Grounders
Survivors of the apocalypse who reclaimed Earth from the ashes.
While the Ark survivors looked down from orbit, these people rebuilt civilization amidst the ruins of the old world, developing distinct cultures and languages across North America. Originally labeled by returning Sky People as a derogatory term for those living below, the name eventually became accepted. They represent the indigenous population of the post-war Earth, often serving as both antagonists and allies to the characters descending from space.
- First Seen
- Season 1, Episode 4
Lore & Background
Decades after the bombs fell, survivors emerged from bunkers and underground shelters to reclaim the land. They fragmented into twelve clans, each governed by its own leader but unified under a Commander chosen from the bloodline of Becca. This hierarchy was maintained through the Flame, created by Becca Franko about 97 years before the show, symbolizing authority and peace among the tribes. Their society is built on oral tradition and strict codes of honor, particularly regarding blood debt and sacrifice. The Grounders developed their own language, Trigedasleng, which blends English roots with new phonetics suited for survival communication. Over time, their relationship with the Sky People shifted from open warfare to uneasy alliances as greater threats like the Mountain Men and nuclear fire forced cooperation.
In Their Own Story
The sun dipped below the treeline, casting long shadows over the wooden palisade. Kiera tightened her grip on the spear, her eyes scanning the perimeter where the forest met the open field. Smoke curled from the central fire pit, carrying the scent of roasted roots and wet earth. She could hear the low murmur of Trigedasleng drifting from the huts behind her, a language born of survival and silence. Tonight was quiet, but the memory of the sky-people hanging on ropes remained fresh in the village's collective memory. She touched the scar on her cheek, a reminder that peace is often just a pause between battles.
Reader's Guide
The Grounders operate under a decentralized hierarchy led by a Commander who holds the Flame. This artifact symbolizes unity among the twelve clans, each ruling specific territories across North America. Leadership is earned through combat and lineage, with the Commander chosen from the bloodline of Ares. Their primary goal shifted over time from isolation to survival against external threats like the Mountain Men or nuclear fire. Initially hostile toward Sky People returning from orbit, they viewed them as invaders stealing resources. However, alliances formed when common enemies emerged, particularly during Wanheda's War and later conflicts involving Sanctum City. Beliefs center on Ares, the god of war, and strict codes of honor regarding blood debt and sacrifice. While early interactions were violent, later seasons show integration between Sky People and Grounder clans as they rebuild civilization together against Praimfaya and other existential dangers. Leaders like Lexa and Indra defined eras of peace and war respectively.
Did You Know?
- The term 'Grounder' was originally used by Ark survivors to describe Earth dwellers before being adopted widely.
- Trigedasleng is a constructed language created specifically for the show, blending English with other influences.
- The Commander of the Grounders was a mortal spiritual leader, not literally immortal.
- Many Grounder settlements were built on top of ruins from the pre-apocalyptic United States.