Trikru Territory
The Tree People's ancestral home, forged in fire and ultimately consumed by the flames of Praimfaya.
Trikru Territory refers to the ancestral homeland of the Grounders known as Trikru, meaning 'People of the Tree' in their native tongue. Originally centered around the dense forests and valleys of the eastern seaboard, this region served as the primary stage for early encounters between the Sky People and the surface dwellers, though first contact occurred near the dropship with a Grounder scout. As the series progresses, the territory expands and shifts, but it was largely destroyed by the Praimfaya firestorm, forcing survivors to migrate elsewhere rather than becoming a fortified stronghold against it or against Sanctum, which is a moon of Alpha and never threatened Earth-based Trikru territory.
- Affiliation
- Trigedasleng-speaking Grounders (Trikru)
- Key Leaders
- Lexa, Indra
- Primary Settlements
- Polis, Tondc, various forest villages
- First Appearance
- Season 1
- Status
- Active/Rebuilt
- Significance
- Site of early Sky-Grounder encounters and central Grounder culture
Lore & Background
The territory's most defining moment occurred when the residents of Mount Weather, descendants of pre-war bunker dwellers known as Mountain Men, harvested Grounder blood for radiation resistance, sparking a brutal war between the Mountain Men and the Grounder coalition. This conflict devastated Trikru society, with many killed in the attacks. Following the destruction of Mount Weather and the eventual death of Lexa, the territory's borders became fluid as survivors migrated toward the Second Dawn bunker or Shallow Valley, adapting their culture to survive the harsh new climate brought by nuclear meltdowns.
In Their Own Story
The wind howls through the valley, carrying the scent of ash and damp earth. A Trikru warrior stands atop a ridge, scanning the horizon where the trees once grew thick but now stand as skeletal reminders of Praimfaya. Below, the ruins of Mount Weather loom like a graveyard of steel, silent witnesses to the blood spilled for freedom. The warrior touches the amulet at their throat, feeling the pulse of the land beneath their boots. They are no longer just people of the mountain; they are survivors of the fire, guardians of a new world where the old borders mean nothing, and only strength keeps the darkness at bay.
Reader's Guide
The geography of Trikru Territory is dominated by rugged mountain ranges and deep valleys, providing natural fortifications against invaders. The climate was initially temperate but shifted drastically after the solar flare, becoming arid and hostile with frequent dust storms. Key resources include fresh water sources hidden in caves, fertile soil for limited agriculture, and abundant game, though these have dwindled over time. Culturally, the land is sacred to the Trikru, who believe the mountains house the spirits of their ancestors. Major settlements evolved from small clans to the fortified city of Polis, which served as the capital of the Coalition. After the firestorm, the territory's significance shifted toward the Sanctuary in the north, a location chosen for its protective dome and relative safety from radiation. Over time, the landscape transformed from a lush wilderness to a scarred wasteland, forcing the people to adapt their farming techniques and social structures. The ruins of Mount Weather remain a somber landmark, a reminder of the cost of survival and the enduring spirit of the Trikru.
Did You Know?
- The name 'Trikru' translates directly to 'People of the Tree' in Trigedasleng.
- Mount Weather was originally a pre-war bunker inhabited by the Mountain Men, who were enemies of the Grounders, not a Grounder stronghold.
- Lexa, the Commander of the Coalition, hailed from Trikru and unified twelve tribes under her leadership.
- The territory's borders shifted significantly after the Praimfaya firestorm forced mass migration.
Frequently Asked Questions
What defines Trikru Territory?
It refers to the ancestral lands of the People of Mountain, originally centered around Mount Weather and later expanding to include Polis. This region became the focal point for Grounder resistance and political organization throughout the series.
Who are the key leaders associated with Trikru Territory?
Prominent figures such as Roan, Lexa, and Indra served as Clansmen or commanders within this region before Abby Griffin took leadership during the Coalition era. Their governance evolved from tribal clans to a unified council structure based in Polis.
Why is Trikru Territory significant to The 100 storyline?
It marked the location of the first major conflict between the Ark survivors and the surface dwellers known as Grounders. As the primary stronghold for Trigedasleng speakers, it drove much of the show's political intrigue and survival efforts.
How does Trikru Territory evolve after Praimfaya?
Following the firestorm, survivors relocated to Sanctuary while maintaining their cultural ties to the original mountain homeland. The territory was eventually rebuilt as a fortified settlement capable of housing the merged populations.
What is the current status of Trikru Territory in canon?
The region remains active and reconstructed following the destruction caused by the Praimfaya firestorm and conflicts at Sanctuary. It stands as a testament to the resilience of the Grounders who survived the apocalypse on Earth.