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What Is the Warhammer 40K Timeline?

The Warhammer 40K timeline spans tens of thousands of years of human and galactic history. Major eras include the Dark Age of Technology, the Age of Strife, the Great Crusade, and the Horus Heresy. The current setting takes place primarily in the late 41st millennium.

QUICK FACTS

ItemDetail
Early EraDark Age of Technology
CollapseAge of Strife
ExpansionGreat Crusade
Civil WarHorus Heresy
Current EraLate 41st Millennium

EXPLANATION

Human history in Warhammer 40K begins with advanced expansion during the Dark Age of Technology. This era ended in catastrophe during the Age of Strife, when Warp storms isolated human worlds. The Emperor later launched the Great Crusade to reunite humanity. The Horus Heresy then divided the Imperium and reshaped its structure. Ten thousand years later, the Imperium continues to fight for survival.

WHY IT MATTERS

The timeline provides the historical context for the conflicts and factions in Warhammer 40K. Many current political structures, military organizations, and rivalries originate from events that occurred thousands of years earlier.

RELATED LORE

What Is the Horus Heresy
What Is the Current Timeline of Warhammer 40K
When Did the Great Crusade Happen
What Is the Great Crusade
What Is the Dark Age of Technology
What Happened After the Horus Heresy

FAQ

When does Warhammer 40K take place?

Most stories occur around the 41st millennium.

What was the earliest major human era?

The Dark Age of Technology was the earliest advanced era of human civilization.

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Baron Von Vault Founder & Gaming Systems Analyst
Baron Von Vault is the founder of the Von Vault Network and creator of D4Dead, BorderlandsHQ, and 40KFAQ. He publishes research-driven analysis of action RPG and looter shooter systems, focusing on progression loops, class mechanics, and endgame design.
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