The vibrant world of One Piece is not only filled with fantastical adventures and epic battles but is also steeped in historical references. Eiichiro Oda has drawn inspiration from various historical figures to shape the characters we know and love. Let’s explore ten notable characters from One Piece and the real-life figures that inspired them.
1. Roronoa Zoro and François L'Olonnais
Roronoa Zoro, the Straw Hat crew’s determined swordsman, takes inspiration from François L'Olonnais, a notorious French pirate known for his swordsmanship and brutal tactics. L'Olonnais's reputation as a fearsome fighter and his swashbuckling lifestyle resonate with Zoro’s unwavering commitment to becoming the world’s greatest swordsman.
2. Gol D. Roger and Olivier Levasseur
Gol D. Roger, the legendary Pirate King, is inspired by Olivier Levasseur, a French pirate famous for his treasure hunting and infamous life on the high seas. Levasseur, often referred to as “La Buse,” was known for leaving cryptic clues to his hidden treasure, much like Roger's legacy of the One Piece and his mysterious final words.
3. Marshall D. Teach (Blackbeard) and Edward Teach
Marshall D. Teach, known as Blackbeard, directly references the infamous pirate Edward Teach, better known as Blackbeard. Both figures share a reputation for cunning and brutality, with Teach’s flamboyant persona and mastery of fear making him a fitting inspiration for one of One Piece's primary antagonists.
4. X Drake and Sir Francis Drake
X Drake, the enigmatic pirate and former Marine, draws parallels to Sir Francis Drake, the famed English sea captain and privateer. Known for his daring exploits and strategic prowess, Sir Francis Drake’s legacy as a pirate and explorer is echoed in X Drake’s own complex character and background.
5. Silvers Rayleigh and Sir Walter Raleigh
Silvers Rayleigh, the former first mate of Gol D. Roger, is inspired by Sir Walter Raleigh, an English explorer and writer. Raleigh’s adventurous spirit and his role in the age of exploration resonate with Rayleigh’s wisdom and past as a key figure in Roger’s crew, making him a mentor figure in the series.
6. Eustass "Captain" Kid and William "Captain" Kidd
Eustass "Captain" Kid takes his name and persona from the notorious pirate William Kidd. Both figures share a rebellious spirit and a thirst for adventure, with Captain Kidd’s history of piracy and complex legacy serving as a backdrop for Kid’s relentless ambition in One Piece.
7. Jewelry Bonney and Anne Bonny
Jewelry Bonney, the fierce and unpredictable pirate, is inspired by the legendary pirate Anne Bonny. Known for her rebellious nature and involvement in piracy alongside her male counterparts, Anne Bonny’s legacy of defiance and strength is reflected in Bonney’s character in the series.
8. Charlotte Linlin (Big Mom) and Charlotte Badger
Charlotte Linlin, also known as Big Mom, is inspired by the infamous pirate Charlotte Badger. Badger was one of the first known female pirates in history, and her boldness and tenacity resonate with Big Mom’s powerful presence and desire to create a family through force.
9. "Calico" Yorki and "Calico" Jack Rackham
"Calico" Yorki, the former captain of the Rumbar Pirates, draws inspiration from "Calico" Jack Rackham, a well-known English pirate famous for his flamboyant style and charismatic leadership. Rackham’s legendary status in the pirate world parallels Yorki’s role as a joyful and charismatic figure in his crew.
10. Rocks D. Xebec and Roche Braziliano
Rocks D. Xebec, the fearsome captain of the Rocks Pirates, finds his inspiration in Roche Braziliano, a notorious pirate active in the Caribbean during the 17th century. Braziliano's reputation for brutality and his ambitious nature mirror the chaos and ambition embodied by Rocks D. Xebec in the One Piece narrative.
The characters in One Piece are intricately woven with threads of real history, showcasing how Eiichiro Oda draws from the past to create a rich, engaging world. Each character, inspired by these historical figures, brings unique traits and stories that resonate with audiences. As fans continue to explore the Grand Line, they can appreciate the depth and complexity behind each character, making the adventures of the Straw Hat Pirates all the more compelling.
