Silverbacks represented a specific type within the sentient Wookiee species that originated on the planet Kashyyyk. Notable examples include Wullffwarro and his offspring, Kitwarr, both of whom were subjected to slavery under the rule of the Galactic Empire, only to later experience rescue at the hands of the group known as the Spectres.
The initial reference to Silverbacks appeared in the 2011 Legends video game titled Star Wars: The Old Republic. Their inclusion in official canon occurred with the publication of The Rebellion Begins, a 2014 adaptation for younger readers of Star Wars Rebels: Spark of Rebellion.