8 One Piece Characters Whose Legacies Changed the World Forever

This list contains spoilers up to the Elbaph arc in the One Piece manga

Summary

Ace’s positive impact is seen through his brother, Luffy.
Otohime vouched for fishmen-human peace, inspiring Shirahoshi’s journey to the surface.
Oden’s dream mobilized loyal samurai to fight tyranny in Wano, even after his death.

To ensure a significant impact after one’s passing, they should strive to live a fulfilling life and make a difference in others’ lives, possibly even shaping the world as we know it. Characters from the popular series “One Piece” serve as prime examples of this concept, with their legacies having varying degrees of importance and relevance.

In the world of One Piece, both living characters with significant roles and those who have perished in battle have left indelible marks on the narrative. These deceased individuals continue to impact the story significantly, even beyond their demise. Here are some One Piece characters whose influence endures as a lasting legacy within the story.

8. Portgas D. Ace

Luffy And The Whitebeard Crew Will Never Forget About Ace

First Appearance: Episode 91

Born as the son of the notorious Pirate King, Gol D. Roger, Ace faced scorn and disdain not only from the Marines and World Government, but also from numerous people he met during his journeys. Repeatedly told that he was a doomed child destined for failure, Ace persevered through hardship to eventually join the crew of Whitebeard, where he forged strong bonds with his fellow pirates, becoming like a brother to them.

Beyond just acquiring the astoundingly potent Mera Mera no Mi fruit, which has earned him such enduring recognition among numerous characters, Ace found himself at the heart of the tumultuous Marineford War. This conflict left indelible marks on both the Marines and Whitebeard’s pirate crew, leading ultimately to their formal disbandment following the battle. However, it is Luffy, inspired by his protective older brother, who stands as the most evident testament to Ace’s enduring legacy. It was, in fact, this very inspiration that empowered Luffy to embark on his own pirate journey.

7. Otohime

Otohime Vouched For Peace Between Humans And Fish-Men

First Appearance: Episode 621

Unlike many Fish-Men who were taught to loathe humans, Otohime, however, held a unique perspective. She advocated for peaceful coexistence with humans rather than annihilation. Although her views were not widely accepted at the time, her speeches have left an undeniable mark. Otohime proposed that the inhabitants of Fish-Man Island should gradually ascend to the surface, approaching a people they had long feared, in order to live among them.

Despite tragically losing her life due to her daring activism, the impact of Otohime persists significantly in the narrative. A prime instance of this is evident in Shirahoshi’s determination to ascend to the surface during the Reverie. Although humans may not have been particularly warm towards her, this bold move was a significant first step, which was initially suggested by none other than Otohime herself – a brave gesture that continues to resonate.

6. Kouzuki Oden

Oden Sparked The Revolution To Overthrow Kaido

First Appearance: Episode 960

Kouzuki Oden led an extraordinary life as a pirate prior to the main plot’s commencement. Initially serving on Whitebeard’s crew, Oden later switched allegiances to Roger, the future Pirate King, due to his ability to decipher Poneglyphs. This already marked him as significant, yet it is through the Red Scabbards – a valiant yet inexperienced band of samurai who once served under Oden – that his influence is most evident.

In essence, though Oden might have been killed by Kaido, his vision of someday opening the borders of Wano to the world and freeing it from the oppressive rule of a Yonko continued to thrive through his devoted followers. Whenever the Samurai, Minks, or Pirates faced doubts about their determination, they would remember Oden and the dream he cherished while alive. This memory served as their driving force, ultimately leading them to bring about Wano’s liberation in the end.

5. Fisher Tiger

Fisher Tiger’s Actions Have Affected Countless Lives

First Appearance: Episode 415

Throughout the course of the One Piece narrative, a notable number of characters have been connected in some way to the rebellious Fish-Man known as Fisher Tiger. A case in point is the attack launched by Fisher Tiger on Mary Geois, which ultimately resulted in the liberation of thousands of enslaved individuals. Among those set free were none other than Boa Hancock and her two sisters.

Apart from this, Fisher’s tragic demise at the hands of Marines significantly shaped two key characters: Arlong turned malevolent and violent against humans, while Jimbei was motivated to assume the captain role. Later on, Jimbei joined the Straw Hats, using these experiences for good. In essence, Fisher Tiger’s impact is evident throughout the series in several significant characters.

4. Vegapunk

The Smartest Man Who Ever Lived Will Be Remembered For Many Years To Come

First Appearance: Episode 1091

In the world of One Piece, it’s widely recognized that Dr. Vegapunk played a significant role in designing nearly every device and invention that the Straw Hat crew encounters along their journey. Though his influence was evident throughout the narrative, it wasn’t until the Egghead Island arc that we truly grasp the magnitude of his impact. During this arc, he has the opportunity to shed light on his true intentions.

Despite being strictly prohibited by global authorities, Vegapunk chose to delve into the mysteries of the Void Century. His intention was to unearth what truly transpired during that era and predict where the world might be headed next. Consequently, he delivered a profound speech in which he disclosed countless secrets hidden by the government, including the alarming forecast that the planet will soon be submerged if corrective action isn’t taken promptly. It cannot be overstated how significantly Vegapunk has altered the narrative trajectory of the story; it’s unfortunate that his life was cut short by the Marines so abruptly as there is evidently much more he could have discovered about our world.

3. Rocks D. Xebec

One Of The Most Ferocious Pirates To Have Ever Lived

First Appearance: Episode 958

As a history buff captivated by the tales of the high seas, I can’t help but be intrigued by the elusive figure known as Rocks D. Xebec. Though details about his life are scarce, one thing is undeniably true – he significantly shaped the present-day landscape.

You see, this enigmatic pirate captain had a knack for gathering influential characters such as Whitebeard, Big Mom, and Kaido under his banner. These individuals, who would eventually rise to become the Yonko, were all sculpted by him into the formidable forces they are today. This transformation made each of them a prime target for the government, earning them the title of the most wanted pirates in the world.

It’s equally crucial to recall that Rocks once stood toe-to-toe with both Garp and Roger in God Valley, which was no ordinary accomplishment. Although he suffered defeat on that day, his influence continues through his crew members, each of whom has made significant contributions to the main narrative.

2. Gol D. Roger

Roger’s Adventure Across The Grand Line Has Inspired A New Age Of Pirates

First Appearance: Episode 1

In the past, numerous formidable pirates had established their reputations well before Luffy embarked on his journey, but what truly set Gol D. Roger apart and made him renowned was that he was the captain who claimed the One Piece treasure first. Even though he surrendered to the Marines shortly afterward, Roger ensured the world knew about the existence of the One Piece, thus igniting the Golden Age of Piracy, an era that continues to unfold in the story.

If Roger hadn’t been part of Luffy’s life, Luffy likely wouldn’t have experienced the spark that propelled him towards the hunt for the One Piece initially. From a broader perspective, had pirates not re-emerged as significant figures, there might not have been any challenge to the World Government and the Marines, which could have resulted in the mysteries of the Void Century and Joy Boy being forever hidden. This is due to Roger’s actions.

1. Joy Boy

Joy Boy Becomes More Relevant To The Story With Every New Arc

First Appearance: Chapter 1122

Initially, references to a character known as Joy Boy were scattered, mainly appearing when the Straw Hats encountered Poneglyphs. However, over time, it’s become clear that he has left an enormous and influential legacy, one that the Marines and World Government have tried diligently to eliminate. Given his existence during the enigmatic Void Century, Joy Boy is widely regarded as the first pirate in the One Piece universe.

Standing by, I can’t help but marvel at the striking resemblance Luffy now shares with the sun god Nika, the Hito Hito no Mi’s rightful owner. This likeness has transformed Joy Boy into a symbol of liberation for many who were fortunate enough to witness his actions firsthand.

However, Joy Boy’s influence extends far beyond mere appearances. It was he who placed the One Piece treasure on Laughtale, setting in motion the very storyline that makes up the world of One Piece as we know it today.

As the tale unfolds, there remains much to learn about this enigmatic figure known as Joy Boy. Yet, it’s clear that Oda has masterfully woven his significance into the fabric of the One Piece universe, making him instrumental in shaping the world as we see it now.

2025-07-06 23:49