History of the Marines in One Piece Manga

The New Age:

In the aftermath of the Summit War of Marineford and the death of Whitebeard, the world entered a new era, marking the end of the “Age of Pirates” established by Roger. This shift also brought changes within the Marines. With the resignations of the esteemed Fleet Admiral Sengoku and Vice Admiral Garp, a void in leadership emerged.

Although Sengoku endorsed Aokiji as his successor, the higher-ups in the World Government favored Akainu for the position of Fleet Admiral. Despite Aokiji’s typically relaxed demeanor, he strongly opposed Akainu’s promotion. The two Admirals engaged in a ten-day duel on Punk Hazard island to determine the next Fleet Admiral. While the world was aware of the duel, the specifics of the battle remained confidential. It was agreed that the loser would withdraw from the candidacy without protest, leaving the winner to assume leadership of the Marines.

Both Admirals sustained serious injuries during the intense confrontation, with Akainu emerging victorious. Surprisingly, Akainu chose to spare Aokiji’s life after the battle, though his motives for doing so are unclear. Aokiji, harboring animosity towards Akainu and disapproving of his methods, decided to resign from the Marines and vanish.

In response to the loss of Aokiji and to bolster their military strength, the World Government granted the Marines unprecedented authority. Under the leadership of Sakazuki as the new Fleet Admiral, the organization has become a formidable force for justice. To strengthen their capabilities against the Four Emperors and other formidable pirates in the New World, Sakazuki, the new Fleet Admiral, orchestrated significant changes within the Marines. The organization was granted unprecedented authority by the World Government, enhancing its prowess as a force for justice.

As part of this restructuring, the Marines relocated their base of operations to the New World, establishing it on an island now called New Marineford. This island was previously home to the G-1 base, while the old Marine Headquarters in Marineford has been repurposed as the new G-1 base. Furthermore, the Marines initiated a World Military Draft to bolster their ranks, enlisting additional troops. Among the recruits were two new Admirals who assumed the positions vacated by Aokiji and Akainu.

History:

Past:

The exact origins of the Marines remain shrouded in mystery. Still, it is suggested that Marineford has served as their “stronghold/watchpost of justice” for centuries, indicating a long-standing presence. Their primary mission has always been to maintain peace by hunting down dangerous criminals, such as the infamous captains of the Giant Warrior Pirates, Dorry and Brogy.

Carmel Saves the Giant Warrior Pirates:

One century ago, the Marines captured four members of the Giant Warrior Pirates and planned their execution. However, this execution was a façade arranged with the underworld dealer Carmel. Carmel intervened to “save” the giants, gaining their gratitude and allowing her to establish an orphanage in Elbaf. This orphanage secretly funneled children of all races to be enlisted by the Marines and Cipher Pol.

John Giant and Giant Recruitment:

Within 37 years, John Giant became the first giant to join the Marines, a milestone facilitated by Carmel’s actions. Over the years, more giants would follow his lead and enlist.

Carmel’s Disappearance:

The partnership between the Marines and Carmel ended abruptly 62 years ago when Carmel mysteriously vanished along with several children she was about to sell, leaving behind only Charlotte Linlin.

Oimo and Kashii:

Ten years after the Marines’ initial encounter with the Giant Warrior Pirates, they captured Oimo and Kashii, tricking them into working at Enies Lobby under the false belief that their captains, Dorry and Brogy, were imprisoned.

Prominent Marine Figures:

Fifty-six years ago, notable figures such as Monkey D. Garp, Sengoku, and Tsuru joined the Marines. They achieved high rankings and widespread recognition during their careers. Garp’s son, Monkey D. Dragon, initially followed his father’s path but became disillusioned with the Marine’s corrupt and hypocritical system. He left to form the Freedom Fighters, which later evolved into the Revolutionary Army, opposing the very organization he once served.

God Valley Incident:

Thirty-eight years ago, Garp earned the title “Hero of the Marines” during the God Valley Incident. In this pivotal event, Garp teamed up with the pirate Gol D. Roger to defeat Rocks D. Xebec and his formidable crew, the Rocks Pirates. Over the following two decades, Garp frequently pursued and cornered Roger, who ultimately became the Pirate King.

Twenty-seven years ago, Garp and Sengoku made a notable effort to stop a clash between two powerful pirates, Gol D. Roger and Shiki. This event highlighted the Marines’ ongoing struggle to maintain order against the world’s most formidable pirates.

Three years later, Gol D. Roger, having decided to end his era on his terms, turned himself into the World Government and was executed. In retaliation, Shiki launched an attack on Marineford but was ultimately defeated by Garp and Sengoku, leading to his imprisonment in Impel Down. Despite this, Shiki managed to escape from Impel Down two years later, demonstrating the relentless threat posed by powerful pirates even when seemingly contained.

Following Roger’s death, the Marines continued to target individuals associated with him, including the shipwright Tom, who was responsible for building Roger’s ship, the Oro Jackson. Tom was arrested and executed, reflecting the Marines’ commitment to eradicating any remnants of Roger’s legacy.

Twenty-two years ago, the World Government learned that the scholars of Ohara were studying the forbidden Poneglyphs. In response, they commissioned a Marine Buster Call, an overwhelming military assault led by five Vice Admirals, including Sakazuki (Akainu) and Kuzan (Aokiji). The Buster Call resulted in the destruction of Ohara and the extermination of its scholars. In a particularly ruthless act, Sakazuki ordered the killing of all citizens to ensure no scholar survived. During this event, Vice Admiral Jaguar D. Saul defected, helping the young Nico Robin escape, which led to the Marines pursuing her for her ability to read the Poneglyphs.

More recently, X Drake, the captain of the secret Marine unit SWORD and a rear admiral, left the Marines to go undercover as a pirate, forming the Drake Pirates. This strategic move underscores the complex and often secretive methods the Marines employ to gather intelligence and combat pirate threats from within. These events highlight the Marines’ ongoing struggle to enforce justice, frequently resorting to extreme measures and maintaining a complex relationship with the world’s most powerful pirates and outlaw scholars.

The Marines stationed under Captain Morgan at Shells Town had imprisoned Roronoa Zoro after he retaliated against Morgan’s son, Helmeppo. Zoro’s execution was planned for later. Meanwhile, the Marines were busy erecting a statue of Captain Morgan, which was abruptly destroyed when Monkey D. Luffy came crashing into the scene. Luffy captured Helmeppo and, with the Marines in pursuit, went to free Zoro. Blocking the Marines’ bullets, Luffy succeeded in freeing Zoro, and together, they fought off the Marines, ultimately defeating Captain Morgan.

Later, Luffy staged a fight with Koby to create a reason for Koby to join the Marines without the stigma of being associated with a pirate. The Marines accepted Koby into their ranks and ordered the Straw Hats to leave the town, but they expressed their gratitude for the defeat of their tyrannical captain.

Koby and Helmeppo joined the Marines as cabin boys. One day, while serving on a ship captained by Vice Admiral Garp, they were tasked with escorting the captive Morgan to face trial. However, Morgan managed to escape, taking Helmeppo hostage. Koby intervened to prevent the Marines from killing Helmeppo along with Morgan, and Helmeppo was able to free himself and return as Morgan sailed away at large. Marine Lieutenant Fullbody visited the floating restaurant Baratie for a meal but ended up in a fight with the chefs, leaving him badly beaten.

Commodore Pudding Pudding attempted to liberate Cocoyasi Village from the control of the fish-man Arlong, but Arlong killed him and his crew. Captain Nezumi, who took bribes from Arlong to avoid investigating him, tried to seize Arlong’s credit and money after the fish-man’s defeat by the Straw Hat Pirates. Enraged by his failure and humiliation, Nezumi ensured that Luffy received a bounty. He then returned to the 16th Branch base and reported the incident to his superiors, resulting in a bounty of Beli30,000,000 being placed on Luffy’s head.

Captain Smoker was stationed in Loguetown, where he had a reputation for capturing all pirates who stepped foot in the town. His petty officer, Tashigi, encountered Zoro while shopping for swords. When the Buggy and Alvida Alliance attempted to execute Luffy, Smoker, and his men publicly intervened, trapping the alliance and eventually cornering Luffy. Tashigi confronted Zoro but was quickly defeated. A mysterious figure intervened, forcing Smoker to release Luffy and allowing the Straw Hats to escape Loguetown. Following this, Smoker, along with Tashigi, decided to pursue Luffy, abandoning his post.

Full body participated in a dance contest at Mirror Ball Island but lost to the disguised pirate Jango. Unaware of Jango’s identity, Fullbody befriended him. When Yurikah and the Tulip Pirates attacked, Fullbody was overpowered. Jango, revealing his true identity, assisted Fullbody in defeating the attackers. Despite Jango’s identity being exposed, Fullbody saved him from execution by bailing him out, resulting in his demotion. Jango subsequently joined Fullbody as a cabin boy on Hina’s ship.

Smoker captured Baroque Works agent Mr. 11 to gather information about the organization. On the coast of Arabasta, Smoker confronts Luffy but is interrupted by Luffy’s brother, Ace, leading to a stalemate between the two. While docked at Nanohana, the captive, Mr. 11, was shot by his fellow agent, Mr. Mellow. Later, Smoker encountered the Straw Hats again at Rainbase, but they were trapped in Crocodile’s seastone cage. After being freed by Sanji, Smoker chose not to arrest Luffy.

Smoker, Tashigi, and their men apprehended Crocodile after his defeat. Despite being credited with Crocodile’s capture, Smoker was angered by this misattribution. As the Straw Hats departed from Arabasta, they faced Hina and her troops, but Mr. 2 Bon Kurei intervened, allowing the Straw Hats to escape.

Water 7 saga

During the Long Ring Long Land Arc, the Straw Hats Pirates encountered Admiral Aokiji. Aokiji taunted them about Nico Robin’s checkered past, prompting an angry Luffy to attack. Aokiji incapacitated almost the entire crew, froze Robin, and easily defeated Luffy. However, he decided to let them go, owing to his debt to Luffy’s grandfather. Before leaving, he warned Luffy that Robin would eventually bring danger to them.

In the Enies Lobby Arc, hundreds of Marines stationed on the island fought against the Straw Hat Pirates and the Franky Family during their invasion, but they were ultimately routed. When Spandam accidentally triggered a Buster Call, numerous large Marine ships arrived to destroy the island. Despite Spandam’s desperate pleas, they failed to prevent the Straw Hats from escaping.

Post-Enes Lobby Arc:

In the Post-Enies Lobby Arc, Monkey D. Garp and his men arrived in Water 7 so Garp could speak with his grandson, Luffy. Koby and Helmeppo also reunited with Luffy and Zoro during this visit. While the Straw Hats celebrated on Water 7, Admiral Aokiji secretly confronted Nico Robin about her involvement in the destruction of Ohara.

As the Straw Hats prepared to depart from Water 7, Garp returned with orders to capture them, but the pirates managed to escape once again. On an unidentified island, Commodore Smoker and his right-hand Ensign Tashigi, both newly promoted, captured a pirate with a bounty of Beli50,000,000. However, Smoker felt the capture was too easy for a pirate of that bounty, expressing concerns that he would need more strength to stop the Straw Hat Pirates in the New World.

In the Sabaody Archipelago Arc, Admiral Kizaru arrives swiftly after Luffy punches a World Noble, volunteering to handle the situation. Initially, Marine reinforcements are dispatched but are defeated by the Heart Pirates, Kid Pirates, and Straw Hat Pirates. When Kizaru and his troops finally arrive, they confront the pirates present. During the confrontation, Jewelry Bonney and Capone Bege easily dispatch the Marines they encounter.

Kizaru demonstrates his immense power by swiftly defeating Urouge, Scratchmen Apoo, X Drake, and Basil Hawkins. The situation escalates further when Bartholomew Kuma and Sentomaru join in to challenge the Straw Hat Pirates. Kizaru also engages in combat, leading to a tense standoff until Silvers Rayleigh intervenes to protect the crew. Ultimately, Bartholomew Kuma uses his powers to separate and scatter the Straw Hat Pirates, marking a significant turning point in their journey.

Amazon Lily Arc:

In the Amazon Lily Arc, Vice Admiral Momonga arrives at Amazon Lily with Marines to deliver a summons to Warlord of the Sea Boa Hancock for her mandatory participation in the upcoming Summit War of Marineford. Initially refusing, Hancock uses her Devil Fruit powers to turn Momonga’s men to stone. However, she later relents and frees them in exchange for their assistance in bringing Luffy to Impel Down.

Impel Down arc:

During the Impel Down Arc, Momonga and his Marines stationed at the prison witness Luffy’s arrival. They allow Hancock and Luffy to disembark but insist that Hancock, still technically a pirate, wear seastone handcuffs and undergo a search before entering to see Ace.

Amidst these events, Lieutenant Zotto informs Momonga of a clash between Emperor Shanks and Kaido in the New World, causing concern among the Marines about the potential consequences of this conflict. Meanwhile, during the Summit War of Marineford, 23 Marine ships patrolling around Whitebeard’s ship, the Moby Dick, are destroyed, highlighting the intense naval combat during the war.

Marineford Arc:

During the Marineford Arc, also known as the Summit War of Marineford, tensions escalated dramatically as the Marines prepared for an all-out war against the Whitebeard Pirates following the capture of Portgas D. Ace by Marshall D. Teach, also known as Blackbeard. Ace’s impending execution was announced, prompting a massive showdown at Marineford.

The conflict drew in not only the Marines and the Whitebeard Pirates but also Monkey D. Luffy and his crew of Impel Down escapees, who joined the fray. The battle intensified quickly and reached its climax after a furious hour and a half of intense combat.

Tragically, the deaths of Ace and Whitebeard occurred during the battle, bringing a pivotal moment that shaped the course of the war. It was at this critical juncture that Shanks intervened, arriving to halt the escalating violence. His arrival led to a ceasefire, with Fleet Admiral Sengoku agreeing to end the conflict.

Initially celebrated for their victory, the Marines faced new challenges as the death of Whitebeard spurred an increase in pirate aggression across the world. Moreover, the discovery that several Level 6 prisoners had escaped from Impel Down, orchestrated by Blackbeard, further infuriated Sengoku. The World Government’s decision to suppress news of the mass escape added to the turmoil, highlighting the complexities and ongoing struggles within the world of pirates and Marines alike.

After the Summit War of Marineford, significant changes occurred within the Marines. Fleet Admiral Sengoku and Vice Admiral Garp resigned from their positions shortly after the war ended, marking a pivotal transition in leadership.

Timeskip:

During the two-year time skip that followed the war, a momentous ten-day battle between Admirals Aokiji and Akainu took place to determine the next Fleet Admiral. Sakazuki, known as Akainu, emerged victorious from this intense conflict and ascended to the position of Fleet Admiral. Aokiji, despite surviving the battle, chose to leave the Marines rather than serve under Akainu’s leadership. His departure was regarded as a substantial loss for the Marines, although the organization continued to grow stronger under Akainu’s command.

As part of their efforts to bolster their forces, the Marines conducted a World Military Draft. During this draft, two new Admirals were appointed: Fujitora and Ryokugyu, who received special appointments to this prestigious rank.

Meanwhile, X Drake, who had previously been a Marine Rear Admiral operating undercover, joined the Beasts Pirates during this period. Drake quickly rose through the ranks within the pirate crew, achieving the position of Shinuchi, demonstrating his adaptability and skill in navigating the treacherous waters of the New World.

Fish-Man Island Saga:

After the Straw Hat Pirates returned to Sabaody Archipelago, Sentomaru, now an official member of the Marines, led a group of Marines and Pacifista to apprehend them. Initially, they attempted to arrest Brook but were unsuccessful. They then encountered the Fake Straw Hat Crew, who were swiftly defeated. When the real Straw Hats appeared, they easily escaped and destroyed the Pacifista units in their path.

Moving on to the Dressrosa Saga, which includes non-canon events like One Piece Film: Z, a division of the Marines was dispatched to Firs Island to prevent Z, the leader of the Neo Marines and former Admiral, from seizing Dyna Stones held by the World Government. Despite their efforts, they were defeated. Z faced off against Admiral Kizaru in a fierce battle, during which Z detonated a Dyna Stone, destroying the island.

Later, Marine officials convened to discuss Z’s actions and the potential threat he posed to the remaining Dyna Stone endpoints. Marines were sent to Secon Island to prevent its destruction but were unable to stop the Neo Marines from devastating the island with stolen Dyna Stones.

The non-canon section, Z, was ultimately defeated by Monkey D. Luffy on Piriodo. Admiral Kizaru and Vice Admirals arrived, intending to eliminate both the Neo Marines and the Straw Hats. However, Z sacrificed himself in a final act of redemption, facing the Marines alone to allow others to escape.

Returning to canon events, the pirate Caribou was apprehended by Jinbe and taken to the G-5 Marine base. Marines attempted to burn Caribou at the stake, but his crew arrived unexpectedly and rescued him. Although Caribou initially abandoned his crew, they eventually escaped from the base, taking a Marine ship with them.

Punk Hazard Arc:

Stationed at G-5, Vice Admiral Smoker learned that the Straw Hat Pirates had entered the New World and followed them to the forbidden island of Punk Hazard. There, he encountered Trafalgar Law, one of the Warlords of the Sea, who defeated him and switched his heart with Tashigi’s. This left Smoker incapacitated, while Tashigi appeared to be Smoker due to Law’s ability.

The Marines, under Smoker’s command, attempted to invade Caesar Clown’s laboratory upon learning of his experiments on abducted children. They clashed with both the Straw Hats and Caesar’s forces. Caesar arrived and easily defeated the Marines, imprisoning Smoker and Tashigi alongside the Straw Hats and Law.

The situation worsened when Caesar exposed them to Shinokuni gas in an attempt to kill them. Despite this, they managed to escape and regroup inside the facility, planning a counterattack. Smoker faced Vice Admiral Vergo, who was revealed to be a spy for the Donquixote Pirates. Though Smoker was initially defeated, he managed to return Law’s heart, allowing Law to defeat Vergo.

Meanwhile, the G-5 Marines worked to liberate the captive children, aided by Zoro. Tashigi confronted and defeated Caesar’s underling, Monet. Many G-5 Marines sacrificed themselves to protect Tashigi and the children from the deadly gas, Shinokuni.

After Caesar’s defeat at the hands of Luffy and Vergo’s defeat by Law, the Marines and Straw Hats escaped the facility with the rescued children. They celebrated briefly before parting ways. However, the Marines were reluctant to fully embrace their former enemies. Their reunion was cut short when Donquixote Doflamingo arrived on the island, easily overpowering the Marines and brutally beating Smoker. Kuzan (Aokiji) intervened to stop Doflamingo, forcing him to retreat.

Despite these encounters, the relationship between the Marines and the Straw Hat Pirates remained complex and tense, marked by mutual respect and occasional cooperation amid their fundamental differences.

Dressrosa Arc:

After receiving orders from Fleet Admiral Sakazuki, Admiral Fujitora was dispatched to Dressrosa to deal with Monkey D. Luffy and Trafalgar Law, who had allied. Marines were stationed at the Corrida Colosseum on Dressrosa to apprehend criminals participating in the tournament. Vice Admiral Maynard attempted to infiltrate as a contestant but was swiftly defeated by the pirate Bartolomeo.

As events unfolded, Fujitora accompanied Donquixote Doflamingo when the latter went back on his deal and ambushed Law. They managed to capture Law briefly, but Law escaped and reunited with the Straw Hats. Fujitora attempted to attack them with a Marine battleship, but Law damaged the ship, forcing Fujitora to retreat temporarily.

When Doflamingo defeated Law again, and tensions escalated on Dressrosa, Fujitora accompanied him to the palace. There, Fujitora expressed his intention to dismantle the Warlords of the Sea system, causing friction with Doflamingo. Meanwhile, Vice Admiral Bastille led Marines against Franky at the Toys House, resulting in Franky’s defeat. Chaos erupted when the toys on Dressrosa reverted to humans, and Doflamingo used his Birdcage ability to control Marines and civilians alike. Fujitora intervened to confront Luffy, Law, and Zoro, but their battle was interrupted by the Donquixote Pirate Pica’s attack.

The arrival of the Revolutionary Sabo further complicated matters. Sabo defeated Vice Admiral Bastille and engaged Fujitora in battle briefly before Fujitora left to speak with King Riku Doldo III. Fujitora expressed his faith in the Straw Hats to defeat Doflamingo while the Marines worked to maintain order amidst the chaos caused by the Birdcage.

As Doflamingo tightened the Birdcage, Fujitora and his troops cooperated with the Straw Hats and their allies to stop it. After Doflamingo’s defeat and arrest, Fujitora publicly apologized for the Marines’ failures and assisted in the aftermath. Back at Mary Geoise, Fleet Admiral Sakazuki confronted the Five Elders over Doflamingo’s deceit, learning of his defeat. He reprimanded Fujitora for his actions and ordered him to capture Luffy and Law. Fujitora agreed, relying on the roll of a die to guide his decisions.

During the escape of the Straw Hats and their allies from Dressrosa, Fujitora encountered resistance from the dwarves and citizens who protected the pirates. Despite preparing to crush them with rubble, Fujitora hesitated to harm civilians, ultimately aiding the Straw Hats indirectly by targeting their enemies instead. Throughout these events, Fujitora’s actions reflected his conflicted sense of justice and duty, balancing his loyalty to the Marines with his moral compass.

Whole Cake Island Saga:

Zou Arc: After leaving Dressrosa with Doflamingo in custody, the Marines were attacked by Jack of the Beasts Pirates but managed to repel him.

Levely Arc: Marines were busy escorting royals to Mary Geoise for the Levely. Sakazuki was enraged over security breaches and conflicts involving Fujitora. At the Levely, Fujitora clashed with Sabo’s Revolutionary group over Bartholomew Kuma’s liberation.

Wano Country Saga:

Wano Country Arc: After the Levely, tensions rose with news of alliances between Big Mom and Kaidou. Marines, led by Ryokugyu, engaged in operations around Wano. Buggy, Mihawk, and Hancock evaded capture after the abolition of the warlord system.

Final Saga:

Egghead Arc: At Egghead, Admiral Kizaru and the Marines faced off against the Straw Hats and other adversaries. Saturn ordered a Buster Call, leading to chaos with Pacifista and Giant Warrior Pirates. Sentomaru, formerly loyal to Vegapunk, faced Kizaru and later joined forces with the Straw Hats against the Marines.

Current Events:

Mary Geoise Incident: Fleet Admiral Sakazuki faces off against Bartholomew Kuma, who manages to bypass Mary Geoise and cause havoc despite Sakazuki’s attempts to stop him. Kuma’s intentions remain mysterious.

Koby’s “Kidnapping”: Koby is ostensibly kidnapped by the Blackbeard Pirates but does so voluntarily as part of a secret plan to exchange himself for Marine prisoners. Vice Admiral Garp leads a rescue mission to Hachinosu, where they engage in heavy battles with the Blackbeard Pirates. Garp encounters his former protege and now Blackbeard Pirate, Kuzan, among others.

Cross Guild Threat: Sengoku and Tsuru learn about the murder of T Bone by unknown assailants, possibly influenced by the bounty system established by the Cross Guild. They recognize the growing threat posed by the Cross Guild and discuss countermeasures.

Early Concepts:

The early concepts of the Marines in One Piece reveal an interesting evolution from a Mafia-inspired theme to their final depiction in the series. Originally envisioned with hard, brutal faces and black suits reminiscent of a Mafia organization, these ideas eventually influenced the design of the Cipher Pol instead. Interestingly, characters like John Giant and Brannew were among the earliest planned and least changed from concept to final publication.

Translation and dubbing issues have also played a role in defining how the Marines are portrayed in English-speaking countries. While the term “MARINE” is prominently displayed in Roman characters throughout the manga and anime, in-series dialogue consistently uses the term 海軍 (Kaigun), which translates more closely to “Navy.” This discrepancy is notable for American audiences due to the well-known rivalry between the United States Marine Corps and Navy.

Various professional English translations have handled this differently:

• The VIZ manga often favors “Navy” for the overall organization but uses terms like “Marines,” “sailor,” or “soldier” for smaller divisions or individuals. In-story text is usually left as “MARINE” or edited to “NAVY.”
• The 4Kids-dubbed anime uniformly uses “Navy” and edits all in-story text accordingly.
• The Funimation anime generally follows VIZ’s approach but uses “Marines” more frequently, especially in the uncut dub.
• The live-action series exclusively uses “Marines” and retains “MARINE” on uniforms.