Karate was originally conceived as a mix of Chinese martial arts and Okinawan native martial arts (known as “te”) in the 18th century. The “proto-karate” of the times was divided in three major schools whose influence remains present in modern karate to this day. These schools were Shuri-te, Naha-te, and Tomari-te, named after the Okinawan cities they prospered in. With Chinese influence and innovations by masters through the years, many new styles were born. Shito Ryu is one of the most prominent styles in the world, being recognized as one of the four major styles along with Goju Ryu, Wado Ryu and Shotokan.