In the history of One Piece, many fans have come up with theories about different mysterious parts of the story. Some were proven wrong, but others really affected the One Piece story.
Recently, a YouTuber shared a theory challenging our usual idea of Shanks as a pirate. Shanks is a key character, leading the Red Hair Pirates and known as “Red-Haired” Shanks. However, this theory suggests that Shanks might not be a pirate after all.
He used to sail with the Roger Pirates before becoming a Yonko, one of the Four Emperors ruling the New World. The theory tries to uncover the secrets behind Shanks’ actions, making his character more complex.
One Piece Theory: Red-Haired Shanks and His Crew Aren’t Pirates but Guardians of Harmony in the World
The YouTuber Doronsworld suggests that in the One Piece series, Shanks and his crew might not be pirates but have an important role in keeping the balance in the world.
Shanks predicted the importance of the battle between Ace and Blackbeard, knowing it would shape the world. Despite Shanks warning Whitebeard, Ace was captured, causing a major shift in power. Shanks also stopped Kaido from getting involved in the Marineford War to prevent further damage.
In discussions at the Reverie, Shanks likely sees Blackbeard as a threat to the world’s balance. Shanks, knowing change is needed, tries to keep control until the right person, like Luffy, who carries Roger’s will, emerges to bring about the necessary transformation. Some fans might question why, if Shanks isn’t a typical pirate, he’s interested in finding One Piece.
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Why is Shanks After One Piece if He isn’t a Pirate?
Shanks in One Piece is different from other strong characters. He isn’t trying to become Pirate King or build an army. Instead, he enjoys himself and gets involved in world politics. Since he was in Roger’s crew and met him at Laugh Tale, Shanks probably knows a lot about the world’s history and the One Piece.
Also, Shanks has connections with the World Government. This is clear from his meetings with the elders during the G5. Shanks might be sharing important information with Imu, as the elders later meet with Imu. This suggests Shanks knows about Imu, similar to other powerful figures like Akainu and Sengoku.
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However, this doesn’t mean Shanks supports the World Government. He seems to secretly help Luffy’s cause. Shanks might be motivated to find the One Piece now because of Blackbeard, who he doesn’t have political ties with. The threat from Blackbeard could be pushing Shanks to act and keep the world’s power balanced.
One Piece anime is available to watch on Crunchyroll.