One Piece’s Potential Historical Inspiration: Oda’s Void Century War and Its Logical Basis

On May 27, 2024, One Piece fans can anticipate the release of chapter 1115, which will feature Vegapunk’s continuation of his speech and the revelation of a significant detail about the Void Century. This detail will shed light on the historic war between JoyBoy and the coalition of the 20 Kingdoms.

The chapter highlights the Five Elders’ desperation as they frantically knocked out random Transponder Snails in hopes of stopping Vegapunk’s stream. However, as predicted, the brilliant scientist outwits the Gorosei before his demise.

In chapter 1115, Vegapunk’s speech highlighted a crucial detail: the ongoing war he mentioned. Additionally, Vegapunk hinted that this war could potentially be connected to one of the pressing issues in the series, such as slavery.

Please note: This article includes possible spoilers from the One Piece manga series and reflects the author’s personal opinions.

Exploring the Context of the War Mentioned by Vegapunk During His Stream in One Piece

Vegapunk as seen in the anime (Image via Toei Animation)

In chapter 1115 of One Piece, we are shown further reactions to Vegapunk’s message from various parts of the Grand Line. Vegapunk also delves into the topic of JoyBoy and shares details about a significant battle that took place during the Void Century with those in the Grand Line.

The conflict consisted of two factions: JoyBoy and a coalition of the 20 Kingdoms, which eventually became the World Government. According to Vegapunk, the weaponry utilized in this war surpassed even the most advanced modern-day technology.

Despite not disclosing any information about the war or being unaware of its events, Vegapunk still shares the unfortunate news of JoyBoy’s defeat, signifying the conclusion of the Void Century. The chapter concludes with Vegapunk stating that the war continues to persist in the present day.

Kuma as a slave to the Celestial Dragons (Image via Toei Animation)

Currently in One Piece, the war between JoyBoy and the 20 Kingdom Alliance is still ongoing. This conflict may be linked to a pressing and ongoing issue, such as slavery. As avid viewers may have already observed, the opposing sides in this war are the ones who support the abolishment of slavery (JoyBoy’s side) and those who wish for it to thrive (the 20 Kingdom Alliance).

The 20 Kingdom alliance came together to form the World Government, and it was no surprise that the descendants of these 20 Kingdoms became the cruel Celestial Dragons. Throughout the series, the Celestial Dragons have shown their fixation on enslaving others, with notable examples including Bartholomew Kuma, Boa Hancock, and members of the Sun Pirates.

Alternatively, it is believed that JoyBoy inherited the will of the Sun God Nika, who was worshipped by slaves for his promise to one day free them from their oppressors. Additionally, it is speculated that JoyBoy’s persona may have been influenced by the figure of the same name in West Indian culture, who was said to have sailed through the Caribbean Sea with slaves. This suggests that the slaves of the Void Century may have seen Nika within JoyBoy, viewing him as their savior from their oppressors.

When discussing potential inspirations for the Void Century War, it is possible that the conflict draws influence from the American Civil War. This historical war was largely focused on the contentious issue of slavery and whether it should be permitted or abolished. Given the parallels between the two conflicts, it is likely that the Void Century War is also a clash of ideologies surrounding slavery and may still be ongoing in present times.

Concluding Remarks

Monkey D Luffy as seen in the anime (Image via Toei Animation)

According to the protagonist of the series, Monkey D Luffy, the Pirate King represents the ultimate freedom in the world. This further supports the theory that the Void Century War revolved around the issue of slavery.

The possibility exists that modern-day slaves, like those of the Void Century, may see a similar figure in Luffy as JoyBoy. While this theory is highly plausible, it is important to approach it with caution and await official confirmation.