... okay, so it's a fictional character: EMPEROR PALPATINE from the Star Wars saga.
A long time ago, in a galaxy far, far away:
Frightening similarities below the fold...
Senator Palpatine represented the planet Naboo. However, he secretly was a "Sith lord" who sought to take over the galaxy.
He did this in the following manner:
- Work with factions behind the scenes to orchestrate a blockade and invasion of his OWN planet, so that the current Supreme Chancellor would be overthrown. He would then run as replacement and win on the sympathy vote.
- Encourage a "separatist" movement, along with his then-apprentice (Darth Tyranus) to start a war vs. the Republic, thus forcing Senate to authorize a "clone" army to fight the war.
- With apprentice (eventually Darth Vader), use the clone army to kill all Jedi, thereby removing any possible challenges to his rule.
- When Jedi are out of the picture, install himself as "Emperor" to provide "security" for all planets in the former Republic. Apprentice (Darth Vader) functions as his powerful "fist" to enforce conformity.
- Is eventually defeated by apprentice's son (Luke Skywalker) who refuses to join the "dark side."
Now let's consider Hillary:
- Hatch a plan with then-president (& political partner) Bill Clinton to run for president. Runs for Senate to give her a good launching point.
- During term in senate, chooses to support Iraq War to appear hawkish and "centrist," in anticipation of eventual presidential run.
- Announces run in 2007, assuming little to no opposition. Crafts "shock & awe" campaign that should be concluded by Super Tuesday. Dispatches political partner/husband to aid her in this.
- Unexpected young candidate (Obama) surprises her with several primary/caucus wins. Hillary responds with ads to scare voters, arguing only her "experience" can provide "security" for them & their families. She is also caught in a series of lies in her attempt to convince voters of her superior electability & experience.
- Is finally defeated (knock wood) by young Obama, who refuses to accept lobbyist money or cast votes based purely on his plan to run for presidency.
This was mainly for fun (yes, I'm a geek), but I found the similarities quite striking.