Isshinryu is an Okinawan style of karate. It is a relatively recent style, having been developed by Tatsuo Shimabuku in the 1950's. Isshinryu karate is meant for street fighting, and to this end it has been designed for power and efficiency, with little wasted motion. It was brought to North America by US Marines who were stationed on Okinawa and were taught Isshinryu by Shimabuku himself.