Are these One Piece characters based on western children's story characters? Some characters oddly remind me of certain stories I remember reading as a child. While the similarities can be considered purely coincidental, three times in one group raises some suspicion. So I ask, Is there any credible source that can state if any One Piece characters are derived or based on western ones?

Here are some of the more closely related ones, the Straw Hat Pirates. 


Chopper - Rudolph

Similarities: Reindeer, odd colored noses, shunned by their pack etc




Usopp - Pinocchio

Similarities: Liars, Long noses




Franky - Popeye

Similarities: Large forearms, relies on food for energy
Usopp's name is derived from the Japanese word "Uso" which means lie or falsehood (1). The elongated nose is an allusion to Pinocchio. 

Franky was actually created with seiyu Kazuki Yao in mind after Eiichiro Oda (the mangaka) heard the voice actor's performance as Jango and Bon Clay, however it is likely that Franky is based on Pop-eye. In addition to the enlarged forearms, both characters are 34 and both rely on food for energy and powers (Popeye uses spinach and Franky uses cola) (2).

There are numerous clues that Chopper is an allusion to Rudolph (taken from this Wikia article):


Chopper is a reindeer with an odd colored nose
His official birthday is Christmas eve
"Chopper the Blue-nosed Reindeer" was produced and sung by the cast
Dr. Kureha is described coming down the mountain with Chopper's silhouette pulling a sleigh and then enters some homes via chimney