When was goku born

Overview

Goku, the iconic protagonist of Akira Toriyama's Dragon Ball series, was born on May 18 in the year 737 of the Dragon Ball timeline. Originally named Kakarot, he is a Saiyan sent from Planet Vegeta to Earth with a mission to conquer the planet, though he loses his memory after a head injury and grows up as a kind-hearted warrior.

The timeline used in Dragon Ball is distinct from real-world dating, with events tracked by the fictional 'Age' system. Goku's birth and early life are explored in flashback sequences throughout Dragon Ball Z and the prequel media, including the 'Bardock – The Father of Goku' special. His origin story is pivotal to understanding the Saiyan race and the series' overarching narrative.

• Birth date: Goku was born on May 18, Age 737, a date established in official Dragon Ball guides and timelines.
• Planet of origin: He was born on Planet Vegeta, the home world of the Saiyan race, destroyed later by Frieza.
• Original mission: Sent to Earth as an infant, Goku was meant to conquer the planet due to Earth's low power level.
• Family lineage: His biological father is Bardock, a low-class warrior, and his mother is Gine, a Saiyan nurse.
• Name origin: 'Kakarot' is a pun on 'carrot', continuing the vegetable-based naming theme for Saiyans like Raditz and Nappa.

How It Works

The Dragon Ball timeline and character origins are established through a combination of manga, anime, and official databooks. These sources provide detailed chronologies and biographical data, allowing fans to pinpoint key events like Goku's birth.

• Dragon Ball Age System: The timeline uses a fictional calendar starting from an unknown epoch. Age 737 is the year Goku was born, with events tracked relative to this system.
• Saiyan Lifecycle: Saiyans mature faster than humans. Goku arrived on Earth at one year old and aged normally thereafter.
• Infant Arrival: He crash-landed on Earth in a space pod on May 18, Age 738, a year after his birth.
• Memory Loss: A head injury sustained during infancy erased his original mission and aggressive instincts, shaping his kind nature.
• Adoption: He was found and adopted by Grandpa Gohan, who raised him in isolation in the mountains.
• Canon Sources: The Daizenshuu 7 and Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero film confirm key biographical details.

Comparison at a Glance

The following table compares Goku's birth and early life details with other key Saiyan characters:

This comparison highlights how Goku's early arrival and memory loss set him apart from other Saiyans, who retained their aggressive instincts. His unique upbringing allowed him to become Earth's protector rather than its conqueror, a pivotal divergence in the series' plot.

Why It Matters

Understanding Goku's birth and origins is essential for fans to grasp the themes of destiny, identity, and transformation in Dragon Ball. His journey from an alien invader to Earth's greatest hero underscores the series' core message of redemption and personal growth.

• Narrative foundation: Goku's arrival sets the stage for the entire Dragon Ball saga, introducing Saiyans and extraterrestrial threats.
• Character development: His upbringing contrasts with other Saiyans, highlighting the impact of environment on identity.
• Fan engagement: Birth dates and timelines are frequently discussed in Dragon Ball communities and trivia.
• Merchandising: Goku's origin story is featured in action figures, games, and timelines like the Dragon Ball Heroes series.
• Canon consistency: Official sources maintain tight continuity, helping resolve plot ambiguities across media.
• Cultural impact: Goku's birthday is celebrated by fans worldwide, reinforcing his status as a global pop culture icon.

From his birth on a distant planet to his legacy as a martial arts legend, Goku's story continues to inspire new generations of fans and creators alike.