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Reworked the history section again. Some historic info is part of other pages or doesn't really fit here. Added more and better images to a number of places. Also some consistency work.
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CMDR RileySV (talk | contribs) (Reworked the history section again. Some historic info is part of other pages or doesn't really fit here. Added more and better images to a number of places. Also some consistency work.) |
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Humanity was one of many species indexed by the [[Librarian]] and preserved during the [[Conservation Measure]]. Viewing humanity as special, the Librarian imposed a ''[[geas]]'' upon the species, which has been said to have greatly affected their development; in particular preparing humans for their role as [[Reclaimer|successors]] to the Forerunners as stewards of the galaxy.<ref>''Halo: Primordium'', p. 375</ref> Although the bulk of the indexed human population - as well as many of the formerly diverse human species - were lost when the [[Ur-Didact]] used the [[Composer]] on the inhabitants of [[Omega Halo]], the Librarian and her successor, [[Chant-to-Green]], managed to save enough specimens to successfully revitalize ''Homo sapiens'' and several other species.<ref name="silentium"/> Following the firing of the [[Halo Array]], the surviving humans were [[reintroduction|returned]] to Earth,<ref name="rebirth"/> being the first species the Forerunners reintroduced.<ref>''[[Halo: Fractures]]'', "[[Promises to Keep]]", p. 84-85</ref> | Humanity was one of many species indexed by the [[Librarian]] and preserved during the [[Conservation Measure]]. Viewing humanity as special, the Librarian imposed a ''[[geas]]'' upon the species, which has been said to have greatly affected their development; in particular preparing humans for their role as [[Reclaimer|successors]] to the Forerunners as stewards of the galaxy.<ref>''Halo: Primordium'', p. 375</ref> Although the bulk of the indexed human population - as well as many of the formerly diverse human species - were lost when the [[Ur-Didact]] used the [[Composer]] on the inhabitants of [[Omega Halo]], the Librarian and her successor, [[Chant-to-Green]], managed to save enough specimens to successfully revitalize ''Homo sapiens'' and several other species.<ref name="silentium"/> Following the firing of the [[Halo Array]], the surviving humans were [[reintroduction|returned]] to Earth,<ref name="rebirth"/> being the first species the Forerunners reintroduced.<ref>''[[Halo: Fractures]]'', "[[Promises to Keep]]", p. 84-85</ref> | ||
=== | ===Early post-Great Purification recovery=== | ||
Circa [[97,445 BCE]], humans were returned to Earth and watched as the [[Portal at Voi]] was buried. [[N'chala]], one of the ancient humans, left an [[Out-of-place handprint]].<ref>''[[Halo 3: The Cradle of Life]]''</ref> | [[File:HellenicSpartans Origins2.png|thumb|200px|right|Early post-Great Purification human warriors.]] | ||
Circa [[97,445 BCE]], humans were returned to Earth and watched as the [[Portal at Voi]] was buried. [[N'chala]], one of the ancient humans, left an [[Out-of-place handprint]].<ref>''[[Halo 3: The Cradle of Life]]''</ref> Societies began developing from then on. One of the earliest known societies founded was around the 5th Millennium BCE, when [[Egypt]] was formed.<ref>''[[Halo Encyclopedia]]'', p. 296 (2011)</ref> | |||
In this early recovery, these societies began fighting each other; the histories and tales of which would be passed down hundreds if not thousands of years. Examples include 300 soldiers from [[Wikipedia:Sparta|Sparta]] [[Battle of Thermopylae|defended]] [[Wikipedia:Greece|Greece]] at [[Wikipedia:Thermopylae|Thermopylae]] in [[480 BCE]]<ref>''Dr. Halsey's personal journal'', June 19, 2513</ref> and [[Wikipedia:Marcus Agrippa|Marcus Agrippa]] saving [[Rome]] at the [[Wikipedia:Battle of Actium|Battle of Actium]].<ref name="hsschapter4"/> | |||
Another specific example is during the [[Wikipedia:Second Punic War|Second Punic War]] at the [[Wikipedia:Battle of Cannae|Battle of Cannae]]. In this battle, the [[Rome|Roman Republic]] fought [[Wikipedia:Hannibal|Hannibal]]. Hannibal employed the pincer maneuver by ordering a tactical retreat of his forces and using horse riders to flank the Romans.<ref>''[[Halo 4: Forward Unto Dawn]]'', Part 2</ref> | |||
Other battles include the [[Wikipedia:Battle of Hastings|Battle of Hastings]] in 1066 and the [[Wikipedia:Battle of Agincourt|Battle of Agincourt]] in 1415.<ref>''[[Dr. Halsey's personal journal]]''</ref> In the 1400s, the [[Wikipedia:Hundred Years War|Hundred Years War]] took place.<ref name="ilbenigma">''[[I love bees]]'', [[Axon Clips]], [[Axon Clips Chapter 4|Chapter 4]] - Herzog: "Enigma"</ref> In 1597, Admiral [[Wikipedia:Yi Sun-sin|Yi Sun-sin]] defeated a Japanese fleet of 133 vessels with only 13 ships of his own at [[Wikipedia:Myeongnyang Strait|Myeongnyang Strait]].<ref name="hsschapter4"/> | |||
On [[1456|August 24, 1456]], the [[Wikipedia:Gutenberg Bible|Gutenberg Bible]] is printed.<ref name="ILBBAugust">[http://ilovebees.blogspot.co.uk/2004/07/august-24.html ''blogspot'', ilovebees, August 24]</ref> | |||
====Later recovery==== | |||
[[Halo: | In the 18th-century, humanity developed the conical bullet<ref>''[[Halo: Reach]]'', campaign level, [[The Package]]</ref><ref group="note" name="conicalbullet">While Dr. Halsey mentions that the conical bullet was developed in the 18th-century, [[Wikipedia:Bullet#Pointed bullets|actual conical bullets]] saw their development circa the 1830s. The statement was likely intended to mean the 1800s, but for the sake of consistency the article will use the 18th-century designation.</ref> and discovered the [[Wikipedia:Piezoelectric effect|piezoelectric effect]].<ref>''[[Dr. Halsey's personal journal]]'', July 30, 2511</ref> | ||
Over the course of the 18th and 19th-centuries, the colonies of [[Britain]] diverged socially and economically resulting in a schism. In one case, a war.<ref>'' | |||
[[Halo: Evolutions - Essential Tales of the Halo Universe]]'', [[The Impossible Life and the Possible Death of Preston J. Cole]], p. 256-258 (2010 edition, Vol. I)</ref> During the [[Wikipedia:War of 1812|War of 1812]], [[Wikipedia:Oliver Hazard Perry|Oliver Hazard Perry]] won control of [[Great Lakes|Lake Erie]].<ref name="hsschapter4">''[[Halo: Silent Storm]]'', Chapter 4</ref> The "first" [[American Civil War]] took place<ref name="tilatpdopjc">''Halo: Evolutions'', [[The Impossible Life and the Possible Death of Preston J. Cole]]</ref> and was the first time a team of photographers took images of war.<ref name="jakecouragexbox">''Xbox.com'': Jake Courage (defunct, [https://archives.halopedia.org/halo3/jakecourage/ Archived])</ref> | |||
As well in the early 1900s, the [[Wikipedia:Ottoman Empire|Ottoman Empire]] had uniformed field soldiers; the look and accent of which was emulated by the AI [[Turkish]].<ref>''[[Halo: Renegades]]'', Chapter 3</ref> [[World War I]] saw the first uses of flamethrowers.<ref name="halowarsbarracks"/> In 1918, during [[Wikipedia:Operation Michael|Operation Michael]], [[Wikipedia:Oskar von Hutier|Oskar von Hutier]] used shock penetration strategy.<ref name="hsschapter4"/> | |||
[[World War II]] came to a close with the first usage of human [[Nuclear weapon]]s at [[Japan|Nagasaki and Hiroshima]].<ref name="encyctimeline">''[[Halo Encyclopedia: The Definitive Guide to the Halo Universe]]'', Timeline, p. 31</ref> | [[World War II]] came to a close with the first usage of human [[Nuclear weapon]]s at [[Japan|Nagasaki and Hiroshima]].<ref name="encyctimeline">''[[Halo Encyclopedia: The Definitive Guide to the Halo Universe]]'', Timeline, p. 31</ref> | ||
===Formation of the UN | ====Important historical figures and other elements==== | ||
Several historical figures included [[Wikipedia:Charles Darwin|Charles Darwin]],<ref>''[[Halo: The Flood]]'', Chapter 3</ref> [[Wikipedia:Chester W. Nimitz|Chester W. Nimitz]], [[Wikipedia:Themistocles|Themistocles]], [[Wikipedia:Lysander|Lysander]],<ref name="hsschapter4"/> [[Wikipedia:Jimmy Doolittle|Jimmy Doolittle]], [[Wikipedia:Lydia Litvyak|Lilya Litvyak]],<ref>''[[Halo: Oblivion]]'' Chapter ??</ref> [[Wikipedia:Cleopatra|Cleopatra]], [[Wikipedia:Genghis Khan|Genghis Khan]],<ref>''[[Dr. Halsey's personal journal]]'', September 15, 2517</ref> and [[Wikipedia:Roland|Roland]] with his sword [[Wikipedia:Durendal|Durendal]].<ref>''[[Halo: Tales from Slipspace]]'', [[Dominion Splinter]]</ref> A notable historical military unit were the [[Wikipedia:Cossack|Cossacks]].<ref>[http://halo.bungie.net/projects/halo3/content.aspx?link=chopperfiction ''Bungie.net'': The Brute Chopper]</ref> | |||
===Formation of the UN and deepening ties=== | |||
[[File:HCEA Terminals AmericanAstronaut.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Early human steps on Luna.<ref>''[[Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary]]'', [[Terminal (Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary)/One|Terminal 1]]</ref>]] | [[File:HCEA Terminals AmericanAstronaut.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Early human steps on Luna.<ref>''[[Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary]]'', [[Terminal (Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary)/One|Terminal 1]]</ref>]] | ||
In [[1945]], the [[United Nations]] was founded.<ref name="encyctimeline">''[[Halo Encyclopedia: The Definitive Guide to the Halo Universe]]'', Timeline, p. 31</ref> 16 years later, Soviet cosmonaut [[Wikipedia:Yuri Gagarin|Yuri Gagarin]] would be the first human being to orbit the Earth.<ref>''[[Halo Encyclopedia: The Definitive Guide to the Halo Universe]]'', Human Colonization of Space, p. 42</ref> Eight years after that, human beings would take their first steps on [[Luna]].<ref name="encyctimeline"/> During the Cold War, the Intercontinental Ballistic Missile was first created.<ref>''[[Halo Encyclopedia: The Definitive Guide to the Halo Universe]]'', p. 329</ref> During the [[Wikipedia:Vietnam War|Vietnam War]], war photography was used to sway public opinion.<ref name="jakecouragexbox"/> | In [[1945]], the [[United Nations]] was founded.<ref name="encyctimeline">''[[Halo Encyclopedia: The Definitive Guide to the Halo Universe]]'', Timeline, p. 31</ref> 16 years later, Soviet cosmonaut [[Wikipedia:Yuri Gagarin|Yuri Gagarin]] would be the first human being to orbit the Earth.<ref>''[[Halo Encyclopedia: The Definitive Guide to the Halo Universe]]'', Human Colonization of Space, p. 42</ref> Eight years after that, human beings would take their first steps on [[Luna]].<ref name="encyctimeline"/> During the Cold War, the Intercontinental Ballistic Missile was first created.<ref>''[[Halo Encyclopedia: The Definitive Guide to the Halo Universe]]'', p. 329</ref> During the [[Wikipedia:Vietnam War|Vietnam War]], war photography was used to sway public opinion.<ref name="jakecouragexbox"/> | ||
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===Military culture=== | ===Military culture=== | ||
The UNSC's predominance casts a distinct air of militarism over most of humanity; military service and heroism are glorified to great lengths by UNSC propaganda, as well as the media. While the press evidently enjoys some degree of freedom,<ref> | The UNSC's predominance casts a distinct air of militarism over most of humanity; military service and heroism are glorified to great lengths by UNSC propaganda, as well as the media. While the press evidently enjoys some degree of freedom,<ref>''[[Noble Team performance reports]]'' — Emile-A239</ref> the media is heavily regulated by [[Office of Naval Intelligence#Section Two|ONI's Section Two]]. The UNSC adopted its policy media control after the [[Inner Colony Wars]], when sensationalist news reports of the conflict spread mass panic and threatened to dismantle Earth's culture.<ref>''[[Halo Graphic Novel]]'', [[Second Sunrise Over New Mombasa]]</ref> This aspect of humanity strengthened with the UNSC's establishment as humanity's emergency government and the unfolding of the Human-Covenant War, and shows little signs of fading following the end of the war. These practices, combined with the UNSC's policy with the colonies, have elicited accusations of totalitarianism in elements of the population, and are often pointed out by [[Insurrectionist|colonial secessionists]] in their own propaganda. | ||
Some elements of the [[UNSC Marine Corps]], have been a part of humanity for centuries originating back to 1775,<ref name="encyctimeline"/> when the [[Wikipedia:United States Marine Corps|United States Marine Corps]] was founded.<ref name="encyctimeline"/><ref name="halowarsbarracks">''Halowars.com'', UNSC - Barracks ([https://web.archive.org/web/20090312142038/http://www.halowars.com/GameInfo/barracks.aspx Warback Machine archive] and [[Archive:Halowars.com/UNSC#Barracks|Halopedia archive]])</ref> | Some elements of the [[UNSC Marine Corps]], have been a part of humanity for centuries originating back to [[1775]],<ref name="encyctimeline"/> when the [[Wikipedia:United States Marine Corps|United States Marine Corps]] was founded.<ref name="encyctimeline"/><ref name="halowarsbarracks">''Halowars.com'', UNSC - Barracks ([https://web.archive.org/web/20090312142038/http://www.halowars.com/GameInfo/barracks.aspx Warback Machine archive] and [[Archive:Halowars.com/UNSC#Barracks|Halopedia archive]])</ref> | ||
==Homeworld and colonies== | ==Homeworld and colonies== | ||
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==Technology== | ==Technology== | ||
[[File: | [[File:H5G-Governor Sloan.png|thumb|200px|right|A [[hologram]] of the AI [[Sloan]], under the ship ''[[Meridian 5-Alpha]]''.]] | ||
Prior to the [[human-Forerunner wars]], humanity had [[Prehistoric human civilization|achieved]] a remarkably advanced technological state, having developed interstellar travel, colonized thousands of worlds outside of their solar system,<ref>'''Halo: Primordium''', ''page 129''</ref> and even having an understanding of [[Precursor]] technology. However, nearly all records and examples of this former technology were obliterated following their war with the Forerunners. Humanity managed to develop rudimentary technology such as steam power roughly nine thousand years after their defeat.<ref name="cryptum"/> Unfortunately, this technological and cultural development proved to be in vain: during a phase after the [[Conservation Measure]]'s [[reintroduction]] stage, aptly termed as the [[dark time]],<ref name="bestiarum"/> the species regressed back into hunter-gatherers for over 90,000 years until the development of the modern human civilizations first began. | Prior to the [[human-Forerunner wars]], humanity had [[Prehistoric human civilization|achieved]] a remarkably advanced technological state, having developed interstellar travel, colonized thousands of worlds outside of their solar system,<ref>'''Halo: Primordium''', ''page 129''</ref> and even having an understanding of [[Precursor]] technology. However, nearly all records and examples of this former technology were obliterated following their war with the Forerunners. Humanity managed to develop rudimentary technology such as steam power roughly nine thousand years after their defeat.<ref name="cryptum"/> Unfortunately, this technological and cultural development proved to be in vain: during a phase after the [[Conservation Measure]]'s [[reintroduction]] stage, aptly termed as the [[dark time]],<ref name="bestiarum"/> the species regressed back into hunter-gatherers for over 90,000 years until the development of the modern human civilizations first began. | ||
In early stages, human technology and knowledge advanced through simple trial and error in an inefficient manner, hampering faster progress. Although humans had developed writing very early on in their history, it was not until the invention of printing that information and ideas could be mass-communicated in an effective manner. The development of the scientific method in later conjunction with improved and more efficient capitalistic resource management techniques during the lessons of the [[Wikipedia:Industrial Revolution|Industrial Revolution]] resulted in stark accelerations in the development of technologies and the acquisition of knowledge. New technologies were experimented and explored with advanced knowledge of underlying principles as talented individuals were better organized and better supplied, allowing extremely accurate and fast improvements to be made with minimized trials and costs. Such methods of thought and organization are a hallmark of humanity which differs from the Covenant who, lacking proper researching methods, would simply copy and reverse-engineer technology from ancient Forerunner artifacts via the [[Huragok]], whilst generally having no understanding of the underlying concepts themselves. Thus it it was said that the Covenant are "imitative" while the humans are "innovative" as the war progressed. | In early stages, human technology and knowledge advanced through simple trial and error in an inefficient manner, hampering faster progress. Although humans had developed writing very early on in their history, it was not until the invention of printing that information and ideas could be mass-communicated in an effective manner. The development of the scientific method in later conjunction with improved and more efficient capitalistic resource management techniques during the lessons of the [[Wikipedia:Industrial Revolution|Industrial Revolution]] resulted in stark accelerations in the development of technologies and the acquisition of knowledge. New technologies were experimented and explored with advanced knowledge of underlying principles as talented individuals were better organized and better supplied, allowing extremely accurate and fast improvements to be made with minimized trials and costs. Such methods of thought and organization are a hallmark of humanity which differs from the Covenant who, lacking proper researching methods, would simply copy and reverse-engineer technology from ancient Forerunner artifacts via the [[Huragok]], whilst generally having no understanding of the underlying concepts themselves. Thus it it was said that the Covenant are "imitative" while the humans are "innovative" as the war progressed.{{Ref/Novel|Halo: The Flood|Page=132}} | ||
By the 26th century, human technology has not advanced equally for every concept previously explored. The most basic technologies (such as the ballistic weaponry and the wheel) have undergone few principal changes, the explanation for this being their proven reliability over centuries of use. The technology worked and so did not require heavy alteration or major changes. However, certain significant advancements have been made in other fields, such as [[Shaw-Fujikawa Translight Engine]]s that allow ships to reach other star systems, as well as the creation of highly sophisticated [[Artificial intelligence|AI]]s that can serve to fulfill a versatile amount of roles. In addition, humans have also developed various forms of [[nanotechnology]] which allows many advances impossible with conventional engineering. Other common construction materials include [[polycrete]], [[permacrete]] and [[instacrete]]. | By the 26th century, human technology has not advanced equally for every concept previously explored. The most basic technologies (such as the ballistic weaponry and the wheel) have undergone few principal changes, the explanation for this being their proven reliability over centuries of use. The technology worked and so did not require heavy alteration or major changes. However, certain significant advancements have been made in other fields, such as [[Shaw-Fujikawa Translight Engine]]s that allow ships to reach other star systems, as well as the creation of highly sophisticated [[Artificial intelligence|AI]]s that can serve to fulfill a versatile amount of roles. In addition, humans have also developed various forms of [[nanotechnology]] which allows many advances impossible with conventional engineering. Other common construction materials include [[polycrete]], [[permacrete]] and [[instacrete]]. | ||
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===Medical advances and biotechnology=== | ===Medical advances and biotechnology=== | ||
[[File:BirthOfASpartan - Augmentation.png|thumb|right|250px|Medical augmentations of [[Carter-A259]] as part of [[Project CHRYSANTHEMUM]].]] | |||
Humanity has mastered a number of medical technologies, improving the quality of life in general but also providing many military applications. Among the most prominent is [[flash cloning]], which allows the re-growth of almost any body part and is often used to replace damaged or lost organs.<ref>''Halo: Evolutions - Essential Tales of the Halo Universe'', "The Impossible Life and the Possible Death of Preston J. Cole", page 461</ref> Lost limbs may also be replaced with advanced [[artificial limb|mechanical prosthetics]].{{Ref/Novel|Halo: Contact Harvest|Page=81}} Humans have been effectively immunized against some conventional diseases, including [[cancer]]. Though isolated cases of cancer still occur, they can be easily treated.<ref name="midlothian">''Halo: Evolutions - Essential Tales of the Halo Universe'',"[[Midnight in the Heart of Midlothian]]"</ref> Medical science has resolved most issues with eyesight, although some people choose to wear glasses for a variety of reasons, among them the ability to use them to project a [[heads-up display]].<ref>[https://blogs.halowaypoint.com/en-us/blogs/headlines/posts/the-halo-bulletin-4-16-14 '''Halo Waypoint''': ''The Halo Bulletin: 4.16.14'']</ref> | Humanity has mastered a number of medical technologies, improving the quality of life in general but also providing many military applications. Among the most prominent is [[flash cloning]], which allows the re-growth of almost any body part and is often used to replace damaged or lost organs.<ref>''Halo: Evolutions - Essential Tales of the Halo Universe'', "The Impossible Life and the Possible Death of Preston J. Cole", page 461</ref> Lost limbs may also be replaced with advanced [[artificial limb|mechanical prosthetics]].{{Ref/Novel|Halo: Contact Harvest|Page=81}} Humans have been effectively immunized against some conventional diseases, including [[cancer]]. Though isolated cases of cancer still occur, they can be easily treated.<ref name="midlothian">''Halo: Evolutions - Essential Tales of the Halo Universe'',"[[Midnight in the Heart of Midlothian]]"</ref> Medical science has resolved most issues with eyesight, although some people choose to wear glasses for a variety of reasons, among them the ability to use them to project a [[heads-up display]].<ref>[https://blogs.halowaypoint.com/en-us/blogs/headlines/posts/the-halo-bulletin-4-16-14 '''Halo Waypoint''': ''The Halo Bulletin: 4.16.14'']</ref> | ||
On long slipspace voyages, humans use [[cryo chamber]]s, allowing the occupant to enter [[cryonics|cryonic suspension]] which effectively stops biological aging for the duration of the journey. These and many more advances have continued to push human longevity beyond prior estimates; with flash-cloned organ transplants, coupled with time spent in cryosleep, one's biological age may be decades less than their chronological one.<ref>'''Halo: Evolutions - Essential Tales of the Halo Universe''',''"The Impossible Life and the Possible Death of Preston J. Cole"'', ''pages 485-486''</ref> | On long slipspace voyages, humans use [[cryo chamber]]s, allowing the occupant to enter [[cryonics|cryonic suspension]] which effectively stops biological aging for the duration of the journey. These and many more advances have continued to push human longevity beyond prior estimates; with flash-cloned organ transplants, coupled with time spent in cryosleep, one's biological age may be decades less than their chronological one.<ref>'''Halo: Evolutions - Essential Tales of the Halo Universe''',''"The Impossible Life and the Possible Death of Preston J. Cole"'', ''pages 485-486''</ref> | ||
The use of [[sterile field generator]]s means that surgery is not only safer to perform, with a greatly reduced risk of infection, but is also able to be performed in the field. Even critical injuries can be treated with relatively limited facilities;<ref>'''Halo: First Strike''', ''page 140 (2003 edition)''</ref> with sufficiently sophisticated equipment such as that of the {{UNSCShip|Hopeful}}, the resuscitation of individuals traditionally considered dead is not unheard of. | The use of [[sterile field generator]]s means that surgery is not only safer to perform, with a greatly reduced risk of infection, but is also able to be performed in the field. Even critical injuries can be treated with relatively limited facilities;<ref>'''Halo: First Strike''', ''page 140 (2003 edition)''</ref> with sufficiently sophisticated equipment such as that of the {{UNSCShip|Hopeful}}, the resuscitation of individuals traditionally considered dead is not unheard of.{{Ref/Novel|Halo: Ghosts of Onyx|Page=97}} Biological death can also be delayed by placing an individual into cryonic suspension until proper medical care can be provided.<ref>'''Halo: The Fall of Reach''', ''page 329 (2001 edition)''</ref> A number of synthetic compounds have been developed to allow more rapid recovery from injuries or to ease the treatment of patients in general; these include [[biofoam]], [[bone-knitting polymer]], and [[polymerized hemoglobin]]. | ||
Humans have also adopted a variety of [[Human augmentation|bioengineering and augmentation]] technologies. Human enhancements saw military application in the [[Interplanetary War|first interplanetary conflicts]].<ref name="enc44">'''[[Halo Encyclopedia]]''', ''page 44''</ref> While human enhancement has been commonplace for centuries, more extensive augmentation or experimentation has been limited due to ethical concerns. An exception to this are the biochemical and cybernetic augmentations used in the [[SPARTAN programs]], which represent the peak of human medical technology in the field of biological enhancement. Human rebels also use "[[rumbledrug]]s", which degenerate the user's body but grant them superhuman abilities for a short time.<ref name="midlothian"/> | Humans have also adopted a variety of [[Human augmentation|bioengineering and augmentation]] technologies. Human enhancements saw military application in the [[Interplanetary War|first interplanetary conflicts]].<ref name="enc44">'''[[Halo Encyclopedia]]''', ''page 44''</ref> While human enhancement has been commonplace for centuries, more extensive augmentation or experimentation has been limited due to ethical concerns. An exception to this are the biochemical and cybernetic augmentations used in the [[SPARTAN programs]], which represent the peak of human medical technology in the field of biological enhancement. Human rebels also use "[[rumbledrug]]s", which degenerate the user's body but grant them superhuman abilities for a short time.<ref name="midlothian"/> | ||
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===Space-faring=== | ===Space-faring=== | ||
{{Main|Human starship}} | |||
[[File:H2A Terminals - Camber holograph.jpg|250px|right|thumb|Different types of UNSC starships in orbit of [[Camber]].]] | |||
During the mid-20th century, humanity experimented with rocket technology using it to build satellites and visit and subsequently colonize the [[Luna|Moon]] and beyond in the latter half of the 21st century. With the advent of [[Shaw-Fujikawa Translight Engine]]s allowing faster-than-light travel, the UNSC was able to expand well beyond the confines of the [[Sol system|Solar System]], colonizing hundreds of worlds. UNSC [[freighter]]s transport food and goods between colonies, while UNSC Navy warships protect trade routes from [[Piracy|pirates]] and defend colonies from enemy assault. [[Space elevator]]s are used on many worlds to provide orbital transport. Advanced [[terraforming]] and climate control techniques have been developed, making human habitation possible even in many formerly hostile environments. | During the mid-20th century, humanity experimented with rocket technology using it to build satellites and visit and subsequently colonize the [[Luna|Moon]] and beyond in the latter half of the 21st century. With the advent of [[Shaw-Fujikawa Translight Engine]]s allowing faster-than-light travel, the UNSC was able to expand well beyond the confines of the [[Sol system|Solar System]], colonizing hundreds of worlds. UNSC [[freighter]]s transport food and goods between colonies, while UNSC Navy warships protect trade routes from [[Piracy|pirates]] and defend colonies from enemy assault. [[Space elevator]]s are used on many worlds to provide orbital transport. Advanced [[terraforming]] and climate control techniques have been developed, making human habitation possible even in many formerly hostile environments. | ||
Human spacecraft are typically equipped with [[fusion drive|nuclear fusion engines]] for subluminal propulsion. These drives provide thrust via expelling either the fusion reactor exhaust or some other form of reaction propellant through a series of thruster nozzles. They are capable of remarkable thrust, allowing ships to cross interplanetary distances in a matter of hours, although gravity-assist maneuvers are commonly used to an advantage.<ref>'''Halo: The Fall of Reach''', ''pages 324-329''</ref><ref>'''Halo: The Fall of Reach''', ''page 17''</ref> Rocket thrusters using [[triamino hydrazine]] as propellant are used for attitude control and small-scale maneuvering.<ref name="Halo page 25">'''Halo: Contact Harvest''', ''page 25''</ref> In addition to visual stealth systems, [[UNSC prowler]]s are able to use "engine baffles" to completely mask their emission profiles to match the surrounding space while running with reduced engine power.{{Ref/Novel|Halo: Ghosts of Onyx|Page=43}} | Human spacecraft are typically equipped with [[fusion drive|nuclear fusion engines]] for subluminal propulsion. These drives provide thrust via expelling either the fusion reactor exhaust or some other form of reaction propellant through a series of thruster nozzles. They are capable of remarkable thrust, allowing ships to cross interplanetary distances in a matter of hours, although gravity-assist maneuvers are commonly used to an advantage.<ref>'''Halo: The Fall of Reach''', ''pages 324-329''</ref><ref>'''Halo: The Fall of Reach''', ''page 17''</ref> Rocket thrusters using [[triamino hydrazine]] as propellant are used for attitude control and small-scale maneuvering.<ref name="Halo page 25">'''Halo: Contact Harvest''', ''page 25''</ref> In addition to visual stealth systems, [[UNSC prowler]]s are able to use "engine baffles" to completely mask their emission profiles to match the surrounding space while running with reduced engine power.{{Ref/Novel|Halo: Ghosts of Onyx|Page=43}} | ||
Humanity also employs a variety of gravity-manipulating technologies, including two forms of [[artificial gravity]] aboard spacecraft and space stations. The first is a system of rotating "carousel" sections which generate an approximation of gravity through centrifugal force. There is also a form of artificial gravity which does not require moving parts, but this technology consumes enormous amounts of power and spinning sections are generally regarded as being more efficient.<ref>'''[[Halo Encyclopedia]]''', ''page 211''</ref> Some [[UNSC starship|UNSC ships]], such as {{Class|Phoenix|colony ship}}s or [[UNSC frigate]]s are equipped with a form of [[anti-gravity technology]], as evidenced by their ability to operate in a planetary atmosphere without the use of thrusters.{{Ref/Level|[[Halo 3]]|[[The Storm]]}} Not all ships are equipped for atmospheric operation, however.{{Ref/Novel|[[Halo: The Flood]]|Page=40}} Anti-gravity is not typically implemented on craft smaller than warships and conventional engine systems are used to produce lift instead. | Humanity also employs a variety of gravity-manipulating technologies, including two forms of [[artificial gravity]] aboard spacecraft and space stations. The first is a system of rotating "carousel" sections which generate an approximation of gravity through centrifugal force. There is also a form of artificial gravity which does not require moving parts, but this technology consumes enormous amounts of power and spinning sections are generally regarded as being more efficient.<ref>'''[[Halo Encyclopedia]]''', ''page 211''</ref> Some [[UNSC starship|UNSC ships]], such as {{Class|Phoenix|colony ship}}s or [[UNSC frigate]]s are equipped with a form of [[anti-gravity technology]], as evidenced by their ability to operate in a planetary atmosphere without the use of thrusters.{{Ref/Level|[[Halo 3]]|[[The Storm]]}} Not all ships are equipped for atmospheric operation, however.{{Ref/Novel|[[Halo: The Flood]]|Page=40}} Anti-gravity is not typically implemented on craft smaller than warships and conventional engine systems are used to produce lift instead.{{Ref/Novel|Halo: Ghosts of Onyx|Page=135}} | ||
While the weapons and combat abilities of human spacecraft were still very limited by the time of the Human-Covenant War, the reverse-engineering of Covenant and Forerunner technologies has subsequently granted humanity multiple advances in these technologies.<ref name="glasslands"/> | While the weapons and combat abilities of human spacecraft were still very limited by the time of the Human-Covenant War, the reverse-engineering of Covenant and Forerunner technologies has subsequently granted humanity multiple advances in these technologies.<ref name="glasslands"/> | ||
===Weapons=== | ===Weapons=== | ||
[[File: | [[File:HaloArmsRace3.JPG|250px|thumb|right|Numerous [[M6 series]] pistols.]] | ||
While still primarily based on projectiles and chemical reactions, human weapons are more advanced than the weapons of the 21st century. They come with a variety of electronic gadgets such as ammo readouts and are significantly more reliable, seldom malfunctioning. They are also generally immune to [[electromagnetic pulse]]s. Still, there have been many advanced developments, such as electromagnetic accelerator weapons. The most prominent of these is the [[Magnetic Accelerator Cannon]], used as the main armament on UNSC warships, and in smaller form in ground-based weapons. Another electromagnetic weapon system, known as the [[railgun]], is used to a lesser degree. There have been developments in [[Directed energy weapon|energy weapons]] such as the [[Spartan Laser]] and the [[XEV9-Matos Nonlinear Pulse Cannon|pulse lasers]] used on [[UNSC prowler]]s. Advances in technology allow the development of highly efficient explosive devices, including the [[Lancet micro-missile]]s, capable of decimating main battle tanks.<ref name="Halo page 16"/> | While still primarily based on projectiles and chemical reactions, human weapons are more advanced than the weapons of the 21st century. They come with a variety of electronic gadgets such as ammo readouts and are significantly more reliable, seldom malfunctioning. They are also generally immune to [[electromagnetic pulse]]s. Still, there have been many advanced developments, such as electromagnetic accelerator weapons. The most prominent of these is the [[Magnetic Accelerator Cannon]], used as the main armament on UNSC warships, and in smaller form in ground-based weapons. Another electromagnetic weapon system, known as the [[railgun]], is used to a lesser degree. There have been developments in [[Directed energy weapon|energy weapons]] such as the [[Spartan Laser]] and the [[XEV9-Matos Nonlinear Pulse Cannon|pulse lasers]] used on [[UNSC prowler]]s. Advances in technology allow the development of highly efficient explosive devices, including the [[Lancet micro-missile]]s, capable of decimating main battle tanks.<ref name="Halo page 16"/> | ||
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===Vehicles=== | ===Vehicles=== | ||
[[File: | [[File:HW2 MarineDeployment Concept.png|thumb|250px|UNSC personnel in a number of vehicles including aircraft and ground vehicles.]] | ||
Though human vehicles still rely on crude wheeled or continuous track motion for locomotion, UNSC vehicles are still extremely advanced, incorporating high-strength materials with precision engineering to improve mobility and durability, while often mounting a variety of weapons or equipment to increase their flexibility. [[M12 LRV|Most]] have switched from fossil fuels to [[hydrogen]]-fuel cell engines or at the very least use hybrid-electric engines for enhanced fuel efficiency. The most powerful of human vehicles usually run on continuous tracks that allow them to better distribute their weight over uneven ground and to better grip uneven terrain thus allowing for the vehicles to go places where other wheeled counterparts could never, but the vehicles are usually heavier than their wheeled counterparts. | Though human vehicles still rely on crude wheeled or continuous track motion for locomotion, UNSC vehicles are still extremely advanced, incorporating high-strength materials with precision engineering to improve mobility and durability, while often mounting a variety of weapons or equipment to increase their flexibility. [[M12 LRV|Most]] have switched from fossil fuels to [[hydrogen]]-fuel cell engines or at the very least use hybrid-electric engines for enhanced fuel efficiency. The most powerful of human vehicles usually run on continuous tracks that allow them to better distribute their weight over uneven ground and to better grip uneven terrain thus allowing for the vehicles to go places where other wheeled counterparts could never, but the vehicles are usually heavier than their wheeled counterparts. | ||