Naruto: Unveiling the Controversial Legacy of the Hokage

Highlights

The second Hokage, Tobirama Senju, is often forgotten due to his controversial domestic policy, even though he was one of the most brilliant and influential ninjas in history.

Tobirama was the creator of influential ninjutsu techniques, including Naruto's Shadow Clone Jutsu, and was also responsible for establishing significant institutions that are still present in Konoha today. However, his choice to entrust the Konoha Military Police Force to the Uchiha clan had detrimental consequences. It resulted in their isolation from society and, ultimately, the tragic annihilation of the entire clan, which stained Tobirama's reputation and achievements.

The first Hokage is widely regarded as the most powerful and the fourth Hokage is remembered for his selfless sacrifice. The third Hokage is cherished by those who grew up under his wise and kind leadership. However, the second Hokage, Tobirama Senju, is often overlooked and remembered for his controversial domestic policy. Even the series itself only delves into his story during the Fourth Ninja World War arc. Now, let's explore the factors that make Tobirama Senju a divisive figure.

One of The Most Brilliant Ninja In History

Tobirama Senju, often overlooked, held tremendous influence as a ninja. Not only was he a brilliant mind behind numerous widely-used jutsu, but he also laid key foundations that brought prosperity to Konoha. Among his accomplishments are the creation of powerful ninjutsu such as Naruto's Multiple Shadow Clones Jutsu, Minato's Flying Thunder God Jutsu, and Orochimaru's Summoning: Impure World Reincarnation Jutsu. These forbidden jutsu have had a profound impact on the destiny of the ninja world, shaping its course for better or worse. The absence of any of these characters possessing such abilities would have drastically altered the outcome.

As if that is not impressive enough, Tobirama's proficiency as a leader was truly remarkable. He possessed the unique ability to remain composed in any situation and possess a broad perspective, enabling him to make decisions that would be advantageous for the entirety of Konoha. Several noteworthy institutions that he established continue to thrive even today, including the renowned Konoha Ninja Academy, the Joint Chunin Exams, the esteemed Special Squad Anbu, and the esteemed Konoha Military Police Force, among others. These institutions resonated so strongly that leaders from various ninja villages recognized their countless benefits and proceeded to adopt them within their own territories.

Tobirama’s Controversial Decision As a Hokage

In contrast to the amiable and approachable nature of the first Hokage, Hashirama Senju, Tobirama Senju was often perceived as a distant and analytical individual. He prioritized rationality over emotions to guide his decision-making process, a complete departure from his brother's mindset. This distinctive personality trait enabled Tobirama to have a broader perspective and take whatever measures were necessary to establish peace and prosperity in the village that his brother had passionately fought to build.

Tobirama's primary objective was to foster a sense of unity among the diverse population of Konoha. This involved breaking down the barriers between individual clans and prioritizing the well-being of the village above all else. While most clans agreed to Tobirama's vision and gradually embraced the idea of a unified Konoha, the Uchiha, being a proud clan, found this concept particularly challenging to embrace.

Tobirama acknowledged the inherent danger that resided within the Uchiha clan, yet he also recognized the detrimental impact their absence would have on Konoha. Consequently, he made the decision to entrust the Uchiha with the responsibilities of the Konoha Military Police Force. By doing so, he believed that integrating the Uchiha into the fabric of Konoha while simultaneously harnessing their formidable abilities would ultimately benefit the village.

This decision turned out to be incorrect. Ultimately, the general population often harbored resentment towards law enforcement officials, and as a result, the proud Uchiha clan began to feel alienated from the village. Over time, this feeling of isolation grew until it culminated decades later in a failed coup d'état that tragically resulted in the annihilation of the entire Uchiha clan. Unfortunately, many individuals who are unaware of the complete narrative behind this horrific incident erroneously associate blame with the second Hokage's choice to entrust the Uchiha with the responsibility of the Military Police Force.

The Conflicting Legacy of Tobirama Senju

Over time, the second Hokage's reputation became overshadowed by his controversial approach to domestic policy, particularly his stance on the Uchiha clan, causing his numerous achievements to fade into obscurity. Forgotten are his remarkable contributions to ninjutsu and the impactful institutions he established during his tenure. Instead, his failure to address the Uchiha's deep-seated animosity remains firmly etched in people's memories. Consequently, the majority of villagers now see him as a divisive figure rather than the brilliant ninja and insightful leader he truly was.

During the Fourth Great Ninja War, Tobirama Senju's power and intelligence were witnessed by thousands of people. Even the Seventh Hokage, Naruto Uzumaki, holds high regard for him, having fought alongside him during the war. With this newfound appreciation, it is hoped that Tobirama Senju will be remembered in a more positive light by his people. Stream Naruto now on Crunchyroll.