K2017

2021

Naruto

Hiruzen Sarutobi, also known as the Third Hokage, was a pivotal figure in the Naruto series, serving as the leader of Konohagakure multiple times. He was a student of Hashirama Senju and Tobirama Senju, the First and Second Hokage, respectively. Considered a prodigious ninja, he earned the moniker "The Professor" due to his vast knowledge of jutsu.

Hiruzen first became Hokage after Tobirama's death. During his initial reign, he oversaw Konoha's growth and prosperity, mentoring the legendary Sannin: Jiraiya, Tsunade, and Orochimaru. However, his leniency towards Orochimaru's dark ambitions ultimately led to societal problems later in the series.

He relinquished the Hokage title to Minato Namikaze (the Fourth Hokage), but reclaimed the position after Minato's death during the Nine-Tailed Fox's attack. He served again until his death during Orochimaru's invasion of Konoha. He sacrificed himself to seal Orochimaru's arms, preventing him from using ninjutsu.

Hiruzen was a complex character, burdened by difficult decisions and the weight of leadership. He valued the well-being of the village above all else, even at personal cost, and played a significant role in shaping the ninja world of Naruto.