Figarland Garling is One Piece's greatest proof of how propaganda can shape a character

The One Piece universe consists of stories that include both fact and fiction. Through the use of propaganda, Eiichiro Oda has created a series of characters whose names are far more important than any other aspect of who they are or what they can do. Figarland Garling could be considered an excellent example of this.

Garling is the epitome of the way propaganda has been used in order to build these incredible characters. He has earned the title "Champion of God Valley", which carries with it a certain level of importance, yet he has not done anything to gain this title other than have his name repeated by others. Chapter 1166 gives a perfect example of this; it shows that the World Government uses the story to maintain power over its people.

The God Valley incident is one of the most important events in the One Piece universe; however, many details surrounding this incident are purposely left vague. While Garling earned a reputation during this conflict, careful consideration should be given to the context surrounding his claimed victory.

Essentially, Garling swooped in for a finishing touch to an already defeated foe. He had no visible signs of battle and looked to be in perfect health. Meanwhile, the actual combatants were left wanting for oxygen after having exhausted themselves during battle.

The Immortality Factor That Distorts Reality

The new information revealed regarding the regenerative capabilities of the Holy Knights causes us to re-evaluate how we view Garling's fighting accomplishments entirely. A character with healing capabilities that can be used to prevent death from conventional forms of harm cannot have their durability rated fairly, as all other fighters have.

Therefore, the timeline for an uninjured Garling essentially includes an hour-long period of time in which he sustained an extremely serious injury (caused by Rocks) and then appeared unharmed after this 60-minute period had passed.

This regeneration creates an illusion of invincibility, which has been continuously reinforced in One Piece fan culture. A warrior who recovers from mortal wounds will naturally accumulate an impressive record, but this says nothing about their actual skill compared to other top-tier fighters.

The World Government's Propaganda Machine in One Piece

Throughout One Piece's history and development, the World Government has consistently demonstrated an ability to control the flow of information. The void century is erased from history, and the achievements of individuals are rewritten to present the World Government with a particular narrative. Garling has gained a unique reputation because of the World Government's need for someone to be a representative of the Holy Knights.

This is a propaganda technique used for various purposes within the universe of One Piece. It helps maintain the illusion of power for the Celestial Dragons, discourages rebellion due to the fear they create, and gives easy explanations for events that may cause concern. People perceive Garling as such an overpowering warrior that, before they confront him physically, most have a sense of fear that prevents them from acting on a physical confrontation or submission.

Morgan's Big News Manufactured on Heroes

The aftermath of God Valley demonstrates how media complicity amplifies government propaganda. The World Government bribed Morgans to publish articles claiming that Garp was the only person responsible for defeating the Rocks Pirates. The media downplayed any contributions made by the Holy Knights or Roger, as well as how difficult things were for everyone else involved in their final fight against Rocks.

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One Piece places a lot of emphasis on storytelling and how important details are excluded from events, giving off the impression that complex events are simple stories benefiting those in charge. Garp had an actual part in defeating Rocks, whereas Garling just defeated a knocked-out opponent. As a result, the truth of Garp's role is overshadowed by the narrative usefulness of his actions.

Garling, by the end, is considered a form of commentary on how unsustainable power built on lies is, because at some point, he will face the consequences of building his reputation on what is essentially propaganda instead of being a warrior. Throughout the series to date, One Piece has been anti-false authority, and Garling is the embodiment of this critique.

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