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Professional soldier, spy, linguist, traveller, international lover, prisoner of war and prolific chronicler of history: Much was written about Charles Boxer following his death in 2000. However, what was not widely known was that in the early 20th century he was one of the very first British practitioners of kendo-Japanese fencing.
A Truly British Samurai: The Exceptional Charles Boxer (1904-2000) gives a fascinating insight into the life of this extraordinary man, from his secondment to the Japanese army as a Language Officer, kendo training and life in Japan, time spent as a Japanese prisoner of war during World War II, academic career and private life. With contributions from family and friends, this book not only gives an account of Charles Boxer the man, but also of kendo in pre-War Japan in which he was immersed.
About the author
Paul Budden was born in 1949 in Cheltenham England.
When not involved with kendo he continues to assist in running an established international exhibition company.
Having graduated in kendo to Kyoshi 7-dan, his involvement has increased over some 40 years both as the founder and Kancho of Kodokan Kendo UK (since 1980), where both adults and junior practitioners attend regular practice sessions, and also as President and Technical Director for the Maltese Kendo Federation.
As an international coach he now divides his time between the U.K., Malta and throughout Europe (including Eastern Europe), running courses, assisting with seminars including charity events and international competitions.
He is also the author of Looking at a Far Mountain: A Study of Kendo Kata; Devil's Gloves and the One Cut - An introduction to Ono-ha Itto Ryu Kata; Three Ages of British Kendo written for the Japan Society, London in Biographical Portraits volume IX and A Truly British Samurai: The Exceptional Charles Boxer (1904-2000). The Oshu Kendo Renmei. A History of British and European Kendo (1885-1974). A Man of Many Parts- Portrait of an Inimitable Swordsman - Ronald Alexander Lidstone (1895 - 1969).
He was a member of the British team that won bronze in 1987 at the European Kendo Championships in Malmo and has visited Japan on numerous occasions for study and practice in a continuing quest for knowledge and improvement-'The ultimate is unattainable but the journey is educational and enjoyable.'
He was also the Official Speaker at the European Kendo Championships for the European Kendo Federation and was Co-Organising Director of the 12th World Kendo Championships in Glasgow, 2003, for the British Kendo Association.
Paul believes very strongly in maintaining the traditional interpretation of kendo and is dedicated to the classical practice of koryu and the philosophy that kendo personifies.
