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The history of the martial arts is complex and not well documented however, some evidence of early martial arts is known. There are many different forms of martial arts and each has its own unique beginnings but from a global perspective, certain cultures had a tremendous impact on the evolution of martial arts. Contemporary martial arts' history is often attributed to the Asian cultures but in fact there were forms of martial arts in practice on nearly every continent of the globe for thousands of years.

The early Greek culture practiced a martial art known as Pankration, the art of complete strength. The art itself is comprised of a mix of combative styles including wrestling, grappling, and throws as well as boxing techniques. The earliest records of Pankration being practiced is around 700 BC but all indications are that this fighting style had most likely been in use for a long time before that and it is still practiced to this day.