=======The Expansion=======

====Historical changes====

When humanity finally broke free from the confines of [[Earth]] and established consistent extraterrestrial logistic chains, our species naturally began with the colonization of the [[Moon]] and [[Mars]], followed by ventures into the asteroid belt. However, it quickly became apparent that full-scale planetary projects were immensely complex and resource-intensive. This realization prompted a shift in focus towards the construction of space stations. By the early 22nd century, a significant milestone was reached: one-tenth of all newborn babies were born in space.

These space habitats were strategically positioned near planets or asteroid fields to ensure proximity to essential resources. This approach allowed for more efficient resource extraction and utilization, crucial for sustaining the growing off-world population.

After centuries of scientific pursuit and technological advancement, humanity achieved a breakthrough that had long been the stuff of science fiction: the ability to "pierce spacetime" and travel to other solar systems. This monumental achievement marked only the beginning of a new era of exploration and expansion.

====Technological progress====

Soon after, scientists and engineers conceived of the revolutionary [[Gate]] technology. The [[Gate]] allowed for the creation of stable wormholes, enabling near-instantaneous travel between distant points in space. The relatively low cost of maintaining these [[Gate]]s opened up possibilities for building logistical routes to even the farthest reaches of known space at minimal expense, fundamentally changing the economics of space travel and colonization.

It was during this transformative period that the concept of the Expansion began to take shape. The underlying philosophy was simple yet profound: the Milky Way is vast and rich in resources, and expansion has been a fundamental aspect of biological life, particularly human civilization, throughout history. The question arose: why resist this seemingly natural goal?

====The formation====

This powerful idea formed the foundation of the Expansion ideology, which swiftly gained dominance in human society. It posited endless expansion as a solution to many of humanity's persistent challenges. Resource scarcity could be addressed by colonizing new solar systems. Economic opportunities abounded at the frontier of expansion. Even social inequality could potentially be mitigated by the promise of new beginnings on distant worlds, where untapped resources offered the possibility of rapid social mobility.

The Expansion ideology proved particularly potent due to the extreme atomization of human society. The weakening of traditional institutions such as family and friendship, a process that had begun during the Information Age and accelerated through the Space Age, allowed individuals to migrate across vast distances without significant social costs. This societal shift complemented the technological advancements that made such migration physically possible.

Humanity embarked on an unprecedented colonization spree, which continues to this day. The scope of human influence expanded rapidly, encompassing an ever-growing number of star systems, bringing the Expanse further and further.