Farrad I is a character from the authorized expanded universe novel Foundation's Fear.
About Farrad[]
Emperor Farrad I was the first ruler to be designated as reigning during the Foundation Era (F.E.), succeeding the last Galactic Era emperor, Semrin, in 12,069 G.E. (which also became 1 F.E.). His ascension marked a purely symbolic change in the official calendar, acknowledging the rise of the Foundation on Terminus as a significant new power in the galaxy, as predicted by Hari Seldon's psychohistory.
His reign did not signify a revival of imperial power but was a continuation of the Empire's terminal collapse. Real political control on Trantor remained firmly in the hands of the Commission of Public Safety. Historical records suggest that, like his predecessor, Farrad I was a figurehead emperor. Following the death of Linge Chen, effective control of the Commission and thus the Empire was wielded by Divart, who served as the principal advisor and power behind the throne.
Farrad's rule was brief and inconsequential, serving as a historical placeholder during the Empire's rapid fragmentation. He was one in a quick succession of puppet emperors who held the title as the Imperial government on Trantor lost all meaningful control over the peripheral provinces. His primary legacy is his role in the official adoption of the Foundation Era calendar, a testament to the Empire's acknowledgment of its own decline and the dawning of a new age for the galaxy.
Appearances[]
- Foundation's Fear (1997)