Hellenism, History, Faith, Culture, and People
by Dionysios Dionou
This month I bring you, what I call fact finds. When I was a graduate student, and doing research, I would often find little known yet interesting knowledge that often was little known. Opening my column this new year 2011, first let me wish all my AHEPAN brothers, a very blessed, healthy, prosperous Happy New Year! Now for your entertainment, general knowledge, and amusement. Let me begin.
Many people when they think of various martial arts, Asia is what comes to mind. Why not? Many of the modern martial arts, have origins in Asia. Many of my brothers may not have known, but my entire family trains in what is called MMA or mixed martial arts. In fact my daughter Sophia, has been training since age four, and now at age fourteen, is preparing for her black belt test. My very own Bouboulina! I’m often asked why didn’t the Occident produce it’s own forms of martial arts. Actually there was a martial art, and it was invented in Greece!
Called Pankration founded circa 648 BC, this martial art out dates many of the Asian martial arts. Tai kwan do for example, one of the most popular martial arts, dates from 57 BC. What is Pankration? It is a mixed martial art. Designed for both standing, and ground fighting. Similar in this respect, to Muay Thai kick boxing, and Japanese/Brazilian jiu jitsu. It entailed, punching, blocking, kicking, but also take downs, submissions and joint locks. A feature of the ancient Olympic games, there were neither rules, nor rounds. Fighters fought until one of the fighters, could no longer continue, or there was a risk of death. After the Roman conquest of Greece, the Romans adopted Pankration, calling it Pancractium. The sport became the rage in Roman arena’s. In 393 AD the Roman Emperor Theodosius I, along with the Olympics, and gladiatorial games, abolished Pankration fighting. Although the regular mentioning of wrestling in later Byzantine sources, may be an indication that Pankration continued as a sport.
With the reinstating of the modern Olympic games, Pankration was excluded from the gaming events. However, a form of Pankration is practiced within the International Federation of Associated Wrestling Styles. Present day mixed martial arts, are a close relative of Pankration.
Dionysios Dionou was born in Patras Greece, raised in New York City, and is vice president of AHEPA Chapter 170. He is also the president of the Solon Society. Long Island’s premier Hellenic Historical and Cultural Society. Dionysi has worked as a chef, high school teacher, college adjunct lecturer, and a small business owner. A part time actor, he can be seen in the films, “Fighting”, “Starship Dave”, “Definitely Maybe, and Phoebee in Wonderland”. On TV in episodes of “The Sopranos”, and “Law & Order Criminal Intent”. Dionysi’s first book will be released early this year. A memoir of his life, and travels.