What is the A or B in The Walking Dead?

The cryptic A or B classification used by the Civic Republic Military (CRM) in The Walking Dead universe has intrigued and confused fans. As a long-time contributor on The Walking Dead and an expert on the franchise‘s lore, let me provide some clarity on the meaning of this system and why it matters.

The Origins of A and B

The letters A and B were first introduced when Anne, also known as Jadis, was confronted by Gabriel on whether she could save his life. Anne replied that it depended on whether Gabriel was an "A or a B." This interaction revealed Anne had knowledge of a grouping system, though the meaning remained vague.

It wasn‘t until the CRM itself and its leader Elizabeth were introduced in The Walking Dead: World Beyond that the meaning became clear. As Elizabeth confronts Huck, she demands to know if an individual is an "A or a B." When Huck claims they are a B, Elizabeth coldly replies that means they are "bounty" – i.e. expendable.

This confirmed that in CRM terminology:

• A = Asset
• B = Bounty

Assets are recruited, while Bounty are ignored, or even killed. This is a pivotal categorization that provides insights into how the CRM operates.

Why the CRM Uses This System

The CRM has access to advanced technology and weapons, including helicopters, indicating they are extremely well-resourced. This has allowed them to establish fortified settlements around the country, known as Campus Colonies.

With access to equipment and scientists, they aim to rebuild industry, infrastructure, and civilization. We learn they also conduct medical experiments, trying to find cures and vaccines.

Classifying newcomers as A or B allows the CRM to selectively recruit only the most valuable survivors to join their ranks. Scientists, engineers, doctors – anyone with critical skills or knowledge – are welcomed. Others are turned away or disposed of.

It‘s a ruthless system, but allows the CRM to quickly identify "human capital" among survivors. The value is on assets to further their goals. It also lets them control their settlements, minimizing risks of dissent.

The Significance of Rick Grimes

One of the most shocking developments was when Anne told her allies she was taking Rick Grimes, classifying him as an "A." This revealed that the CRM had saved Rick after his serious injury, recruiting him.

As the protagonist and a natural leader, Rick has unique value. He can help the CRM expand their reach and influence. His rescue lines up with when CRM helicopters strangely arrived during a desperate moment.

Some key questions this raises:

• What is Rick‘s status now in the CRM?
• How has he reacted to their morally grey methods?
• When will we see him again?

His rescue connects CRM plotlines across the whole Walking Dead universe. It‘s clearly building towards an epic reveal.

Other Notable A‘s and B‘s

While Rick is the most prominent A, other characters have also been assigned these categories:

• Jadis/Anne – An asset who worked with the CRM, gave them resources, and evaluated new survivors. Her junkyard provided cover for helicopter visits.

• Negan – Tested by Jadis, who told Gabriel he would be an asset. His intelligence and leadership skills make him useful, despite his past.

• Gabriel – Also tested by Jadis alongside Negan. She concluded both were assets, not bounty.

• Heath – Taken by CRM after separating from Tara. As he had useful survival skills, he was likely rescued as an asset.

• Huck – A CRM soldier who disobeyed orders to kill those classified as B. Showed shades of dissent.

The scope of the A and B system shows how far the hand of the CRM stretches. They are shaping the apocalypse to their design. Understanding this classification provides insight into their operations, settlement strategies, and recruitment tactics.

The CRM: Rebuilding Civilization Brutally

Post-apocalyptic stories often explore how civilization can be reformed. The Walking Dead reminds us that the process is rarely easy or fair. The CRM represents a powerful entity trying to bring back industry and order, but on their own draconian terms.

The A and B labels confirm the CRM values individuals not as people, but as resources. Assets to exploit or burdens to discard. It‘s chillingly utilitarian and uncompromising.

Yet they may offer the best chance for a coordinated rebuilding of society. This raises complex questions about morality and survival. If civilizations must make harsh choices, is there a line that should not be crossed? Does the CRM take pragmatism too far?

Unraveling the mystery behind the cryptic A and B categories brings us closer to truths about the CRM‘s goals and ethics. It forms part of an intricate puzzle within The Walking Dead universe that keeps fans engaged while touching on substantive themes. And of course, everyone eagerly awaits the re-emergence of Rick Grimes – one of the CRM‘s most critical "A‘s."