The militarization of the Rebellion in Andor

WARNING: This article contains spoilers from Andor Episode 6.

Jyn Erso’s Rebellion was “built on hope.” It was a hopeful organization under the direct leadership of inspiring figures such as Mon Mothma and Leia Organa. In Andor though we see a completely different rebellion. This one is harder, colder, and full of firebrands such as Saw Guera, and the occasional thief. Andor himself at this point is simply a well-intentioned mercenary, who leaves the Rebellions with his credits after the job is done. Why is this Rebelion so cold and what is fueling the militarization of the rebellion?

Missing their Leaders

Sometimes the most straightforward answer is the best one. At this point in time people such as Bail Organa and Mon Mothma still seem to believe in the Senate. We have seen Mon Mothma trying her best to advocate for the Ghormans before the Empire’s genocide. At this point, though the cell format and internal division of the rebellion that is intended to protect everything have limited the influence of the larger-than-life leaders that we have become accustomed to. Leaders such as Saw Guerra with his hatred of the Empire, and the former stormtroopers such as Tamaryn are the ones we see in control at the moment. These leaders are adept warriors, but they aren’t hopeful or even devoted such as Nemik. All those sins that Cassian lists that he did “for the cause” were for different leaders before the rebellions had the opportunity to take the high road.

Desperation: The Death of Hope

I favor the second option, the fact that this rebellion is desperation. All they know of is a handful of devotees, with a handful of blasters and some moxie. It is easier to have faith and be confident when you are at a base full of soldiers, pilots, and a few squadrons of starfighters. The rebellion may have just stolen 80 million credits, but they still have to find believers in the cause. For now, they remain a desperate handful of people who don’t know each other, and who don’t even know any others exist.

Andor is now streaming exclusively on Disney+. The next episode will premiere Wednesday, October 19th. Be sure to check out all of our coverage of the series, including episode recaps, reviews, and more.