Overview
- Fugaku Uchiha, the final leader of the Uchiha clan, is pivotal to the storyline, leaving an enduring legacy.
- His prowess in battle was on par with the legendary Sannin, making him a candidate for the position of Fourth Hokage.
- His influence significantly shaped the characters of his sons, Itachi and Sasuke Uchiha.
Table of Contents
- Who Is Fugaku Uchiha?
- The Legacy of Wicked Eye Fugaku
- Fugaku’s Influence on Itachi and Sasuke
- Fugaku Uchiha’s Strength
The Naruto series is renowned for its depiction of formidable clans and characters, with a pronounced focus on the Uchiha clan. While the Uchiha family often takes center stage, one significant figure tends to remain in the shadows: Fugaku Uchiha, the clan’s last leader. Although his presence is sporadic, primarily linked to the formative backstories of Itachi and Sasuke, Fugaku’s influence is profound yet understated.
Fugaku Uchiha emerged as a formidable character in Naruto, occasionally referred to as Wicked Eye Fugaku. His role in the storyline is crucial, although it frequently goes unrecognized. Through various flashbacks and interactions, the intricate layers of his legacy can be unveiled, revealing the remarkable impact he had on the overall narrative.
Who Is Fugaku Uchiha?
The Last Leader of the Uchiha
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First Appearance |
Naruto, Episode 84 “Roar, Chidori! Brother vs. Brother!” |
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Air Date |
May 19, 2004 |
As the final leader of the Uchiha clan, Fugaku played a crucial role in postponing the Uchiha Rebellion. He worked diligently to maintain peace between the Hidden Leaf Village and his clan. As a prominent user of the Mangekyō Sharingan, Fugaku’s abilities positioned him among the elite, even making him a potential candidate for the title of Fourth Hokage. His commitment to peace was further exemplified when he relocated the Uchiha clan to the outskirts of the village to mitigate suspicions during the Nine-Tails incident.
Fugaku’s dedication to peace was evident as he sought alternative resolutions rather than seeking power. He became a pivotal figure in delaying the inevitable Uchiha Rebellion, providing a window for Itachi to carry out his tragic mission to eliminate their clan. Ultimately, Fugaku’s last wishes reflected his love for his family; he entrusted Itachi with the care of Sasuke, displaying a profound understanding of his sons’ destinies.
The Legacy of Wicked Eye Fugaku
Fugaku’s Lasting Impact on Naruto
Though Fugaku’s appearances in the Naruto series are limited, his martial prowess and battlefield reputation resonate through the annals of Shinobi history. His participation in the Third Great Ninja War garnered him the nickname “Wicked Eye Fugaku,”showcasing his formidable mastery of the Sharingan and ninjutsu techniques. He became a figure feared by opposing shinobi, ultimately leading to his elevation as the leader of the Uchiha clan and commanding the Konoha Military Police.
Fugaku’s awakening of the Mangekyō Sharingan—triggered by the loss of a close comrade—remains a closely guarded secret. This discretion was vital in preventing any concerns regarding controlling the Nine-Tailed Fox. Because of this secret, his unique Mangekyō abilities remain a mystery, leaving fans to ponder how powerful he truly was.
Fugaku’s Influence on Itachi and Sasuke
Shaping the Lives of Itachi and Sasuke
Fugaku’s influence remains etched in the lives of his sons, Itachi and Sasuke Uchiha, despite his demise during the Uchiha Massacre. Both brothers are central to the series, and their character development is intricately tied to Fugaku’s teachings and upbringing. As a doting father, Fugaku recognized Itachi’s prodigious talent, training him intensively and introducing him to the stark realities of shinobi life during the Third Great Ninja War. This exposure profoundly impacted Itachi’s perception of human life and the consequences of conflict.
In stark contrast, Sasuke was often overshadowed by Itachi, receiving less attention and guidance from their father. Fugaku’s later focus on Sasuke, particularly after Itachi’s refusal to act as a Uchiha spy within the Anbu, altered the dynamics of their relationship. This shift provided Sasuke with the nurturing he had longed for, even as both brothers’ lives took unforeseen turns that would ultimately lead to tragedy.
The pivotal events in the lives of Itachi and Sasuke, depicted through flashbacks in the series, clearly demonstrate the profound influence Fugaku had on their paths. His role as a father and leader undeniably molded these characters into the complex figures that resonate with audiences today.
Fugaku Uchiha’s Strength
Comparing Fugaku’s Strength to the Sannin
Despite limited on-screen time in the Naruto series, Fugaku Uchiha’s power level and skills are suggested through various references. Many acknowledge his strength as comparable to that of Minato Namikaze and the Sannin, indicating he possessed Kage-level abilities. Furthermore, he was even considered for the position of Fourth Hokage based on his prowess.
While specifics of his techniques are largely unexplored, it is evident that Fugaku excelled in the Uchiha clan’s signature Fireball Jutsu and shuriken techniques. His mastery of the Sharingan allowed him to anticipate opponents’ movements and ensnare them in powerful genjutsu. During the Third Great Ninja War, he awakened his Mangekyō Sharingan after witnessing the loss of a close friend. However, he kept its existence secret, deterring any suspicions regarding Uchiha objectives.
The true nature of Fugaku’s Mangekyō Sharingan remains a mystery, but his claim to be capable of controlling the Nine-Tailed Fox stands out—a feat unmatched by other users—including Sasuke and Itachi. Notably, his reputation as the strongest Uchiha of his era, second only to Shisui after Shisui awakened his own Mangekyō, further emphasizes his exceptional strength.
Naruto can be streamed on Prime Video.