Question

why did Okinawans create karate

Answer 1

Answer:

They created it to help protect themselves from bandits and invading armies. There is debate as to whether the arts were developed by the rich, who had the time, or the peasants, who worked long hours.

Answer 2

Answer: Karate, the Japanese word for “empty hands,” was born in the Okinawan Islands as a form of self-defense, at a time when weapons were banned by invading Japanese forces. ... Karate is included in Okinawa's physical education programs at the intermediate level.