Human - Kingdom of Arathor
Origins and the Rise of the Kingdoms
Humans in Warcraft trace their origins back to the ancient human tribes who were unified by the Arathi to form the kingdom of Arathor. This early human civilization was crucial in defeating the Amani trolls, which marked the beginning of human ascendancy in Azeroth. Over time, the empire of Arathor fragmented into seven distinct kingdoms: Lordaeron, Stormwind, Gilneas, Dalaran, Alterac, Kul Tiras, and Stromgarde, each developing its unique culture and specialties.
The First and Second Wars (Warcraft: Orcs & Humans, Warcraft II)
Humans first faced the orcish Horde during the First War, when the orcish clans invaded Azeroth through the Dark Portal. The kingdom of Stormwind was devastated, leading to the events of the Second War, where the human kingdoms united under the Alliance of Lordaeron to repel the orc invaders. The humans, led by heroes like Anduin Lothar, played a vital role in these conflicts, ultimately driving the orcs back and capturing many within internment camps.
The Third War and the Fall of Lordaeron (Warcraft III)
The Third War brought devastation as the undead Scourge, led by the fallen prince Arthas Menethil, destroyed the kingdom of Lordaeron from within. Arthas’s betrayal and subsequent ascension as the Lich King marked a dark period for humanity, with many humans turned into undead minions. The remnants of human civilization regrouped in Theramore and Stormwind, rebuilding their societies amidst the chaos.
World of Warcraft and The Burning Crusade
In "World of Warcraft," humans continued to rebuild, with Stormwind emerging as a powerful stronghold. Human adventurers were instrumental in confronting threats across Azeroth, including the resurgence of the Dark Portal in "The Burning Crusade," which led them to the shattered world of Outland to fight against the demonic Burning Legion.
Wrath of the Lich King
"Wrath of the Lich King" saw humans confronting Arthas directly in Northrend. Under the leadership of King Varian Wrynn, humans were crucial in the assault on Icecrown Citadel, seeking vengeance against the Lich King for the devastation wrought upon their lands and people.
Cataclysm to Legion
The "Cataclysm" expansion highlighted human resilience as they faced not only the destruction unleashed by Deathwing but also internal conflicts and the war with the Horde reigniting. The "Mists of Pandaria" expansion further explored human diplomacy and military might, and "Warlords of Draenor" featured humans fighting against the orcish Iron Horde on Draenor. The "Legion" expansion again saw humans at the forefront, battling the renewed invasion of the Burning Legion, culminating in the great sacrifice of Varian Wrynn.
Battle for Azeroth and Shadowlands
"Battle for Azeroth" focused on the human kingdom of Kul Tiras, exploring the maritime nation's internal politics and its eventual rejoining with the Alliance. Humans faced not only external enemies but also treachery within, embodying the expansion's themes of unity and betrayal. The "Shadowlands" expansion brought humans into the realms of the afterlife, where they confronted mysteries of death and the cosmos, continuing to play a critical role in the cosmic balance of power.
Conclusion
Throughout each chapter of World of Warcraft, humans have demonstrated their complexity as a race capable of great heroism, profound tragedy, and everything in between. Their adaptability and tenacity make them one of Azeroth’s most influential races, shaping the game's history and its future. As World of Warcraft continues to evolve, the role of humans is sure to expand, bringing new stories, heroes, and adventures to the forefront of the Warcraft saga.
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