The United States has more martial arts schools than any other country – by far. Chances are you or someone you know practiced karate or another martial art growing up. While martial arts gained popularity in the U.S. for many reasons, one name stands out: Jhoon Rhee. Known as the Father of American Taekwondo, Rhee famously taught Bruce Lee how to kick and Muhammed Ali how to punch. His bare-knuckled American dream made an impact on generations of Americans.

Guests: 

Terence Nicholson, a D.C.-based artist. Creator of Safety Jacket: A Mourning in Chinatown

Sojin Kim, curator for the Smithsonian Asian Pacific American Center’s exhibition: Sightlines, Chinatown and Beyond

M. Aziz, an Assistant Professor of African American Studies in the Department of American Ethnic Studies at the University of Washington

Chun Rhee, son of Jhoon Rhee

Jimmy Rhee, son of Jhoon Rhee