Product Description

Authoritative biography of the founder of Aikido, published for the first time in English. The history of Japan's martial traditions is replete with many outstanding individuals, but few ever attained the legendary status of Morihei Ueshiba. Throughout his extraordinary life he mastered an array of martial arts and techniques, including jujutsu and kendo, and endlessly devoted himself to the philosophies of Japan's martial schools. He also had a deep knowledge of the practice of Shinto. Refining these traditions into a wholly new system, he founded Aikido the way of harmony. Going far beyond simple methods of attack or self-defense, Aikido seeks to dispel any aggression through harmony, thus ultimately promoting peace. Through its unique aspect of both preserving the heritage of the classical fighting arts and applying them within the context of contemporary society, Aikido has quickly become one of the most respected martial arts in the world. In this engaging and compelling biography, the Founder's son Kissomaru Ueshiba details the life of this remarkable man, from his early years as a youth in the turbulent Meiji era to his death in 1969. Incorporating many first-hand accounts and anecdotes with historical documents, the author weaves a fascinating narrative of the Founder's life, and with great fondness tells of his own memories of the man who would come to be known as O Sensei great teacher.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #110166 in Books
• Published on: 2008-10-15
• Format: Illustrated
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Hardcover
• 320 pages

About the Author
Morihei Ueshiba was born in Western Japan in 1883. After mastering classical styles of judô, kendô, and jûjutsu, he created Aikido, an entirely original martial art, based on the spiritual teachings of the Ômoto-kyô religion. After the Second World War, Morihei established the Aikikai Foundation in Tokyo to promote the dissemination of Aikido throughout the world. Morihei died in 1969. Kisshomaru Ueshiba, the second Aikido Doshu (leader), after the founder and his father, Morihei Ueshiba. He is the author of the popular The Spirit of Aikido and co-author of Best Aikido

Customer Reviews

A Life In Aikido
`A Life In Aikido' is the biography of Morihei Ueshiba as written by his son Kisshomaru. Originally written in 1978 and translated in 2008 this fine work is finally available for English speaking Aikidoka to enjoy. This follows the life of O Sensei and the development of Aikido in it's various guises. It is clearly written and Kisshomaru is both self deprecating and stringent in upholding the memory of his father. The chapters in the middle explaining O Sensei's time involved with Omoto became a little boring at times, only because it goes into great depth about the philosophy of Omoto and how Omoto developed, which didn't really add to the story of O Sensei's life. This is the only minor gripe. Kisshomaru goes to great length to ensure the many people who helped in the development and growth of Aikido are given credit and there are many names enclosed. The main strength of this book is the stunning photography which illustrate the book throughout. The images of O sensei and the those involved in his life make for wonderful viewing. If you'd like an alternative, slightly more coherent biography of Morihei Ueshiba then track down `Abundant Peace' by John Stevens, but for his sons insight and perception this can't be faulted. This is worth a look if you're a dedicated Aikido practitioner but if you have only a passing interest go for `Abundant Peace'. This also includes a preface by the third and current doshu Moriteru Ueshiba, the founders grandson. This is a classic Aikido text, which is happily translated at last.

O'Sensei at his best - Life story of the Master
Excellent and essencial to any true Aikido student, from the simple white belt, to follow and lead you through your path in the Art.