Sakumo Hatake, more commonly known as the White Fang of Konoha, was not only the father of the legendary Naruto character, Kakashi Hatake, but a renowned ninja in his own right. Despite not being given much screen time, Sakumo has a unique and interesting backstory that is worth exploring. Here are some lesser-known facts about the White Fang of Konoha:
1. The White Fang of Konoha was a skilled swordsman
In the Naruto universe, many powerful ninjas are associated with unique nicknames that reflect their abilities. For instance, Kakashi is known as the Copy Ninja, and Minato is called the Yellow Flash of Konoha.
Similarly, Sakumo Hatake was hailed as the White Fang of Konoha or Konoha no Shiroi Kiba. This nickname was bestowed upon him due to his mastery of Hakko Chakra Tou, a sword technique that emits a dazzling white aura when the sword is swung. This technique earned Sakumo the moniker he’s known for, and solidified his place as one of Konoha’s greatest swordsman.
2. The White Fang of Konoha was a legendary ninja
Sakumo Hatake was one of the most renowned and accomplished ninjas in his time, rivaling even the Sannin of his era. His notable feats during missions and battles earned him widespread recognition and respect.
So great was his fame that even the leader of the Land of Fire was pleased when Kakashi was appointed as the new Hokage, as the latter was the son of the White Fang of Konoha. When the Kages chose their representatives for the Ninja Alliance, the third Tsuchikage had no doubts about Kakashi’s skills fit for the job, in part because of his impressive heritage.
3. The White Fang of Konoha was a widower
Sakumo Hatake was a single father who raised Kakashi alone, as his wife had passed away when Kakashi was just a child. No details are given about her name, how she died, or even what she looked like.
In a touching moment in the Naruto manga, Kakashi was shown standing between life and death after being struck by a boulder in a mission. He met his father in the afterlife, who expressed his regret at not being able to protect his son’s mother. Sakumo revealed that she had passed away at a young age, but did not disclose any further information.
4. The White Fang of Konoha had a kind heart
Despite his fearsome reputation, Sakumo was known for his kindness and compassion towards others. He had a friendly demeanor and always showed respect, regardless of someone’s status or appearance. He had the gift of perception, and could see potential in individuals, even at a young age.
One such instance was when he met Guy in his youth, and immediately recognized his latent abilities as a taijutsu practitioner. He also predicted that Guy would one day become a great ninja and a rival to Kakashi, which eventually became a reality.
5. The White Fang of Konoha valued friendship above mission objectives
One of the most memorable quotes from Naruto was said by Kakashi: “Those who break the rules are scum, but those who abandon their friends are worse than scum.” This principle was inspired by Sakumo Hatake and the values he instilled in his son.
Sakumo believed that bonds between friends should always come before the success of any mission. He would willingly abandon a mission if it put his comrades in danger or if it contradicted his own beliefs. It was a philosophy that Kakashi had initially rejected after his father’s shocking suicide, but eventually embraced after being reminded of it by his deceased friend, Obito Uchiha.
6. The White Fang of Konoha was inadvertently responsible for the death of Sasori’s parents
In the midst of a violent conflict between Konoha and Sunagakure, Sakumo Hatake was pitted against Sasori’s parents, who were also skilled ninja from the latter village. In the end, he managed to take their lives, leaving Sasori, who was a child at the time, under the care of his grandmother, Chiyo.
Feeling both guilt and remorse, Chiyo initially mistook Kakashi for Sakumo when she encountered him years later, and attacked him in a fit of rage. This incident further adds to the tragic legacy of the White Fang of Konoha.
7. The White Fang of Konoha met a tragic end
Sakumo’s life ended in tragedy due to the principles he held dear. He chose to abandon a mission and save a fellow comrade, leading to a disastrous mission failure and the loss of many Konoha lives.
In the aftermath of the mission, Sakumo was branded a traitor, leaving him and his family in disgrace. Unable to cope with the shame, Sakumo took his own life, becoming known as the White Fang who betrayed Konoha.
In conclusion, the White Fang of Konoha may not have had a huge presence in the Naruto series, but his legacy left an indelible mark on the characters and storylines. From his impressive swordsmanship to his compassionate values, Sakumo Hatake is a character definitely worth remembering.
