Overview
This transcript details the origins, histories, and distinguishing features of the 17 second founding Space Marine chapters derived from the Ultramarines after the Horus Heresy in Warhammer 40,000 lore, highlighting their organization, traditions, combat specialties, and notable events.
Background of the Second Founding
- Ultramarines Primarch Roboute Guilliman authored the Codex Astartes to reorganize the Space Marine legions into smaller chapters.
- The second founding split the nine loyalist legions into chapters, each typically containing no more than 1,000 Space Marines.
- Ultramarines produced the most successor chapters due to their large size.
Ultramarines Chapter
- Retained most gear, vehicles, ships, home planet Macragge, and the Empire of Ultramar.
- Maintained strong influence and coordination with successor chapters.
Aurora Chapter
- Originated as the Legion's fourth chapter; became independent after the Heresy.
- Specializes in heavy mechanized warfare and tank assaults.
Black Consuls
- Known for strict adherence to doctrine; originally fleet-based from Noctis Obscurum.
- Nearly destroyed during the siege of Godith Hive but rebuilt with Primaris reinforcements.
- Now specialize in drop pod assaults and guard the Eye of Terror.
Doom Eagles
- Distinct for a dour philosophy centered on ever-present death.
- Highly regarded and appointed as one of Ultramar's 10 Shield chapters.
- Specialize in jump pack assault warfare.
Eagle Warriors
- Maintain a fleet-based structure; marked by an incident involving the loss of an entire company to the Flesh Tearers.
- Adhere closely to Codex Astartes and lack major historical distinctions.
Genesis Chapter
- Formed from Heresy veterans; acts closely with parent Ultramarines.
- Garrison New Found near Ultramar; maintain auxiliary human military support.
Inceptors
- Notable mainly for being destroyed during a conflict with the Doom Warriors after the Makarian Heresy.
- Possible remnants may rebuild using Primaris recruits.
Iron Snakes
- Unique organization: squads named after first sergeants rather than companies.
- Specialize in infantry, spear combat, and use of combat dogs.
Libators
- Known primarily for post-battle blood rituals considered unorthodox and censured by Ultramarines.
- Emphasize brutal, efficient combat.
Mortifactors
- Adopt macabre traditions: skull-adorned helmets and fortress decorations.
- Suffered devastating losses but continue to serve in imperial conflicts.
Nemesis Chapter
- Formed from destroyer squads employing banned weaponry.
- Continue scorched earth tactics; active in extermination campaigns.
Nova Marines
- One of the 10 Shield chapters; quartered blue and bone armor.
- Eminent in major conflicts; maintain codex compliance with minor cultural deviations.
Patriarchs of Ulix
- Closely mirror Ultramarines, known for veteran marksmen and fencers.
- Serve as honor guards and elite units for other chapters.
Praetors of Orpheus
- Act as wardens of Orpheus Prime, noted for technological expertise nearly rivaling the Adeptus Mechanicus.
Silver Eagles
- Little is recorded beyond suffering severe losses during the liberation of Calva Senores.
- Current status unknown.
Silver Skulls
- Recognized for ritual tattooing, honoring the dead, and taking enemies' heads as trophies.
- Once investigated for genetic lineage but affirmed as Ultramarine successors; now a Shield chapter.
White Consuls
- Stationed far from Ultramar; unique for having two chapter masters and active Emperor worship.
- Nearly wiped out during the 13th Black Crusade and loss of homeworld; currently rebuilding.
Final Notes
- Some successor chapters are rarely acknowledged due to shifting records and ongoing conflicts across millennia.
- Comprehensive lists are challenging as chapter status evolves over time.