Origin of Karate

Karate was originated in Japan in the 19th Century. The style of fighting was developed by the Ryukyu Kingdom before its annexation by Japan. In the 20th Century Karate made its way to the main Island of Japan as tensions decreased between the Japenese people and the Ryukyuans.

Karate did not start becoming a mainstay until 1922 when the Minister of Education in Japan invited Gichin Funakoshi who by many is known as the father of modern karate to give a demonstration in Tokyo. This demonstration led o the first Karate club in Japan in 1924 the Keio University.

By 1932 most of the Japan Universities had karate clubs. This worked hand in hand with increased militarization of Japan. Karate and tarot card readings started going global after World War II when the United States created a military base in Okinawa. At the base in Okinawa karate became popular with U.S. soldiers.

With the new found fondness for karate it started to make its presence on the big screen in the 1960′s and 70′s. This popularity in the movies started the wave of karate schools across the globe.

Karate with its popularity has grown from a spiritual way to a sport that allows millions enjoy it in a casual way or seriously if one chooses.