The Future of the Wildlings: Resettlement and Development Beyond the Wall

The journey of the Wildlings after the defeat of the Night King and the impending end of siege from the Army of the Dead is nearing completion. What lies ahead for these nomadic people? Will they immediately establish cities or resettle in their historical lands with some modern twists? This article explores the likely scenarios and their implications for the future of the Wildlings beyond the Wall.

Resettlement and Agricultural Development

Given the harsh conditions of the lands north of the Wall, it’s unlikely that the Wildlings will start building cities immediately. The harsh winters, limited resources, and general unsuitability for immediate urbanization suggest that a phased resettlement and development plan would be more practical. Initially, the focus would be on agricultural development, housing construction, and the establishment of basic infrastructure.

Under the guidance of Jon Snow, who brings with him both education and combat experience, the Wildlings are likely to embrace a civilizing process. Jon Snow might advocate for a more structured way of life, encouraging the Wildlings to transition from their traditional nomadic ways to the formation of settled communities and the cultivation of crops. This transition will not only stabilize their population but also begin to build the foundations of new cities and towns under his direction.

Establishment of Modern Governance

As the Wildlings settle, the establishment of a new form of governance will be paramount. The new region beyond the Wall will likely operate as a self-governing area that is independent from the traditional feudal structures seen in the Seven Kingdoms. This region will be a unique entity, where no one is required to “bend the knee,” and where a system of representation and administration is more likely to emerge.

The North’s independence, with Sansa Stark’s buffer kingdom in the thick of it, will provide a significant buffer between the Wildlings and potential threats. Additionally, Bran the Broken, with his lineage and influence, will likely play a crucial role in assisting the Wildlings in their transition to a more structured society. The centralization of power may mirror the representative systems found in the Seven Kingdoms, but it will be adapted to fit the unique needs and experiences of the Wildlings.

Long-term Vision and Trade

In the long term, the Wildlings are expected to develop a more advanced civilization. Having experienced the sophistication of southern ways, the Wildlings are likely to be inspired to emulate this progress, albeit within the constraints of their northern environment. The experience gained while living south of the Wall, interacting with more sophisticated societies, will undoubtedly influence their future development.

Trade is also expected to play a critical role. The lands north of the Wall, while harsh, still hold resources that could be of immense value to the Seven Kingdoms and beyond. The development of a trade system, allowing the Wildlings to pass beyond the Wall when necessary, will facilitate the exchange of goods, knowledge, and ideas. This trade will not only benefit the Wildlings but will also stabilize the region and foster better relations with the southern kingdoms.

Security and Relations

The security and stability of the region beyond the Wall will be of primary concern. With the immediate threat from the Night King and his army gone, the Wildlings can now focus on rebuilding and securing their new lands. Jonathan Argent, also known as Jon Snow, will likely play a central role in maintaining good relations with both Castle Black and the Kingdom of the North. The land north of the Wall will no longer be seen as a barrier, but rather as a new frontier of opportunity and collaboration.

The buffer Kingdom of the North, led by Sansa Stark, will act as a safeguard, ensuring that the Wildlings can live peacefully without the fear of invasion. This independence will allow the Wildlings to develop their own governmental structure, free from the authoritarian control of the Old King. The security and governance of this new region will be a priority, ensuring that the Wildlings can thrive and establish a new normal for themselves.

In conclusion, the future of the Wildlings beyond the Wall is one of resettlement, agricultural development, and the establishment of a new governance system. With Jon Snow’s guidance and the support of key figures like Bran the Broken and Sansa Stark, these nomadic people are poised to take significant strides toward a more advanced and structured society. The region beyond the Wall will become a new and unique entity, operating independently yet in close cooperation with its southern neighbors.