Cardassians

Cardassians are a humanoid species in the Star Trek universe, forming the core population of the Cardassian Union. They are typically portrayed as stern, disciplined, and strongly hierarchical, with a culture that prizes order, duty, and efficiency. Physically, Cardassians are described as humanoids with olive-brown skin, dark hair, and distinctive facial ridges around the brow.

The Cardassian Union is an authoritarian, militarized state centered on Cardassia Prime in the Alpha Quadrant. Political power is centralized, and civil institutions are closely tied to the military. The Obsidian Order, the state intelligence agency, operates alongside the regular security services, making surveillance and intelligence gathering central to governance. Cardassian society emphasizes loyalty to the state, obedience to its laws, and a professional, merit-based bureaucracy. The Gul is a common rank among senior officers.

Historically, Cardassians pursued a policy of expansion and control, shaping much of their interstellar relations. They are known for their long occupation of Bajor, a period that deeply affected both Cardassians and Bajorans and colored later interactions with neighboring powers, including the United Federation of Planets. They are also seen as capable engineers and tacticians, with a tradition of strong naval and ground forces.

In Star Trek storylines, Cardassians are depicted with a sophisticated but stern culture, a robust intelligence apparatus, and significant influence in the Alpha Quadrant, evolving through conflicts, diplomacy, and political transition across different series and eras.