The History of Jiu-Jitsu and the Legacy of Carlson Gracie Jiu-Jitsu
Jiu-Jitsu is a martial art built through challenges. Since its origins, its effectiveness has always been tested in real combat situations, where technique prevails over physical strength. This essence has accompanied Jiu-Jitsu throughout its history and continues to define the values passed on to new generations.
According to historical records, the so-called “gentle art” began in India, where Buddhist monks developed a system of self-defense based on balance, leverage, and joint control. With the expansion of Buddhism, this knowledge traveled through China and eventually reached Japan, where Jiu-Jitsu became organized, evolved, and established itself as a martial art.
At the end of the nineteenth century, Japanese masters migrated to different parts of the world, carrying with them not only technique, but also the spirit of challenge that has always characterized Jiu-Jitsu. Among them was Mitsuyo Maeda, known as Count Koma, who settled in Belém do Pará, Brazil, in 1915. It was there that the history of Jiu-Jitsu in Brazil began.
Fascinated by the art, Gastão Gracie brought his eldest son, Carlos Gracie, to learn Jiu-Jitsu. Carlos found in the art a path for physical, mental, and personal development. Still at a young age, he traveled through several Brazilian cities as a fighter and instructor, accepting challenges and demonstrating the effectiveness of Jiu-Jitsu against physically stronger opponents.
In 1925, Carlos Gracie founded the first Gracie Jiu-Jitsu academy in Rio de Janeiro, dedicating himself to teaching his brothers and adapting the techniques to different body types. Beyond the technical aspect, Carlos introduced values related to discipline, philosophy, and health, associating Jiu-Jitsu with a balanced lifestyle.
It was in this environment that Carlson Gracie, son of Carlos Gracie, was formed and trained, becoming responsible for consolidating one of the most respected schools of Jiu-Jitsu in the world. Carlson Gracie Jiu-Jitsu is known for its strong, aggressive, and highly competitive style, always based on the practical application of technique under real pressure.
Carlson Gracie believed that true Jiu-Jitsu must be constantly tested. For this reason, he encouraged his students to compete, accept challenges, and take the art beyond the traditional mat. This mindset produced generations of champions and complete fighters, recognized for their toughness, controlled aggression, and efficiency.
Our academy proudly carries this legacy. Here, we teach a Jiu-Jitsu that is faithful to its origins: technical, efficient, and ready for challenges. More than learning techniques, our students develop discipline, confidence, and respect, following the principles that made Carlson Gracie Jiu-Jitsu a worldwide reference.
