Essential Insights into Influential Pirates in One Piece
- Whitebeard’s paternal leadership greatly shaped his crew dynamics and inspired figures like Blackbeard.
- Shanks serves as a cornerstone mentor for Luffy and indirectly motivates others like Bartolomeo.
- Fisher Tiger’s revolutionary spirit galvanized the Sun Pirates and encouraged various Fish-Men to set sail.
The world of One Piece vividly illustrates that piracy is not solely driven by the allure of riches or power. While countless adventurers navigate the treacherous seas in pursuit of treasure, a deeper narrative unfolds surrounding the pirates themselves. Regardless of their individual ambitions, it becomes evident that the pirates, even those at the peak of their prowess, were influenced by others before them.
Many of these legendary figures inspired the next generation of pirates, serving as catalysts for their aspirations. Although a number of these influential characters have passed on in the current storyline of One Piece, their legacies resonate strongly within the annals of pirate lore and the broader narrative of the series.
5. Whitebeard
Roger’s Adversary
- Debut: Episode 95 (Appearance), Episode 151 (Full Introduction)
Edward “Whitebeard”Newgate, unlike many pirates, was not consumed by the typical ambitions of wealth or supremacy. Instead, stemming from his orphaned childhood, he fostered a profound need for kinship. In fulfilling this role, he cultivated a vast crew, embodying a paternal figure who established divisions among them. With numerous pirate captains pledging loyalty to him and benefiting from his protective nature over various territories, he garnered the reputation of an Emperor—the apex of danger in the eyes of the government.
Among Whitebeard’s most infamous influences is Marshall D. Teach, commonly known as Blackbeard. Teach usurped not just Whitebeard’s name but also his territories and abilities. His commanding style reflected that of his predecessor, as he transformed his former crew members into captains to manage a broader force. Teach’s influence on others, like Caribou—a pirate with access to secretive Ancient Weapons—illustrates the far-reaching impact of Whitebeard’s legacy, even among those who only emerged post-time skip.
4. Shanks
Mentor to Luffy
- Debut: Episode 4
Considering that Luffy is the primary protagonist of One Piece, it becomes evident that Shanks stands as a pivotal figure in his life. As the captain of the Red-Haired Pirates, Shanks straddles the line between enjoyment and valor. Luffy observed not only the celebratory nature of Shanks and his crew but also their unwavering courage when they thwarted bandits, culminating in Shanks sacrificing his arm to defend Luffy against a Sea Monster. The mix of mirth and nobility within Shanks manifests in Luffy’s own character.
Shanks’ current role as an Emperor includes protecting various territories and lending support to weaker pirate crews under his wing. Luffy’s ascent as an influential figure followed a similar path, prompting Bartolomeo, for instance, to embrace piracy after witnessing Luffy’s audacious escape from execution. This indirect influence emanates through various factions like the Straw Hat Grand Fleet, comprising individuals compelled to join the pirate life after being saved by Luffy and his crew during their exploits in Dressrosa.
3. Fisher Tiger
The Pioneer of Fish-Man Pirates
- Debut: Episode 415
In the context of pirate crews composed of Fish-Men, Fisher Tiger remains a pivotal figure. A former slave who championed revolts to liberate his peers, he captained the Sun Pirates—later recruited by infamous figures like Arlong. Although the Sun Pirates forever changed post-Tiger’s demise, their commitment to Fish-Man liberation continues steadfastly through various factions.
Newer offshoots of the Sun Pirates, such as the Macro Pirates—comprising freshwater Fish-Men who unfortunately engage in the slave trade—have emerged. Conversely, the New Fish-Man Pirates, under Hody Jones, directly contradict Tiger’s principles, despite their shared antipathy towards humans. Fortunately, Fisher Tiger’s legacy still influences many pirates, even those that oppose his vision of coexistence.
2. Rocks D. Xebec
A Name Lost to Time
- Debut: Episode 958
Rocks D. Xebec has largely faded from contemporary memory due to the notorious activities that characterized his piracy, which included experiments forbidden by the World Government. Known for his ruthlessness, he sought to eliminate world nobles and their enslaved individuals alike. The magnitude of his threat necessitated the combined efforts of Gol D. Roger and Monkey D. Garp to subdue him.
While his name hasn’t stood the test of time, Xebec had an eye for talent, having led numerous noteworthy pirates—three of whom would later ascend as Emperors—during his tenure with the Rocks Pirates. Notable figures such as Big Mom, Whitebeard, and Kaido emerged from Xebec’s crew, each expressing disdain for their experiences aboard. Whitebeard acknowledged that the crew was filled with individuals resistant to authority, a factor contributing to its eventual disbandment.
Interestingly, the legacy of Xebec endures through Teach, who seemingly pays homage to the former captain by naming his flagship the Saber of Xebec, and has a history of sailing alongside Whitebeard.
1. Gol D. Roger
The Catalyst of Change
- Debut: Episode 1
Gol D. Roger may not currently have many active pirates who directly credit him as their inspiration. However, the repercussions of his execution serve as a substantial motivation for many aspiring pirates. His intended deterrence paradoxically fueled ambition among adventurers seeking the One Piece, treasure only seen by Roger and his crew.
Three of today’s Emperors possess varying degrees of connection to Roger. Shanks and Buggy were cabin boys under Roger, each demonstrating a unique respect for their former captain—despite their differing paths. Unfortunately, neither could witness the One Piece, given their respective circumstances, including Buggy’s illness that required Shanks’ help.
In a captivating twist, Luffy, a key follower of Shanks, has ascended to the status of an Emperor himself. Shanks has observed strong resemblances between Luffy and Roger, a connection solidified when he entrusted Luffy with Roger’s prized straw hat. This multifaceted lineage of influence makes it evident that many notable figures in the realm of piracy would not have embarked on their journeys without the indelible mark left by Roger.
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