History of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) is a martial art and combat sport that emphasizes grappling and ground fighting, focusing on techniques such as leverage, joint locks, and chokeholds rather than brute strength.
BJJ traces its roots back to early 20th-century Brazil, where it evolved from traditional Japanese Jiu Jitsu. The art was introduced to Brazil in 1914 by Mitsuyo Maeda, a Japanese martial artist and a student of Jigoro Kano, the founder of Judo. Maeda, also known as "Count Koma," traveled the world to promote Judo and eventually settled in Brazil. There, he met Gastão Gracie, a Brazilian businessman who became fascinated by Maeda’s techniques.
Maeda went on to teach Judo to Gastão’s sons, including Carlos and Hélio Gracie. The Gracie brothers began modifying the techniques to better suit their smaller physiques, creating a distinct grappling style that relied on timing, technique, and leverage. This evolved form became known as Gracie Jiu Jitsu, and it gained popularity throughout Brazil during the 1930s and 1940s.
In the 1950s, the Gracie family began introducing their style to the world, eventually founding the first Jiu Jitsu academy in the United States in 1967.
The global spotlight shone even brighter in the 1990s when the Gracies helped establish the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), a mixed martial arts tournament designed to test different fighting styles. BJJ proved highly effective, solidifying its place in the world of combat sports.
Today, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is practiced worldwide, valued for both self-defense and competition. Beyond its technical aspects, BJJ is also respected for promoting discipline, respect, personal growth, and a strong sense of community.