Okinawa Part 1

In the 11th century, castles began sprouting all over Okinawa, Japan.  This was a period of struggles among the emerging rulers. In the late 12th Century, one of the petty rulers founded the Shunten Dynasty (1187-1259). It was followed by the Eiso Dynasty (1260-1349), the Satto Dynasty (1350-1405), the First Sho Dynasty (1406-1469), and the Second Sho Dynasty (1470-1879). The last dynasty was replaced by Okinawa governors appointed by Tokyo officials until 1945. During the 27 year American interlude from 1945 to 1972, Okinawa was under the U.S. military government.

The first three dynasties exercised their control probably only in their adjacent areas. But King Satto is known for establishing tributary relationships with China in 1372. This relationship with China greatly accelerated Ryukyu's cultural and political development. The First Sho Dynasty achieved the political unification of Okinawa in 1422.

Okinawa has had a broad history and is rich when it comes to martial arts. I will talk more about the weapons and style of the Okinawan people next week because that is where it gets interesting. If you are interested in learning about their culture I would suggest this site for more history.