Ever wondered when exactly JoJo's Bizarre Adventure: Steel Ball Run (Part 7) is supposed to happen? Well, buckle up, because the answer involves horses, cowboys, and a whole lot of American history (with a JoJo twist, of course!).
A Glimpse into the Past
Forget modern technology for a moment! Part 7 whisks us back to 1890. Think dusty trails, steam engines, and the Wild West – but with Stand users and bizarre abilities thrown into the mix.
It's the era of cowboys and burgeoning industrialization, which is a pretty stark contrast to some of the more modern settings of other JoJo parts.
Why 1890?
Why did Hirohiko Araki choose this specific time period? Well, the late 19th century was a time of great change and opportunity in America, and it was a good chance to use the Wild West culture.
The setting provides a perfect backdrop for a cross-country race, with dangers lurking around every corner, both natural and…supernatural. The Steel Ball Run itself becomes a metaphor for the American Dream. The characters are searching for fortune and glory.
This race, spanning the entire American continent, embodies the spirit of adventure and the pursuit of dreams, themes that resonate throughout the entire series.
Historical Context with a JoJo Flair
The world of Steel Ball Run isn't just window dressing. It integrates elements of the era, like the burgeoning automobile industry and the social dynamics of the time.
While it isn't a documentary, the story does borrow from real historical events and figures. It also presents them through the lens of the JoJo universe.
Araki masterfully blends these historical details with the fantastical elements of the story. This creates a unique and immersive experience for the reader.
Not Your Average History Lesson
Don't expect a dry recounting of history, though! This is JoJo, after all. You will have supernatural powers, betrayals, and bizarre character designs.
The story isn't afraid to take liberties with historical accuracy. Part 7 is all about creating a compelling narrative that uses the historical setting as a playground.
The focus is always on the characters and their struggles, their relationships, and their growth, even if they're battling dinosaurs or weird cowboy assassins.
A Bizarre Race Through Time
So, the next time you think about Steel Ball Run, remember it's not just about the Stands and the steel balls. It's also about a specific moment in American history, reimagined through the eyes of Hirohiko Araki.
It's a chance to see familiar historical tropes twisted and turned into something completely new and unexpected.
This is a time when you can feel the grit of the Wild West dust between your teeth, when the stakes are high, and when anything can happen.
It's 1890, but with a whole lot more "bizarre" sprinkled on top.
