the galactic empire is the government that rules the star wars galaxy in the star wars series. they are the main villains in the first three star wars movies. it is ruled by darth sidious and enforced by his apprentice, darth vader. the empire rules the galaxy by creating fear and using violence. it is a totalitarian government, which means it controls every part of the people's lives. it uses its military to kill or silence anyone who does not agree with its rule.