Wondering what truly unfolded during the mysterious years between Attack of the Clones and Revenge of the Sith?
The Star Wars timeline jumps forward three years between Episodes II and III—but those years are packed with galaxy-altering events, dramatic betrayals, and Jedi tragedies that shaped the fall of the Republic.
In this article, we'll break down the Clone Wars gap, highlighting key events, character arcs, and battles that filled this crucial period in the Skywalker saga. If you've only watched the films, here's everything you missed—and why it matters.
The Beginning of the Clone Wars (22 BBY)
- Film: Attack of the Clones
- Event: The Battle of Geonosis marks the first significant conflict of the Clone Wars.
- Significance: Jedi become generals. The Republic deploys its clone army against the Separatists led by Count Dooku.
This marks the official start of the Clone Wars in the Star Wars timeline, setting the stage for years of galaxy-spanning conflict.
Year One: Rising Chaos and Jedi Deployment
-
Key Developments:
- Jedi are spread thin as generals in a war they never trained for.
- Anakin Skywalker and Obi-Wan Kenobi form a closer bond as wartime partners.
- Count Dooku begins grooming General Grievous as a military leader.
- Padmé Amidala remains in the Senate but begins her secret life as Anakin's wife.
This period builds the Clone Wars gap, as corruption in the Senate deepens and loyalty fractures across the galaxy.
Year Two: Expansion of the War (21 BBY)
- TV Canon: Star Wars: The Clone Wars animated series begins.
-
Notable Events:
- Anakin gains a Padawan: Ahsoka Tano.
- Clone Troopers become iconic heroes—Captain Rex, Cody, and Fives rise in the ranks.
- The Jedi begin uncovering hints of a Sith presence behind the war.
This year showcases the war's emotional cost, while introducing new fan-favorite characters who shaped the prequel-era story.
Year Three: Shadows of the Sith (20 BBY)
-
Key Turning Points:
- Darth Maul returns and forms his criminal syndicate, the Shadow Collective.
- Anakin grows increasingly impulsive and disillusioned with the Jedi Order.
- Ahsoka Tano leaves the Jedi after being falsely accused of terrorism—deeply affecting Anakin.
- The Siege of Mandalore occurs—one of the war's most legendary battles.
This is the heart of the Star Wars timeline mystery: Palpatine's manipulations intensify, setting Anakin on a path toward Darth Vader.
Final Months: The Fall of the Republic (19 BBY)
- Film: Revenge of the Sith
- Timeline Convergence:
The Clone Wars gap closes as the galaxy descends into tyranny, and the Jedi fall into legend.
Read More
- The Evolution of the Graflex Lightsaber from Anakin to Rey
- The Star Wars Timeline Explained, Completely & Succinctly
FAQs
What is the Clone Wars gap?
The Clone Wars gap refers to the 3 years between Attack of the Clones (22 BBY) and Revenge of the Sith (19 BBY), filled by the Clone Wars animated series.
Is The Clone Wars series canon in the Star Wars timeline?
Yes, the Star Wars: The Clone Wars series is official canon and bridges Episodes II and III.
How did Anakin change during the Clone Wars?
Anakin evolved from a promising Jedi Knight to a battle-hardened warrior torn by emotion, loss, and distrust in the Jedi Order—ultimately leading to his fall.
Why is Ahsoka Tano important to the Clone Wars gap?
Ahsoka, as Anakin's Padawan, represents his compassion and humanity. Her departure contributes to his eventual alienation and turn to the dark side.
What ended the Clone Wars?
The war ended with Palpatine's execution of Order 66, the annihilation of the Jedi, and his declaration of the Galactic Empire.
Relive the Saga with Nsabers
At Nsabers, we honor every chapter of the Star Wars timeline with sabers crafted for true fans:
🔥 Explore the Collection and wield your piece of galactic history.
Leave a comment
All comments are moderated before being published.
This site is protected by hCaptcha and the hCaptcha Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.