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{{ | {{Status|Canon}} | ||
{{Wikipedia}} | {{Wikipedia}} | ||
{{Species infobox | {{Species infobox | ||
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|classification=Mammal | |classification=Mammal | ||
|subspecies= | |subspecies= | ||
|diet= | |diet=Omnivorous | ||
|height=152.4–182.9 cm (5–6 ft) | |height=152.4–182.9 cm (5–6 ft){{Ref/Reuse|wp hum}} | ||
|weight=61.2–90.7 kg (135–200 lb) | |weight=61.2–90.7 kg (135–200 lb){{Ref/Reuse|wp hum}} | ||
|distinctions= | |distinctions= | ||
|lifespan=80–90 years | |lifespan=80–90 years{{Ref/Reuse|wp hum}} | ||
|homeworld=[[Earth]] | |homeworld=[[Earth]]{{Ref/Reuse|wp hum}} | ||
|techlevel=Tier 3 | |techlevel=Tier 3{{Ref/Reuse|wp hum}}<ref name="bestiarum">''[[Halo 3]]'', [[Bestiarum]]</ref> | ||
|notable-person=<small>[[John-117]], [[Catherine Halsey]], [[Preston Cole]], [[Terrence Hood]], [[Forthencho]], [[Robert Watts]]</small> | |notable-person=<small>[[John-117]], [[Catherine Halsey]], [[Preston Cole]], [[Terrence Hood]], [[Forthencho]], [[Robert Watts]]</small> | ||
|othernames=*By the [[Forerunner]]s: | |othernames=*By the [[Forerunner]]s: | ||
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*[[Human languages|Other languages]] | *[[Human languages|Other languages]] | ||
}} | }} | ||
{{Series/Species/Human}} | |||
'''Humans''', taxonomically referred to as '''''Homo sapiens''''' ([[Latin]] for "wise man") and known as '''ha''manune''''' (plural '''ha''manush''''') in the Forerunner era,<ref name="rebirth">''Halo: Silentium'', [[Rebirth|Rebirth Narrative]]</ref> are a [[sentience|sentient]] species native to [[Earth]]. A part of the [[Wikipedia:Primate|primate family]], they are the only extant species of a formerly diverse [[Wikipedia:Homo|genus]] of multiple species once classified as human. Members of the species, like some [[Covenant]] species, are four-limbed and bipedal, which enables them to walk upright on two legs and use their arms and hands (including opposable thumbs) to hold and manipulate objects such as tools. | '''Humans''', taxonomically referred to as '''''Homo sapiens''''' ([[Latin]] for "wise man") and known as '''ha''manune''''' (plural '''ha''manush''''') in the Forerunner era,<ref name="rebirth">''Halo: Silentium'', [[Rebirth|Rebirth Narrative]]</ref> are a [[sentience|sentient]] species native to [[Earth]]. A part of the [[Wikipedia:Primate|primate family]], they are the only extant species of a formerly diverse [[Wikipedia:Homo|genus]] of multiple species once classified as human. Members of the species, like some [[Covenant]] species, are four-limbed and bipedal, which enables them to walk upright on two legs and use their arms and hands (including opposable thumbs) to hold and manipulate objects such as tools. | ||
Over [[107,445 BCE|110,000 years ago]], ancient humanity ('''archeohomina''') had achieved a [[Prehistoric human civilization|thriving interstellar civilization]] nearly on par with the [[Forerunner]]s, although their catastrophic defeat in the [[human-Forerunner wars]] would see them reduced to [[Erde-Tyrene civilization|a preindustrial state]] as hunter-gatherer tribes, forced to achieve technological sophistication again.<ref name="cryptum">''Halo: Cryptum'', Chapter ??</ref> Thanks to the efforts of the Forerunner known as the [[Librarian]], however, humans were later elevated to the role of [[Reclaimer]]s, intended to inherit the [[Mantle]] the Forerunners used to hold. Humanity would not begin to rise from the confines of their homeworld until nearly 100,000 years later, with the re-invention of space travel in the mid-20th century and the beginning of space colonization in the | Over [[107,445 BCE|110,000 years ago]], ancient humanity ('''archeohomina''') had achieved a [[Prehistoric human civilization|thriving interstellar civilization]] nearly on par with the [[Forerunner]]s, although their catastrophic defeat in the [[human-Forerunner wars]] would see them reduced to [[Erde-Tyrene civilization|a preindustrial state]] as hunter-gatherer tribes, forced to achieve technological sophistication again.<ref name="cryptum">''Halo: Cryptum'', Chapter ??</ref> Thanks to the efforts of the Forerunner known as the [[Librarian]], however, humans were later elevated to the role of [[Reclaimer]]s, intended to inherit the [[Mantle]] the Forerunners used to hold. Humanity would not begin to rise from the confines of their homeworld until nearly 100,000 years later, with the re-invention of space travel in the mid-20th century and the beginning of space colonization in the latter half of the 21st century. Following a series of [[Interplanetary War|violent conflicts]] across the [[Sol system]], contemporary humanity at large was brought under a single banner with the establishment of the [[Unified Earth Government]] in [[2170]]. Over a century later, the invention of the [[Shaw-Fujikawa Translight Engine]] heralded a new golden age for humanity: no longer confined to their home system, humans [[human colonies|spread across]] the neighbouring stars.<ref name="xbox">[http://www.xbox.com/en-US/games/h/halo/storyline.htm ''Xbox.com:'' Halo Storyline] (Defunct, Copy on [http://halo.bungie.org/misc/mstimeline2.html HBO Forums], [http://web.archive.org/web/20080424150226/www.xbox.com/en-US/games/h/halo/storyline.htm Wayback Machine], and [[Archive:Xbox.com/Halo/Timeline|Halopedia]])</ref> | ||
At the end of the 25th century, this age of flourish was coming to an end, and the rising economic and political tensions across the colonies eventually culminated in a series of civil conflicts collectively known as the [[Insurrection]]. The war claimed millions of lives over the next three decades, but a far more dire threat loomed. In [[2525]], a theocratic alien hegemony known as the [[Covenant]] invaded the colony world of [[Harvest]], beginning the apocalyptic [[Human-Covenant War]]. | At the end of the 25th century, this age of flourish was coming to an end, and the rising economic and political tensions across the colonies eventually culminated in a series of civil conflicts collectively known as the [[Insurrection]]. The war claimed millions of lives over the next three decades, but a far more dire threat loomed. In [[2525]], a theocratic alien hegemony known as the [[Covenant]] invaded the colony world of [[Harvest]], beginning the apocalyptic [[Human-Covenant War]].{{Ref/Reuse|xbox}} For nearly three decades, humanity, under the emergency military governance of the [[United Nations Space Command]], was pushed back by the relentless Covenant war machine, until the tide turned in [[2552]]. With humanity teetering on the brink of extinction, the discovery of a Forerunner artifact known as [[Installation 04|Halo]] set in motion a course of events which would lead to the [[Great Schism|fragmentation]] and eventual destruction of the Covenant.<ref name="halo3">'''Halo 3'''</ref> | ||
Following the end of the war, humanity began to take on a more active role in the galactic community formed by the Covenant's dissolution, with new technological developments sped up by the discovery of Forerunner relics. However, these developments have not yet elevated them to the [[Technological Achievement Tiers|Tier 2 of technological advancement]] held by the Covenant. | Following the end of the war, humanity began to take on a more active role in the galactic community formed by the Covenant's dissolution, with new technological developments sped up by the discovery of Forerunner relics. However, these developments have not yet elevated them to the [[Technological Achievement Tiers|Tier 2 of technological advancement]] held by the Covenant.{{Ref/Reuse|wp hum}} Despite the defeat of the Covenant, humanity engaged in [[Post-Covenant War conflicts|smaller conflicts]] during the post-war years. In addition to threats from within in the form of renewed dissidence across the colonies, the UNSC was involved in hostilities with new [[Covenant remnants|Covenant factions]], some of which allowed humans to join, and other hostilites with the [[Ur-Didact]]'s reawakened Forerunner [[Promethean]] constructs which would later come under the command of the [[Created]].<ref name="halo4">'''Halo 4'''</ref> | ||
==History== | ==History== | ||
===Prehistory=== | ===Prehistory=== | ||
[[File:Earth.JPG|left|thumb|200px|Earth, home planet for humanity.]] | [[File:Earth.JPG|left|thumb|200px|Earth, [[planet|home planet]] for humanity.]] | ||
The origins of humanity lay in the ancient race of beings known as the [[Precursor]]s. Responsible for seeding the galaxy with life, the Precursors genetically engineered early humanity along with many other species in the galaxy, including [[Forerunner]]s, a would-be rival species to humanity.<ref>'''Halo: Primordium''', ''page 194''</ref> The Precursors intended humanity to inherit the [[Mantle]], their assumed role of guardianship for all life in the galaxy. The Forerunners refused to accept this decision and subsequently [[Forerunner-Precursor war|rebelled against]] the Precursors. After exterminating the Precursors to the point of extinction, the Forerunners claimed the Mantle for themselves, using it not only as the basis of their society but also as justification for securing their own dominance for millions of years.<ref name="silentium">'''Halo: Silentium'''</ref> | The origins of humanity lay in the ancient race of beings known as the [[Precursor]]s. Responsible for seeding the galaxy with life, the Precursors genetically engineered early humanity millions of years ago along with many other species in the galaxy, including [[Forerunner]]s, a would-be rival species to humanity.<ref>'''Halo: Primordium''', ''page 194''</ref> The Precursors achieved this by creating the two species from the same base stock, splitting a species they created apart so that they would evolve separately.{{Ref/Site|D=18|M=11|Y=2022|URL=https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/wintertime-wrap|Site=Halo Waypoint|Page=Wintertime Wrap}} The Precursors intended humanity to inherit the [[Mantle]], their assumed role of guardianship for all life in the galaxy and for countless generations prepared them for this role.{{Ref/Book|Id=Enc22P16|Enc22|Page=16}} The Forerunners refused to accept this decision and subsequently [[Forerunner-Precursor war|rebelled against]] the Precursors. After exterminating the Precursors to the point of extinction, the Forerunners claimed the Mantle for themselves, using it not only as the basis of their society but also as justification for securing their own dominance for millions of years.<ref name="silentium">'''Halo: Silentium'''</ref> | ||
===Early civilization and Forerunner involvement=== | ===Early civilization and Forerunner involvement=== | ||
{{Main|Prehistoric human civilization|Erde-Tyrene civilization}} | {{Main|Prehistoric human civilization|Erde-Tyrene civilization}} | ||
Humanity achieved an advanced state early in its history, well over [[1,100,000 BCE]],<ref>'''Halo: Silentium''', ''pages 67-68''</ref> when their earliest, long-forgotten cultures attained space travel and spread across many worlds. The latest of these early civilizations, having risen to power around [[150,000 BCE]] after a series of technological dark ages,<ref>'''Halo: Primordium''', ''page 237-238''</ref> eventually reached a level of technological sophistication close to that of the [[Forerunner]]s. Humans of this era were on average larger and superior to modern humans in many respects, including intelligence and physical strength. | Humanity achieved an advanced state early in its history, well over [[1,100,000 BCE]],<ref>'''Halo: Silentium''', ''pages 67-68''</ref> when their earliest, long-forgotten cultures attained space travel and spread across many worlds. The latest of these early civilizations, having risen to power around [[150,000 BCE]] after a series of technological dark ages,<ref>'''Halo: Primordium''', ''page 237-238''</ref> eventually reached a level of technological sophistication close to that of the [[Forerunner]]s. Humans of this era were on average larger and superior to modern humans in many respects, including intelligence and physical strength.{{Ref/Reuse|wp hum}} Humanity resented Forerunner dominion over the galaxy, and as a result expanded their civilization outward along the [[Orion Arm]] and across the galactic margin, away from the Forerunners' sphere of influence. This civilization formed [[Human-San'Shyuum alliance|an alliance]] with the [[San'Shyuum]] and later [[Human-Flood war|warred against]] the nascent [[Flood]]. While humanity lost a third of their population, the Flood was eventually driven out of the galaxy. However, the conflict led to [[Human-Forerunner war|a war with the Forerunners]], a war which humanity lost. As punishment, the humans were stripped of their technology, nearly all evidence of their civilization was erased from the galaxy, and the scattered remnants of their species were exiled to their homeworld, genetically "devolved" to more primitive forms and reduced to a pre-technological state from which they would be forced to start again.{{Ref/Reuse|cryptum}} | ||
[[File:ObservingArtifact.png|250px | [[File:ObservingArtifact.png|250px|thumb|Ancient humans observing the construction of the [[Portal at Voi]].{{Ref/Reuse|hlegorigins}}]] | ||
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. | 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/Reuse|silentium}} Following the firing of the [[Halo Array]], the surviving humans were [[reintroduction|returned]] to Earth,{{Ref/Reuse|rebirth}} being the first species the Forerunners reintroduced.<ref>''[[Halo: Fractures]]'', "[[Promises to Keep]]", p. 84-85</ref> | ||
===Early post-Great Purification recovery=== | |||
[[File:HellenicSpartans Origins2.png|thumb|200px|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 (2009 edition)]]'', 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/Reuse|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/Reuse|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==== | |||
In | In the 18th-century, humanity developed the conical bullet{{Ref/Level|[[Halo: Reach]]|[[The Package]]}}{{Ref/Note|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.}} 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/Reuse|halowarsbarracks}} In 1918, during [[Wikipedia:Operation Michael|Operation Michael]], [[Wikipedia:Oskar von Hutier|Oskar von Hutier]] used shock penetration strategy.{{Ref/Reuse|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 (2009 edition)]]'', Timeline, p. 31</ref> | |||
[[ | ====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/Reuse|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 | ===Formation of the UN and deepening ties=== | ||
[[File:HCEA Terminals AmericanAstronaut.jpg|thumb | [[File:HCEA Terminals AmericanAstronaut.jpg|thumb|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" | In [[1945]], the [[United Nations]] was founded.<ref name="encyctimeline"/> 16 years later, Soviet cosmonaut [[Wikipedia:Yuri Gagarin|Yuri Gagarin]] would be the first human being to orbit the Earth.<ref>''[[Halo Encyclopedia (2009 edition)]]'', Human Colonization of Space, p. 42</ref> Eight years after that, human beings would take their first steps on [[Luna]].{{Ref/Reuse|encyctimeline}} During the Cold War, the Intercontinental Ballistic Missile was first created.<ref>''[[Halo Encyclopedia (2009 edition)]]'', p. 329</ref> During the [[Wikipedia:Vietnam War|Vietnam War]], war photography was used to sway public opinion.{{Ref/Reuse|jakecouragexbox}} | ||
During the 1970s, a small charismatic cult in [[North America]] was lost in the continent's tundras and left an elaborate cave dwelling as well as a | During the 1970s, a small charismatic cult in [[North America]] was lost in the continent's tundras and left an elaborate cave dwelling as well as a unique language. This wouldn't be discovered until the 26th-century, at which point they were seen as a "lost tribe".<ref>''[[Halo: Evolutions]]'', [[Stomping on the Heels of a Fuss]]</ref> On [[1995|August 24, 1995]], Microsoft introduces the Windows 95 operating system.{{Ref/Reuse|ILBBAugust}} During humanity's early days of space exploration, they used rocket ships and [[Wikipedia:Space shuttle|space shuttles]].<ref name="hlegorigins">''[[Halo Legends]]'', [[Origins]]</ref> | ||
Around the early 2000s, fringe theories on humanity's origins began to emerge. The [[Society of the Ancients]], believed that aliens had helped humanity construct technologies.<ref>[http://206.16.223.63/mission.html SOTA mission page]</ref> [[Jonas Volman|Dr. Jonas Volman]] wrote the book ''[[The Castaway Theory]]'', that supposedly brings light to issues in human evolution.<ref>''[[Iris]]''</ref> The early 21st-century also saw the first planetary confirmations of what would eventually become [[Reach]].<ref name="halo.bungie.net">[http://halo.bungie.net/projects/reach/article.aspx?ucc=intel&cid=24020 ''Bungie.net'': Halo: Reach Project Page]</ref> The 21st-century also saw the legal cases of ''Trustees of Dartmouth College v. Woodward'' and ''[[Wikipedia:Citizens United v. FEC|Citizens United v. FEC]]''.<ref name="saintspg10">''[[Halo: Saint's Testimony]]'', p. 10</ref> | Around the early 2000s, fringe theories on humanity's origins began to emerge. The [[Society of the Ancients]], believed that aliens had helped humanity construct technologies.<ref>[http://206.16.223.63/mission.html SOTA mission page]</ref> [[Jonas Volman|Dr. Jonas Volman]] wrote the book ''[[The Castaway Theory]]'', that supposedly brings light to issues in human evolution.<ref>''[[Iris]]''</ref> The early 21st-century also saw the first planetary confirmations of what would eventually become [[Reach]].<ref name="halo.bungie.net">[http://halo.bungie.net/projects/reach/article.aspx?ucc=intel&cid=24020 ''Bungie.net'': Halo: Reach Project Page]</ref> The 21st-century also saw the legal cases of ''Trustees of Dartmouth College v. Woodward'' and ''[[Wikipedia:Citizens United v. FEC|Citizens United v. FEC]]''.<ref name="saintspg10">''[[Halo: Saint's Testimony]]'', p. 10</ref>{{Ref/Note|An actual case named [[Wikipedia:Dartmouth College v. Woodward|Trustees of Dartmouth College v. Woodward]] took place in 1819. However, the case in ''[[Halo: Saint's Testimony]]'' was mentioned as a 21st and 22nd corporate law case. While it was likely intended to be the 1819 case, it will be listed and treated similarly to it's description in ''Saint's Testimony''}} In [[2021]], the [[International Society of Civil Engineers]] was formed.{{Ref/Map|[[Halo 3]]|[[Orbital]]}} | ||
Humans in the 21st-century used fighter jets as well as stealth bombers and passenger aircraft.<ref>''[[Halo Encyclopedia | Humans in the 21st-century used fighter jets as well as stealth bombers and passenger aircraft.<ref>''[[Halo Encyclopedia (2009 edition)]]'', UNSC Ships, p. 261</ref> The early 21st-century was also when the first [[Visual Intelligence System, Reconnaissance]] systems were created.{{Ref/Game|Halo 5: Guardians|Detail=Dynasty VISR description}} The disease of cancer was rampant in the 21st-century as well as the 20th-century.<ref name="midlothian"/> | ||
The United Nations first established the [[Unified Earth Government]] in [[2075]].<ref>''[[Halo 4: The Essential Visual Guide]]'', Glossary (p. 229)</ref> Luna, [[Mars]], the [[Jovian Moons]] and several asteroids would first be settled by humans in [[2080]].<ref>''[[Halo Mythos]]'', Rise of Humanity (p. 47)</ref> [[2090]] and [[2103]] also saw the ends of large scale conflicts.{{Ref/Novel|[[Halo: Glasslands]]|Chapter=1}} In the 2100s, the British [[Houses of Parliament]] were destroyed in a domestic terrorist act.<ref>''[[Halo: Saint's Testimony]]'', p. 7-8 (Google Play edition)</ref> | The United Nations first established the [[Unified Earth Government]] in [[2075]].<ref>''[[Halo 4: The Essential Visual Guide]]'', Glossary (p. 229)</ref> Luna, [[Mars]], the [[Jovian Moons]] and several asteroids would first be settled by humans in [[2080]].<ref>''[[Halo Mythos]]'', Rise of Humanity (p. 47)</ref> [[2090]] and [[2103]] also saw the ends of large scale conflicts.{{Ref/Novel|[[Halo: Glasslands]]|Chapter=1}} In the 2100s, the British [[Houses of Parliament]] were destroyed in a domestic terrorist act.<ref>''[[Halo: Saint's Testimony]]'', p. 7-8 (Google Play edition)</ref> Gene therapy by the 2100s also functionally wiped out cancer.<ref name="midlothian"/> | ||
In response to the rising [[Koslovics]], the recently formed [[Frieden]]s bombed an embassy in [[Thynia]], [[Europa]] in [[2158]].<ref>''[[Halo Mythos]]'', p. 47</ref> The [[Jovian Moons Campaign]], [[Rainforest Wars]], [[Battle of Delambre]], [[Mars Campaign]] and finally, the [[Interplanetary War]] all came from the continued clashes between these factions. Sometimes these separate conflicts are collectively referred to as the Interplanetary war. | In response to the rising [[Koslovics]], the recently formed [[Frieden]]s bombed an embassy in [[Thynia]], [[Europa]] in [[2158]].<ref>''[[Halo Mythos]]'', p. 47</ref> The [[Jovian Moons Campaign]], [[Rainforest Wars]], [[Battle of Delambre]], [[Mars Campaign]] and finally, the [[Interplanetary War]] all came from the continued clashes between these factions. Sometimes these separate conflicts are collectively referred to as the Interplanetary war.{{Ref/Reuse|halowarsbarracks}} The 22nd-century also saw the court case ''[[The People v. Asklon Light Atomics]]''.{{Ref/Reuse|saintspg10}} | ||
===Space colonization=== | ===Space colonization=== | ||
{{Main|Domus Diaspora|Human colonies}} | {{Main|Domus Diaspora|Human colonies}} | ||
[[File:Shaw-Fujikawa Noble Prize.jpg|thumb|250px|Dr. [[Wallace Fujikawa]] (left), and Dr. [[Tobias Fleming Shaw]] (right), the co-creators of the [[Shaw-Fujikawa Translight Engine]].]] | [[File:Shaw-Fujikawa Noble Prize.jpg|thumb|250px|Dr. [[Wallace Fujikawa]] (left), and Dr. [[Tobias Fleming Shaw]] (right), the co-creators of the [[Shaw-Fujikawa Translight Engine]].]] | ||
The [[Interplanetary War]] in the 2160s marked a major shift in humanity's governance: after a violent conflict spanning the Solar System, the UEG was formed into a true governing body in charge of all human [[National government|nations]]. While growing overpopulation on Earth continued to pose challenges for the new government, the development of [[Slipspace]] travel in [[2291]] helped the UNSC engage in spreading the human race beyond their home solar system, relieving the serious ecological pressure on the home world. | The [[Interplanetary War]] in the 2160s marked a major shift in humanity's governance: after a violent conflict spanning the Solar System, the UEG was formed into a true governing body in charge of all human [[National government|nations]]. While growing overpopulation on Earth continued to pose challenges for the new government, the development of [[Slipspace]] travel in [[2291]] helped the UNSC engage in spreading the human race beyond their home solar system, relieving the serious ecological pressure on the home world.{{Ref/Reuse|xbox}} | ||
This expansion was to usher in promising new opportunities for humanity, as some of these colonies, such as planet [[Reach]] with its bountiful [[titanium]] deposits, could offer abundant stores of raw materials that may had otherwise been considerably unique and scarce on Earth. With the initial advent of interplanetary trade driving down the costs of what may had once been an expensive implementation of their technology - such as the forging of space-worthy ships and naval vessels - the effects from these carefully implemented first colonization projects helped to ensure that interstellar trade, travel and communication were to be more commonplace amongst the general populace in the ensuring centuries, eventually granting humanity the capacity to establish colonies at enhanced rates. | This expansion was to usher in promising new opportunities for humanity, as some of these colonies, such as planet [[Reach]] with its bountiful [[titanium]] deposits, could offer abundant stores of raw materials that may had otherwise been considerably unique and scarce on Earth. With the initial advent of interplanetary trade driving down the costs of what may had once been an expensive implementation of their technology - such as the forging of space-worthy ships and naval vessels - the effects from these carefully implemented first colonization projects helped to ensure that interstellar trade, travel and communication were to be more commonplace amongst the general populace in the ensuring centuries, eventually granting humanity the capacity to establish colonies at enhanced rates.{{Ref/Reuse|xbox}} In the background, the progress of human civilization was being subtly manipulated for hundreds of years by the [[The Assembly]], a shadowy collective of AIs committed to humanity's survival.<ref>'''[[Halo: Reach]]''', ''[[Data pads]]''</ref> | ||
===The Insurrection=== | ===The Insurrection=== | ||
{{Main|Insurrection}} | {{Main|Insurrection}} | ||
After over a century of prosperous expansion, humanity's populations had spread relatively thin across hundreds of worlds in a volume of space dozens of light-years across. The [[human colonies|colonies]] had become divided among the [[Inner Colonies|Inner]] and [[Outer Colonies]], the former representing the first established, stable and wealthy populations and while the latter were responsible for supplying a large portion of the resources that allowed the core worlds their high standard of living. As predicted by sociologist [[Elias Carver|Dr. Elias Carver]], a buildup of discontent among the Outer Colonial populations eventually culminated in the onset of numerous brushfire wars across the Outer Colonies which would come to be known collectively as the Insurrection. The UEG's fear of these civil conflicts escalating into a projected apocalyptic war between the Inner and Outer colonies led to the creation of the [[Project ORION|ORION]] and [[SPARTAN-II program|SPARTAN-II]] supersoldier programs, along with extensive UNSC military campaigns across the colonies. | After over a century of prosperous expansion, humanity's populations had spread relatively thin across hundreds of worlds in a volume of space dozens of light-years across. The [[human colonies|colonies]] had become divided among the [[Inner Colonies|Inner]] and [[Outer Colonies]], the former representing the first established, stable and wealthy populations and while the latter were responsible for supplying a large portion of the resources that allowed the core worlds their high standard of living. As predicted by sociologist [[Elias Carver|Dr. Elias Carver]], a buildup of discontent among the Outer Colonial populations eventually culminated in the onset of numerous brushfire wars across the Outer Colonies which would come to be known collectively as the Insurrection. The UEG's fear of these civil conflicts escalating into a projected apocalyptic war between the Inner and Outer colonies led to the creation of the [[Project ORION|ORION]] and [[SPARTAN-II program|SPARTAN-II]] supersoldier programs, along with extensive UNSC military campaigns across the colonies.{{Ref/Reuse|xbox}} These pioneering efforts would pave way for safer and more widespread human augmentation, with [[SPARTAN programs|Spartan]] supersoldiers being produced in increasingly large numbers over the following decades.{{Ref/Reuse|halo4}} | ||
===The Covenant War=== | ===The Covenant War=== | ||
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After decades of internecine conflict, humanity as a whole was forced into their first major war against an outside opponent when they were discovered by the genocidal alien hegemony known as the [[Covenant]]. As the decades-long war wore on, the human species gained the reputation as a worthy adversary against the Covenant, despite the fact that they were technologically and numerically inferior. Despite the fact that humans could hold out and even defeat the Covenant on ground combat, the Covenant could in turn withdraw to space where they had virtually undisputed supremacy and would be capable of [[glassing]] the planet.<ref>''Halo: The Flood'', p. 17</ref> | After decades of internecine conflict, humanity as a whole was forced into their first major war against an outside opponent when they were discovered by the genocidal alien hegemony known as the [[Covenant]]. As the decades-long war wore on, the human species gained the reputation as a worthy adversary against the Covenant, despite the fact that they were technologically and numerically inferior. Despite the fact that humans could hold out and even defeat the Covenant on ground combat, the Covenant could in turn withdraw to space where they had virtually undisputed supremacy and would be capable of [[glassing]] the planet.<ref>''Halo: The Flood'', p. 17</ref> | ||
Humans have been able to show great bravery when facing insurmountable odds. Some of the members of the Covenant wondered why their [[Hierarchs|leadership]] had refused to allow the humans to join them, as they had been able to hold steadfast even when outmatched in almost every way.<ref>'''Halo 2''', ''[[Conversations from the Universe]]''</ref> However, despite great courage and tenacity, the future seemed dark for the survival of the human race as the Covenant continued to methodically exterminate their colonies, marching ever closer to Earth, eventually discovering and invading it on October 20, 2552.{{Ref/Level|Halo 2|[[Cairo Station]]}} In the [[Battle of Earth|ensuing battles]] over possession of Earth, humanity suffered heavy casualties. | Humans have been able to show great bravery when facing insurmountable odds. Some of the members of the Covenant wondered why their [[Hierarchs|leadership]] had refused to allow the humans to join them, as they had been able to hold steadfast even when outmatched in almost every way.<ref>'''Halo 2''', ''[[Conversations from the Universe]]''</ref> However, despite great courage and tenacity, the future seemed dark for the survival of the human race as the Covenant continued to methodically exterminate their colonies, marching ever closer to Earth, eventually discovering and invading it on October 20, 2552.{{Ref/Level|Halo 2|[[Cairo Station]]}} In the [[Battle of Earth|ensuing battles]] over possession of Earth, humanity suffered heavy casualties.{{Ref/Reuse|halo3}} | ||
{{Clear}} | {{Clear}} | ||
===Post-war=== | ===Post-war=== | ||
{{Main|Post-Covenant War conflicts}} | {{Main|Post-Covenant War conflicts}} | ||
[[File:Attend2.PNG|thumb|250px|The [[Voi Memorial]], held in memory of those fallen in the war.]] | [[File:Attend2.PNG|thumb|250px|The [[Voi Memorial]], held in memory of those fallen in the war.]] | ||
Following the [[Battle of Installation 00|final battle of the war]] on [[2552#December|December 11, 2552]],<ref>[http://halo.xbox.com/en-us/intel/featured/video/herofortitude/bfe5038b-314a-4f17-a6be-f7613e0e3788 '''Halo Waypoint''': ''Hero-Fortitude'']</ref> the Human-Covenant War ended in a victory for humanity and their newfound [[Sangheili]] allies - the majority of the [[Covenant]] [[Covenant military|military]] having been defeated at [[Delta Halo]] by the Sangheili [[Fleet of Retribution]], while the rest were annihilated by the joint Elite-UNSC forces at [[Installation 00|the Ark]]. This victory came in time to save the human homeworld, thanks chiefly to the actions of [[Arbiter]] [[Thel 'Vadam]] and Spartan [[John-117]]. The Human-Covenant War was officially declared over on March 3, 2553, when a [[Voi Memorial|memorial service]] was held near [[Voi]], [[Kenya]], to those fallen during the 27 years of fighting. | Following the [[Battle of Installation 00|final battle of the war]] on [[2552#December|December 11, 2552]],<ref>[http://halo.xbox.com/en-us/intel/featured/video/herofortitude/bfe5038b-314a-4f17-a6be-f7613e0e3788 '''Halo Waypoint''': ''Hero-Fortitude'']</ref> the Human-Covenant War ended in a victory for humanity and their newfound [[Sangheili]] allies - the majority of the [[Covenant]] [[Covenant military|military]] having been defeated at [[Delta Halo]] by the Sangheili [[Fleet of Retribution]], while the rest were annihilated by the joint Elite-UNSC forces at [[Installation 00|the Ark]]. This victory came in time to save the human homeworld, thanks chiefly to the actions of [[Arbiter]] [[Thel 'Vadam]] and Spartan [[John-117]]. The Human-Covenant War was officially declared over on March 3, 2553, when a [[Voi Memorial|memorial service]] was held near [[Voi]], [[Kenya]], to those fallen during the 27 years of fighting.{{Ref/Reuse|halo3}} | ||
In her inaugural speech in [[2553|January 2553]], [[President of the Unified Earth Government]] [[Ruth Charet]] outlined humanity's future and foreign policy, promising that they would rebuild as well as stating that humanity would now reclaim their "rightful place in the universe". While humanity was willing to coexist with other species, they would never again allow themselves to be the victims of alien aggression. While the official stance within the government and the military was to build peace with the Sangheili, the UNSC's [[Office of Naval Intelligence]] covertly worked to neutralize the Sangheili, whom they considered the most acute threat to human primacy.<ref name="glasslands">'''Halo: Glasslands'''</ref> | In her inaugural speech in [[2553|January 2553]], [[President of the Unified Earth Government]] [[Ruth Charet]] outlined humanity's future and foreign policy, promising that they would rebuild as well as stating that humanity would now reclaim their "rightful place in the universe". While humanity was willing to coexist with other species, they would never again allow themselves to be the victims of alien aggression. While the official stance within the government and the military was to build peace with the Sangheili, the UNSC's [[Office of Naval Intelligence]] covertly worked to neutralize the Sangheili, whom they considered the most acute threat to human primacy.<ref name="glasslands">'''Halo: Glasslands'''</ref> | ||
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[[File:H4-ComposerFiringOnPhoenix.jpg|left|thumb|250px|The Didact's [[Mantle's Approach|flagship]] fires the [[Composer]] on [[New Phoenix]] on Earth in 2557.]] | [[File:H4-ComposerFiringOnPhoenix.jpg|left|thumb|250px|The Didact's [[Mantle's Approach|flagship]] fires the [[Composer]] on [[New Phoenix]] on Earth in 2557.]] | ||
In [[2557]], the [[Promethean]] forces reemerged led by a surviving Forerunner known as the [[Ur-Didact|Didact]], who once commanded the Forerunner armies against prehistoric humanity in the Human-Forerunner War. Once awakened on [[Requiem]], the Didact allied with Jul 'Mdama's Covenant faction, whilst defying the Forerunners' decision to pass down their [[Mantle]] to humanity by continuing his previous campaign of [[composer|digital genocide]]. During the conflict, contact was also made with mankind's ancient benefactor, the [[Librarian]], who had archived her personality and memories to assist humanity to guide them in their ascension to the Mantle. The Didact attempted to [[New Phoenix Incident|digitize humanity]] with the [[Composer]], but was defeated at the last minute by [[John-117]] and his AI [[Cortana]], | In [[2557]], the [[Promethean]] forces reemerged led by a surviving Forerunner known as the [[Ur-Didact|Didact]], who once commanded the Forerunner armies against prehistoric humanity in the Human-Forerunner War. Once awakened on [[Requiem]], the Didact allied with Jul 'Mdama's Covenant faction, whilst defying the Forerunners' decision to pass down their [[Mantle]] to humanity by continuing his previous campaign of [[composer|digital genocide]]. During the conflict, contact was also made with mankind's ancient benefactor, the [[Librarian]], who had archived her personality and memories to assist humanity to guide them in their ascension to the Mantle. The Didact attempted to [[New Phoenix Incident|digitize humanity]] with the [[Composer]], but was defeated at the last minute by [[John-117]] and his AI [[Cortana]],{{Ref/Reuse|halo4}} though seven million human lives were [[Mind transfer|composed]].<ref>'''Halo: Escalation''', ''[[Halo: Escalation Issue 7|Issue 7]] official summary''</ref> | ||
On October [[2558]], humanity experienced their first major setback since the end of the war. Earth and most human colonies were taken over by the [[Created]].<ref name="H5G">'''[[Halo 5: Guardians]]'''</ref> Crippled and weakened by the Created, humanity's fleeing [[UNSC]] lost the [[Battle | On October [[2558]], humanity experienced their first major setback since the end of the war. Earth and most human colonies were taken over by the [[Created]].<ref name="H5G">'''[[Halo 5: Guardians]]'''</ref> Crippled and weakened by the Created, humanity's fleeing [[UNSC]] lost the [[Battle over Installation 07]] against the [[Banished]], an alien mercenary organization that had recruited humans into their ranks.{{Ref/Novel|Id=DW5|HDW|Chapter=5|Page=87|Quote='Some of the Banished humans defected to the UNSC,' Arcas said.}} | ||
{{Clear}} | {{Clear}} | ||
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Their bone structure is calcium-based and is designed to withstand moderate stresses, but is generally weaker than the skeletons of Jiralhanae and Sangheili. Their muscular system is, on average, also weaker than most large Covenant species. If in extreme distress, humans can tap into hidden reserves of energy, known as an [[wikipedia:Epinephrine|adrenaline]] rush, thus giving them drastically increased strength. This response is known as the "Fight or Flight" reflex. | Their bone structure is calcium-based and is designed to withstand moderate stresses, but is generally weaker than the skeletons of Jiralhanae and Sangheili. Their muscular system is, on average, also weaker than most large Covenant species. If in extreme distress, humans can tap into hidden reserves of energy, known as an [[wikipedia:Epinephrine|adrenaline]] rush, thus giving them drastically increased strength. This response is known as the "Fight or Flight" reflex. | ||
In theory at least, physical conditioning can still negate the disadvantages of human physiology somewhat, and with the right [[SPARTAN-II augmentation procedures|enhancements]] and [[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor|equipment]], humans can overcome their physical disadvantages to an even further extent as demonstrated by the [[Spartan]]s. [[Human augmentation|Biological augmentation]] is not restricted to the Spartans; humans have routinely used bioengineering technologies for centuries, first to adapt to different conditions encountered in space and on other worlds, as well as a certain degree of enhancement given to military personnel. | In theory at least, physical conditioning can still negate the disadvantages of human physiology somewhat, and with the right [[SPARTAN-II augmentation procedures|enhancements]] and [[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor|equipment]], humans can overcome their physical disadvantages to an even further extent as demonstrated by the [[Spartan]]s. [[Human augmentation|Biological augmentation]] is not restricted to the Spartans; humans have routinely used bioengineering technologies for centuries, first to adapt to different conditions encountered in space and on other worlds, as well as a certain degree of enhancement given to military personnel.{{Ref/Reuse|enc44}} However, such enhancements do not provide as immediately conspicuous increase in physical prowess as those of the Spartans. | ||
===Forerunner connections=== | ===Forerunner connections=== | ||
{{Main|Reclaimer}} | {{Main|Reclaimer}} | ||
Human and [[Forerunner]] genera exhibit a number of anatomical and physical similarities, despite having evolved independently on different worlds. These genetic similarities are due to the two species both originally being seeded by the Precursors from the same base stock.{{Ref/Book|Id=Enc22P310|Enc22|Page=310}} The Forerunners themselves were intrigued by the similarities between their own race and humanity. Because of their similarities, some Forerunner scholars theorized that humans were a kindred species, created by the Precursors in their own image, just as the Forerunners believed themselves to be.{{Ref/Reuse|cryptum}} | |||
[[File:H3 Crows Nest Humans.jpg|250px|thumb|left|The [[Sangheili]] [[Arbiter]], [[Thel 'Vadam]], and a number of humans, including [[SPARTAN-II]] [[John-117]].]] | [[File:H3 Crows Nest Humans.jpg|250px|thumb|left|The [[Sangheili]] [[Arbiter]], [[Thel 'Vadam]], and a number of humans, including [[SPARTAN-II]] [[John-117]].]] | ||
The Forerunners chose humans to become the inheritors of their technology along with Forerunners' sacred [[Mantle]], which they formerly believed to have inherited from the Precursors. The Forerunners re-encoded certain aspects of their technology (e.g. the [[activation index]]) to only respond to human DNA to stop their advanced technology getting into the hands of other races. In a mixture of guilt and hope, they passed the torch to humanity, in hope that in the future they would defeat the Flood again, which with some help, [[John-117]] did. The [[Librarian]] imprinted the human race with a [[geas]], a pattern of information hidden deep in the genetic code and passed on throughout generations. | The Forerunners chose humans to become the inheritors of their technology along with Forerunners' sacred [[Mantle]], which they formerly believed to have inherited from the Precursors. The Forerunners re-encoded certain aspects of their technology (e.g. the [[activation index]]) to only respond to human DNA to stop their advanced technology getting into the hands of other races. In a mixture of guilt and hope, they passed the torch to humanity, in hope that in the future they would defeat the Flood again, which with some help, [[John-117]] did. The [[Librarian]] imprinted the human race with a [[geas]], a pattern of information hidden deep in the genetic code and passed on throughout generations.{{Ref/Reuse|cryptum}} According to the Librarian, this imprint triggered the development of many technologies which proved critical to the survival of humanity after their contact with the Covenant, as well as containing several latent abilities.{{Ref/Level|Halo 4|[[Reclaimer (level)|Reclaimer]]}} This may also explain the "natural" understanding of Forerunner interfaces some humans have demonstrated despite having no prior contact with Forerunner technology.{{Ref/Novel|Halo: The Flood|Page=84}} Latent human memories and patterns extracted during the [[Conservation Measure]] were also implanted into the genetic code of future human generations.<ref>''Halo: Silentium'', p. 57</ref><ref>''Halo: Primordium'', p. 379</ref> | ||
Despite this, many Forerunner AI constructs seem to regard humans as Forerunner (although some fail to do so).{{Ref/Level|Halo Wars|[[Cleansing]]}} This confusion was also the root of the Covenant's campaign to exterminate humanity. In [[2525]], a Covenant [[Minor Transgression|missionary ship]] traveled the edge of Covenant-controlled space and discovered a planet that was covered with Forerunner "Reclamation" glyphs, who were actually the humans. Later, a report of the planet's glyphs was sent to the [[Prophet of Regret|Vice Minister of Tranquility]]. He took the information to the [[Prophet of Truth|Minister of Fortitude]] and he went to see the [[Oracle]] (the Forerunner [[Artificial intelligence|AI]], [[Mendicant Bias]], in the [[Forerunner Dreadnought]]). Upon activation of the "Oracle", the AI proclaimed, "FOR EONS I HAVE WATCHED. LISTENED TO YOU MISINTERPRET. THIS IS NOT RECLAMATION. THIS IS RECLAIMER. AND THOSE IT REPRESENTS ARE MY MAKERS. I WILL REJECT MY BIAS AND WILL MAKE AMENDS. MY MAKERS ARE MY MASTERS. I WILL BRING THEM SAFELY TO [[Installation 00|THE ARK]]." Truth, believing that the humans were actually Forerunners (rather than their inheritors), became panicked and realized that this information could destroy the foundation of the Covenant and, with it, his power. Utilizing his power as High Prophet, Truth proceeded to launch a massive religious crusade against humanity, the [[Human-Covenant War]]. At the end of the war, when Truth was preparing to force [[Sergeant Major]] [[Avery Junior Johnson|Avery Johnson]] to activate the Halo Array, he still believed humans to be the Forerunners' literal descendants, saying "''Your forefathers wisely set aside their compassion. Steeled themselves for what needed to be done. I see now why they left you behind. You were weak. And gods must be strong.''"{{Ref/Level|Halo 3|[[The Covenant (level)|The Covenant]]}} | Despite this, many Forerunner AI constructs seem to regard humans as Forerunner (although some fail to do so).{{Ref/Level|Halo Wars|[[Cleansing]]}} This confusion was also the root of the Covenant's campaign to exterminate humanity. In [[2525]], a Covenant [[Minor Transgression|missionary ship]] traveled the edge of Covenant-controlled space and discovered a planet that was covered with Forerunner "Reclamation" glyphs, who were actually the humans. Later, a report of the planet's glyphs was sent to the [[Prophet of Regret|Vice Minister of Tranquility]]. He took the information to the [[Prophet of Truth|Minister of Fortitude]] and he went to see the [[Oracle]] (the Forerunner [[Artificial intelligence|AI]], [[Mendicant Bias]], in the [[Forerunner Dreadnought]]). Upon activation of the "Oracle", the AI proclaimed, "FOR EONS I HAVE WATCHED. LISTENED TO YOU MISINTERPRET. THIS IS NOT RECLAMATION. THIS IS RECLAIMER. AND THOSE IT REPRESENTS ARE MY MAKERS. I WILL REJECT MY BIAS AND WILL MAKE AMENDS. MY MAKERS ARE MY MASTERS. I WILL BRING THEM SAFELY TO [[Installation 00|THE ARK]]." Truth, believing that the humans were actually Forerunners (rather than their inheritors), became panicked and realized that this information could destroy the foundation of the Covenant and, with it, his power. Utilizing his power as High Prophet, Truth proceeded to launch a massive religious crusade against humanity, the [[Human-Covenant War]]. At the end of the war, when Truth was preparing to force [[Sergeant Major]] [[Avery Junior Johnson|Avery Johnson]] to activate the Halo Array, he still believed humans to be the Forerunners' literal descendants, saying "''Your forefathers wisely set aside their compassion. Steeled themselves for what needed to be done. I see now why they left you behind. You were weak. And gods must be strong.''"{{Ref/Level|Halo 3|[[The Covenant (level)|The Covenant]]}} | ||
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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, | Some elements of the [[UNSC Marine Corps]], have been a part of humanity for centuries originating back to [[1775]],{{Ref/Reuse|encyctimeline}} when the [[Wikipedia:United States Marine Corps|United States Marine Corps]] was founded.{{Ref/Reuse|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== | ||
[[File:H4 Skyline.png|thumb|250px|The city of [[Mindoro]] on the human colony of [[Cascade]].]] | [[File:H4 Skyline.png|thumb|250px|The [[city]] of [[Mindoro]] on the human colony of [[Cascade]].]] | ||
{{Main|Earth|human colonies}} | {{Main|Earth|human colonies}} | ||
Having possessed [[slipspace]] travel for over two centuries, humanity's sphere of influence has expanded to cover a sizable region of space surrounding their [[Sol system|home system]]. These colonies are roughly divided amongst the [[Inner Colonies]] and [[Outer Colonies]]; the former consisting of the 210 worlds colonized between [[2362]] and [[2390]], and the Outer Colonies encompassing all colonies established afterward. At its height, around the [[2490]]'s, human space encompassed 800 worlds, ranging from thriving hubs of commerce and military to various lesser worlds which mostly existed to provide the core worlds with resources and foodstuffs, as well as yet smaller outposts and settlements. A significant number of these worlds were [[glassing|glassed]] by the Covenant over the course of the Human-Covenant War. | Having possessed [[slipspace]] travel for over two centuries, humanity's sphere of influence has expanded to cover a sizable region of space surrounding their [[Sol system|home system]]. These colonies are roughly divided amongst the [[Inner Colonies]] and [[Outer Colonies]]; the former consisting of the 210 worlds colonized between [[2362]] and [[2390]], and the Outer Colonies encompassing all colonies established afterward. At its height, around the [[2490]]'s, human space encompassed 800 worlds, ranging from thriving hubs of commerce and military to various lesser worlds which mostly existed to provide the core worlds with resources and foodstuffs, as well as yet smaller outposts and settlements. A significant number of these worlds were [[glassing|glassed]] by the Covenant over the course of the Human-Covenant War.{{Ref/Reuse|xbox}} | ||
While all colonies are formally represented equally within the [[Unified Earth Government]], the true power is often perceived to rest on the Inner Colonies and Earth. This has led to widespread separatism and even [[Insurrection|civil war]], and many Outer Colonies have declared themselves independent from the UEG over the decades. Because many of the colonies are invaluable to the core worlds due to the resources they produce, the UEG has historically sought to maintain its control over them by any means necessary, including military intervention, which in turn provoked the colonial insurgents all the more. | While all colonies are formally represented equally within the [[Unified Earth Government]], the true power is often perceived to rest on the Inner Colonies and Earth. This has led to widespread separatism and even [[Insurrection|civil war]], and many Outer Colonies have declared themselves independent from the UEG over the decades. Because many of the colonies are invaluable to the core worlds due to the resources they produce, the UEG has historically sought to maintain its control over them by any means necessary, including military intervention, which in turn provoked the colonial insurgents all the more.{{Ref/Reuse|xbox}} | ||
===Population=== | ===Population=== | ||
In October 2552, Cortana said that humanity suffered 23 billion casualties throughout the course of the Human-Covenant War, making it the minimal amount of humans alive before the war.<ref name="palace">''[[Halo Evolutions]]'', "[[Palace Hotel]]", p. 351</ref> | In October 2552, Cortana said that humanity suffered 23 billion casualties throughout the course of the Human-Covenant War, making it the minimal amount of humans alive before the war.<ref name="palace">''[[Halo Evolutions]]'', "[[Palace Hotel]]", p. 351</ref> | ||
Earth was deemed overpopulated in the 22nd century, jump-starting the colonization programs at the time.<ref name="P42">'''[[Halo Encyclopedia]]''', ''page 42''</ref> Despite the colonization efforts made to resolve the overpopulation issue, Earth's population still remained in the billions.<ref name="P282A">'''Halo Encyclopedia''', ''page 282'' (''"Billions still live there despite the ongoing colonization of the stars."'')</ref> The population of Earth prior to the [[Battle of Earth]] was at an approximate 10 billion: the population was said to have been cut in half at the start of the Covenant attack. | Earth was deemed overpopulated in the 22nd century, jump-starting the colonization programs at the time.<ref name="P42">'''[[Halo Encyclopedia (2009 edition)]]''', ''page 42''</ref> Despite the colonization efforts made to resolve the overpopulation issue, Earth's population still remained in the billions.<ref name="P282A">'''Halo Encyclopedia: The Definitive Guide to the Halo Universe''', ''page 282'' (''"Billions still live there despite the ongoing colonization of the stars."'')</ref> The population of Earth prior to the [[Battle of Earth]] was at an approximate 10 billion: the population was said to have been cut in half at the start of the Covenant attack.{{Ref/Reuse|bestiarum}}<ref name="P282B">'''Halo Encyclopedia: The Definitive Guide to the Halo Universe''', ''page 282'' (''"... the entire population of Earth was cut in half as the First Battle of Earth began."'')</ref> By the end of the battle, the population count was reduced to 200 million; this was both due to casualties inflicted by the Covenant as well as a massive off-planet evacuation effort.<ref name="prewarpop">[https://twitter.com/Mr_Admirals/status/429062324737953792 '''Twitter''': ''@HaloWaypoint Hey, what was the population of Earth prior to November 2552?'']</ref><ref name="postwarpop">[https://twitter.com/EasyToAdjust/status/424004810874970113 '''Twitter''': ''@HaloWaypoint Just picked up the Essential Visual Guide. Is the post war population of 200,000,000 on Earth still canon?'']</ref> Following the end of the Human-Covenant War, the population of Earth increased dramatically due to the influx of returning evacuees and refugees from other worlds, being again in the billions by the end of the year 2553.{{Ref/Reuse|prewarpop}} | ||
{| class="wikitable sortable " style="width: 50%;" cellspacing="1" cellpadding="1" border="0" | {| class="wikitable sortable " style="width: 50%;" cellspacing="1" cellpadding="1" border="0" | ||
| Line 178: | Line 183: | ||
|10,000,000,000 | |10,000,000,000 | ||
|Yes | |Yes | ||
|[[2552#October|Pre-Oct. 2552]]<ref name="ENC">''[[Halo Encyclopedia]]'', page 282</ref><ref name="populateTwit">[https://twitter.com/Mr_Admirals/status/429062324737953792 ''Twitter'': @HaloWaypoint Hey, what was the population of Earth prior to November 2552?]</ref> | |[[2552#October|Pre-Oct. 2552]]<ref name="ENC">''[[Halo Encyclopedia (2009 edition)]]'', page 282</ref><ref name="populateTwit">[https://twitter.com/Mr_Admirals/status/429062324737953792 ''Twitter'': @HaloWaypoint Hey, what was the population of Earth prior to November 2552?]</ref> | ||
|- | |- | ||
|200,000,000 | |200,000,000 | ||
| Line 192: | Line 197: | ||
|703,341,500 | |703,341,500 | ||
|No | |No | ||
|2535 | |2535{{Ref/Reuse|halo.bungie.net}} | ||
|- | |- | ||
|121,000 | |121,000 | ||
| Line 217: | Line 222: | ||
|510,000 | |510,000 | ||
|Yes | |Yes | ||
|Post-war | |Post-war{{Ref/Reuse|Halo: Warfleet, p. 22}} | ||
|- | |- | ||
|[[Harvest]] | |[[Harvest]] | ||
|3,000,000 | |3,000,000{{Ref/Note|According to ''Halo: The Fall of Reach'', ''Halo: Fall of Reach - Boot Camp'', and ''Halo: The Essential Visual Guide'', Harvest had a population of approximately three million. However, ''Halo: Contact Harvest'' consistently states that Harvest had a population of around 300,000, and that roughly 250,000 civilians, who constituted most of the planet's population, escaped before the planet was glassed.}} | ||
|Yes | |Yes | ||
|[[2525]] | |[[2525]] | ||
| Line 233: | Line 238: | ||
|336,000,000+ | |336,000,000+ | ||
|Yes | |Yes | ||
|[[2542|Pre-2542]]<ref name="h2a3">''[[Halo 2: Anniversary]]'', [[Terminal | |[[2542|Pre-2542]]<ref name="h2a3">''[[Halo 2: Anniversary]]'', [[Terminal (Halo 2: Anniversary)|Terminal 3]]</ref> | ||
|- | |- | ||
|[[Bounty]] | |[[Bounty]] | ||
|199,000,000+ | |199,000,000+ | ||
|Yes | |Yes | ||
|Pre-Aug. 2552 | |Pre-Aug. 2552{{Ref/Reuse|h2a3}} | ||
|- | |- | ||
|[[Mesa]] | |[[Mesa]] | ||
|219,000,000+ | |219,000,000+ | ||
|Yes | |Yes | ||
|Pre-Aug. 2552 | |Pre-Aug. 2552{{Ref/Reuse|h2a3}} | ||
|- | |- | ||
|[[Greydowns]] | |[[Greydowns]] | ||
|76,830,400 | |76,830,400 | ||
|Yes | |Yes | ||
|Pre-Aug. 2552 | |Pre-Aug. 2552{{Ref/Reuse|h2a3}} | ||
|- | |- | ||
|[[Kroedis II]] | |[[Kroedis II]] | ||
|15,000,000+ | |15,000,000+ | ||
|Yes | |Yes | ||
|Pre-Aug. 2552 | |Pre-Aug. 2552{{Ref/Reuse|h2a3}} | ||
|- | |- | ||
|[[Estuary]] | |[[Estuary]] | ||
|89,000,000+ | |89,000,000+ | ||
|Yes | |Yes | ||
|Pre-Aug. 2552 | |Pre-Aug. 2552{{Ref/Reuse|h2a3}} | ||
|- | |- | ||
|[[Camber]] | |[[Camber]] | ||
|5,600,000 | |5,600,000 | ||
|Yes | |Yes | ||
|Pre-Aug. 2552 | |Pre-Aug. 2552{{Ref/Reuse|h2a3}} | ||
|- | |- | ||
|[[Sigma Octanus IV]] | |[[Sigma Octanus IV]] | ||
| Line 271: | Line 276: | ||
|} | |} | ||
==Technology== | ==Technology== | ||
[[File: | [[File:H5G-Governor Sloan.png|thumb|200px|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, | 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/Novel|Halo: Primordium|Page=129}} 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/Reuse|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/Reuse|bestiarum}} the species regressed back into hunter-gatherers for over 90,000 years until the development of the modern human civilizations first began. | ||
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}} | |||
[[File:HINF Concept Tools.jpg|thumb|200px|left|Concept art of various human tools.]] | |||
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]]. | ||
Human technology has undergone further advancements as a result of the reverse-engineering of Covenant and Forerunner technologies at the close and aftermath of the Human-Covenant War. These include, among other things, significant improvements in slipspace navigation and velocity as well as improved offensive and defensive weapons technologies, such as the more widespread adoption of [[energy shielding]]. | Human technology has undergone further advancements as a result of the reverse-engineering of Covenant and Forerunner technologies at the close and aftermath of the Human-Covenant War. These include, among other things, significant improvements in slipspace navigation and velocity as well as improved offensive and defensive weapons technologies, such as the more widespread adoption of [[energy shielding]].{{Ref/Reuse|halo4}}{{Ref/Reuse|glasslands}} Thanks to technology received from the Swords of Sanghelios and Kig-Yar merchants researchers were able to leapfrog centuries of trial-and-error experimentation and theory building.{{Ref/Site|D=01|M=6|Y=2020|URL=https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/community/blog-posts/canon-fodder-armory-amore|Site=Halo Waypoint|Page=Armory Amore}} | ||
===AI, robotics and automation=== | ===AI, robotics and automation=== | ||
| Line 285: | Line 291: | ||
Although the UNSC still relies heavily on human combatants, [[:Category:UNSC drones|robotic drones]] are used in combat to a certain extent, often providing fire support or [[UNSC battle network|real-time reconnaissance]] on the battlefield. Examples of UNSC drones include the [[F-99 Wombat]], the [[MAKO drone|MAKO]] and [[ARGUS drone]]s.<ref name="Halo page 16">''Halo: Contact Harvest'', p. 16</ref> | Although the UNSC still relies heavily on human combatants, [[:Category:UNSC drones|robotic drones]] are used in combat to a certain extent, often providing fire support or [[UNSC battle network|real-time reconnaissance]] on the battlefield. Examples of UNSC drones include the [[F-99 Wombat]], the [[MAKO drone|MAKO]] and [[ARGUS drone]]s.<ref name="Halo page 16">''Halo: Contact Harvest'', p. 16</ref> | ||
In civilian society, automated systems—sometimes controlled by the subprocesses of a larger AI—have found uses in [[roadware|piloting civilian vehicles]] as well as performing most manual labor in [[JOTUN Heavy Industries|agriculture]] and industry.<ref>''Halo Encyclopedia'', p. 42 (2011)</ref> The scale of AI-driven automation ranges from single cities to entire worlds; the former sometimes operated by a "dumb" AI such as the [[Superintendent]] while "smart" AI [[Mack]]'s oversight of [[Harvest]]'s agricultural operations is an example of the latter. | In civilian society, automated systems—sometimes controlled by the subprocesses of a larger AI—have found uses in [[roadware|piloting civilian vehicles]] as well as performing most manual labor in [[JOTUN Heavy Industries|agriculture]] and industry.<ref>''Halo Encyclopedia: The Definitive Guide to the Halo Universe'', p. 42 (2011)</ref> The scale of AI-driven automation ranges from single cities to entire worlds; the former sometimes operated by a "dumb" AI such as the [[Superintendent]] while "smart" AI [[Mack]]'s oversight of [[Harvest]]'s agricultural operations is an example of the latter. | ||
===Medical advances and biotechnology=== | ===Medical advances and biotechnology=== | ||
[[File:BirthOfASpartan - Augmentation.png|thumb|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 "[[ | 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 (2009 edition)]]''', ''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/Reuse|midlothian}} | ||
UNSC personnel are equipped with [[neural interface|neural implants]], more sophisticated [[Command neural interface|models]] of which—typically issued to ship captains—enable a human mind to interface with computer systems and receive or send information. The [[neural marker]] is an interviewing device which can record an individual's thoughts and visualize them on a monitor.<ref>[[Halo 3: ODST Pre-mission Evaluation]]</ref> [[Cognitive Impression Modeling]] allows the translation of a human brain's neural framework into digital form for the purpose of creating AIs, although this is not true [[mind transfer]] in the manner of that employed by the Forerunners: the resulting intelligence is not a perfect copy of the person it was created from due to the chaotic process in which the AI is brought into being. | UNSC personnel are equipped with [[neural interface|neural implants]], more sophisticated [[Command neural interface|models]] of which—typically issued to ship captains—enable a human mind to interface with computer systems and receive or send information. The [[neural marker]] is an interviewing device which can record an individual's thoughts and visualize them on a monitor.<ref>[[Halo 3: ODST Pre-mission Evaluation]]</ref> [[Cognitive Impression Modeling]] allows the translation of a human brain's neural framework into digital form for the purpose of creating AIs, although this is not true [[mind transfer]] in the manner of that employed by the Forerunners: the resulting intelligence is not a perfect copy of the person it was created from due to the chaotic process in which the AI is brought into being.{{Ref/Reuse|journal}} | ||
===Space-faring=== | ===Space-faring=== | ||
{{Main|Human starship}} | |||
[[File:H2A Terminals - Camber holograph.jpg|250px|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> | 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/Novel|Halo: The Fall of Reach|Page=17}} 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 (2009 edition)]]''', ''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. | 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/Reuse|glasslands}} | ||
===Weapons=== | ===Weapons=== | ||
[[File: | [[File:HaloArmsRace3.JPG|250px|thumb|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 | 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 (fiction)|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/Reuse|Halo page 16}} | ||
One of the largest breakthroughs came in the mid-20th century where humans discovered that [[nuclear fission]] and [[Nuclear fusion|fusion]] can be used as a weapon to cause a large explosion. By the 26th century, there are several types of [[nuclear weapon]]s in the UNSC's arsenal, intended for both atmospheric and exoatmospheric use. Innovation in this area would also converge in the creation of humanity's most devastating weapon during the war effort, known as the [[NOVA bomb]]. | One of the largest breakthroughs came in the mid-20th century where humans discovered that [[nuclear fission]] and [[Nuclear fusion|fusion]] can be used as a weapon to cause a large explosion. By the 26th century, there are several types of [[nuclear weapon]]s in the UNSC's arsenal, intended for both atmospheric and exoatmospheric use. Innovation in this area would also converge in the creation of humanity's most devastating weapon during the war effort, known as the [[NOVA bomb]]. | ||
===Vehicles=== | ===Vehicles=== | ||
[[File: | [[File:HW2 MarineDeployment Concept.png|thumb|250px|UNSC personnel in a number of vehicles including aircraft and ground vehicles.]] | ||
Human land vehicles rely on wheeled, continuous track motion, or legs for locomotion. 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|Some]] use [[hydrogen]]-fuel cell engines. | |||
Humans use [[Human marine craft|marine craft]] on some planets. | |||
Most | Most human aircraft are designed with [[VTOL|Vertical Take-off and Landing]] capabilities, using adjustable jet engines for lift and thrust. It is possible that [[D77H-TCI Pelican|some]] incorporate [[Wikipedia:Lifting body|lifting body]] principles. | ||
===Communications=== | ===Communications=== | ||
By the end of the Covenant War, humanity had developed [[superluminal communications]] systems enabling instantaneous communication and data transfer across interstellar distances.<ref> | By the end of the Covenant War, humanity had developed [[superluminal communications]] systems enabling instantaneous communication and data transfer across interstellar distances.<ref>''[[Data Drop]]''</ref> Prior to this, the primary form of long-range communication was limited to manually delivering the messages to the recipient by carrying messages aboard starships.{{Ref/Novel|Halo: Contact Harvest|Page=35}} For short-range communications, humanity employs conventional radio, as well as tight-beam [[laser]]<ref name="goo50">'''Halo: Ghosts of Onyx''', ''page 50''</ref> and [[maser]]-based systems.{{Ref/Reuse|Halo page 25}} The various human communication systems are commonly shortened to "[[COM]]".{{Ref/Reuse|goo50}} | ||
{{Clear}} | {{Clear}} | ||
==Gallery== | ==Gallery== | ||
<gallery> | <gallery> | ||
File:H5G-Spoopyhumans.png|Human skeletons in ''[[Halo 5: Guardians]] | File:H5G-Spoopyhumans.png|Human skeletons in ''[[Halo 5: Guardians]]'' [[Forge]]. | ||
File:HW2-Navydudes.png|Various humans in ''[[Halo Wars 2]]''. | File:HW2-Navydudes.png|Various humans in ''[[Halo Wars 2]]''. | ||
File:Enc22 MakingCamp.jpg|Human Marines around a camp fire on Installation 07 in the ''[[Halo Encyclopedia (2022 edition)]]''. | |||
</gallery> | </gallery> | ||
| Line 412: | Line 424: | ||
*''[[Halo Living Monument]] | *''[[Halo Living Monument]] | ||
*''[[Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary]]'' | *''[[Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary]]'' | ||
**''[[Terminal | **''[[Terminal (Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary)|Terminals]]'' | ||
*''[[Halo: Primordium]]'' | *''[[Halo: Primordium]]'' | ||
*''[[The Commissioning]]'' | *''[[The Commissioning]]'' | ||
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*''[[Scanned]]'' | *''[[Scanned]]'' | ||
*''[[Halo 4]]'' | *''[[Halo 4]]'' | ||
**''[[Terminal | **''[[Terminal (Halo 4)|Terminals]]'' | ||
**''[[Spartan Ops]]'' | **''[[Spartan Ops]]'' | ||
**''[[Infinity Briefing Packet]]'' | **''[[Infinity Briefing Packet]]'' | ||
| Line 431: | Line 443: | ||
*''[[Halo: Nightfall]]'' | *''[[Halo: Nightfall]]'' | ||
*''[[Halo 2: Anniversary]]'' | *''[[Halo 2: Anniversary]]'' | ||
**''[[Terminal | **''[[Terminal (Halo 2: Anniversary)|Terminals]] | ||
*''[[Halo: New Blood]]'' | *''[[Halo: New Blood]]'' | ||
*''[[Hunt the Truth]]'' | *''[[Hunt the Truth]]'' | ||
| Line 446: | Line 458: | ||
*''[[Halo: The Fall of Reach - The Animated Series]]'' | *''[[Halo: The Fall of Reach - The Animated Series]]'' | ||
*''[[Halo 5: Guardians]]'' | *''[[Halo 5: Guardians]]'' | ||
**''[[Halo 5: Guardians Limited Edition|Limited Edition]]'' | **''[[Halo 5: Guardians Limited Edition dossiers|Limited Edition dossiers]]'' | ||
*''[[Halo: Shadow of Intent]]'' {{Mo}} | *''[[Halo: Shadow of Intent]]'' {{Mo}} | ||
*''[[Know Your Enemy]]'' | *''[[Know Your Enemy]]'' | ||
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*''[[Halo: Oblivion]]'' | *''[[Halo: Oblivion]]'' | ||
*''[[Halo: Meridian Divide]]'' | *''[[Halo: Meridian Divide]]'' | ||
*''[[ | *''[[Step Inside]]'' | ||
*''[[Halo: Shadows of Reach]]'' | *''[[Halo: Shadows of Reach]]'' | ||
**''[[Sacrifice]]'' {{Mo}} | **''[[Sacrifice]]'' {{Mo}} | ||
*''[[Halo: Point of Light]]'' | *''[[Halo: Point of Light]]'' | ||
*''[[Halo: Divine Wind]]'' | |||
*''[[Halo Infinite]]'' | *''[[Halo Infinite]]'' | ||
*''[[Halo: The Television Series]]'' | *''[[Halo: The Television Series]]'' | ||
*''[[Halo: The Rubicon Protocol]]'' | |||
*''[[Halo: Vertical Umbrage]]'' | |||
*''[[Halo: Winter Contention]]'' | |||
*''[[Halo: Outcasts]]'' | |||
*''[[Halo: Sunrise on Sanghelios]] | |||
*''[[Halo: Saturn Devouring His Son]]'' | |||
*''[[Halo: Battle for the Blood-Moon]]'' | |||
*''[[Halo: Trial of Reckoning]] | |||
*''[[Halo: Hippocratica]]'' | |||
*''[[Halo: Fireside]]'' | |||
*''[[Halo: Epitaph]]'' | |||
*''[[Halo: Flashpoint]]'' | |||
{{Col-end}} | {{Col-end}} | ||
== | ==Notes== | ||
{{Ref/Notes}} | |||
==Sources== | ==Sources== | ||
{{Ref/Sources|2}} | {{Ref/Sources|2}} | ||
{{ | {{Navbox/Species}} | ||
[[Category:Human | [[Category:Human]] | ||
[[Category:Sapient species]] | [[Category:Sapient species]] | ||
[[Category:Host species]] | [[Category:Host species]] | ||