What would have happened to Westeros if the Dothraki Hordes Successfully Invaded?
Introduction
Would a Dothraki invasion of Westeros be as catastrophic as the initial assumption might suggest? Let us explore the potential impact on the general ethnicity, politics, and economy of the Seven Kingdoms if such an event were to unfold.
The Dothraki: A Force of Destruction or Cultural Integration?
The Dothraki, known as fierce and nomadic warriors, are often perceived as a destructive force to the peaceful and advanced civilizations of Westeros. Would they truly cause widespread enslavement, destruction, and the end of the Seven Kingdoms' prosperity?
The Dothraki are a loose confederation led by the khalasars, with a culture deeply rooted in the worship of the sun god, Rhaego. Unlike the structured governments of Westeros, the Dothraki are ruled by a system of power that revolves around the strength and leadership of the khal. This unique political structure might lead to challenges in imposing their rule over the Seven Kingdoms.
The Potential Impact on the Seven Kingdoms
Imagine a scenario where the Dothraki hordes successfully invade the Stormlands, Reach, and Kings Landing. How would this invasion affect the general ethnicity, politics, and economy of Westeros?
General Ethnicity
If the Dothraki conquered the Seven Kingdoms, the general ethnicity would undoubtedly be reshaped. The nomadic lifestyle of the Dothraki and their disdain for agricultural practices would likely result in a massive reversion to a more primitive existence. Much of the fertile land would be razed, and the inhabitants would face the threat of enslavement, much like the peoples of the Dothraki Sea in Essos.
Politics
The political landscape of the Seven Kingdoms would be drastically altered. Small towns, hamlets, and merchant towns would be destroyed, while the great castles of the Great Houses would perhaps remain as strongholds. However, they too would eventually succumb to starvation. Significant challenges would arise in establishing stable governance. The Dothraki political structure, based heavily on the khal and his khalasar, would not easily adapt to the complex systems of the Seven Kingdoms.
Economy
The economic impact would also be severe. The destruction of towns and trade routes would disrupt commerce, leading to widespread famine and economic collapse. The scarcity of goods and resources would lead to a breakdown of the existing monetary systems, potentially leading to a barter-based economy. The wealth of the Great Houses would be redistributed, either through plunder or bribery to secure the Dothraki's favor.
Surviving Realms and the Great Dothraki Sea
In this hypothetical scenario, only the North and the Vale would remain largely intact due to their geographical and political isolation. The North, with its single narrow entrance at Moat Cailin and the Bloody Gate, would prove difficult for the Dothraki to invade. The Vale, similarly, with its mountain passes, would also likely remain preserved, providing a safe haven for those seeking refuge.
As the Dothraki hordes took control, Westeros would transform into the Great Dothraki Sea, with Kings Landing (Vaes Dothrak) serving as the new political center. The cities and kingdoms would be reduced to ruins, and the regions of the Reach, Riverlands, Westerlands, Dorne, Crownlands, and Stormlands would be almost entirely wiped out. The remaining inhabitants would be enslaved, and the land would revert to a state of natural savagery.
Conclusion
The Dothraki invasion of Westeros would be an unprecedented and catastrophic event, reshaping the world as they knew it. While they may bring chaos and destruction, the true nature of their rule would depend on their ability to adapt and govern effectively.