Ternian chimes in with part one detailing the ins and outs of the politics in Episode II, if you were wondering how it all fit together. There are definitely some spoilers in here, with the inclusion of a few new names of organizations as well. Read on in this part one of two, and remember never to trust politicians:

(highlight to read) On the spice Moons of Bogden, in the System of Naboo, the Mining Guild is beginning to cause trouble for the small Republic System. The Mining Guild has aligned itself to the Confederacy of Independent Systems; an alliance of corrupt Senators and greedy trade factions, secretly led by Count Dooku, former Jedi Master, to seperate the fragile Galactic Republic.

These trade factions and corrupt Senators have decided to meet on the large manufacturing planet of Geonosis. At a Conference table, Senator Amidala of the Sovereign System of Naboo, is challenged by these separists...

The Corporate Alliance is represented by Passel Argente and his aide Twink Kee. It's main aim is to bring Coruscant's businesses money through war profiteering.

The Trade Federation, led by Viceroy Nute Gunray, is seeking revenge for the upset Queen Amidala caused in the Invasion of Naboo. He is quite happy for the Mining Guild to cause trouble on the Bogden Moons. He has enlisted the help of the Archduke of Geonosis, Poggle the Lessor of the Techno Union, to construct a superior Battle Droid in his next battle. The money will come from the Inter Galactic Bank Clan.

The Inter Galactic Bank Clan, represented by San Hill, is helping to fund the mass production of Battle Droids on the Techno Union controlled planet of Geonosis. It's funds are also helping to produce a more battle-hardy droid: the Super Battle Droid.

However, the game doesn't stop there. Through the Techno Union, Master Sido-Dyas has enlisted the help of Kamino to produce clones under the false illusion it is for the Republic. This construction is being funded by money from the Inter Galactic Bank Clan. However, the Inter Galactic Bank Clan may not realise this is where their money is going...

Look for part two tomorrow, the final connections of the rest of the groups in the prequel-sequel!