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Karate is an ancient martial art that was practiced in the island of Okinawa (today part of Japan). It was developed from several Chinese fighting methods that were brought to Okinawa by fishermen and merchants.
In the early 17th Century the Okinawan rulers forbade its inhabitants from owning weapons, and even restricted the use of farming tools. The Okinawans then began to secretly train in the arts of the empty hand combat.
During the 19th century, prohibitions were lifted, and different schools began to evelop. One of them was founded by Master Gichin Funakoshi (1868 -1957). He rought karate to the main island of Japan and adapted it to its modern form in rder to bring it to the Japanese public schools and expand its reach. Funakoshi is oday considered by most the father of modern Karate. 
In 1936 Funakoshi opened the hotokan dojo in Tokyo, and rom that time, the style he taught
has been known by that name: Shotokan”
Karate-do, a way of Life
Master Funakoshi also added he suffix “do” to Kara-te. All ogether, Karate-do means “the ay of the empty hand”. The “do” ignifies that the practice of arate is beyond the study and ractice of mere fighting echniques; it is “a way” to self knowledge, and a path to erfecting the character of its ractitioners. Today, Karate may be practiced at different schools all around the world, ither as a martial art, a sport, or an aerobic workout. At Colorado Karate lub, the principal object remains the practice of Karate-do. That is, Karate as way of perfecting the student's character, improve self confidence, and nstill discipline.
As a reminder of the greater object of their training, Master and students ecite the founding principles of Karate-do (the Dojo-Kun) at the end of each lass:
Seek perfection of character,
Be faithful,
Endeavor,
Respect others,
Refrain from violent behavior
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