The underlying philosophy of teaching and techniques of Morihei Ueshiba, the founder
of aikido, differed greatly depending on the era of evolution of his practice.
First Period: Taisho era (1912-1926) He practiced many forms of Bujutsu and attained
spiritual enlightenment through religious practice and Daitoryu Aikijutsu
At this time O’Sensei settled into the practice of the kata. Among the schools of
jujitsu, as well as those who relied mainly on combat, there were some that had
turned to the movements and techniques of sword taijutsu techniques, the school
Daitoryu of Aizu was one of the most representative.
Second period: from 1 ° to 17 ° year Shōwa era (1926 - 1942) He walked away from
religion to become a specialist in budo (martial arts) - Daitoryu Aikijujitsu. Since
entering the era of Ueshibaryū Aikijujitsu, he subsequently changed it to Aiki -Bujutsu
and then Aiki-Budo. Daitoryu added to his knowledge related to the techniques of
spear (Sojutsu), of which was a renowned expert, thus creating the method " uchikomi
", a sort of" living kata "which is considered typical of aikido. This was the time
he came to possess exceptional spiritual strength. He was consecrated at the top
of the world of martial arts and exercised its authority. About this time, it is
said that Gonbê Yamamoto (1852 ~ 1933, and Admiral Prime Minister), witnessing a
demonstration of Master Ueshiba, said "It’s the first time, after the Meiji Restoration
(1868), I see a boat that' lives' ...!" and that the Master Kano Jigoro (1860 ~
1938) of Kodokan has said "This is the true Budo I've always wanted (practicing)".
Third period: from 18 years in the Showa era (1943) until today In the spring of
1943 he decided to abandon all commitments until then taken against the army, navy
and the world of martial arts to take refuge in Iwama in Ibaragi Prefecture, where
he devoted himself to agriculture, combining his passion for martial arts and love of
the land.It was at this stage that he was to create "The Way of Aikido as all those
who cultivate the great love of heaven and earth." And 'this era, the postwar period,
in which Aikido was introduced to the public and it was spread all over the world.
Tada Hiroshi Shihan, 9th Dan Aikikai. Technical Director of the Aikikai d’Italia.