Treason/Legends

"In the name of the Galactic Senate of the Republic, you're under arrest, Chancellor.''" "Are you threatening me, Master Jedi?" "The Senate will decide your fate." "I am'' the Senate." "Not yet." "It's treason, then."

- Mace Windu and Palpatine

Treason was the crime of acting against a legitimately recognized government or an official of that government. The definition of treason varied based on the type of government. In an Imperial or dictatorial government, even merely speaking against the government or its policies could be considered treasonous behavior.

As a group of Jedi Masters discussed the possible forcible removal of Supreme Chancellor Palpatine from office, Obi-Wan Kenobi stated that such an action was treason and Mace Windu replied that he wasn't afraid of words and that the real treason would be failure to act.

When Obi-Wan Kenobi told Anakin Skywalker that the Jedi High Council agreed to his appointment as Palpatine's personal representative because they wanted him to spy hon him, Skywalker described such an action as both a violation of the Jedi Code and treason, but Kenobi said it was not treason and might be the only way to save the Galactic Republic.

Later, Palpatine told Skywalker he was concerned the Jedi Order was plotting treason against him and to overthrow the government. Then, when trying to convince him to join the dark side of the Force, he told him "Turn you back on treason."

When the Jedi arrived to arrest him, he declared "It's treason, then," before engaging them in a lightsaber duel.

Appearances

 * Star Wars: Episode III Revenge of the Sith novelization
 * Star Wars: Episode III Revenge of the Sith