Klingon

:This page is about the race. For the language, see Klingon language.

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Klingons (tlhIngan in the Klingon language) are a race of humanoids in the fictional Star Trek universe. They were the main antagonists in ' (TOS) and later became the uneasy allies of the United Federation of Planets. They were introduced in the episode Errand of Mercy. Klingons were created by Gene Coon, and named for Lieutenant Wilbur Clingan, who served with Gene Roddenberry in the Los Angeles Police Department.

Related Topics:
Klingon language - Humanoid - Star Trek - United Federation of Planets - Errand of Mercy - Gene Coon - Gene Roddenberry - Los Angeles

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In the original series the conflict between the Federation and Klingon Empire was modelled on the Cold War between the Western countries and the Soviet Union. TOS Klingons were not given many cultural traits, either original or Soviet-like, beyond a generic need for domination and tyranny. However, they were typically portrayed with a darkish skin and facial hair suggestive of Asian peoples.

Related Topics:
Cold War - Soviet Union - Asian

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With the advent of and subsequent series the Klingons became an ally, and the portrayal of their culture was revised to resemble that of the Japanese Samurai (or, rather, Western imaginations of them). Klingon starship crews have also been compared to motorcycle gangs. Their cultures are centered on honour and combat. Their societies are formally governed by an emperor who has little actual power, most of which resides in highest aristocracy. They are both grouped into clans that frequently fight each other.

Related Topics:
Japanese - Samurai

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