“The Importance of History”

By Master Duncan and Sensei Sheldon

The importance of history in the study of martial arts cannot be over emphasized. With nearly 2000 years of continual recorded history, martial arts is unlike any other physical activity. Even the most traditional of the modern athletic activities rarely trace their roots back beyond one hundred years or so. Modern sports emerged due to an increase in leisure time which resulted from the industrial revolution of the mid-1800s. Martial arts emerged, originally, as an exercise program to aid in religious meditation. Soon after, these exercises evolved into a form of self defense. Thus, martial arts were not developed as a leisure activity, but rather as a spiritual way of life and physical way of preserving that life.

In todays microwave culture, most martial arts schools do not value the history of our art. Very few martial artists can discuss the roots of their system with any authority. This is not only sad, but very disrespectful to the hundreds of individuals who came before them.

Here we recognize, honor, and respect those who built the road on which we travel. By requiring our students to research the individuals on our direct path of lineage, we foster an appreciation for the history of our system. As a student of the martial arts, you should be well versed in the specifics of that history. It should almost become second nature to you. Your familiarity with the history, or lack thereof, will reflect on your studies. When you understand that you are part of a historical lineage, you will likely approach your study of the martial arts more seriously. In this way, we will not only help develop quality students, but we will also help honor our predecessors.

Anyone who was present at the April 2000 Grandmaster Pesare's seminar saw a living example of all that we preach about history. Grandmaster Pesare clearly lamented the way that most martial arts schools have abandoned the traditional value placed upon history. He mentioned loyalty to your instructors as one of the most important things students should learn.

Use the historical information provided by your instructors as a base for further study in the martial arts. There are many books and magazine articles in your dojo for you to read along with the resources on the Internet. However, be cautious when using the Internet resources as information can be inaccurate. Always attempt to cross reference information and check the validity of your sources. Make historical inquiry a regular part of your martial arts training, and you will become both a better martial artist and a better martial arts instructor.