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Wat Tambor, a fictional character in the Star Wars universe, is a male Skakoan from the planet Skako who served as the Foreman of the Techno Union, one of the major factions in The Clone Wars. The Techno Union was an association of technology and manufacturing corporations that played a significant role in the rise of the Separatist movement in opposition to the Galactic Republic. Created by George Lucas, Wat Tambor first made his appearance in the 2002 film 'Star Wars: Episode II - Attack of the Clones'.
The design of Wat Tambor is heavily influenced by his alien species - the Skakoans. Skakoans are known for their unique physical appearance, characterized by their pressure suits designed to maintain a high-pressure environment around them, necessary for their survival. Tambor's costume is a visually striking combination of prosthetics and mechanical components, giving him a distinct steampunk vibe. In live-action appearances, Wat Tambor is portrayed by actor Christopher Truswell, with voice acting provided by Matthew Wood in the animated series 'Star Wars: The Clone Wars' (2008-2020).
As the Foreman of the Techno Union, Wat Tambor played a crucial role in the Clone Wars. He committed the vast resources and production capabilities of the Techno Union to the cause of Count Dooku's Confederacy of Independent Systems (CIS), which opposed the Galactic Republic. Wat Tambor specialized in developing advanced weaponry and machinery for the Separatist movement, further fueling the war and prolonging its destructive consequences.
Wat Tambor's involvement in the Clone Wars led to his participation in several notable conflicts and events. These include the Battle of Nelvaan, where he oversaw a Techno Union research laboratory that experimented on native Nelvaanians to create mutated warriors. Tambor was also central to the plot of an episode in Disney+'s animated series 'Star Wars: The Clone Wars', where he seized control of the planet Ryloth - enslaving its people and depleting its resources. In these storylines, Wat Tambor is depicted as power-hungry, ruthless, and cruel, displaying a lack of empathy for those he exploits in his quest for profits and technology.
Wat Tambor's career as a war profiteer came to an end at the hands of the Republic near the conclusion of the Clone Wars. Following the liberation of Ryloth, Tambor was taken into Republic custody and eventually appeared at the trial of a fellow Separatist by the title of Poggle the Lesser. With the fall of the Separatist movement and the rise of the Galactic Empire, the Techno Union disbanded.
While Wat Tambor's character initially received limited screen time, his appearances in the animated series 'Star Wars: The Clone Wars' expanded upon his role in and contributions to the Star Wars universe. The unique, intricate design of his pressure suit and his pivotal position within the Techno Union have made him a fascinating and enigmatic character, earning him a place among memorable Star Wars villains. Though he may not be as iconic as Darth Vader or Emperor Palpatine, Wat Tambor's role in the Clone Wars showcases the complexities and intricacies of the Star Wars universe's political landscape.
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