History of Karate

Submitted by staff on Wed, 08/12/2009 at 8:46pm.

Karate is a Japanese martial art originally developed in Okinawa, or the Ryukyu Islands. Karate is a blend of indigenous fighting methods of the Okinawan region and the Chinese fighting method kenpo. Karate uses open-handed techniques, often called karate chops, as well as stances, kicks, punches, kicking, elbow- and knee-strikes, and some vital point strikes, among other techniques. There are myriad forms of karate, all a unique expression of style focusing on different elements.

Karate spread quickly throughout Japan in the 20th century. By 1932, all universities in Japan contained a dojo for teaching and practicing karate among other martial arts. In the 1960s and 1970s, many films glorified martial arts and also caused all martial arts using strikes to be dubbed "karate," whether this was an accurate description of the art or not: karate was the catch-all phrase for all martial arts.

Karate is still viewed as an art for developing balance, strength, responsibility, confidence, and honor. Karate is also used for self-defense and for sport. Karate methods are often used successfully in mixed martial arts competitions and other combat situations. Though karate is considered by many to be a sport, it has not yet been a part of the Olympic Games.

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