National Historical Archive
UMAA History Library
The Historical Framework is placed first so every major archive option is visible immediately.
Separate Research Archive
Martial Arts History
Explore ancient African combat evidence, Afro-Eurasian exchange, independent Asian developments, and the difference between documented history and later legend.
Open Martial Arts History Archive →Foundation
Baker’s Dojo of Karate & Body Building was founded in 1974 by Preston, Otis, and Eddie Baker at 13th and Michigan in Chicago. The United Martial Arts Association followed in 1976 to preserve unity, rank standards, lineage, instructor credentials, school recognition, tournament oversight, and institutional continuity.
The Baker Brothers
The three founders have separate individual historical profiles with photographs and complete records.
Open Individual ProfilesInstitutional Development
The historical record includes 30,000+ students instructed, 86+ amateur tournaments directed or promoted, 286 Black Belts under instruction, 20 Great Lakes Top 20 rankings, and 8 national rankings.
Leadership and Expansion
UMAA’s continuity extends through founders, presidents, senior instructors, regional and state representatives, schools, members, and the digital modernization era.
Source Archive
The archive draws from official organizational records, photographs, certificates, event programs, media references, oral history, and leadership-approved documentation. Claims requiring corroboration remain identified as organizational record rather than independent fact.