Did Jar Jar Binks Ever Kill Someone?

Often shrouded in controversy and beloved by some for his clumsy and often unintentionally comical antics, Jar Jar Binks' character from the Star Wars prequel trilogy raises fascinating questions about his role and impact within the grand narrative of the Galactic Civil War. This article delves into the arguments surrounding whether or not Jar Jar could be considered as having killed anyone, drawing from both canonical sources and the interpretive lens of fans.

Indirect Contributions to the Galactic Empire

It could be argued that Jar Jar Binks indirectly helped create the Empire which went on to kill millions. In the Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace, Jar Jar was coerced into granting Supreme Chancellor Palpatine the emergency powers he needed to establish the Galactic Empire. Whether this was done intentionally or due to Jar Jar's lack of understanding is a matter of interpretation. By giving all emergency power over to Palpatine, Jar Jar inadvertently contributed to the formation of a regime that would eventually lead to the death of countless beings across the galaxy.

My stance is that Jar Jar was well-aware of the consequences of his actions and was, in a sense, part of the plan from the beginning. This belief is rooted in both the textual evidence provided in the Star Wars canon and the behavior of Jar Jar throughout the film.

The Nature of Killing in the Gaalctic Fringe Federation of Authority (GFFA)

Killing "someone" in the GFFA (Galactic Fringe Federation of Authority) is a highly open-ended concept. While we know that Jar Jar took out battle droids during the Trade Federation's conflict with the Galactic Republic, there are no records of him injuring or directly killing any organic or sentient beings. Outside of squashing non-sentient bugs, such as an ant, there is no significant evidence to suggest that Jar Jar has ever caused the death of a sentient being.

Some might argue that Jar Jar's clumsy actions could have led to accidental deaths, especially in the midst of the Clone Wars. However, this would typically require a series of complex and unlikely events, making it a less than likely scenario. It is important to note that Jar Jar's character is not inherently violent, and his actions are generally more focused on accidental mishaps rather than deliberate harm.

The Impact of the Prequels on Fans

The portrayal of Jar Jar Binks in the Star Wars prequels deeply affected fans, both positive and negative. For many, Jar Jar's antics were a source of joy and laughter, especially in the younger fanbase. However, the character also sparked a significant amount of criticism and even led to the diminishment of Star Wars fandom for some. The controversy surrounding Jar Jar's character contributed to a period of Star Wars fandom where the films were no longer as universally loved as they once were.

Only my inner twelve-year-old self, who had fallen in love with the Star Wars saga since its inception in 1977, remains intact. This period was a significant part of my childhood, and its loss is profound. If there is an afterlife, I fervently hope that George Lucas is sent to the seventh pit, with all the clips of Jar Jar playing in an endless loop for eternity.

Conclusion

While there is no direct evidence to suggest that Jar Jar Binks has ever killed a sentient being, his actions and the larger narrative surrounding the establishment of the Galactic Empire are crucial to understanding his impact on the Star Wars universe. Whether or not Jar Jar was complicit in the formation of the Empire, his presence in the saga has left a lasting mark on the fandom and psyche of Star Wars enthusiasts.

As we continue to explore the complexities of the Star Wars universe, the character of Jar Jar Binks remains a point of fascination and debate. Whether you love or hate Jar Jar, his place in the saga will always hold a special place in the hearts of many fans.