The Telosian Civil War erupted in 53 BBY following Jedi Master Qui-Gon Jinn's exposure of Governor Crion's scheme to the people of Telos IV. Crion's intention was to launch an invasion of Toprawa, a nearby planet. This revelation occurred during a period when Crion sought to reconsider a treaty, automatically renewed every decade, with Toprawa. The Jedi Order was summoned to supervise these discussions, which were, in reality, a cover for Crion's invasion preparations. He was convinced that seizing the minerals and industrial infrastructure of Toprawa would significantly enhance Telos's strength and standing.
Xanatos, Crion's son and Jinn's Padawan, was also present at these negotiations. Under his father's direction, he covertly undermined the initial meeting to damage the relationship between the two planets. Once Jinn unveiled the conspiracy, the Telosian population revolted against Crion. Encouraged by Xanatos, Crion formed an army and began massacring the Telosians. The civil war concluded with Crion's demise, brought about by Jinn. Xanatos, incapable of forgiving his former master, embraced the dark side and abandoned the Jedi Order.