Why is Shanks rumored to be a Figarland in One Piece? Origin of the theory, explained

The Final Saga of the One Piece series is currently ongoing, and Eiichiro Oda continues to surprise fans with shocking revelations in each new chapter. In Chapter 1086, readers were treated to significant information about the Figarland Family, which had been briefly mentioned in One Piece Film: Red.

The significance of this family in the anime world is immense, and by being introduced in the manga, fans can expect to learn even more about them.

Ever since One Piece Film: Red was released, fans have been speculating about the connection between Red-Haired Shanks, one of the Emperors of the Sea, and the Figarland Family. Finally, in chapter 1086, Oda may have revealed the long-awaited answers. Shanks has always had a deep connection to the Figarland name, making him an integral part of the family.

Why is Shanks considered to be a Fierce Pirate in One Piece?

Shanks may be the son of Saint Galing Figarland (Image via Toei Animation)

During the Orange Town arc, Luffy first encountered Red-Haired Shanks. However, in Oden’s flashback during the Sabaody Archipelago arc, it was disclosed that Shanks had actually been an apprentice with the Roger Pirates.

In this flashback, it was suggested that Roger had infants aboard his ship at some point. The movie One Piece Film: Red elaborated on this, revealing that following the God Valley incident 38 years prior, the Roger Pirates discovered a one-year-old Shanks in a treasure chest, raising doubts about his true identity.

The film hints at the possibility of Uta being a member of the Figarland Family as she may be Shanks’ daughter. This hints at Shanks being a member of the Figarland family as well, as he deliberately avoids using his last name to distance himself from the Celestial Dragons.

Rocks D. Xebec (Image via Toei Animation)

In chapter 1086, we learned that the Figarland Family, led by Saint Garling, were the rulers of God Valley. This information was revealed during the God Valley Incident, in which Rocks D. Xebec attacked the Celestial Dragons. However, he was ultimately defeated by Garp and Roger.

The Celestial Dragons relocated to Marijoa, however Shanks was not with them, as he may have been taken captive by the Rocks Pirates. Roger came across him and took him in as his own, leading to speculation that Shanks could be the son of Saint Garling Figarland, elucidating his favorable treatment from the World Government.

Shanks’ Celestial Dragon lineage is evident through the abrupt end of the Summit War upon his arrival and his audience with the Five Elders during the Reverie. His ability to enter the Holy Land of Marijoa and converse with the Gorosei highlights his high-ranking status, which may be attributed to his connection with the influential Figarland Family. These details shed light on the mysterious privileges and actions of Shanks.

Who are the Figarland Family in One Piece?

Saint Garling Figarland (Image via Shueisha)

The Figarland Family is a well-known royal lineage among the World Nobles, originally introduced by Ethanbaron V. Nusjuro in One Piece Film: Red. The sole documented individual from this family is Figarland Garling, a renowned “champion”of God Valley who took part in both the Native Hunting Competition and the God Valley Incident.

Saint Figarland Garling holds the esteemed title of World Noble and serves as the Supreme Commander of the God’s Knights. As the head of this organization, Garling has the power to make decisions, as evidenced by his involvement in the sentencing of Saint Mjosgard to death. His position indicates that he is entitled to the same privileges and wealth as other World Nobles.

Shanks visits the Gorosei (Image via Toei Animation)

Despite limited knowledge of his combat skills, Garling’s leadership of the God’s Knights has caused concern for Monkey D. Dragon of the Revolutionary Army, indicating that he is a formidable opponent even by World Noble standards.

Upon the arrival of the Rocks and Roger Pirates, two of the most formidable pirate crews at the time, Garling and his fellow God’s Knights were ready to face them on God Valley. While his exact role in the God Valley Incident is still uncertain, witnesses recall seeing him participating in the competition while riding an oversized bird and wearing an aviator cap.

Final thoughts

The speculation surrounding Shanks being a Figarland in One Piece is based on his enigmatic history, his close relationship with the World Government, and various clues throughout the series that suggest he may be connected to the Figarland Family, potentially even as the son of Saint Garling Figarland.

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