Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, also known as Gracie Jiu-Jitsu , is a variant of jujitsu that was developed in Brazil during the mid-20th century by the Gracie family.

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu emphasizes ground fighting techniques and submission holds involving joint locks and chokeholds.   The idea behind this art is that the advantages of reach and strong strikes are greatly reduced on the ground. 

A judo, prizefighter from Japan named Mitsuo Maeda emigrated to Brazil in 1910 and was helped a great deal by a Brazillian politician named Gastão Gracie. In return for his help, Maeda taught Judo to Gastão's son Carlos Gracie. Carlos taught the art to his brothers, including Hélio Gracie. Through their own practice and development, Carlos and Hélio are regarded as the founders of Brazillian Jiu-Jitsu as a style of distinct from Kodokan Judo.