Despite international efforts, the anarchy led to the complete fragmentation of the kingdom into smaller states, while well-equipped bandit groups began to terrorize the people. Eventually, the former guard captain of Zaofu, Kuvira, formed an army with the blessing of foreign powers and the exiled royal family, intending to reunite the Earth Kingdom. Becoming known as the "Great Uniter", she restored law and order in large parts of nation through military discipline. Her achievements were not met with universal acclaim, however, as some states resisted her rule and others believed her methods to be controversial at least. By 174 AG, the Earth Kingdom was stabilized enough to restore the monarchy, though Kuvira refused to relinquish her power to a king she deemed unfit to rule and declared