The Origins and Evolution of Thanos' Army

The Thanos Army, a formidable force seen prominently in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) and Marvel Comics, originates from a diverse range of sources. This article explores the roots and development of this powerful entity, focusing on the Chitauri, the Black Order, and other intriguing components.

The Chitauri

The Chitauri rescue Thanos from a deadly conflict with the Asgardians. This pivotal moment in Thanos' history occurs in the novel Thanos: Titan Consumed and sets the stage for a strategic alliance. Upon arrival on their homeworld, Thanos meets a unique Chitauri individual known as the Other—a being who stands apart from the hive mind.

The Other introduces himself, revealing his untouchable standing within the Chitauri society:

“I am called the Other. As opposed to what.”

Thanos is intrigued, and the two form a pact. Thanos agrees to lead the Chitauri to a more hospitable world in exchange for their service as his army. Over the course of several months, Thanos studies the Chitauri, breeding a more durable warrior caste and experimenting with their unique technological capabilities:

Rediscovering Leviathans capable of interstellar flight Investigating rudimentary teleportation technology Beginning a series of experiments to enhance Chitauri anatomy

With this newfound knowledge and the Chitauri's willing participation, Thanos' army grows in strength and capability.

The Black Order

The Black Order emerges later as an extension of Thanos' burgeoning military influence. This elite group of warriors, including Corvus Glaive, Proxima Midnight, Ebony Maw, and Cull Obsidian, serves as Thanos' vanguard in his conquest of the universe.

Thanos has a deep understanding of the importance of his cause, knowing that most beings do not share his perspective:

“Most intellects were neither refined nor enlightened enough to comprehend it.”

Due to the infamy of his actions, he discovers a small but significant number of beings who share his vision, prompting him to modify and empower them to serve as his agents:

“They adored him like a father. They gave themselves new names, rechristening themselves in his honor.”

These individuals, drawn from the darkest corners of imagination, act as his tools and weapons, spreading his message of balance and conquest. They inspire Thanos with their dedication and zeal:

“We have been too thorough. If there is even one person on a planet who believes in our cause, that life is worth saving and exploiting.”

Thus, the Black Order emerges as a key component of Thanos' expanding army, embodying the ruthless and determined nature of his pursuits.

The Evolution of Thanos' Approach

Over time, Thanos evolves his approach, seeking a more nuanced balance between destruction and creation:

“‘If there is even one person on a planet who believes in our cause, that life is worth saving and exploiting. So, no more wholesale slaughter.’”

He introduces the Titan Protocol, a method of eliminating half of a world's population as a form of balance. This approach aims to demonstrate the effectiveness of Thanos' methods while also avoiding complete annihilation:

“‘It has been safer to eliminate entire populations so no one would remain to seek us out in the name of revenge. But now… Now we will try something different. We will enact the Titan protocol, eliminating half of each world. And as those worlds recover, they will stand as examples to others that our way works.’”

Cha, Thanos' trusted advisor, provides pragmatic advice, emphasizing the importance of eliminating military capacity to ensure the safety of their operations.

Through a combination of historical alliances and evolving strategies, Thanos' army becomes a multifaceted and formidable force, representing both the destructive and constructive aspects of his vision.