"Sheev Palpatine's Cunning Strategy: A Lengthy Deception" is an article crafted by Michael Kogge and featured in Star Wars Insider 188. It meticulously chronicles the progression of Sheev Palpatine, also known as Darth Sidious, as he ascends to power throughout the Star Wars galaxy. The piece traces his path, starting from his initial role as an unassuming senator representing Naboo, ultimately leading to his reign over the vast Galactic Empire, where he becomes widely recognized as "The Emperor."
The article starts by providing a recap of the initial context established in the early Star Wars films. At that time, the Emperor was solely known by this designation, and most fans viewed him as the ultimate embodiment of evil within the Star Wars universe. While the name "Palpatine" and his position as a senator were revealed in novelizations, they were largely disregarded by the wider audience.
The narrative then transitions to the prequel trilogy, elucidating how these films vividly portrayed the genesis and development of Palpatine's character. It highlights his mastery of deception, portraying him as a seemingly modest individual who offered insightful advice to Queen Amidala, while secretly orchestrating his own terrifying rise to power. He projects an image of solemnity and sorrow as he witnesses the emergence of a clone army, but ultimately manipulates this clone army as an integral element in the final stage of his scheme to secure his dominion over the Galactic Empire.
The article concludes by emphasizing Palpatine's strategic approach of playing the long game, characterized by patience and a deliberate concealment of his malevolent nature, presenting "an evil so banal it is inconspicuous, even to the man himself." Palpatine's rise to power is celebrated with "thunderous applause" from the Galactic Senate, and as the inhabitants of the galaxy gradually acclimate to Imperial rule, even the name Palpatine fades from memory, supplanted by the title "The Emperor."