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{{Template:Mergefrom|Cardassian history|Talk:Cardassian history|date=Sept '07|User:Salak}}
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image = [[Image:Cardassian.jpg|250px|center]]|
image = [[Image:Cardassian.jpg|250px|center]]|
4letter = CARD|
4letter = CARD|
fedstatus = Netural|
fedstatus = Neutral|
origin = [[ma:Cardassia Prime|Cardassia Prime]]|
origin = [[ma:Cardassia Prime|Cardassia Prime]]|
encountered = [[ma:TNG|TNG]]: ''[[ma:The Wounded|The Wounded]]''|
encountered = [[ma:TNG|TNG]]: ''[[ma:The Wounded|The Wounded]]''|
techlevel = N-|
techlevel = N-|
|}}
|}}
The [[ma:Cardassian|Cardassian]] race is a [[ma:Humanoid|humanoid]] species from the [[ma:Alpha Quadrant|Alpha Quadrant]]. The Cardassians are native to the [[ma:Planet|planet]] [[ma:Cardassia Prime|Cardassia Prime]], [[ma:Homeworld|capital world]] of the [[ma:Cardassian Union|Cardassian Union]].
 
==Home System==
* '''Quadrant''': [[Alpha Quadrant]]
* '''Location''':
* '''Proper Name''':
* '''Star''':
* '''Distance from Star''':
* '''Companions''':
* '''Moons''':
==Home World==
* '''Proper Name''': [[ma:Cardassia Prime|Cardassia Prime]]
* '''Diameter''':
* '''Gravity''':
* '''Axial Tilt''':
* '''Orbital Period''':
* '''Rotational Period''':
* '''Classification''':
* '''Surface Water''':
* '''Atmosphere''':
* '''Climate''':
* '''Terrain''':
* '''Population''':
 
==History==
 
==Government==
 
==Description==
The Cardassian race is a [[ma:Humanoid|humanoid]] species from the [[ma:Alpha Quadrant|Alpha Quadrant]]. The Cardassians are native to the [[ma:Planet|planet]] [[ma:Cardassia Prime|Cardassia Prime]], [[ma:Homeworld|capital world]] of the [[Cardassian Union]].


==Physiology==
==Physiology==
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Compared to most humanoid minds, the Cardassian brain is a model of efficiency. Its ability to process nerve impulses, sensory input, and information is greater than that of most humanoid brains, due to its physiological structure and neurochemistry. As a result, the average Cardassian tends to be smarter and more perceptive than the average Human (or more "cunning," as [[Starfleet]] officers who have fought the Cardassians might say). This trait allows the Cardassians to train their children so that every Cardassian develops a photographic memory.
Compared to most humanoid minds, the Cardassian brain is a model of efficiency. Its ability to process nerve impulses, sensory input, and information is greater than that of most humanoid brains, due to its physiological structure and neurochemistry. As a result, the average Cardassian tends to be smarter and more perceptive than the average Human (or more "cunning," as [[Starfleet]] officers who have fought the Cardassians might say). This trait allows the Cardassians to train their children so that every Cardassian develops a photographic memory.


==Society==
The oldest part of the Cardassia brain is referred to as the ''primal nexus'' and contains the blueprint of the Cardassian's physiology. It stores all information necessary to allow the body and mind to heal from trauma and injury, however, it also houses an individual's deepest fears and anxieties. <ref>[https://groups.google.com/g/sb118-ops/c/6LOVotRtdTQ/m/sWOXDtzIAQAJ "Happy Place (Pt.5)"], [[Ferri Emlott]], [[Starbase 118 Ops]], 239906.27</ref>
Unlike humans, Cardassians do not avoid or try to slow the aging process, instead welcoming old age and the power and wisdom it denotes. The education system implemented on Cardassia dictates that intellectual pursuits begin at the young age of 3 or 4. Every Cardassian is raised with an appreciation of fine arts and culture, though the government may not have always been so like-minded in its policies. Educational attainment is regarded as a major source of social status and the source of creativity in Cardassian society. The Cardassians are known for their photographic memories, while some even have the ability to resist a [[ma:Vulcan mind meld|Vulcan mind meld]].


Family is considered a Cardassian's greatest asset, with three or more generations in one home. However, orphans are outcasts and are forgotten.
==Psychology==


Men, as well as women, may serve in the military, though it may be that only men are drafted.
==Religion==


Cardassians give their first molar to the Cardassian Bureau of Identification at age ten. ([[ma:DS9|DS9]]: ''[[ma:Tribunal|Tribunal]]'')
==Mythology==


Cardassian society has the most rigid and, to the [[ma:United Federation of Planets|Federation]], incomprehensible of all legal systems. All suspects are guilty before even appearing in court, their sentence already spelled out - almost always death. No prisoner ever escapes the death penalty, and only very tempting incentives can change the sentence to a lifetime one in a labor camp. The criminal is given a [[ma:Conservator|Conservator]], equivalent to a public defender, only the Conservator is not supposed to win, but to prepare the criminal for a moving confession of guilt on the floor of the court. The accused is also permitted an advocate, the [[ma:Nestor|nestor]], to advise them during the trial. The [[ma:Chief Archon|Chief Archon]], or judge, of the court plays to a televised audience, her duty not to judge the prisoner's innocence or guilt, but rather to give an emphatic display of the futility of crime in Cardassia and reinforce the public's trust in the justice system.
==Society==
 
===Social structure===
==Culture==
All Cardassian citizens, whether they are soldiers or not, are expected to live or die for the [[Cardassian Union]]. During their lives they are expected to serve the state selflessly in any manner they can and at any time they are called upon. While this looks good on paper, most Cardassians serve the state graciously out of one motivation: fear.
 
Over the shoulder of every Cardassian citizen is the [[Obsidian Order]], peering into their public and personal lives. It is said that a Cardassian cannot sit down to eat without the meal being duly noted, categorized and approved by the Obsidian Order. This is not an exaggeration; indeed, the Obsidian Order spies on its own citizenry with great alacrity using every means at their disposal. Because of this invasion of privacy, few Cardassians living in the Union enjoy civil liberties unless powerful friends protect them. Free speech is unheard of, as people have been known to disappear for voicing their opinions. The right to bear arms is denied the civilian citizenry unilaterally, though some civilians keep some sort of weaponry in their home illegally. Assembly of the citizenry (for any reason) without proper license is grounds for arrest. Communiqués are regularly tapped, mail opened, and homes bugged. People are paid handsomely for turning in their treasonous neighbors and can usually gain ''vesala'' by doing so. Families are encouraged to do the same; after all, dedication to the state should come before blood.
 
Citizens are free to establish businesses so long as they have the requisite approvals from the Ministry of Industrial Affairs. The private sector exists to serve the state, and the state controls commerce with an iron hand. The military is the largest consumer for these businesses, for without the military's patronage a business is sure to fail.
 
===Vesala===
Who you know, not what you know, is one of the most important factors for getting along in Cardassian society. A Cardassian's elaborate elaborate network of contacts and favors is of prime importance to them. This network is know as ''vesala''. ''Vesala'' is used like a currency or commodity; favors are traded back and forth among members of Cardassian society for personal or political gain. This is a sort of informal stock exchange of name-dropping and favor swapping that gives a Cardassian personal power over other Cardassians.
 
Everything on Cardassia is available for a price. ''Vesala'' can be used to purchase promotions, political offices, titles and benefits. It is because of this that a Cardassian does not use his ''vesala'' lightly. Calling in too many favors at one time will deplete the resources, and could hinder dealings in the future. Some Cardassians perform favor after favor and rarely call their own, thus accumulating vast amounts of ''vesala'' for use in one fell swoop. One of the few things that cannot be bought with ''vesala'' is a Cardassian's social standing.
 
It does not matter that a Cardassian has never worked with the individual they are asking a favor from; such 'blind favors' are made all the time. Reputation means more than acquaintance. If a Cardassian is known as someone who does not repay in kind, their name will start to circulate as being untrustworthy and favors will be hard to call in. But be sure the provider can actually perform the requested favor. If they have to go through someone else, the cost in ''vesala'' can skyrocket.
 
===Family===
Cardassian families are tightly knit. Usually, parents will have between three and ten children, and sometimes more. An only child is an anomalous occurence. Families live together in the Cardassian household, with the father being the head of the house. It is not uncommon for the family unit to be extended from unmarried aunts and uncles to grandfathers and grandmothers, all living together in the same household. The Cardassian people venerate age, and elder Cardassians are seen as wise to the ways of the universe.
 
Cardassian families share in the disgrace of one of their members; therefore much pressure is put on the individuals to uphold the family name. If a family member stumbles, much effort is put into concealing the fact from the powers that be. If concealment cannot be achieved or the action is quite dastardly, then the member is usually ostracized by the family and turned into a pariah. Usually the member will accept this disgrace to avoid having his family disgraced in his name.
 
Divorce is uncommon among the Cardassians, except in cases where the acts of the husband or wife would bring disgrace unto the house as a whole. Generally two Cardassians who marry will do so for life, howerver a certain amount of philandering is almost expected by the males of the species. While this is frowned upon by society, the people tend to turn a blind eye toward this type of behavior among the males. The female Cardassians do not enjoy this privilege, as they can be outcast for such loose moral character. A disgraced woman carries a heavy social burden.
 
Cardassian mating is different from other species, and sometimes those differences are very misunderstood by outsiders. A potential mate indicates interest by expressing a bickering, almost beligerent attitude. This bickering has caused more than one interstellar snafu as misunderstanding spring from hot debates between diplomats. Fertility is of paramount importance, as a mate that cannot bear children is shamed. Men prefer spirited women, and the females of the species tend to prefer strong, dominant males.
 
===Arts===
The Cardassian people consider the arts to be less important than many other races do. In the resource-hungry society of Cardassia, where starvation and need are recent memories, literature, poetry and sculpture are of secondary importance. A career as an artist is considered slightly shameful in a culture whose essence is duty and service.
 
The Cardassian State keeps a tight reign on its artists. It recognizes that art can be a powerful motivational force. Only state sanctioned writers can be published. Only the work of state sanctioned painters and sculptors may be exhibited, and only in state-run galleries. Each individual work must undergo a long and involved approval process by the Ministry of Arts before publication or exhibition.
 
Literature is the most popular art form amongst the Cardassian populace and so it has the most restricted guidelines. Permitted books must actively promote Cardassian ideology or discredit Cardassia's enemies. Epics such as ''The Never Ending Sacrifice'', which describes the service of seven generations of a family to Cardassia, are favorites amongst Cardassian readers. These books are even preferred above tales of valorous Cardassian of.cers defeating the schemes of dastardly Starfleet officers bent on destroying the Union with their corrupt ideals of democracy and individuality.
 
Cardassians who travel and the upper classes have access to non-Cardassian literature. Dante's ''Inferno'', Tolstoy's ''War and Peace'', K'Ratak's ''The Dream of the Fire'' are all highly regarded works. The Cardassians appreciate Shakespeare's dramas but despise the comedies - particularly ''Romeo and Juliet'', in which the two lovers chose love over family.
 
The visual arts - painting, sculpture and holo-photography - are not highly regarded by the general populace. Spending time admiring such works is considered wasteful. There are only a handful of galleries on Cardassia prime, all of which are filled with depictions of family life and Cardassians at war. Cardassia IV maintains a museum of Hebitian works that have not been sold off in the past, such as the bone carvings from the First Hebitian period.
 
Many Cardassians express themselves artistically in the privacy of their homes and only their friends and family ever view their work. The practical mentality of Cardassians means that many use crafts as a creative outlet. Elaborately carved furniture or highly decorated potteries are more appreciated than ''objects d'art'' by many Cardassians.
 
The underground movement attracts artists of all varieties who seek freedom of expression. Writers' work is distributed through the organization. Members of the movement hold secret exhibitions and readings. But this is not without risk; the labor camps on Cardassia IV are filled with writers whose work criticizes the government. These artists experienced unprecedented freedom during the rule of the Detapa council. For eighteen months in 2371-2372, a large number of previously banned books were printed, satirical cartoons were published and plays were performed that openly criticized the Cardassian State and way of life. This halcyon era ended abruptly when the Cardassian Union joined the [[Dominion]]. The Jem'hadar visited those writers, satirists and actors who did not flee quickly enough.
 
===Cuisine===
Mealtimes are of great importance to Cardassians. Traditionally, the main meal of the day was a time for the whole family to sit down together. In modern times, the evening meal is still considered a time for family, even if modern lifestyles make it more difficult for the family to eat together. A meal is just as important to lone Cardassians or those away from their family, they will never take work to their meal table; a meal should be a time for conversation amongst friends or intellectual discussion between comrades.
 
To a Cardassian, a meal is not just food to be consumed; it is a feast of color and artistry. The laying of the table, the color of the dishes and the shape of the kanar bottle are all as important as the food itself. Even a simple act, such as pouring a glass of wine, is savored. Typically a Cardassian will pause to admire the color of the drink before pouring it. Perhaps he will even caress the elaborate spiral bottle before lifting the glass and savoring the aroma. Only then will he take his first sip.
 
Food is also used as a symbol of power. With whom you share your table is a measure of status on Cardassia. If a powerful Cardassian eats alone, he is stating that he considers no one else is his equal. During the occupation of Bajor, 'comfort women' taken from refugee camps were rewarded with the promise that their families would be well fed.
 
On the surface the Cardassian approach to food makes them seem like an over-indulgent species, but an examination of recent history shows there are more concrete reasons. When drastic food and resource shortages brought about a revolution, the new military government plundered Cardassia's artistic and archaeological treasures to fulfill their promise to put food on every Cardassian's plate. With much of Cardassia's great art gone and a government that restricted new art, the Cardassians established a new form of artistic appreciation through their food and mealtime rituals.
 
Cardassians are omnivores, though many of their dishes are meat or egg based. These are generally cooked. Meat dishes include Sem'hal stew and zabo meat steak, both of which are enjoyed by non-Cardassians. Taspar eggs and Regova eggs can be prepared in a number of ways, similar to Terran chicken eggs. Many dishes are flavored with yamok sauce, a condiment that is found on every meal table in the Cardassian Union. Hot fish juice, a broth-like drink, is highly favored for breakfast.
 
Kanar is the Cardassian spirit of choice. It comes in several varieties; it can be similar to whiskey, wine or liqueur. It is highly intoxicating and the strong taste takes some getting used to.
 
In recent years kanar has proved popular outside the Cardassian Union, but the Dominion War has made it as difficult to find as Romulan Ale in the twenty-fourth century. Kanar has a tendency to spoil, so keeping a supply on-hand is difficult for bartenders outside the Union.
 
==Social structure==
By the dawn of the Second Hebitian period, a class system evolved on Cardassia. This class structure has survived for centuries, even though the government and society that spawned it did not. The social classes are, from lowest class to highest; Scralan, Ti'alek, Hibalek, Amarlek, Ra'malek, and Trelek.
By the dawn of the Second Hebitian period, a class system evolved on Cardassia. This class structure has survived for centuries, even though the government and society that spawned it did not. The social classes are, from lowest class to highest; Scralan, Ti'alek, Hibalek, Amarlek, Ra'malek, and Trelek.


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===Social classes===
===Social classes===
The following section describes the six different social classes. When the text refers to population percentage it is referring to all Cardassians in the Union, and does not include non-Cardassians or client/servitor races.
The following section describes the six different social classes before the Dominion War. When the text refers to population percentage it is referring to all Cardassians in the Union, and does not include non-Cardassians or client/servitor races.


* '''Scralan''': The Scralan class really isn't a class at all, not having the 'lek' suffix (which means 'resource' in Cardassian). In fact, the word 'scralan' actually means 'useless'. The Scralan are made up of Cardassian '''untouchables''' who have fallen from Cardassian grace as well as the '''non-Cardassians''' living in the Union. These untouchables are generally met with distaste and disdain from other Cardassians (even those others of the Scralan). It is extremely difficult for the Scralan to jump class, as even noted accomplishments are met with sneers from the other social classes. Even getting small tasks accomplished is difficult, as few of the other classes will take the Scralan seriously. Generally, Scralans have little love for the other classes. Most see the other classes as a means of keeping them at the bottom of the social ladder. Approximately eight percent of the population is of the Scralan class.
* '''Scralan''': The Scralan class really isn't a class at all, not having the 'lek' suffix (which means 'resource' in Cardassian). In fact, the word 'scralan' actually means 'useless'. The Scralan are made up of Cardassian '''untouchables''' who have fallen from Cardassian grace as well as the '''non-Cardassians''' living in the Union. These untouchables are generally met with distaste and disdain from other Cardassians (even those others of the Scralan). It is extremely difficult for the Scralan to jump class, as even noted accomplishments are met with sneers from the other social classes. Even getting small tasks accomplished is difficult, as few of the other classes will take the Scralan seriously. Generally, Scralans have little love for the other classes. Most see the other classes as a means of keeping them at the bottom of the social ladder. Approximately eight percent of the population is of the Scralan class.
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===Changing class===
===Changing class===
A modern Cardassian Ti'alek, upon showing significant ability, can obtain a sponsor to attend a military academy. The same Ti'alek can now become an officer, achieve great things, and make a name for himself (and thereby his family). Once he has earned the respect of his peeers and supervisors, his family name could grow in status, and perhaps his children will be known as Amarleks, Ra'maleks, or even quite possibly (if his achievements are great enough) become a Trelek and join the ranks of nobility. Earning enough respect for this may be difficult, as those of the higher classes tend to cling harder to their titles than the lower classes.
A modern Cardassian Ti'alek, upon showing significant ability, can obtain a sponsor to attend a military academy. The same Ti'alek can now become an officer, achieve great things, and make a name for himself (and thereby his family). Once he has earned the respect of his peers and supervisors, his family name could grow in status, and perhaps his children will be known as Amarleks, Ra'maleks, or even quite possibly (if his achievements are great enough) become a Trelek and join the ranks of nobility. Earning enough respect for this may be difficult, as those of the higher classes tend to cling harder to their titles than the lower classes.


Likewise, embarrassments and disgrace can send a Cardassian and his family down the social ladder, leading to ostracism and even exile. Smart families are quick to disown the disgraced Cardassian to prevent him from dragging them down with him. Usually these families maintain contact with their ostracized members, but they try to avoid aiding and abetting them.
Likewise, embarrassments and disgrace can send a Cardassian and his family down the social ladder, leading to ostracism and even exile. Smart families are quick to disown the disgraced Cardassian to prevent him from dragging them down with him. Usually these families maintain contact with their ostracized members, but they try to avoid aiding and abetting them.
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Note that a raise in class is one of the few things a Cardassian cannot buy with their vesala. Performing extraordinary deeds for the Union is the only way to get one's family name blazing across the stars.
Note that a raise in class is one of the few things a Cardassian cannot buy with their vesala. Performing extraordinary deeds for the Union is the only way to get one's family name blazing across the stars.


==The Feeds==
===The Feeds===
Early in Cardassian history, the Obsidian Order learned that well-entertained masses are often too distracted to be mindful of revolution. The best way to remain in power was to placate the citizenry with the Feeds. The Feeds are a network of broadcast screens throughout the Cardassian city streets that broadcast propaganda to the masses all day long. Each home on Cardassia is required by law to have a Feed. On the streets, huge monitors show speeches, trials and executions. In the home, the Cardassian has a choice of five Feeds, however all of them are essentially the same. All extol the glory of the Union. All insist that service to the state brings happiness. And of course, the main Feed broadcast the appropriate propaganda of political speeches, trials and executions. Frequently the Feeds show the exact same thing on all channels, and the home feeds can be operated form the source, forcing the message to play in the home whether the homeowners want it or not. The same propaganda Feeds are broadcast throughout the Cardassian Union, not just on Cardassia.
Early in Cardassian history, the Obsidian Order learned that well-entertained masses were often too distracted to be mindful of revolution. The best way to remain in power was to placate the citizenry with the Feeds. The Feeds are a network of broadcast screens throughout the Cardassian city streets that broadcasted propaganda to the masses all day long. Each home on Cardassia was required by law to have a Feed. On the streets, huge monitors showed speeches, trials and executions. In the home, the Cardassian had a choice of five Feeds, however all of them were essentially the same. All extol the glory of the Union. All insisted that service to the state brings happiness. And of course, the main Feed broadcasted the appropriate propaganda of political speeches, trials and executions. Frequently the Feeds showed the exact same thing on all channels, and the home feeds could be operated from the source, forcing the message to play in the home whether the homeowners want it or not. The same propaganda Feeds were broadcast throughout the Cardassian Union, not just on Cardassia.
 
Some unscrupulous individuals modified their Feed unit, allowing them to receive Federation broadcasts or to block the propaganda Feeds. These individuals were regarded as criminals, and the Feed units could report such alterations during random automated diagnostics, so most Cardassians choose to just leave them alone. At least one criminal a day got executed for Feed unit alteration, and that kept the citizens reminded that the Feed units were the property of the government and were not to be modified by unauthorized personnel.


Some unscrupulous individuals modify their Feed unit, allowing them to receive Federation broadcasts or to block the propaganda Feeds. These individuals are criminals, and the Feed units can report such alterations during random automated diagnostics, so most Cardassians choose to just leave them alone. At least one criminal a day gets executed for Feed unit alteration, and that keeps the citizens reminded that the Feed units are the property of the government and are not to be modified by unauthorized personnel.
In contemporary Cardassia, the Feeds are still an integral part of Cardassian life, however, freedom of speech has allowed for countless different channels to flourish. The modern Cardassian is obsessed with the novelty of free press, making the news broadcasts extremely popular.


==Cardassian education==
===Cardassian education===
Education is important to the Cardassians, and all children living within the Union are instructed via the state's education system.
Education is important to the Cardassians, and all children living within the Union are instructed via the state's education system.


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The ''Te'alakesh'' are arguably some of the most powerful Cardassians in the Union, for it is on their determination where a child will be placed for his future. Most ''Te'alakesh'' have great amounts of vesala as parents romance them for their child's placement. ''Te'alakesh'' work for the Ministry of Education, and some even whisper that this is merely a branch of the Obsidian Order, but there have been no foundation to these claims.
The ''Te'alakesh'' are arguably some of the most powerful Cardassians in the Union, for it is on their determination where a child will be placed for his future. Most ''Te'alakesh'' have great amounts of vesala as parents romance them for their child's placement. ''Te'alakesh'' work for the Ministry of Education, and some even whisper that this is merely a branch of the Obsidian Order, but there have been no foundation to these claims.


Once the ''Te'alakesh'' has identified a child's strengths and weaknesses, the child is assigned an advanced school most benefitting of their place in society, and sometimes that means that a lower-classed Cardassian will attend the finest schools through sponsorship. The ''Te'alakesh'' help the child by finding a sponsor. By showing prominent Cardassians their student's work and making suggestions to the right people, the ''Te'alakesh'' can obtain a sponsor for a promising child. Some ''Te'alakesh'' have even used their personal ''vesala'' to move lower-classed children to the ranks of the fit.  
Once the ''Te'alakesh'' has identified a child's strengths and weaknesses, the child is assigned an advanced school most benefiting of their place in society, and sometimes that means that a lower-classed Cardassian will attend the finest schools through sponsorship. The ''Te'alakesh'' help the child by finding a sponsor. By showing prominent Cardassians their student's work and making suggestions to the right people, the ''Te'alakesh'' can obtain a sponsor for a promising child. Some ''Te'alakesh'' have even used their personal ''vesala'' to move lower-classed children to the ranks of the fit.  


A sponsor is essentially putting his neck out on the chopping block for the pupil, as a sponsor is responsible for all actions that a student makes at her new school up until graduation. Should the student stumble, the sponsor will receive punishment and public humiliation. This makes sponsorship quite a commitment for both the student and the sponsor, but challenging the minds of the youth is something that most adult Cardassians enjoy doing. Once a Cardassian completes her advanced training years, the sponsorship ends and the sponsor is relieved of all responsibility for the young adult. Some dedicated sponsors will follow the career of the youth and watch over them, effectively becoming a patron to them.  
A sponsor is essentially putting his neck out on the chopping block for the pupil, as a sponsor is responsible for all actions that a student makes at her new school up until graduation. Should the student stumble, the sponsor will receive punishment and public humiliation. This makes sponsorship quite a commitment for both the student and the sponsor, but challenging the minds of the youth is something that most adult Cardassians enjoy doing. Once a Cardassian completes her advanced training years, the sponsorship ends and the sponsor is relieved of all responsibility for the young adult. Some dedicated sponsors will follow the career of the youth and watch over them, effectively becoming a patron to them.  
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Upon graduation, the student immediately joins the ranks of the rest of the Cardassian citizens in their duty to the state: mandatory military service for two years. After their military time is served, they join their place in Cardassian society.
Upon graduation, the student immediately joins the ranks of the rest of the Cardassian citizens in their duty to the state: mandatory military service for two years. After their military time is served, they join their place in Cardassian society.


==The justice system==
===The justice system===
Cardassian justice is swift and effective. The legal system both protects the Cardassian populace and shows them clearly that they are being protected. To Federation observers the system seems harsh and unfair because the accused is not permitted a defense and there is a significant possibility that innocent men and women might be punished. But to the Cardassians, the fate of a few innocents matters little when compared to justice for the Cardassian State and its people.
Cardassian justice is swift and effective. The legal system both protects the Cardassian populace and shows them clearly that they are being protected. To Federation observers the system seems harsh and unfair because the accused is not permitted a defense and there is a significant possibility that innocent men and women might be punished. But to the Cardassians, the fate of a few innocents matters little when compared to justice for the Cardassian State and its people.


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Military and political prisoners are often submitted to the same trial procedure. Such a prisoner may be offered a lenient sentence if he agrees to confess all his crimes during a trial. When the only alternative to accepting such humiliation is further torture, a prisoner might easily succumb. When the Cardassian populace see a Federation officer confess to war crimes against Cardassian soldiers or a leading dissident admit to crimes against the State, they will be certain of the absolute superiority of the Cardassian way.
Military and political prisoners are often submitted to the same trial procedure. Such a prisoner may be offered a lenient sentence if he agrees to confess all his crimes during a trial. When the only alternative to accepting such humiliation is further torture, a prisoner might easily succumb. When the Cardassian populace see a Federation officer confess to war crimes against Cardassian soldiers or a leading dissident admit to crimes against the State, they will be certain of the absolute superiority of the Cardassian way.


==Science==
===Science===
The purpose of Cardassian science is to serve the state. The Central Command controls all research and exploration. It dictates which sectors of space are to be explored. It decides which research projects can proceed and which are of no value to the State.
The purpose of Cardassian science is to serve the state. The Central Command controls all research and exploration. It dictates which sectors of space are to be explored. It decides which research projects can proceed and which are of no value to the State.


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Advances in medical science are brought about for military purposes. Surgical techniques are developed to assist injured troops and vaccines are developed to allow Cardassian forces to fight on alien worlds. The treatment of ordinary Cardassian citizens is not considered important enough to devote research to. In particular, attempts to prolong the average Cardassian lifespan are considered contrary to the needs of the already overpopulated State.
Advances in medical science are brought about for military purposes. Surgical techniques are developed to assist injured troops and vaccines are developed to allow Cardassian forces to fight on alien worlds. The treatment of ordinary Cardassian citizens is not considered important enough to devote research to. In particular, attempts to prolong the average Cardassian lifespan are considered contrary to the needs of the already overpopulated State.
===Before the Dominion War===
Unlike humans, Cardassians do not avoid or try to slow the aging process, instead welcoming old age and the power and wisdom it denotes. The education system implemented on Cardassia dictates that intellectual pursuits begin at the young age of 3 or 4. Every Cardassian is raised with an appreciation of fine arts and culture, though the government may not have always been so like-minded in its policies. Educational attainment is regarded as a major source of social status and the source of creativity in Cardassian society. The Cardassians are known for their photographic memories, while some even have the ability to resist a [[ma:Vulcan mind meld|Vulcan mind meld]].
Family is considered a Cardassian's greatest asset, with three or more generations in one home. However, orphans are outcasts and are forgotten.
Men, as well as women, may serve in the military, though it may be that only men are drafted.
Cardassians give their first molar to the Cardassian Bureau of Identification at age ten. ([[ma:DS9|DS9]]: ''[[ma:Tribunal|Tribunal]]'')
Cardassian society has the most rigid and, to the [[ma:United Federation of Planets|Federation]], incomprehensible of all legal systems. All suspects are guilty before even appearing in court, their sentence already spelled out - almost always death. No prisoner ever escapes the death penalty, and only very tempting incentives can change the sentence to a lifetime one in a labor camp. The criminal is given a [[ma:Conservator|Conservator]], equivalent to a public defender, only the Conservator is not supposed to win, but to prepare the criminal for a moving confession of guilt on the floor of the court. The accused is also permitted an advocate, the [[ma:Nestor|nestor]], to advise them during the trial. The [[ma:Chief Archon|Chief Archon]], or judge, of the court plays to a televised audience, her duty not to judge the prisoner's innocence or guilt, but rather to give an emphatic display of the futility of crime in Cardassia and reinforce the public's trust in the justice system.
===Post Dominion War===
After the Dominion War, Cardassian society changed profusely. Amongst other things, this can be attributed to the loss of life during the war and the influence of the Federation in their efforts to help the Cardassians rebuild.
While Orphans were previously regarded as outcasts, the sheer amount of parentless children after the war led to the establishment of state-funded children's homes. Adopting such children was, for almost two decades, allowed and welcomed. It did however alienate young Cardassians from their own culture, and young talent leaving Cardassia did not return there. To combat this, the Homeland Initiative was established, and by law, adoptions are now only possible inside Cardassia, or by a blood relative. <ref>[https://groups.google.com/g/sb118-ops/c/QZftiQ8IVUY/m/WaSZE8YFBgAJ "Judicial Proceedings (Pt.4)"], MSNPC Broca and Lt. JG[[Trovek Arys]], [[Starbase 118 Ops]], 239905.10</ref>
==Culture==
Before the Dominion War, all Cardassian citizens, whether they are soldiers or not, were expected to live or die for the [[Cardassian Union]]. During their lives, they were expected to serve the state selflessly in any manner they can, and at any time they were called upon. While this looked good on paper, most Cardassians served the state graciously out of one motivation: fear.
Over the shoulder of every Cardassian citizen was the [[Obsidian Order]], peering into their public and personal lives. It was said that a Cardassian cannot sit down to eat without the meal being duly noted, categorized and approved by the Obsidian Order. This was not an exaggeration; indeed, the Obsidian Order spied on its own citizenry with great alacrity, using every means at their disposal. Because of this invasion of privacy, few Cardassians living in the Union enjoyed civil liberties unless powerful friends protected them. Free speech was unheard of, as people had been known to disappear for voicing their opinions. The right to bear arms was denied the civilian citizenry unilaterally, though some civilians kept some sort of weaponry in their home illegally. Assembly of the citizenry (for any reason) without proper license was grounds for arrest. Communiqués were regularly tapped, mail opened, and homes bugged. People were paid handsomely for turning in their treasonous neighbors and could usually gain ''vesala'' by doing so. Families were encouraged to do the same; after all, dedication to the state should come before blood.
Citizens were free to establish businesses so long as they had the requisite approvals from the Ministry of Industrial Affairs. The private sector existed to serve the state, and the state-controlled commerce with an iron hand. The military was the largest consumer for these businesses, for without the military's patronage a business was sure to fail.
Cardassia today still expects dedication from its citizens, but no longer motivates them by fear.  Instead, young Cardassians are guided to explore their people's rich culture and history. To what extent matters such as freedom of speech apply to each citizen depends on the individual and their place in society. While students are encouraged to challenge and ask difficult questions, parents are still expected to raise their children with Cardassian norms and values. Cardassians with political or societal influence are closely monitored by the Cardassian Intelligence Bureau, the Obsidian Order's successor.<ref>[https://groups.google.com/g/sb118-ops/c/1bfmLbtBc6c/m/ZxkyVj1jDQAJ "Lucky"], [[Ferri Emlott]], [[Starbase 118 Ops]], 239901.04</ref>
===Vesala===
Who you know, not what you know, is one of the most important factors for getting along in Cardassian society. A Cardassian's elaborate elaborate network of contacts and favors is of prime importance to them. This network is know as ''vesala''. ''Vesala'' is used like a currency or commodity; favors are traded back and forth among members of Cardassian society for personal or political gain. This is a sort of informal stock exchange of name-dropping and favor swapping that gives a Cardassian personal power over other Cardassians.
Everything on Cardassia is available for a price. ''Vesala'' can be used to purchase promotions, political offices, titles and benefits. It is because of this that a Cardassian does not use his ''vesala'' lightly. Calling in too many favors at one time will deplete the resources, and could hinder dealings in the future. Some Cardassians perform favor after favor and rarely call their own, thus accumulating vast amounts of ''vesala'' for use in one fell swoop. One of the few things that cannot be bought with ''vesala'' is a Cardassian's social standing.
It does not matter that a Cardassian has never worked with the individual they are asking a favor from; such 'blind favors' are made all the time. Reputation means more than acquaintance. If a Cardassian is known as someone who does not repay in kind, their name will start to circulate as being untrustworthy and favors will be hard to call in. But be sure the provider can actually perform the requested favor. If they have to go through someone else, the cost in ''vesala'' can skyrocket.
===Family===
Cardassian families are tightly knit. Usually, parents will have between three and ten children, and sometimes more. An only child is an anomalous occurrence. Families live together in the Cardassian household, with the father being the head of the house. It is not uncommon for the family unit to be extended from unmarried aunts and uncles to grandfathers and grandmothers, all living together in the same household. The Cardassian people venerate age, and elder Cardassians are seen as wise to the ways of the universe.
Cardassian families share in the disgrace of one of their members; therefore much pressure is put on the individuals to uphold the family name. If a family member stumbles, much effort is put into concealing the fact from the powers that be. If concealment cannot be achieved or the action is quite dastardly, then the member is usually ostracized by the family and turned into a pariah. Usually the member will accept this disgrace to avoid having his family disgraced in his name.
Divorce is uncommon among the Cardassians, except in cases where the acts of the husband or wife would bring disgrace unto the house as a whole. Generally two Cardassians who marry will do so for life, however a certain amount of philandering is almost expected by the males of the species. While this is frowned upon by society, the people tend to turn a blind eye toward this type of behavior among the males. The female Cardassians do not enjoy this privilege, as they can be outcast for such loose moral character. A disgraced woman carries a heavy social burden.
Cardassian mating is different from other species, and sometimes those differences are very misunderstood by outsiders. A potential mate indicates interest by expressing a bickering, almost belligerent attitude. This bickering has caused more than one interstellar snafu as misunderstanding spring from hot debates between diplomats. Fertility is of paramount importance, as a mate that cannot bear children is shamed. Men prefer spirited women, and the females of the species tend to prefer strong, dominant males.
===Vainúvah===
A Vainúvah <ref>[https://groups.google.com/g/sb118-ops/c/oxtWK3WktQI/m/Pmg0XI0JAwAJ "Vainúvah"], Dalin [[Lukin Zorkal]], [[Starbase 118 Ops]], 239711.25</ref> is one who has taken an oath to act as a protector toward another, called the Vainúvahim<ref>[https://groups.google.com/g/sb118-ops/c/oHCy7EBx__0/m/vQzooyuvAAAJ "What Would You Ask Of Me?"], Dalin [[Lukin Zorkal]], [[Starbase 118 Ops]], 239712.06</ref>.  The origins of the practise have been lost to the ages, the earliest writings already referring to it as a practise that had been established and ingrained in Cardassian culture. 
Such an oath is taken extremely seriously, and the Vainúvah is bound for life, unless the Vainúvahim grants a release or one of them dies.  In the case of children, the closest equivalent of a Vainúvah is the Terran concept of ‘godparent’.  Although orphans are generally considered outcasts, any orphaned child who has a Vainúvah is immediately adopted into the family and treated as if offspring by birth - though such an occurrence is rare.  In this way <i>only</i> is a parentless child still considered part of society. 
The Vainúvah ritual usually consists of Vainúvah him or herself, the Vainúvahim, and at least two witnesses.  A vow is taken and a dagger is used to slice the palm of the Vainúvah.  The Vainúvah then writes his or her name upon the forehead of the Vainúvahim in the blood.  Should the Vainúvahim not be present, the same vow may be taken by writing the Vainúvahim’s name upon a piece of parchment with the blood.  This ritual is incorporated in some Cardassian weddings, as part of the vows taken are that of protecting one another.
===Shri-tal===
The shri-tal <ref>[https://groups.google.com/g/sb118-ops/c/QZftiQ8IVUY/m/WaSZE8YFBgAJ "In Sickness and Health (Pt.2)"], Dalin [[Lukin Zorkal]] and Lt. JG [[Trovek Arys]], [[Starbase 118 Ops]], 239901.10</ref> is a ritual that is carried out when a person is about to die. The tradition involves a dying Cardassian revealing their closely guarded secrets to a family member, partner or friend.
===Enjoinment===
The Enjoinment is the Cardassian equivalent to a marriage, and often planned years before the actual ceremony takes place. Instrumental to the proceedings is a contract that details living-arragements, an expected number of children, and other aspects of married life, and is meant to clear up questions before the actual enjoinment, which allows the relationship to be efficient and collaborative. An enjoinment ceremony must consists of registering a family unit, but may include several ancient rituals. <ref>[https://groups.google.com/g/sb118-ops/c/ZxoloF9ch_A/m/ih9HVfYRBQAJ "A bigger bed"], [[Trovek Arys]], [[Starbase 118 Ops]], 239905.21</ref>
===Arts===
The Cardassian people consider the arts to be less important than many other races do. In the resource-hungry society of Cardassia, where starvation and need are recent memories, literature, poetry and sculpture are of secondary importance. A career as an artist is considered slightly shameful in a culture whose essence is duty and service.
The Cardassian State keeps a tight reign on its artists. It recognizes that art can be a powerful motivational force. Only state sanctioned writers can be published. Only the work of state sanctioned painters and sculptors may be exhibited, and only in state-run galleries. Each individual work must undergo a long and involved approval process by the Ministry of Arts before publication or exhibition.
Literature is the most popular art form amongst the Cardassian populace and so it has the most restricted guidelines. Permitted books must actively promote Cardassian ideology or discredit Cardassia's enemies. Epics such as ''The Never Ending Sacrifice'', which describes the service of seven generations of a family to Cardassia, are favorites amongst Cardassian readers. These books are even preferred above tales of valorous Cardassian officers defeating the schemes of dastardly Starfleet officers bent on destroying the Union with their corrupt ideals of democracy and individuality.
While fairly unpopular before the war, in recent years the tales of ''Mitakut'', a wild hybrid hound that roamed the mountains in Cardassia, gained traction. The books are well-known to almost every child in the Cardassian Union. <ref>[https://groups.google.com/g/sb118-ops/c/V0ExEkmqvJY/m/iIMqc18PBQAJ "Change is Hard"], Dalin [[Lukin Zorkal]], [[Starbase 118 Ops]], 239905.19</ref><ref>[https://groups.google.com/g/sb118-ops/c/6drjjO6kZ0U/m/w60uVQbkAAAJ "Happy Place Pt. 4"], [[Ferri Emlott]], [[Starbase 118 Ops]], 239906.25</ref>
Cardassians who travel and the upper classes have access to non-Cardassian literature. Dante's ''Inferno'', Tolstoy's ''War and Peace'', K'Ratak's ''The Dream of the Fire'' are all highly regarded works. The Cardassians appreciate Shakespeare's dramas but despise the comedies - particularly ''Romeo and Juliet'', in which the two lovers chose love over family.
The visual arts - painting, sculpture and holo-photography - are not highly regarded by the general populace. Spending time admiring such works is considered wasteful. There are only a handful of galleries on Cardassia prime, all of which are filled with depictions of family life and Cardassians at war. Cardassia IV maintains a museum of Hebitian works that have not been sold off in the past, such as the bone carvings from the First Hebitian period.
Many Cardassians express themselves artistically in the privacy of their homes and only their friends and family ever view their work. The practical mentality of Cardassians means that many use crafts as a creative outlet. Elaborately carved furniture or highly decorated potteries are more appreciated than ''objects d'art'' by many Cardassians.
The underground movement attracts artists of all varieties who seek freedom of expression. Writers' work is distributed through the organization. Members of the movement hold secret exhibitions and readings. But this is not without risk; the labor camps on Cardassia IV are filled with writers whose work criticizes the government. These artists experienced unprecedented freedom during the rule of the Detapa council. For eighteen months in 2371-2372, a large number of previously banned books were printed, satirical cartoons were published and plays were performed that openly criticized the Cardassian State and way of life. This halcyon era ended abruptly when the Cardassian Union joined the [[Dominion]]. The Jem'hadar visited those writers, satirists and actors who did not flee quickly enough.
===Cuisine===
Mealtimes are of great importance to Cardassians. Traditionally, the main meal of the day was a time for the whole family to sit down together. In modern times, the evening meal is still considered a time for family, even if modern lifestyles make it more difficult for the family to eat together. A meal is just as important to lone Cardassians or those away from their family, they will never take work to their meal table; a meal should be a time for conversation amongst friends or intellectual discussion between comrades.
To a Cardassian, a meal is not just food to be consumed; it is a feast of color and artistry. The laying of the table, the color of the dishes and the shape of the kanar bottle are all as important as the food itself. Even a simple act, such as pouring a glass of wine, is savored. Typically a Cardassian will pause to admire the color of the drink before pouring it. Perhaps he will even caress the elaborate spiral bottle before lifting the glass and savoring the aroma. Only then will he take his first sip.
Food is also used as a symbol of power. With whom you share your table is a measure of status on Cardassia. If a powerful Cardassian eats alone, he is stating that he considers no one else is his equal. During the occupation of Bajor, 'comfort women' taken from refugee camps were rewarded with the promise that their families would be well fed.
On the surface the Cardassian approach to food makes them seem like an over-indulgent species, but an examination of recent history shows there are more concrete reasons. When drastic food and resource shortages brought about a revolution, the new military government plundered Cardassia's artistic and archaeological treasures to fulfill their promise to put food on every Cardassian's plate. With much of Cardassia's great art gone and a government that restricted new art, the Cardassians established a new form of artistic appreciation through their food and mealtime rituals.
Cardassians are omnivores, though many of their dishes are meat or egg based. These are generally cooked. Meat dishes include Sem'hal stew and zabo meat steak, both of which are enjoyed by non-Cardassians. Taspar eggs and Regova eggs can be prepared in a number of ways, similar to Terran chicken eggs. Many dishes are flavored with yamok sauce, a condiment that is found on every meal table in the Cardassian Union. Hot fish juice, a broth-like drink, is highly favored for breakfast.
Kanar is the Cardassian spirit of choice. It comes in several varieties; it can be similar to whiskey, wine or liqueur. It is highly intoxicating and the strong taste takes some getting used to.
In recent years kanar has proved popular outside the Cardassian Union, but the Dominion War has made it as difficult to find as Romulan Ale in the twenty-fourth century. Kanar has a tendency to spoil, so keeping a supply on-hand is difficult for bartenders outside the Union.
==Customs==
==Technology==
==Military==
==Starfleet Intelligence Files==


==Credits==
==Credits==
Much of this text is taken from The Cardassian Sourcebook, edited by Kevin Thomas. Written by Tim Cooke, Jon Crew, Steve Kenson, Eric Rush, Guy Schipp, Paul Sinclair, Alexander Skrabut, Gregory J. Smith and Kevin Thomas.
Much of this text is taken from The Cardassian Sourcebook, edited by Kevin Thomas. Written by Tim Cooke, Jon Crew, Steve Kenson, Eric Rush, Guy Schipp, Paul Sinclair, Alexander Skrabut, Gregory J. Smith and Kevin Thomas.
{{References}}


[[Category:Intelligent Lifeform Index Species]]
[[Category:Intelligent Lifeform Index Species]]
[[Category:Restricted]]
[[Category:Restricted]]
[[Category:Cardassians]]
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