2000 Years - Jiu Jitsu - Kodokan Judo - Early American Judo by Dennis Helm

The history of Jiu Jitsu is traced back to 230 BC and forward to 1882 when Kodokan Judo came into being. SAMPLE TEXT The origin of Jujitsu is lost in the mists of antiquity. The "Nihon Shoki," THE CHRONICLE OF JAPAN, a history, compiled by Imperial command in 720 AD refers to a tournament of Chikara Kurabe, (a fight to the death), refers to the contest of strength, which was held in the 7th year of the Emperor Suinin. The year was 230 BC. when Emperor Suinin ordered two strong men named Nomi No Sukune and Tagima No Kuehaya to wrestle in his presence. This struggle to test the strength and courage of the two ancient giants consisted mainly of kicking, hitting, and gouging with Sukune gaining advantage of his opponent by breaking his ribs, after which he "trampled" upon his loins and back until Kuehaya was fatally injured. Although this incident is generally cited as being the origin of wrestling in Japan, it would seem that it was actually more in the nature of Jiu Jitsu in view of...