Since the inception of the Naruto series, the main character’s aspiration has been clear: to become Hokage, the leader of the Hidden Leaf Village. However, as the storyline unfolds and revelations about his background come to light, a compelling question arises: Would Naruto have achieved the rank of Hokage even if he were not the son of Minato Namikaze, the Fourth Hokage?
Throughout the first part of the series, Naruto is portrayed as a failure, awkward and seemingly lacking promise. The citizens of Konoha shunned him, primarily because he was the jinchūriki of Kurama, the Nine-Tails. Most people were unaware of his prestigious lineage. For a significant period, being the son of Minato did not provide him with any tangible advantages—neither politically nor socially.
As the narrative progresses, Naruto demonstrates that he can achieve greatness through sheer determination. He learns the Rasengan, masters Sage Mode, creates the Rasenshuriken, and eventually gains control over Kurama. Furthermore, he possesses an incredible ability to change the hearts of others, as seen with characters like Zabuza, Neji, Gaara, Pain, and even Obito. These accomplishments are a testament to his individual merit and suggest that, regardless of being Minato’s son, Naruto inherently possessed the qualities necessary to become a leader.
Nevertheless, his lineage certainly played a role in bolstering his position later on. The genetic traits he inherited from his parents provided him with an abundant chakra supply (thanks to the Uzumaki clan) and an innate talent for ninjutsu (from the Namikaze line). Additionally, when his true origins were revealed, Naruto was viewed differently by the elite of Konoha, who recognized in him the legacy of two village heroes. This newfound prestige helped him access advanced training opportunities, such as his time with Killer Bee, receiving the powers of the Sage of Six Paths, and being accepted as the savior of the ninja world. It is crucial to highlight that these advancements were possible primarily because Naruto had already proven himself through his earlier efforts.
More than his lineage, it was Naruto’s natural leadership, unwavering perseverance, and deep empathy that propelled him to the Hokage position. During the Fourth Great Ninja War, he emerged as a central figure, uniting the nations, motivating the various armies, and confronting formidable foes like Madara, Obito, and Kaguya. Even before officially holding the title of Hokage, he was already regarded as a leader by many.
Ultimately, Naruto’s appointment as Hokage was a formal acknowledgment of what he had already embodied in practice: a protector of the village who was ready to give everything for its safety, just like the Hokages before him. It’s evident that Naruto would have become Hokage even without being Minato’s son. His journey was marked by hard work, resilience, and authentic leadership. While his lineage provided certain advantages, it was not the decisive factor in his ascent. What truly made him worthy of the Hokage title was his character, not his family name.
The series “Naruto Shippuden” aired from 2007 to 2017 and represents the second phase of the anime. In this continuation, Naruto returns after two years of rigorous training with the goal of combating the Akatsuki and rescuing Sasuke from Orochimaru’s clutches. Meanwhile, the Akatsuki organization intensifies its pursuit of the Tailed Beasts, and the ninja world is on the brink of facing its greatest crisis.
In total, the anime comprises 500 episodes (including fillers from Naruto Shippuden), wrapping up the tales of Naruto, Sasuke, Sakura, and Kakashi while also setting the stage for a direct continuation of the storyline. For those interested, the complete series is available for streaming on Crunchyroll.
Naruto’s evolution from an outcast to a respected leader is a captivating aspect of the series. His journey illustrates the importance of hard work and personal growth. The challenges he faces and overcomes serve as a catalyst for his transformation, showcasing that one’s background does not dictate one’s future.
Moreover, Naruto’s relationships with other characters play a significant role in his development. Initially, he is isolated and ridiculed, but as he builds connections with his friends and allies, he grows into a figure of unity and strength. Characters like Sasuke, Sakura, and Kakashi are instrumental in shaping his journey, providing both challenges and support that help him realize his potential.
Naruto’s story is also rich with themes of perseverance and redemption. His ability to forgive those who have wronged him, exemplified in his interactions with characters like Gaara and Obito, highlights his compassionate nature. This empathy not only endears him to his peers but also sets him apart as a leader who genuinely cares for the well-being of others.
Furthermore, the series delves into the complexities of leadership and the burdens that come with it. As Naruto faces increasingly formidable foes and challenges, he must navigate the responsibilities of being a leader while remaining true to himself. This internal conflict adds depth to his character and exemplifies the trials that come with the pursuit of greatness.
In conclusion, Naruto’s journey is a compelling narrative that emphasizes the significance of personal growth, the impact of relationships, and the essence of true leadership. His rise to Hokage status serves as a testament to his character and abilities, proving that while lineage may offer certain advantages, it is ultimately one’s actions and determination that define their legacy.
The world of Naruto is vast and intricate, filled with lessons that resonate beyond the realm of ninjas and jutsu. As fans continue to explore this universe, they are reminded of the timeless values of hard work, empathy, and the power of friendship. The story of Naruto is not just about becoming Hokage; it is about the journey of self-discovery and the enduring spirit of a young boy who dared to dream big against all odds.
