30 Sec Answer: Yoda’s race is not known for certain, but it is believed that he was a member of an ancient species called the ‘Whills’.
What Race is Yoda?
Yoda has been one of the most beloved characters in pop culture since his first appearance in Star Wars in 1977. The small, green alien with a mischievous personality and vast knowledge of the Force has captured the hearts of fans around the world, but one question still remains: what race is Yoda?
A Brief History of Yoda
Yoda made his debut in Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back as a wise Jedi Master living on Dagobah. He trains Luke Skywalker in the ways of the Force and helps him to become a powerful Jedi Knight. Since then, he has appeared in five additional Star Wars films as well as several television shows, books, video games, and other forms of media.
Throughout all of these appearances, Yoda’s exact origins remain unknown. This has led to much speculation amongst fans over the years about who or what race Yoda belongs to. Here we will explore some of the theories and evidence behind his mysterious background.
The Whills Theory
The most widely accepted theory is that Yoda belonged to an ancient species known as the Whills. This race was mentioned by George Lucas himself during an interview with Time Magazine back in 1999 when asked if any information existed on Yoda’s past:
"He’s a mystery man…No one knows where he comes from or how old he is or anything else. I mean, you know, he comes from a breed of very mysterious creatures called Whills." -George Lucas
The Whills are thought to be an immortal race with great knowledge of both science and spirituality which have guided the events throughout galactic history. Some believe that they could even be responsible for writing down those same events in their sacred text known as "The Journal Of The Whills".
Possible Origins for Yoda’s Species
Although it is uncertain where exactly Yoda’s species originates from, there are many possible candidates such as Kaminoans (the cloners from Attack of the Clones) and Lorrdians (a humanoid species from Legends canon). It is also possible that he could belong to an entirely new race created by George Lucas himself for the sole purpose of being Yoda’s people.
Physical Appearance
Aside from being green-skinned and pointy-eared, very little is known about the physical appearance of Yoda’s species. In Revenge of the Sith, we see Obi-Wan Kenobi transform into a lizard-like creature while under Count Dooku’s spell which may give us some insight into their true form. We also know that they have long lifespans; 900+ years in Yoda’s case.
Other Possibilities
There are some who believe that Yoda could actually be part machine due to his ability to live so long and his connections with technology like droids and ships. Others think that he could be related to Wookiees because Chewbacca seems to recognize him when they meet aboard Princess Leia’s ship in The Empire Strikes Back. Both of these theories remain unconfirmed however.
Conclusion
In conclusion, although it is unclear what exactly Yoda’s species is, it appears likely that he belongs to an ancient race known as the Whills whose members have been guiding galactic history since time immemorial. His exact origins may never be known though and only time will tell if further clues are revealed through future installments of the Star Wars franchise!
