Meaning
Translation: Ken – “Sword”, Do – “Way”
Literal Translation: “the way of the sword ”
Origin: Japan
Major Influences: One theory comes from the art of Western fencing. The other is that Japan created their version of fencing.

History
Practiced by the samurai class, these warriors used real blades, causing major injury or even death when training or fighting. By the end of the 18th century, protective equipment and safe bamboo swords were created to allow full blows and strikes without injury.