Isshin-Ryu was founded by one of the great karate masters, Tatsuo Shimabuku and is derived from several of the other, older classical styles.   Master Tatsuo Shimabuku, began learning karate at the age of 14 and devoted the rest of his life to its study and teaching.  For 26 years he studied the other styles, Shuri-Te, Shorin-Ryu and Goju-Ryu, each one under the master of its style. Master Shimabuku took the best of each style, improved it and founded Isshin-Ryu.  From Master Motobu, Master of Shuri-Te, he took the kumite; from Master Kiyan, Master of Shorin, he took the Kata and added improvements; from Master Miyagi, Master of Goju, he took Sanchin, the basis of all Okinawan karate. Isshin-Ryu, with roots going back 500 years, is a postwar development, modernized to meet the needs of today's world.  It was founded in the 50's and has been taught ever since to American Marines stationed in Okinawa. Mizu Gami  (pictured on left) The Isshin-Ryu symbol represents a vision that Master Shimabuku had while formulating Isshin-Ryu. One day after working very hard creating Isshin-Ryu, Master Shimabuku fell asleep.  He dreamed that a man came into his dojo and challenged him.  He declined the challenge saying he was a gentleman and did not fight unless necessary.  Then a figure appeared over the man, that of a dragon.  The dragon spit fire all around the Master.  As the ring of fire drew closer, a figure appeared over Master Shimabuku and put out the fire.  The figure was that of Mizu-Gami (Water Goddess). Master Shimabuku felt this "vision" depicted the "mold" that he wanted to fashion Isshin-Ryu after.  There is some symbolism in the visual representation of Mizu-Gami. The three stars are his three instructors, Masters Kiyan, Motobu and Miyagi.  The dragon is the dragon that spit the fire at Master Shimabuku.  (It is interesting to note that Master Shimabuku's first name "Tatsuo" means "Dragon").  One of the hands on the figure is raised in the universal sign of peace, and the other is held clenched in readiness.  The visible half is a woman to symbolize peace and kindness, while the hidden portion is that of a sea serpent.  This tells us that although we are strong enough to prevail when necessary, we should keep our strength hidden and show a soft, kindly face to the world.