The Lanthrym system sits at the edge of known space, far away from the galactic center. Lanthrym I, its first planet to be settled, was seen as a haven for colonists from the core fleeing persecution. However, to prevent crowding, settlements were quickly developed on planet Lanthrym as more colonists arrived in the system. Those colonizing Lanthrym set up both arctic and volcanic research stations to develop improved extreme condition survival technologies. Citizens of both planets see each other as brothers, trading among themselves for needed supplies and rarely relying on contact with the galactic core.

Because the first inhabitants had come to the system fleeing persecution, the culture they created was primarily one of isolationism ruled by strict laws. When Imperial expansion finally reached the Outer Rim sectors, every attempt to seize Lanthrym was met with armed resistance from colonists. After a long, bloody conflict, Imperial forces withdrew from the system, deeming it not worth the effort. The Empire still maintains a few military outposts, however, mostly relics from the wars on Lanthrym I and planet Lanthrym.

More recently it has been suggested by the local news media that the time of conflict was exploited by Hutts, who managed to seize control of major population centers and install their own puppet governors as overlords of the colonies. However, the claims are, as of yet, unsubstantiated and called wild conspiracy theories by official sources.