When it comes to polarizing manga characters, Funny Valentine — the 23rd President of the United States, in the fictional universe of JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure: Steel Ball Run — is one of the most polarizing. And a question this raises, which I find fascinating to ask fans: Was Funny Valentine a good president? To do so, we will examine his actions, his motivations and the ethics of his presidency as well as the consequences of his presidency.
Strange bedfellows: Funny Valentine’s Ideals and patriotism
At the heart of Funny Valentine’s presidency, was his stubborn patriotism. Valentine’s slogan, “For the good of America,” reflects his goal of building a stronger, more united nation. A country that “heaven” forbids someone like me to live in, and so his commitment to his country was more than just a political position — it was a very personal mission, based on his own traumatic history, on the desire to honor the memory of his father (a soldier who added his own sacrifice to his country).
Valentine’s patriotism was commendable, but it also inspired his objectionable endeavors. He would do whatever it took to be great for America, no matter who he had to step on or what he had to manipulate. This throws into question the ethical boundaries of leadership: do the ends justify the means?
Steel Ball Run and Valentine the Quest for Power
Valentine planned and executed the Steel Ball Run, a cross-country race that he used to pursue the Saint’s Corpse, a relic that he believed would grant the United States prosperity. The acquisition of the relic would secure America’s supremacy on the world stage, Valentine explained.
His motives appeared noble at first glance, but the methods that he used were ruthless. Valentine removing those who stood in the way, manipulating competitors of the race and bending the power of the Saint’s Corpse to match his will. Instead of crafting a beloved and powerful legacy he justified ruthless actions through a Machiavellian lens that put goals ahead of morality.
Strengths of Valentine’s Leadership
1. Visionary Thinking:
His vision for the future of America was narrow, but pragmatic: prosperity and security. He was cunning strategist with future planning.
2. Resilience and Determination:
Even against the likes of Johnny Joestar and Gyro Zeppeli, the commitment to shielding his country remained relentless within Valentine. His resolve won faithfulness among his followers.
3. Charismatic Leadership:
As president, Valentine had a commanding presence and the ability to rally people to his cause. His charisma helped him win backers for his controversial schemes.
The Ugly Side of Valentine’s Presidency
Funny Valentine’s presidency, despite its strengths, was tainted by moral and ethical controversies. This darker side of his leadership became evident in his willingness to harm innocents and manipulate events for personal gain.
Valentine’s behaviour posed significant ethical issues. Was it right to lose a few for the greater good? Would this act of a leader be justified by patriotism? These dilemmas position Valentine as a multifaceted character, who as a leader can be seen through multiple lenses.
Was Funny Valentine a Good President?
Whether Funny Valentine was a good president or not is relative to the method in which one chooses to evaluate his presidency. If effectiveness and vision are the priorities, Valentine’s strategic thinking and devotion to his country indicate he was an effective leader. But apply morality and ethics to the situation and the picture is much darker.
Valentine’s presidency is a reminder of how complex any leadership, even of a small region like his, can be. It makes readers question the line between ambition and morality and the price of striving for power at all costs.
Conclusion
Funny Valentine was a complex leader whose presidency was both great and dark. His unyielding patriotism and future-oriented mindset served him well in many ways as president, but his murderous methods and lack of concern for individual lives stained his record.
Whether Funny Valentine was a good president is a matter of perspective informed by the complex interplay between ethics, ambition, change, and leadership. So his story will always remain a compelling topic, and debate over his legacy will continue among fans of JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure.
