The Warlord System, officially known as the Seven Warlords of the Sea, was a controversial institution created by the World Government to maintain control over the vast and unpredictable oceans. The system relied on the allegiance—or at least cooperation—of seven elite pirates who were granted legal authority to operate under the World Government's banner. These pirates, who were among the most powerful and notorious individuals of their time, were given amnesty for their crimes in exchange for serving the interests of the government. The Warlords were expected to uphold a delicate balance of power and act as an extension of the government's influence over the lawless seas.
The Warlord System was designed to address the growing instability caused by the surge of piracy during the Golden Age of Piracy. The World Government sought to counter the growing influence of the Yonko and the rampant activities of independent pirate crews by enlisting powerful individuals to fight on their behalf. In theory, the Warlords were supposed to serve as a counterweight to the Yonko, while simultaneously suppressing smaller pirate threats and maintaining order in key territories. This strategic use of pirates against pirates allowed the government to reduce the burden on the Marines, who could then focus their efforts on broader threats.
Membership in the Warlord System was determined by strength, notoriety, and usefulness to the World Government. Those selected were among the most infamous figures on the seas, often with bounties that signified their immense danger and influence. Once inducted, a Warlord retained significant autonomy, free to pursue their own goals as long as they fulfilled their obligations to the World Government. These obligations often included participating in large-scale battles, providing intelligence on rival pirates, or maintaining control over key territories. In return, they were granted immunity from prosecution for their past crimes and allowed to retain their wealth and domains.
Despite its practical benefits, the Warlord System was deeply flawed. Many Warlords used their position to further their own ambitions, exploiting the legal protection granted by the World Government to expand their power and influence. Some openly defied the government, pursuing agendas that undermined the very stability the system was meant to uphold. The Warlords' unpredictable nature often led to conflicts of interest, with several incidents exposing the fragility of the arrangement. This lack of control over such powerful individuals made the system a double-edged sword, as it frequently caused more chaos than it resolved.
The system also drew significant criticism from within the government and among civilians. Many @Marine resented the existence of the Warlords, viewing them as untrustworthy criminals who were allowed to act with impunity. Civilians often suffered under the rule of Warlords who exploited their territories for personal gain, further tarnishing the system's reputation. These issues, combined with the increasing strength of external threats like the Yonko and Revolutionary Army, eventually led to growing calls for the abolition of the Warlord System.
In its time, the Warlord System played a significant role in shaping the balance of power on the seas. It exemplified the World Government's willingness to compromise its ideals to maintain control, revealing the inherent contradictions in its efforts to uphold order. The legacy of the system remains a subject of debate, symbolizing both the pragmatic use of power and the dangers of relying on chaos to enforce stability.
Seven Warlords of the Sea:
@Sir Crocodile
@Gecko Moria
@Boa Hancock
@Donquixote Doflamingo
@Dracule Mihawk
@Jinbe
@Bartholomew Kuma
Sea Regions:
@North Blue
@The South Blue
@East Blue
@The West Blue
@North Calm Belt
@South Calm Belt
@West Calm Belt
@East Calm Belt
@The Grand Line
@Paradise
@The New World
@Mariejois