Shey Tapani, a noble from the Old Republic era, was the man responsible for unifying the Expanse. As the lord of House Melantha, Tapani engaged in a two-decade-long civil war against the various independent kingdoms of the Noble Houses. His victory over the Rogue Houses culminated in the Battle of Shindra's Veil, where he annihilated two opposing houses and triggered the downfall of a third. With all resistance quelled, Tapani declared himself Emperor of the Tapani sector and his dynasty governed for sixteen generations.
Gorgano IV and Leocald VII both succeeded Shey Tapani as rulers.
In 7328 BBY, a university located on Procopia was dedicated in his honor during that year.