Judo is a modern martial art and sport that originated in Japan. Its history can be traced back to the ancient Japanese martial art of jiu-jitsu. Here's a brief overview of the history of judo:

Origins in Jiu-Jitsu: Jiu-jitsu, meaning "gentle art", was developed in feudal Japan as a means for samurai to defend themselves without weapons. It encompassed a range of techniques, including throws, joint locks, and strikes. Various schools and styles of jiu-jitsu evolved over centuries.

The judo story starts with Dr. Jigoro Kano, the founder of modern judo. Born in 1860, Kano began studying jiu-jitsu as a teenager to build physical strength and confidence. Over time, he mastered the art and developed his own insights and principles.

In 1882, Kano established the Kodokan Judo Institute in Tokyo. He reformed and refined many jiu-jitsu techniques, eliminating those he deemed dangerous or less effective. His main focus was on the principle of "maximum efficiency, minimum effort" and "mutual welfare and benefit." Judo, meaning "gentle way", was thus born.

Kano saw judo as a martial art and a means of physical education and moral character development. He integrated judo into the Japanese school curriculum and actively promoted it internationally.

Judo became an Olympic sport for men at the Tokyo Games in 1964. Women's judo was introduced as a demonstration sport at the 1988 Seoul Olympics and became an official medal event at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics.

With its inclusion in the Olympics and Kano’s efforts to promote it internationally, judo clubs and organizations sprouted worldwide. The International Judo Federation (IJF) was established in 1951 to oversee international competitions and standardize rules.

Today, judo is practised by millions worldwide, recreationally and competitively. While the sportive aspect of judo receives a lot of attention due to international competitions, many practitioners also delve into the philosophical and self-defence aspects of the art.

Throughout its history, judo has been influential in developing other martial arts and combat sports. For example, Brazilian jiu-jitsu (BJJ) was derived from early 20th-century judo and adapted by the Gracie family in Brazil.

Judo’s emphasis on respect, discipline, personal growth, effective techniques and dynamic sportive elements has ensured its enduring popularity and significance in the martial arts world.