Short answers, pulled from the story.
George Lucas acknowledged plans to create the prequel trilogy in 1992 and announced this to Variety in late 1993. He halted all major Star Wars film production by 1981 before technical advances changed his approach.
George Lucas returned to direct the prequels after a 22-year hiatus following the original Star Wars film. Richard Marquand expressed interest up until his death in 1987 but did not direct the final films.
Palpatine serves as chancellor before becoming Emperor and alludes to Adolf Hitler's position before he appointed himself Führer. Lucas drew parallels between Palpatine and historical dictators such as Julius Caesar, Napoleon Bonarte, and former president Richard Nixon.
Revenge of the Sith achieved 79 percent indicating improved critical reception compared to The Phantom Menace which earned 52 percent. Attack of the Clones scored 61 percent while Revenge of the Sith remains the highest rated entry among the three films.
Star Wars: Episode I The Phantom Menace was released on the 19th of May 1999 featuring Jar Jar Binks as the first fully CGI character in a live-action film. His role was reduced after the first film due to criticism regarding racial stereotypes.