10 Most Powerful Star Wars Characters Who Aren't Force Users

Imperial officers are a mixed bunch; some, like Admiral Ozzel were on the wrong side of incompetent, but others had the right combination of intelligence and ruthlessness to sit right at the top of the pile, and none sat higher than Wilhuff Tarkin. Originally an officer in the Republic Navy, Tarkin was one of Palpatine's most ardent supporters, working to reduce the Jedi's role in military matters. When Palpatine formed the Empire, Tarkin was ready and waiting to serve him in a higher office.

By the time of A New Hope, Tarkin had risen in the political ranks of the Empire to become a Grand Moff, exerting his harsh control over the Outer Rim as he built his superweapon in secret. Tarkin was known for getting things done at any cost, and he was one of the Emperor's favourite officers, which gave him several privileges not afforded to other Imperials. He even had the authority to boss Vader around, stopping him from force choking Admiral Motti. Not many could have gotten away with that. If Tarkin had one weakness it was overconfidence, which would lead to the eventual destruction of the Death Star and him along with it.