Capital: Tharkad
Founded: 2341 (Lyran Commonwealth)
3057 (Lyran Alliance)
The Lyran Commonwealth started as a coalition of trading partners, allied to defend themselves against brigands and the expansionist Draconis Combine. For centuries, House Steiner was the dominant mercantile power of the Inner Sphere and the wealthiest of the great Houses.
The invasion of the Clans leveled the field somewhat. As a result of the conflict, House Marik was enriched by an influx of new trade...which quickly prompted House Steiner to substantially improve their military. Now, though their generals are still often better known for their political and social skills than for their tactics, House Steiner fields forces equipped with sophisticated weaponry and large numbers of heavy 'Mechs. House Steiner delights in ostentatious displays of firepower.