The phrase "So this is how liberty dies, with thunderous applause" is a famous line spoken by Senator Padmé Amidala in Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith (2005). It occurs during a pivotal scene where Chancellor Palpatine is granted emergency powers by the Galactic Senate, marking the Republic's transformation into the Galactic Empire. Padmé utters this line in a whisper to Bail Organa, expressing her despair over the Senate's willing surrender of freedom and democratic principles as they applaud Palpatine's consolidation of power
. There is some notable confusion and debate among fans regarding the exact wording of the line. Some remember Padmé saying "So this is how democracy dies, with thunderous applause," while the official and current versions of the film have her saying "liberty" instead of "democracy." This discrepancy has led to discussions about possible changes in different releases or the Mandela Effect, but the widely accepted and documented line is "liberty"
. The quote has transcended its original context and is often cited in political commentary to describe situations where freedoms are eroded or authoritarianism rises with popular or unquestioning support
. In summary:
- The line is from Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith (2005), spoken by Padmé Amidala.
- The official quote is: "So this is how liberty dies... with thunderous applause."
- It highlights the moment democracy and freedom are undermined through popular consent.
- There is some debate about the wording ("liberty" vs. "democracy"), but "liberty" is the version in the film's current releases
