I Legion 'Dark Angels': Origins & History (Warhammer & Horus Heresy Lore)

Being a record of the secretive and occluded First Legion, the Dark Angels of the Emperor of Mankind, pertaining to their origins in the Unificaiton Wars, conduct in the Great Crusade, and reunification with their primarch, Lion El'Jonson.
Support the channel on Patreon: / oculusimperia
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Thanks to the amazing Myles Eves for the new Patreon credits! Check out his work at myleseve.com/
Music: Missa Sicut lilium inter spinas by The Tudor Consort
This video is a non-profit fan-made lore discussion. Games Workshop, Forge World, Warhammer 40,000, Warhammer, Space Marine etc are all trademarks of Games Workshop Ltd. Games Workshop does not endorse or support fan-made "lore" videos. All views and opinions expressed in this video belong to Oculus Imperia and in no way reflect the views or opinions of Games Workshop Ltd or it's employees.
All works used in this video belong to their respective authors and corporations. Oculus Imperia holds no claim or propriety interest, either wholly or in part, in any of the work displayed here, with the exception of the audio commentary recorded for this video.

[@baldermort]

My condolences to you and all who knew Mari, the entire community here. A beautiful way to honour them. If you need to ever vent, you know my details. Use them.

[@natebean2524]

This Is why i love this community. More than any other, this one sticks together and supports each other. I came for Warhammer, im staying for the family.

[@baldermort]

Nate bean we are legion. :)

[@ChainsawDunDeez]

Well said Brother Boldermort, both in your words to Oculus... and faith in the Legion of lore masters and lore lovers out there in the world.

[@patrickmcabee123]

This community is what gives me hope. Much love, my web family 😇 Warm fuzzies for everyone hope..,hope such a thing, a word, but such a word.....

[@patrickmcabee123]

Baldermort's Guide to Warhammer Isn’t O.I. Classy..😇. I count him, you..., and a small handful of folks, treasures beyond measure. It’s such a beacon to see the “Balder” here. Be Well and peace brother, hope all is well.

[@riggaden4248]

Sorry for your loss Oculus.

[@firewolf4227]

Rest in peace Mari, sorry for your loss Oculus. May Mari fight beside The God Emperor of Mankind

[@nigen]

who was Mari?

[@OculusImperia]

He was one of my very first Patrons and a supporter of the channel from the very beginning. A truly wonderful human being of boundless energy and enthusiasm.

[@nigen]

@@OculusImperia I am sorry for your loss.

[@JeanLucCaptain]

only in death does lore end... OR DOES IT???

[@scaryfish91]

@@OculusImperia I am truly sorry for your loss, his spirit lives on within all of us who have the God Emperor in our hearts

[@TheJonnieredeyez]

That was a perfect minute of silence. RIP Mari

[@Phantasma3]

Prepare the way for us, Mari. We shall all sit at the Emperor's side together, one day. I'm a wounded warrior, Oculus. Broken old Iraq war vet. People like you and Uncle Baldermort have helped my crippled arse through some hard times. I am a patron, because I can never thank you guys enough. Ave, Imperator!

[@aunderiskerensky2304]

o7

[@God-hates_you]

Thank you for your service

[@billyelliot4141]

Semper Fidelous. U should see the other guy. 💪🇮🇪🍀

[@thetau4866]

Ave Imperator, Brother

[@DominusNox106]

Hail, brother. I too am a wounded warrior but thankfully I'm mostly intact. If you need a battle, know that I am at least here. HMU if you want. Love and peace to you and yours.

[@hunterdelta1585]

Condolences, Oculus, for Mari.

[@tylermckee5968]

RIP Mari. Liked before watching gang. Hydra Dominatus.

[@vitek2]

For context, I am the polar bear in the opening art. Mari was one of the kindest and most earnest souls I have ever encountered. He was among us since the earliest days of the channel and the weight of his loss cannot even begin to be expressed. Rest in peace Little Oculus

[@catalinmarius3985]

I am sorry for your loss, rest in peace. The fallen shall be forever remembered as the Emperor's finest.

[@TurKlack]

Hä? From the beginning I assumed Mari is a girl.-..no wait..who are you writing for right now? I'm sorry but I have absolutely no context about what happened so I would be happy if you'd tell. If not than that's ok too.

[@vitek2]

@@TurKlack Mari was one of the channel's first Patron donors. The art in the intro depicts the discord avatars of him, Oculus, and the rest of the initial circle.

[@gregfisher4147]

May both you, Oculus, and Mori be ever in The Emperor's favor. I don't know about other people, but your videos have helped me through some dark times. Thanks a lot for doing what you do. I know it might seem like you aren't seeing the fruits of your labor, but it is being felt on the community.

[@coreystockdale6287]

I can attest that like Mr Fisher your videos always bring a shine to my day and have helped me through quite a bit may all our loved ones rest in peace and those alive drink to their memory Ave Imperator

[@patrickdhamilton]

I never knew how far back the Dark Angels history went, or how delayed they were in being reunited with the Lion. I loved the detail at the end, about how Horus couldn’t manipulate or stop the first, only isolate and delay their retribution. Masterful. Requiescat in pace, Ave Imperator Mari.

[@missivory_missraine]

It was intended that the DA were sent to the far reaches at the end. Because out of all the legions, the First was the most efficient. And hours couldn't let that efficiency stop his invasion

[@eater_of_garbage_]

Horus' envy of the First extends even before his fall. In the Black Book 9: Crusade, its mentioned that Horus ensured the Lion was unable to make it to Ullanor, out of fear that he would receive far more honours than Horus

[@lolwtfbbq111]

Between Baldermort and yourself I feel like I've had the best 40k history lessons.

[@Tiglath-Pileser3]

Love the in character dig about the inconsistent writing that plagues both the legion and the Lion.

[@inquisitorgarza312]

The First Legion of the Emperor Angels of death, the Pride of the Lion, and the Knights of Caliban. They were the sword that cut through the Darkness of the Galaxy and were a fight force so great that once they found their Primarch they became second in the Rank of Warmaster. The First, the Dark Angels, the Knights of Caliban are what it means to be a Space Marine.

[@alyseleem2692]

Oh you would know,with all the secrets they keep from you😆

[@lordsherbert9789]

Just wanna say RIP Mari and you keep rolling, man. Been a big fan ever since I happened on your Night Lords vid. Looking forward to new AoS stuff!

[@IanBurns]

Ave Imperator Mari, may He Who Resides on the Golden Throne watch over you. And Condolences Oculus. Video wise: WOOT! 1st LEGION.

[@thewayfarer8849]

“I don’t kNOoOooWwww!” -Captured excerpt from the historitor hunting down 1st Legion information and being met with red tape, empty rooms, and a very large winking Astartes. Saved a TTS related joke as I saw this video coming, hyped. Also I'm sorry for the loss of your friend.

[@chrisnunez5899]

Glory be to the Imperium. The Historitor delivers again. Thank you, faithful servant. RIP to Mari.

[@Haemokinetic]

Judging by the comments, Mari sounded wonderful. I'm sorry for your loss, Oculus. Truly.

[@joseangelrodriguezpolanco634]

The Lion is back!! Ave Imperator! Gloria in Excelsis Terra!

[@markcoroneos7811]

The fallen shall be forever remembered as the emperor’s finest 😞

[@Matihood1]

Man, I had no idea the First had such a rich backstory prior to the finding of their primarch. I love these videos.

[@michaelking9818]

Thanks Mati

[@vampireforhire18]

I am listening to this twice back to back. The character of Oculus has such a believable understanding of who and what the Dark Angels chapter are. The evolution of your craft is a journey fraught with utter enjoyment. This is a wonderful dedication.

[@salizar2074]

Gonna need Asmodai on speed dial for this one... I've been waiting and hoping for this for a long, long time, and this plus Alfabusa's vid is just the chocolate covered cherry on top to a great day. Your skills as always far exceed exemplary, and I hope you continue the incredible work into the foreseeable future. I hope your friend rests easily.

[@Pantalaymo]

Sorry for your loss... And finally getting around to tell you how much I appreciate your videos. What you do is so much more than just reading down a wiki-page. There is a genuine creative effort behind your videos that drags me into a state of immersion even more than most of the games. The music, the delivery... While I enjoy many 40k-youtubers, your content genuinely stands out to me. Keep it up, you're doing an amazing job.

[@trentoskivich4211]

I've only recently discovered your channel but you've fast become one of my favourites with your obvious passion and care for 40k. Keep up the amazing work and I am very sorry for your loss, eventually we all must pass into the Emperor's light.

[@heathhooper3699]

This is a fantastic production. Having been a student of the I Legiones methods of war for nearly 20 years, I wholeheartedly approve.

[@omegavulture8379]

What is it to be dark angel? It is to be the first, the greatest, the sons of the Lion. When others doubt you, remember the primarchs own words; loyalty is its own reward.

[@husarz5907]

I'm sorry for your loss. I know how hard that can be. Rest in Peace, Mari.

[@Lucas-hk5pj]

Ive never listened to a narrator better than oculus

[@morlath4767]

My belated condolences to your loss for a friend and first patrron. I'm currently binging your series and this video really highlights why you're fantastic at this. As a 40K newbie, I literally read the wiki page of the Lion and the 1st a few hours before watching this video...and despite having all the details in my head, you bring those details to life.

[@benbrown9467]

My condolences. It is always hard when you like some one. I'm sure they would love how you are honoring them today. Your videos have been a big help for me over the last year. Thank you

[@DrKhallos]

I've been listening to a bunch of these recently and there's a running theme of "This legion cared not for imperial politics, they were secretive and revealed only what they wanted, and considered aloof by the rest of the imperium". Admittedly its been the Space Wolves, Thousand Sons and now the Dark Angels, but still :P

[@fingerboxes]

The legions: "I know it's a lot, the hair, the bod, when you're staring at a demigod. Well what can I say except you're welcome."

[@isaacfrost9250]

An hour and twenty mintues? I knew you'd do right by my boys when you got to them but damn, you weren't kidding when you said it would be worth the wait.

[@UR-025_STC]

I just discovered your channel - this is amazing!!!!!! Thx for all your hard work - so great to paint my Deathwing Termi's to.

[@Gandaug]

39:20 shows Lambert from Witcher 3 hanging out with the 1st Legion.

[@nimamarco3109]

Yeah that's him

[@aguspuig6615]

this one is definetly one of your best videos yet, up there with the nature of chaos and the pilgrimage to holy terra imo, plus its long so its even better

[@watcherofthewest8597]

These are awesome! I've never played Warhammer and the only thing I know about it is from this show and looking at the awesome miniatures in increasingly hard to find ships!

[@mpkisr]

Absolutely stunning work as always. Pure artistry

[@jakobschoning7355]

An amazing video, one of your best, or at least one of my favourites. A Great Tribute to your Friend, may he rest in peace

[@duanehicks6962]

Great video! I have always felt the Dark Angels represent what Space Marines are supposed to be like in the grimdark universe of 30K/40K--monastic, dead serious, and internally-conflicted with a knight-like aesthetic. The galaxy would have a bit too much melodrama (you know, the candles and tabards and secrecy) if all the Loyalist Legions were like them but to me they're exemplars of what the WH30K/40K Astartes are meant to be. If they were real, I would recommend they let their secret out and get counselling but since this is 30K/40K, keep 'em dark and brooding forever.

[@hades217]

“For had the sons of the Emperor not simply strode forth into Hell and left Hell broken and shattered by their passage?” Love that line. 18:22

[@MLaak86]

RIP Mori. I absolutely love this deep dive into the Lore of the Fighting First, it really puts them up there imo as one of the most interesting Legions on that front - even before the betrayal of about half the Legion, whichever half you think turned (lol).

[@PWizz91]

You deserve treble the subs, I'm pretty sure your page will blow up soon! This is really good work.. zero ads too, wow.

[@frankcz7672]

Rest in power Mari...

[@nicholascrick7861]

I am new to 40k and i just watched this and loved it. I just wanna know more about the dark angels

[@sarahpearson1504]

Wow Alfabusa and Oculus in one day? Did Christmas come early?

[@williamhare4456]

The strangest thing is. It has happened before.

[@Demonica2539]

And a Baldermort video as well! Truly a great day for 40k

[@SeeFue]

This narrative made me a fan of the Dark Angels.

[@jessegay49]

Talk about a LONG AWAITED record!! But it was WELL WORTH the wait!!!

[@youngimperialistmkii]

I have been waiting for this one for a long time. The first and greatest. Dark Angels.

[@Suomismg]

Fellow scholars, correct me if I am wrong, but does the Rangdan xenocide remind anyone of the Punic wars? An empire in the making, facing an enemy that is in some ways equal to it, so vast that it takes three campaigns to end it as a threat, culminating in event that sees them forever more lost to the winds of time?

[@evanennis196]

To date, this is your single best video

[@derrabbit7289]

Loved it! One of my favorite loyalists legions

[@thcdreams654]

Sorry for your loss and thanks for the great content as always

[@Restilia_ch]

Good work on the TTS episode, Oculus. Now that I know who you are in it, I can definitely tell it's your voice.

[@kingtonsiljockey528]

Sorry I'm late, just joined the channel but...Rest in peace, Mari. You paved the way for future fans to follow (as I have within this past year), and I am proud to be a part of this fanbase because of it. The Emperor smiles upon you, sister. May your inheritance live on with fury and glory

[@FoundingChambers]

Forever in the light of the emperor! And yessssssss I was so excited to see this upload!

[@stefanbrown467]

Well the intro made me cry.. so thanks for that I guess.

[@andromedafan]

Any one know where we could get a copy of the pre-unification map of terra used in this record, please and thank you.

[@Morriaphant]

Yeah that's a good map, the only one I've seen was the Hearts of Iron 4 Unification wars map. Which looks to be based on that map

[@midragga]

Bravo 👏👏👏👏 simply well done, I enjoy your labor in the fictional history of warhammer , especially in this instance from transition of the angels of death to the dark angels

[@uglyweirdo1389]

🔥 The way you capitalize His 🔥

[@dizzze]

Wtf u sayin ?

[@l7537]

Sorry for your loss. We’re here to support you.

[@chilliewhk]

RIP Mari. My deepest condolences dear scholar.

[@benbuurman254]

I love this new lore, they're basically the precursor to Grey Knights

[@theaveragegamer4995]

While i was not in any way familiar with Mari, still my condolences Oc

[@RSBurgener]

This is wonderful. I'm building a good old fashion homebrew successor chapter and all this detail is invaluable 👍

[@ThatCasper]

Boldermort told me to come. I am happy I did. Awesome stuff!

[@analysisparalysis2124]

I’ve been waiting for this!!!

[@chrisangus7078]

Brilliant as always

[@jeremybott4899]

I smiled when I saw the name of this post, then laughed aloud when I saw an hour 20 min. Fantastic as always.

[@johnphillips6515]

Another great video! My condolences on the loss of your friend.

[@exactinmidget92]

as someone that was in the army i can't wait for the Guard episode. shits going to be dope.

[@a.j.4076]

After the minute, all the hair in my body rose.

[@lucianaurelius2418]

About time you finished the legions!

[@squeesmyth9025]

love the shout out to Cú Chulainn !! love your vids such elegance , from your friendly neighbourhood Irish man

[@williampounds5191]

I don't know who Mari is but they were probably pretty rad to be so important to you and this channel.

[@TheTyrial86]

Reading a year later. RIP Mari. Good luck to you on your journey.

[@Nonameisback999]

I am so sorry for your loss, Oculus, please, be safe out there, man, we love you

[@bluebuda8170]

Your voice is so great man you're a great Storyteller love it keep it up

[@AP-kg9dz]

Starting day 6 of the first to latest crusade but here we go Also I wasn't aware of who she was but sorry for your loss.

[@aloyalspacemarine5761]

Condolences for the loss. The emperor knows their name.

[@brutalchaos92]

Huge fan for a long time, I normally watch your videos while I paint. Has there been any thought of putting out the audio as podcasts on Spotify?

[@martynjones3978]

A little late, but my condolences to you and that knew Mari!! ❤ That was a great way to remember them!!

[@maxxray3665]

Condolences brother man. Fitting you give a tribute for your friend, and do a video about loyalty and honor. Top marks oculus, top marks

[@michaellapalme1198]

Thank you for another one.

[@iainhansen1047]

Given the length of this record it seems this historian is a little bit biased towards this glorious chapter.

[@hunterdelta1585]

Or someone close to this historian wished to have this chapter covered properly

[@Jatischar]

Aehm, yes, yes a chapter. Just 1000 Battle Brothers. Of course.

[@iainhansen1047]

Jatischar BEGON SKAVEN!! I would recognize your speech pattern anywhere you foul rat!

[@michaeljameskeating1348]

So glad you mentioned "Cú Chulainn". he does not get enough credit in any references to lore or legend.

[@eliascaals1826]

loyalty is it's own reward. My condolences.

[@s1sherlock]

These videos are great.

[@jupiterjunk]

3:53 - Such a wise question to pontificate; even today.

[@markcoroneos7811]

I really love the way you write 😁 keep up the good work humble scholar

[@kerbal666]

Mr Oculus sir I very much appreciate you and everything you've done and you have just released a new video Just When I Needed You

[@feralprocessor9853]

Right off the bat, dedicated gathering for Mari.

[@hektorforever]

Requiescat in pace Mari. Fidelium animæ per misericordiam Dei requiescant in pace.

[@oxyuran5998]

That's hard... Sorry for your loss. I hope you can keep on going for the both of you.

[@outlawotter4324]

FINALLY! FOR THE LION!

[@wilky1189]

20:34 "The perilous political position of the early Imperium" is a damn good sentence

[@barrylucas8679]

Sorry for your loss, it feels as if we all have suffered a loss. It hurts to know a friend has lost a friend.

[@kharnthebetrayer1575]

Dark Angels fan since 2nd edition, and Grey Knights since the white dwarf.

[@Stimm002]

That was lovely, thanks for sharing your friendship, loss and continued loved for someone.

[@daveeol1987]

One of your best