Who Invented Karate?

Karate was invented by the Okinawan martial artists.

This ancient discipline has its roots in traditional Okinawan culture and Chinese martial arts.

Karate has evolved over centuries into the globally practiced martial art it is today.

For an in-depth look at its fascinating origins and evolution, be sure to explore our comprehensive Karate History article!

Karate Invention Timeline

• 6th Century: Bodhidharma teaches Shaolin Kung Fu, influencing Okinawan martial arts.
• 1609-1879: Okinawans develop weaponless fighting styles due to weapons ban.
• 17th-18th Centuries: Shuri-te, Naha-te, and Tomari-te emerge in Okinawa.
• 1900-1917: Gichin Funakoshi combines Shuri-te and Naha-te techniques.
• 1922-1936: Funakoshi introduces Karate to mainland Japan, Shotokan dojo established.
• 1945-1959: American servicemen learn Karate, first US Karate club opens.
• 1960-1979: Movies, television, and world championships popularize Karate globally.
• 1980-1999: Karate becomes recognized sport in international events.
• 2000s-Present: Karate’s ongoing evolution, inclusion in 2020 Tokyo Olympics.

Facts known about Karate Invention

1. Okinawan and Chinese Influences: Karate’s development was largely influenced by traditional Okinawan martial arts and Chinese Kung Fu.
2. Weapons Ban: A ban on weapons in Okinawa led to the development of weaponless fighting styles, shaping Karate’s techniques.
3. Gichin Funakoshi: Known as the father of modern Karate, Funakoshi played a significant role in popularizing and standardizing the martial art.
4. Global Expansion: Post-WWII American servicemen stationed in Japan helped introduce and popularize Karate in the United States and beyond.
5. Olympic Recognition: Achieving several milestones, Karate was included as a competitive sport in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.

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