13 May 2024
Blog
Jan
03
Angels of Death: The History of the Dark Angels in Warhammer 40K
Among the iconic Space Marine chapters of Warhammer 40,000, the Dark Angels stand out as enigmatic and brooding warriors with a mysterious past that has left an indelible mark on their history - and their honour. With a bunch of new Dark Angels miniatures and kits on the way soon, this article is your chance to recap the rich lore and history of the sons of the Lion, exploring the secrets that shroud this chapter in darkness.
Origins and Founding
The Dark Angels, officially known as the First Legion, were one of the twenty original Space Marine Legions created by the Emperor of Mankind during the Great Crusade to reunite the scattered colonies of humanity. Led by the enigmatic and charismatic Primarch Lion El'Jonson, the Dark Angels were initially hailed as paragons of loyalty and martial prowess.
The Caliban Heresy
The chapter's glorious beginnings, however, were marred by the Caliban Heresy, an internal conflict that erupted on their homeworld, Caliban. The insidious influence of the Chaos Gods corrupted a significant portion of the Dark Angels' own brethren, leading to a devastating civil war. The primarch, Lion El'Jonson, eventually quelled the rebellion, but the scars of the conflict lingered, forever shaping the chapter's destiny.
The Fallen
The Caliban Heresy left a stain on the Dark Angels that endures to the present day. It is believed that some of the traitorous Dark Angels who sided with the forces of Chaos during the heresy managed to escape, becoming known as the Fallen. Hunted by their loyal brethren, the Dark Angels have dedicated themselves to the relentless pursuit of the Fallen to redeem their chapter's honor and expunge the shame of betrayal.
The Hunt for the Fallen
The pursuit of the Fallen is a central theme in the Dark Angels' narrative. The Inner Circle, a secretive group within the chapter, is entrusted with the knowledge of the Fallen and the responsibility to bring them to justice. The Dark Angels' obsession with their tainted past has led to a reputation of secrecy and mistrust among other Imperial factions, as they go to great lengths to keep their own secrets hidden.
Unfolding Events in the 41st Millennium
As the Warhammer 40,000 storyline progresses into the 41st Millennium, the Dark Angels find themselves at the forefront of many crucial battles. Their involvement in events such as the Horus Heresy, the First and Second Wars for Armageddon, and the Gothic War has further solidified their reputation as stalwart defenders of the Imperium.
The Legacy of the Dark Angels
Despite their secretive nature and the shadows of the past that haunt them, the Dark Angels remain a symbol of steadfast loyalty and relentless determination. The tension between their glorious origins and the stain of the Caliban Heresy adds layers of complexity to their narrative, making them one of the most intriguing chapters in the vast tapestry of Warhammer 40,000 lore.
The Dark Angels, with their mysterious history and unwavering commitment to redemption, continue to be a compelling force in the grim darkness of the Warhammer 40,000 universe. As they march forward, their dark past and the pursuit of the Fallen shape their destiny, creating a saga that captivates fans and adds depth to the intricate narrative of the 41st Millennium. The Angels of Death, ever vigilant, stand ready to face the countless horrors that threaten the Imperium. New Dark Angels kits will be available to pre-order soon here.