Two years ago, during a conversation between Luffy and Shanks in Water 7, Garp mentioned that Shanks stood on the same level as Whitebeard, one of the Four Emperors. These Four Emperors, who are now regarded as the rulers of the sea like kings, hold immense power. Challenging them necessitates the intervention of the navy or seeking assistance from the Shichibukai. The stability of the world is at stake if the authority of these Four Pillars is compromised.
Although the exact origins of the term “Yonko” remain unknown, we do know that three of the original Four Emperors were former members of the Rock Pirates. These individuals are Whitebeard, Big Mom, Kaido, and Red-Haired Shanks. The term “Four Emperors” was used to describe them six years ago.
So, where did the title “Four Emperors” come from? It is unlikely that the pirates themselves coined the term. Instead, it is probable that the Navy bestowed this designation, possibly originating from higher-ranking figures such as Commander-in-Chief Kong or the Five Elders.
In my opinion, the purpose behind creating the title of Four Emperors was to exert control over the pirate world after the outbreak of the pirate era.
If we recall the events at Marineford two years ago, just before his death, Whitebeard revealed the existence of the One Piece, a statement that reverberated throughout the world. Sengoku, the Golden Buddha, appeared visibly angered by Whitebeard’s proclamation.
This reaction becomes understandable when we consider that if Roger is credited with initiating the pirate era, it was Whitebeard who further propelled its growth. While the concept of the One Piece remained vague to many, Whitebeard dispelled the ambiguity and provided clarity.
We know that Gol D. Roger, the Pirate King, discovered the True History of the World, including the secrets of the Void Century, the will of the “D,” and the Ancient Kingdom when he reached Laugh Tale. These are all matters that the World Government seeks to keep hidden.
As more individuals become aware of the existence of the One Piece treasure, the number of pirates setting sail in search of it continues to rise. This poses a grave concern for the World Government.
Unable to control every pirate across the world, the World Government saw an opportunity to impose self-restraint upon pirates. They achieved this by establishing a threshold that most pirates cannot surpass, and that threshold is the title of Yonko. Aside from the Pirate King, the title of Yonko is the most prestigious in the pirate world—one that all pirates aspire to possess and fear when mentioned
