Hidden Whirling Tides was known for their knowledge in sealing abilities. It maintained strong ties to Konoha, as the Uzumaki Clan were distantly related to Konoha's Senju Clan. Villagers were known for being long lived, which gave them the nickname of "village of longevity". Through their ties to Konoha, the Shodai Hokage Hashirama married Whirling Tides kunoichi Uzumaki Mito. Because of her sealing skills, Mito was able to seal the Kyuubi away and become its first Jinchuuriki. Other nations began to fear Whirling Tides sealing abilities, so they attacked and utterly destroyed Whirling Tides. Survivors fled the country, with Uzumaki Kushina being taken to Konoha to be the next Kyuubi Jinchuuriki. Though Whirling Tides was destroyed, its symbol lived on, incorporated into Konoha's flak jackets as a symbol of friendship.