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In The Beginning
There are no records by which the origins of Jujitsu can definitely be
established. It is safe to assume that ever since the beginning of
history, the instinct of self-preservation was strong and man had to
fight for existence. The basic inspiration to develop a skill that
allowed a person to use the body for offense and defense was the
basis for all martial arts.
Muromachi Period (1333 - 1573)
Early Japanese warriors were highly skilled with the use of swords. They
also required the ability to defend themselves when they were unable to
use their sword. They studied and developed methods of striking,
kicking, throwing, joint taking and choking. This was the formal
beginning of Jujitsu although historical references of unarmed defense
techniques date back to the 11th century. The early years of Jujitsu
were secretive, each family or province had their own style, passing
down these techniques only to other family or province members. As a
result, specialization and compartmentalization developed. This process
continued until the late 16th century when Jujitsu formalized and many
significant ryu’s (schools) formed. A few of these styles greatly
helped to form what we consider modern day Jujitsu.
The Formation - Edo Period (1600 -
1868)
The Kyushin-ryu school brought forward systems of Atemi-waza
(striking techniques) and Kappo (systems of resuscitation). Kito-ryu
brought forward an order of training methods from basic to advanced.
Throwing techniques were also emphasized by this style and today’s
modern day Judo is based upon this styles basic techniques. Takenouchi-ryu
emphasized Hojo (rope tying techniques) which is currently used by many
police and military groups. Daito-ryu specialized in Kansetsu-waza
(joint techniques) and Atemi-waza. Today’s Aikido is based upon this
style of joint techniques.
The Turning Point - Meiji Period (1868-1911)
In the late 1800’s the Japanese feudal system collapsed and imperial
rule was re-established. Weapons were no longer allowed to be carried
and many of the Jujitsu styles and Samurai began to die out. During this
time period a few modern day styles emerged. Jigoro Kano
developed Judo. Many tournaments between Judo and Jujitsu practitioners
took place during this time period. Without the ability to strike and
kick (Judo rules) the Jujitsu practitioner was limited in techniques and
as a result, Judo often won. Jujitsu was even more reduced in practice
and Judo became Japans principal martial art form. It was the Japanese
police that lent revitalization to Jujitsu. They realized that
striking and kicking techniques were still needed and took techniques
that most satisfied their needs. They added them to Judo and developed
the Jujitsu style Taiho-Jitsu. The name became synonymous with
police and if a student studied this style, then it was assumed that
they were a police officer.
Modern Day Jujitsu (1912 - Present)
In today’s society Jujitsu has seen a
reemergence due to it’s adaptability to any defense situation. The
basic concept of Jujitsu, simple techniques combined together, make it
the perfect art form for toady’s society. Jujitsu’s strength comes
not from it’s specialties but rather from it’s broad range of
techniques. No other style of martial art focuses upon every aspect of
self defense as does Jujitsu. Many other martial art styles have adapted
in recent years to include Jujitsu techniques (especially grappling
techniques). This holds testament to the depth of Jujitsu and how it
continues to influence other martial arts. |
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