member systems throughout the galaxy, serves as the main legislative body. 

After the shocking assassination of Chancellor Volken during a public speech, Mas Amedda stepped up and took the oath of office as the new Supreme Chancellor. Amedda's time in office began under challenging circumstances, marked by his efforts to stabilize the Republic's governance in the face of growing external threats and increasing internal strife. He was granted emergency powers to operate beyond the usual limits, all in the name of safeguarding the Republic and its citizens. Those powers are still in effect today. 

In the aftermath of Volken's death, Senator Varkis Drayce briefly took on the role of Vice Chancellor before deciding to step down and return to his duties as a Senator. He explained that his choice to resign was driven by a desire to connect more closely with the needs of Coruscant's citizens.

Military Significance

Coruscant is one of the most strategically vital planets in the Core Worlds. Its significance goes beyond just military might, it also holds considerable political influence, has impressive industrial capabilities, and serves as the Republic's main command center. The military operations and intelligence networks that oversee fleets and ensure security throughout the galaxy are all routed through the institutions present at Coruscant. 

This planet is a powerhouse when it comes to producing starships, capital ships, vehicles, and ammunition. These manufacturing facilities are essential for both the defensive and offensive operations of the Republic Military, making Coruscant a key logistics hub that any serious enemy against the Republic must consider. Additionally, the food production and distribution systems based on Coruscant cater to both the civilian population and the deployed forces across various sectors. 

The 401st Legion plays a crucial role in upholding law and order across the planet's two levels and ensures the safety of the Republic's government and its institutions.

Notable Events

Coruscant has been at the heart of nearly every significant political event in the Republic's recent history.

A formal meeting between delegates from the Confederacy of Independent Systems (CIS) and Republic senators led to the Confederacy's official exit from the Republic, a pivotal moment that sparked the ongoing conflict between the two factions.

The shocking assassination of Chancellor Volken during a public address sent shockwaves across the planet and sped up a political shift that altered the Republic's leadership. Mas Amedda took over from Volken and swiftly sought to strengthen his grip on power through emergency measures. Varkis Drayce briefly stepped up as Vice Chancellor before making his way back to the Senate. 

Amid this turmoil, the Senate's capital building on Coruscant faced multiple bombings. These attacks inflicted significant damage to parts of the building, necessitating extensive repairs, and left behind debris that still litters sections of the complex in 981 RSY.

Notable Figures

Chancellor Volken

Before his assassination, he held the position of Supreme Chancellor. While there isn't a lot of detailed information available about his time in office, he was recognized for his efforts to engage everyday citizens of Coruscant in the political landscape of the Republic.

Senator Varkis Drayce

Drayce is a key representative of Coruscant in the Galactic Senate, known for being both a prominent and divisive figure. As a decorated former admiral and the heir to one of Coruscant's oldest noble families, he carries a vision of a stronger, more militarized Republic. His influence is felt among the Senate's conservative faction, and he even had a stint as Vice Chancellor before returning to his role as Senator.

Supreme Chancellor Mas Amedda

After the assassination of Chancellor Volken, the new leader has taken charge of the Republic, wielding emergency powers. His main goal is to stabilize the Republic's institutions while tackling the ongoing conflict with the Confederancy of Independent Systems and addressing rising internal tensions. Throughout his time in office, he's implemented stricter security measures across Coruscant, including enhanced fortifications around the capital building.