The Underreported Jedi Legacy: How Star Wars Expanded the Skywalker Clan’s Role in the Jedi Order

The Hidden Jedi of the Skywalker Clan: Beyond Anakin, Luke, and Rey

In the expansive universe of Star Wars, the most recognized Jedi bearing the “Skywalker”surname are undoubtedly Anakin, Luke, and Rey. Anakin Skywalker is the chronological pioneer of the Skywalker Saga, subsequently followed by Luke Skywalker—the character that cemented the saga in the real world—and finally Rey Skywalker, who concluded the narrative arc after vanquishing their ultimate adversary, Emperor Palpatine.

While Anakin, Luke, and Rey hold the spotlight in the Star Wars franchise, they are not the sole representatives of the Skywalker legacy. The Skywalker lineage is rich with Jedi, both known and lesser-known. It is crucial to shed light on other significant Jedi Skywalkers that many fans might not be as familiar with, enriching the broader narrative of the saga.

10 Ben Solo (Canon)

Ben Solo: A Jedi Before His Fall to Darkness

Ben Solo, the offspring of Leia Organa and Han Solo, debuted in Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens. Initially, he was known as Kylo Ren, the harbinger of darkness akin to Darth Vader in the First Order. His formidable power as a dark side antagonist is rooted in his Jedi training under Luke Skywalker.

As a child, Ben trained diligently as a Jedi, acquiring skills in lightsaber combat and various Force abilities. However, the seduction of the dark side would later alter the course of his destiny.

9 Leia Organa (Canon/Legends)

Leia Organa: From Princess to Jedi Knight

Fans of the galaxy far, far away are well acquainted with Leia Organa, one of the pivotal figures in the original trilogy. After the events of the original series, she ascended beyond her roles as princess, general, and mother to embrace her identity as a Jedi. The canon reveals in Star Wars: Episode IX – The Rise of Skywalker that Leia trained alongside her brother, Luke, to become a Jedi.

In the Legends universe, Star Wars: Dark Empire illustrates her established mastery of the Force, recognized even by Emperor Palpatine. In various narratives, such as the ‘What If?’ series, Leia’s prowess as a Force user is further explored, showcasing her potential as a Sith Apprentice under Darth Vader.

8 Mara Jade (Legends)

Mara Jade: The Trajectory from Sith to Jedi

Mara Jade, who became Luke Skywalker’s wife in the Legends continuity, played a pivotal role in the revival of the Jedi Order. Before their union, she was known as ‘the Emperor’s Hand, ’ a lethal assassin operating under Emperor Palpatine. Her quest to eliminate Luke shifted dramatically when she fell in love with him and thereby commenced her journey towards the light side of the Force.

7 Jaina Solo (Legends)

Jaina Solo: The Prodigy of the New Jedi Order

Jaina Solo, daughter of Leia Organa and Han Solo, became a prominent figure within the New Jedi Order. Trained by her uncle Luke, she displayed exceptional skill and, during her time, played critical roles in significant conflicts, including the defeat of Darth Caedus. Jaina was heralded as the ‘Sword of the Jedi, ’ a testament to her prowess and commitment to the light.

6 Jacen Solo (Legends)

Jacen Solo: The Tragic Fall

Jacen Solo, the eldest son of Leia and Han, exhibited immense potential as a Jedi during his upbringing. Like his sister Jaina, he was trained by Luke Skywalker. Unfortunately, Jacen’s journey diverged when he succumbed to the dark side, transforming into the villainous Darth Caedus. His narrative reflects a cautionary tale of power, choice, and redemption.

5 Anakin Solo (Legends)

Anakin Solo: The Brave Defender

Anakin Solo, the youngest child of Han and Leia, faced the daunting legacy of his namesake, fearing a similar fate as Darth Vader. His journey revealed a character defined by bravery; he became a martyr, sacrificing himself during the conflict against the Yuuzhan Vong, ultimately becoming a beacon of hope and light.

4 Ben Skywalker (Legends)

Ben Skywalker: The Burden of Legacy

Ben Skywalker, son of Luke Skywalker and Mara Jade, faced overwhelming challenges from an early age. His experiences during the Yuuzhan Vong War distanced him from the Force until his cousin Jacen’s dark journey rekindled his connection. Fueled by the desire to honor his mother’s sacrifice, Ben solidified his place in the Jedi Order.

3 Nat Skywalker (Legends)

Nat Skywalker: A Legacy in Hiding

Nat Skywalker, a direct descendent of Luke Skywalker, established himself as a Jedi Master during the Sith-Imperial War, approximately a century after the original trilogy. Despite fighting valiantly, he and his family went into hiding under the alias “Rawk”to evade the dark forces poised against the Jedi.

2 Kol Skywalker (Legends)

Kol Skywalker: The Council’s Defender

Kol Skywalker, the younger brother of Nat, similarly took on the mantle of a Jedi Master and joined the New Jedi Council. His contributions during the Sith-Imperial War were marked by bravery, particularly as he made the ultimate sacrifice to ensure the safety of young Jedi during Darth Krayt’s brutal purge.

1 Cade Skywalker (Legends)

Cade Skywalker: The Reluctant Hero

Cade Skywalker, the son of Kol Skywalker, initially embraced his Jedi heritage before straying into a life of bounty hunting and piracy. After a dark period where he even allied himself with the One Sith, a reunion with his uncle Nat rekindled his commitment to the Jedi cause, prompting him to confront Darth Krayt.

Cade is considered the ‘Last Skywalker, ’ representing the furthest chronological point in the Star Wars lore. However, this character study emphasizes the rich tapestry of the Skywalker family legacy, where each Jedi—beyond Anakin, Luke, and Rey—adds depth and intrigue to the enduring storyline of the galaxy.

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