Ranking the Power of Westeros' Nine Lands: A Comprehensive Overview

Ranking the power of the nine regions of Westeros might seem subjective, but considering factors like military strength, resources, political influence, and the loyalty of bannermen, this analysis aims to provide a general ranking based on the A Song of Ice and Fire series. Let's delve into each region, discussing their power and the number of bannermen they have.

The North: Power and Bannermen

Power: Very high. The North, with its vast expanse, rich resources, and loyal bannermen, is a formidable force. The region's power is bolstered by its strategic significance.

Bannermen: Contains Houses Stark, Manderly, Umber, Karstark, Flint, and Tallhart, among others. Historically, the North has been cited to have around 20 major houses.

The Vale of Arryn: Power and Bannermen

Power: High. The Vale is known for its strong fortifications and loyal bannermen, contributing to its high power status.

Bannermen: Includes Houses Arryn, Redwyne, Waynwood, Grafton, and others. The Vale typically has around 10 major houses.

The Riverlands: Power and Bannermen

Power: Moderate to high. The Riverlands are strategically important but fragmented, affecting their power ranking.

Bannermen: Contains Houses Tully, Blackwood, Bracken, and Frey, among others. The Riverlands generally have around 15 major houses.

The Reach: Power and Bannermen

Power: High. Due to its wealth, fertility, and a strong military, the Reach is a significant power in Westeros.

Bannermen: Includes Houses Tyrell, Hightower, Oakheart, and Redwyne, among others. The Reach has around 20 major houses.

The Stormlands: Power and Bannermen

Power: Moderate. Known for its strong navy and resources, the Stormlands hold a position of moderate power.

Bannermen: Contains Houses Baratheon, Dondarrion, and Caron, among others. The Stormlands typically have around 10 major houses.

Dorne: Power and Bannermen

Power: Moderate. Dorne is unique for its culture and fierce independence, which contributes to its moderate power status.

Bannermen: Includes Houses Martell, Dayne, Yironwood, and Oakheart, among others. Dorne typically has around 10 major houses.

The Crownlands: Power and Bannermen

Power: Moderate to high. The Crownlands, including King's Landing, significantly contribute to the region's power.

Bannermen: Contains Houses Baratheon, Velaryon, Hightower, and influence of others. The Crownlands usually have around 5 to 10 major houses.

The Iron Islands: Power and Bannermen

Power: Low to moderate. The Iron Islands are known for their prowess in raiding but are limited in other resources and thus have lower power.

Bannermen: Includes Houses Greyjoy, Harlaw, and Orkwood, among others. The Iron Islands conventionally have around 5 major houses.

The Westerlands: Power and Bannermen

Power: High. The wealth from the gold mines of the Westerlands plays a significant role in its power, though it is politically fragmented.

Bannermen: Contains Houses Lannister, Frey, Crakehall, and Oakheart, among others. The Westerlands generally have around 10 major houses.

Summary of Power Rankings and Bannermen

The rankings can shift based on political dynamics, alliances, and the events that unfold throughout the series. The number of bannermen can vary depending on the source and the time period within the story. For instance, major shifts in political power, alliances, and conflicts can lead to significant changes in the relative power of these regions.

Overall, a combination of military strength, resources, political influence, and bannermen loyalty determine the power rankings of the nine lands of Westeros, making this region one of the most intriguing and dynamic settings in literature.

*Note: For more detailed information and latest updates on Westeros' power dynamics, refer to the A Song of Ice and Fire series and official adaptations.