One Piece chronicles the thrilling escapades of Monkey D. Luffy and his crew, the Straw Hat Pirates, as they sail across vast oceans in search of Luffy’s ambition to become the Pirate King.

This expansive series introduces countless powerful pirate factions with varying motives, but few can compete with the formidable presence of the Whitebeard Pirates, famed for their elite members and impressive fleet in the New World.

Edward Newgate, more widely recognized as Whitebeard, stood as one of the legendary Four Emperors in the One Piece universe, reflecting the incredible strength and influence he wielded alongside his crew. The tragic incidents during the Summit War at Marineford ultimately led to Whitebeard’s death, leaving the Whitebeard Pirates struggling to maintain their formidable reputation following the loss of their steadfast leader. Their gradual decline did not arise from a lack of power but from the void left by their captain’s absence.

Whitebeard Was the Heart of His Crew

His Fatherly Love Fueled Growth and Success

Known as the “Strongest Man in the World,” Whitebeard instilled loyalty and admiration among his crew as he cultivated a strong family dynamic, addressing each member as his “sons.” His nurturing spirit stemmed from a desire for familial bonds, leading his crew to regard him not merely as their captain, but as a father figure, often calling him “Pops” or “Old Man.”

This paternal affection fostered an environment of trust and respect within the crew, imperative for their success on the battlefield. Each Commander viewed Whitebeard as a pivotal leader, committed to his vision. Yet, that very bond made it challenging for the remaining Commanders to navigate their paths after Whitebeard’s passing, resulting in a significant loss of direction.

The Commanders Were Powerful in Their Own Right

Under Newgate’s Guidance, They Showcased Their Combat Prowess

The Whitebeard Pirates were organized into sixteen divisions, each featuring incredible commanders, highlighting their vast combat strength. Noteworthy figures such as Marco the Phoenix, Kouzuki Oden, and Portgas D. Ace showcased exceptional abilities, earning their ranks within One Piece. Marco commanded attention for his Mythical Zoan-type Devil Fruit powers, enabling him to transform into a phoenix, while Ace’s capacity to wield fire came from his lineage as Gol D. Roger’s biological son. Their legacies resonated across the seas, reinforcing the Whitebeard Pirates’ fearsome reputation.

Throughout One Piece, the Commanders displayed remarkable prowess, even contending with formidable adversaries like the Marine Admirals during the Marineford War arc—though the aftermath showcased their diminished strength and unity post-Whitebeard.

The Commanders Disbanded After His Death

Unity Diminished in the Wake of Newgate’s Passing

Following the loss of Second Division Commander Portgas D. Ace, the entire Whitebeard Pirates fleet made a memorable appearance in the Summit War Saga, standing united against the might of the Marines and Warlords. Their brave effort was commendable but ultimately tragic, resulting in not only Ace’s death but Whitebeard’s as well at the hands of Blackbeard’s crew.

As Luffy dealt with profound grief, it underscored the vulnerability of their power structure. In the aftermath of the war, the absence of Whitebeard shattered the unity among the Commanders, each member finding it increasingly challenging to maintain their footing without their revered captain.

Blackbeard Had Always Been a Fractured Rival to Whitebeard

From Allies to Adversaries

Blackbeard’s victory over Whitebeard epitomized a long-standing rivalry that began when he joined Whitebeard’s crew during his youth. Expelled after a deadly act driven by a coveted Devil Fruit, the animosity between them escalated to a fierce confrontation where Whitebeard, even in defeat, denied any relation to Blackbeard, asserting his unworthiness.

In the wake of Whitebeard’s demise, Blackbeard further compounded the Crew’s misfortunes by taking his Devil Fruit powers, exacerbating the vulnerabilities faced by the surviving Commanders.

The Payback War Cemented Their Downfall

Marco Led a Defeated Crew Against Blackbeard’s Forces

After the Summit War, the Whitebeard Pirates found themselves in chaos, with rival crews spearheaded by Blackbeard seizing their territories. The ensuing “Payback War” saw Marco leading the remaining members of the Whitebeard Pirates against Blackbeard’s forces. Unfortunately, the absence of a dominant leader culminated in another devastating defeat, allowing Blackbeard to ascend to his place among the Four Emperors.

The Whitebeard Pirates’ Legacy Eroded Following Their Final Defeat

Blackbeard Took Over Whitebeard’s Title, Never to Regain Dominance

Despite enduring heavy losses during both the Summit and Payback Wars, the Whitebeard Pirates were unable to reclaim their former glory. Two years later, Blackbeard had occupied most of Whitebeard’s territories, officially claiming the title of Emperor and asserting his supremacy over the New World. While Whitebeard’s fearsome legacy perseveres, his crew could not sustain their might in his absence, ultimately leading to their disbandment.

During his prime, Whitebeard exemplified extraordinary power, yet even this could not shield him from defeats inflicted by the Blackbeard Pirates. His familial leadership approach resonates with deeper themes in One Piece, mapping Luffy’s journey with profound insights into camaraderie and loyalty. The Whitebeard Pirates’ decline accentuates the vital role of unity and strong leadership, illustrating that even the mightiest figure’s absence can create a significant void, akin to Luffy and his Straw Hat Pirates, who prosper through mutual respect and collectiveness in adversity.