The Guardians of the Universe evolved on the planet Maltus, and were possibly the first intelligent life forms in the Universe. Their goal was simple: combat evil and create an orderly universe. Using their vast knowledge and experience with the beings known as Psions, Kroans, and the Anti-Monitor, they learned to manipulate a form of matter known as "The Glow", which would eventually be converted to the current form of Green Lantern energy.
Rings were used as the conduit through which each Green Lantern is able to mentally create constructs through sheer force of Will. Each ring is given to one who is deemed worthy, and choses a new Lantern upon the death of the last. Green Lanterns are soldiers of the Guardians, whose purpose is to defend the innocent and fight for justice because it is the right thing to do.
/gives you the Readers' Digest version
The Guardians of the Universe evolved on the planet Maltus, and were possibly the first intelligent life forms in the Universe. Their goal was simple: combat evil and create an orderly universe. Using their vast knowledge and experience with the beings known as Psions, Kroans, and the Anti-Monitor, they learned to manipulate a form of matter known as "The Glow", which would eventually be converted to the current form of Green Lantern energy.
Rings were used as the conduit through which each Green Lantern is able to mentally create constructs through sheer force of Will. Each ring is given to one who is deemed worthy, and choses a new Lantern upon the death of the last. Green Lanterns are soldiers of the Guardians, whose purpose is to defend the innocent and fight for justice because it is the right thing to do.