The History of Karate
Foreword
The origins of karate are deeply rooted in the history and culture of Okinawa, Japan. The founding masters of karate are often referred to as the "Okinawan Masters," and they were instrumental in developing and spreading the art of karate throughout Japan and the world.
Origin
The exact origins of karate are not known, but it is believed that the art developed in Okinawa over several centuries as a means of self-defense. In the 20th century, a number of Okinawan Masters emerged who helped to popularize and formalize the art of karate.
Karate made its way systemically into the military and schools for it's impact on discipline and mental strength. Initially, Karate was growing in the Okinawan villages of Tomari, Naha and Shuri, which gave form to the school and principle techniques of Naha-Te, Shuri-Te and Tomari-Te; later becoming the founding principles of many styles when Karate came to mainland Japan.
It was the founding masters of these early techniques that gave rise to the principle styles of Karate that are practiced today. Sokon Matsumura, known by the title of ‘Bushi’ or ‘Warrior’ for his achievements in Okinawan-Te and later Karate; was known for his terrifying presence and remarkable skill, never losing a fight or showing any signs of weakness in combat. Matsumura Sensei later trained two masters of Karate, Kanryo Higashionna and Anko Itosu; who managed to bring karate out of the secrecy of being taught to noble families and taught it to many students. Four such masters would go on to develop the modern styles of Karate practiced by millions worldwide.
Photo of original founding masters, names, key dates, styles
Modern Karate consists of four main styles; Shito-Ryu, Shotokan, Wado-Ryu and Gojo-Ryu. Each founded by a well trained master of Karate. Shito-Ryu was founded by Sensei Kenwa Mabuni, named in honour of his two teachers; Anko Itosu and Kanryo Higashionna.
Photo of Sensei Nariman with Sensei Mabuni
Founding Masters of Karate
Some of the most well-known founding masters of karate include:
Gichin Funakoshi: Widely regarded as the "Father of Modern Karate," Funakoshi was born in Okinawa in 1868 and began studying karate as a child. He later went on to study under several of the other Okinawan Masters and developed his own style of karate, which he called Shotokan. Funakoshi moved to Japan in the 1920s and began teaching karate there, eventually founding the Japan Karate Association.
Chojun Miyagi: Born in Okinawa in 1888, Miyagi was another important figure in the development of karate. He developed his own style of karate, which he called Goju-ryu, and was known for his emphasis on physical conditioning and breathing exercises. Miyagi traveled throughout Japan and other parts of Asia, spreading the art of karate and training many notable martial artists.
Kenwa Mabuni: Born in Okinawa in 1889, Mabuni was another key figure in the development of karate. He was a close friend of both Funakoshi and Miyagi, and was taught by both Itosu and Higashionna and went on to develop his own style of karate, which he called Shito-ryu. The name Shito-Ryu is derived from the names of these two masters. Mabuni was known for his focus on kata (forms) and his emphasis on traditional Okinawan martial arts techniques.
These three founding masters, along with several others, helped to popularize and spread the art of karate throughout Japan and the world. Today, karate is practiced by millions of people around the globe and has become one of the most popular martial arts in the world.
