What is the Old Name for the Blood Angels?
The Blood Angels, one of the most iconic and feared Space Marine Legions in the Warhammer 40k universe, have a rich history that dates back to the ancient times of the Imperium of Man. For centuries, they have been known as the IX Legion, but what was their name before they took on the moniker of the Blood Angels?
The Early Years
The Blood Angels, as we know them today, were formed during the Unification Wars, a period of great turmoil and conflict on Terra. The IX Legion was created by the Emperor of Mankind himself, and was led by the legendary Primarch Sanguinius. Sanguinius, the Angel of Death, was a powerful and charismatic leader who inspired loyalty and devotion in his followers.
The Name Change
According to the lore, the IX Legion was originally known as the Revenant Legion. This name reflects their early history as a legion of the Imperium, tasked with hunting down and destroying the remnants of the traitor legions that had turned against the Emperor. The name "Revenant" also has connotations of death and the afterlife, reflecting the legion’s role as the Emperor’s avenging angels.
The Fall of the IX Legion
As the Horus Heresy unfolded, the IX Legion, led by Sanguinius, remained loyal to the Emperor and fought against the traitor legions. However, despite their bravery and valour, they were ultimately defeated and Sanguinius was killed in combat. The legion was severely depleted and scattered, and many of its warriors were lost or corrupted by the darkness of Chaos.
The Legacy of the IX Legion
In the aftermath of the Heresy, the survivors of the IX Legion regrouped and reformed under the leadership of Azrael, a powerful and charismatic warrior who would become the Supreme Grand Master of the Dark Angels Chapter. The legion was renamed the Blood Angels, in honour of their fallen Primarch and their bloody history.
Why the Name Change?
The name change from the Revenant Legion to the Blood Angels reflects the legion’s new role as a Chapter of Space Marines, dedicated to hunting down and purging the Imperium of Chaos. The name "Blood Angels" also reflects the legion’s reputation for ferocity and bloodlust in battle, as well as their unwavering loyalty to the Emperor and their duty to protect humanity.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Blood Angels, as we know them today, were once known as the Revenant Legion, a name that reflects their early history as a legion of the Imperium and their role as the Emperor’s avenging angels. The name change to the Blood Angels reflects the legion’s new role as a Chapter of Space Marines, dedicated to hunting down and purging the Imperium of Chaos.