The Origins of Jiu-Jitsu: A journey through time
- Warren Gannon
- Apr 30
- 4 min read
Updated: May 24
Jiu-Jitsu, often referred to as Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) in its modern form, is a martial art known for its emphasis on ground fighting, submissions, and leverage-based techniques. Its development is intertwined with various cultures, and its history spans centuries of combat evolution. But where did it all begin? Let’s take a look at the fascinating origins of Jiu-Jitsu.
Ancient roots: The beginnings of Jiu-Jitsu
Jiu-Jitsu's story begins in Japan, where the term "Jiu-Jitsu" itself originated. In Japanese, "Jiu" (柔) means "gentle," and "Jitsu" (術) means "art" or "technique." So, Jiu-Jitsu literally translates to "the gentle art," a martial discipline that emphasizes using an opponent’s force against them rather than relying on brute strength. It was developed as a way for samurai warriors to defend themselves in close combat, particularly when they were disarmed or facing opponents on the battlefield.
During feudal Japan, combat was a significant part of samurai life. The early forms of Jiu-Jitsu were part of their martial training, and the techniques included joint locks, throws, and grappling to immobilize or subdue enemies without the need for weapons. Unlike other martial arts of the time that focused on strikes or swordsmanship, Jiu-Jitsu was tailored to handle situations where strength alone wouldn't be enough. Its techniques were designed to counter the opponent’s energy with precision and efficiency, focusing on fluidity and adaptability.
Evolution in Japan: Jujutsu to Jiu-Jitsu
Over time, Jiu-Jitsu evolved into a diverse range of systems practiced across different schools. These variations were passed down from one generation of samurai to the next. The focus on empty-handed techniques and the ability to neutralize opponents made Jiu-Jitsu a highly effective form of self-defense. However, with the eventual rise of firearms and the decline of the samurai class in the 19th century, the martial art began to lose its prominence in Japan.
During this time, Jiu-Jitsu was refined and categorized into various styles. While it continued to be practiced by some, a shift occurred toward other martial arts, such as Judo, which was founded in 1882 by Jigoro Kano. Kano incorporated many Jiu-Jitsu techniques into Judo, while also creating new methods focused on throws and takedowns, paving the way for a more modern and competitive sport.
The Brazilian connection: Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
The true transformation of Jiu-Jitsu, however, took place across the globe in Brazil. The pivotal moment occurred in the early 20th century, when Mitsuyo Maeda, a Japanese Jiu-Jitsu and Judo expert, traveled to Brazil to spread his knowledge of these martial arts.
Maeda, who had been a prominent figure in Japan’s Judo community, arrived in Brazil in 1914. It was there that he met a young Brazilian named Carlos Gracie, who would go on to revolutionize the martial art. Carlos, along with his brothers, became fascinated with Maeda’s teachings and began training under him.
Carlos’ brother, Helio Gracie, is often credited with the development of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ). Due to Helio’s smaller size and physical limitations, he began to modify the techniques he learned to make them more effective for someone of his stature. By emphasizing leverage and technique over strength, Helio created a more effective way for smaller individuals to defend themselves against larger opponents.
Over time, the Gracie family’s Jiu-Jitsu system grew and became more distinct, focusing heavily on ground fighting, submissions, and positional control. In the 1920s and 1930s, the Gracies began to demonstrate the effectiveness of their martial art through public challenges and fights, cementing the reputation of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu as a highly effective combat style.
The global expansion of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
The popularity of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu exploded internationally in the 1990s, largely due to the success of the Gracie family in the early UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championship) tournaments. Royce Gracie’s victories in the first UFC events showcased the effectiveness of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in real-world combat situations, especially against larger and more muscular opponents.
As the sport continued to evolve, it became a dominant force in mixed martial arts (MMA). The UFC, which initially highlighted stand-up fighting styles like boxing and kickboxing, began to recognize the importance of ground fighting and submissions. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioners were able to establish their dominance in MMA, making it an essential skill for fighters to master.
Modern day: Jiu-Jitsu’s global influence
Today, Jiu-Jitsu has become a global phenomenon, with academies and practitioners across the world. It is not just a martial art for self-defense or sport; it has evolved into a comprehensive system that includes fitness, discipline, and personal growth. BJJ practitioners train in techniques such as joint locks, chokeholds, sweeps, and escapes, continuously refining their skills through live sparring and competitions.
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu’s widespread influence has also led to its adoption by law enforcement and military units worldwide, as its techniques are highly effective in controlling and subduing opponents without causing unnecessary harm.
A final note
From its humble beginnings as a battlefield technique for samurai warriors in feudal Japan, Jiu-Jitsu has undergone a dramatic evolution. Its transformation into Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu has brought the art into the modern era, turning it into a global sport and martial art that continues to grow in popularity. Today, it is practiced by people of all ages and backgrounds, providing not just self-defense skills, but also fostering a sense of community, mental discipline, and personal empowerment.
Jiu-Jitsu’s origins may be rooted in the ancient world, but its relevance and influence remain as strong as ever. Whether for self-defense, competition, or personal development, the "gentle art" has proven itself to be a timeless martial discipline.
