In addition to physical training, the Japanese influence added novel elements of philosophy and discipline to Karate. Japanese martial arts used to be considered as the means of developing the mind and psyche rather than the means of fighting. When Karate merged with this cultural attitude,
it was not just a fighting method anymore- it developed into a discipline of self restraint, patience and respect to others. Fetish, bowing, and focus on humility became a part of the Karate system. This increased its status as a martial art that is based on personal development and morality.
A Generation of Martial Art.
Karate developed into a form of martial art that could be transmitted across generations by intertwining the Okinawan and the Japanese elements. Its new design, its philosophies and its standardized procedures allowed that the art could not be confined in Okinawa and Japan
but would later reach its practitioners worldwide. This shift was the turning point of Karate as a pragmatic means of self-defence to a holistic practice
that had developed not only the physical but also the character of its students. In such a manner, the evolution of Karate in Japan symbolizes continuation and innovativeness- a respectful maintenance of the Okinawan tradition and Japanese sophistication which made it live and be popular in other countries.
Karate Rises to International fame.
The rise of karate as a local martial art in Okinawa and Japan to a world renowned practice is one of the greatest success stories in the history of martial arts. A cultural practice that started with profound philosophical origins grew into a global event that has influenced sport, education and even entertainment. The popularity of Karate among different continents was unplanned–it was aided by its appeal to everyone,
practical method and systematic form of discipline and training. Karate has over the decades evolved to be an enigmatic Eastern martial art to one of the most practised disciplines in the world with millions of learners of various backgrounds.
Follow-Up and Internationalization.
After the World War II, in the course of the Allied occupation, sea Karate became widely spread in the world beyond Japan. Japanese masters,
who want to save and share their traditions, introduced Karate to foreign soldiers and students. After these people were introduced to the art, they spread its lessons to their home countries,
where dojos started to open in the biggest cities of Europe, the Americas, and Asia. Karate schools had become very successful outside of Japan
with masters traveling internationally to conduct demonstrations and camps. It is the time when Karate started to be considered not only as a local martial art
but also as a world wide movement
that focused not only on skills in fighting but also on discipline, respect and self-control.