Many fans of Game of Thrones wonder: why did the White Walkers wake up at all? After all, for thousands of years they remained in the shadows, not showing any activity. What was the spark that awakened them and launched a chain of events that led to a grand battle for the survival of all of Westeros?
Judging by the events of the series, their awakening is directly related to the actions of a man. Craster, a hermit living beyond the Wall, began to sacrifice his newborn sons to the White Walkers. These boys were handed over to the Night King and, with the help of ancient magic, turned into new Walkers, strengthening their army. Until this moment, the leader of the Walkers was probably alone, deprived of the opportunity to expand his power. However, the pact with Craster became that very turning point for him.
With each new "gift" their influence grew. Having received enough resources to form an army, they began to revive the fallen people, creating an army of the undead. These dead became the tool for their expansion into the world of the living. Thus, the Walkers began to build their zombie army, threatening all life in the north of Westeros. Interestingly, the White Walkers are not just the living dead. They are ancient creatures created by the Children of the Forest in an attempt to protect themselves from humans. They are another form of life, endowed with magic and sinister power. Although the series leaves room for guesswork, the version with Craster and his victims seems the most logical and is supported by many hints in the plot.
