The Historical Background of American Kenpo
American Kenpo, a unique blend of martial arts traditions, has a rich history that intertwines the cultural, social, and martial threads of several nations. This intricate system of self-defense was brought to the United States mainland in 1954 by Edmund Kealoha Parker, a Hawaiian-born martial arts innovator who is often credited with establishing the framework for what is known today as American Kenpo. This article delves into the historical roots of Kenpo, tracing its evolution from ancient China to modern America.
The Ancient Origins of Kenpo
The roots of Kenpo can be traced back to the Shaolin Temple in China during the early sixth century. It is widely believed that Bodhidharma, an Indian monk, played a pivotal role in the development of the early forms of martial arts practiced at the temple. Disillusioned by the physical and mental deterioration of the monks due to their prolonged meditation and lack of physical activity, Bodhidharma introduced exercises known as the Eighteen Hands of Lo Han. These techniques laid the foundation for many martial arts systems practiced today, aimed at improving the monks' health and aiding their pursuit of enlightenment.
Kenpo's Migration to Japan
By the seventeenth century, the martial art that originated in China had made its way to Japan. Here, it was adapted and modified by various Japanese families and schools, eventually evolving into Kosho-ryu Kenpo, or Old Pine Tree School. This system combined elements of Chinese martial arts with indigenous Japanese fighting techniques. The blend of styles continued to evolve over centuries, integrating techniques from different regions and cultures.
The Introduction of Kenpo to Hawaii
Kenpo made its way to Hawaii in the early 20th century, primarily through the efforts of James Masayoshi Mitose. Born in Hawaii, Mitose was sent to Japan as a child to learn his family's martial arts system. After extensive training, he returned to Hawaii in 1936 and began teaching what he termed Kenpo Jiu-Jitsu. Mitose's system emphasized striking vital areas using techniques such as punches, kicks, and throws, which were distinct from other forms of Jiu-Jitsu prevalent at the time. His teaching laid the groundwork for the spread of Kenpo in the United States.
William Chow and the Evolution of Kenpo
One of Mitose's most notable students was William Kwai Sun Chow, a martial artist who significantly contributed to the development and dissemination of Kenpo. Chow integrated elements from his Chinese heritage, including circular techniques and other aspects of Chinese martial arts, into Mitose's linear Kenpo system. This resulted in a unique hybrid style that emphasized practical combat effectiveness. Chow's innovations helped popularize Kenpo in Hawaii, attracting many students and setting the stage for its future development.
Ed Parker: The Father of American Kenpo
Edmund Kealoha Parker, a student of William Chow, is widely regarded as the father of American Kenpo. After earning his black belt under Chow in 1953, Parker moved to the mainland United States, where he began teaching Kenpo while studying at Brigham Young University. In 1956, he opened the first commercial Kenpo school in the United States, located in Pasadena, California. Parker's dynamic teaching style and his ability to innovate and adapt traditional techniques to modern self-defense needs helped Kenpo gain widespread popularity.
The Spread of American Kenpo
Parker's influence extended far beyond his dojo. His connections with Hollywood's elite, including celebrities like Elvis Presley and Steve McQueen, brought significant attention to Kenpo. Parker's involvement in movies and television further popularized the martial art, making it a household name. His ability to articulate and systematize Kenpo techniques and principles into a structured curriculum made the art more accessible to a broader audience.
Kenpo Today
Today, American Kenpo is a widely practiced martial art with a global following. It continues to evolve, with practitioners and instructors building upon Parker's foundational work to adapt the art to contemporary self-defense needs. Despite its evolution, the core principles of American Kenpo—practical self-defense, a blend of linear and circular techniques, and a focus on efficiency and effectiveness—remain unchanged.
Conclusion
American Kenpo is a martial art with a rich history that spans continents and cultures. From its ancient origins in the Shaolin Temple to its modern incarnation developed by Ed Parker, Kenpo has continually evolved to meet the needs of its practitioners. Today, it stands as a testament to the adaptability and enduring relevance of martial arts.