History of Japanese swords goes back 2.000 years. The first metal sword was discovered from a grave in Japan. The oldest sword is called Jo-ko-gatana. Swords with blades on both sides are known as ken or tsurugi, and the ones with a single blade as tachi.
From the 3rd to the 8th century, Chinease and Korean sword craftsmen came over to Japan. Ken (ryo-to-ken) were made during the 7th to the 8th period. Tachi developed into a katana during the middle of the 10th century, because the Japanese horseman required weapons suitable for surprise attacks.
Blacksmith techniques were at its finest during the year 1190 to 1337 (Kamakura period), thus many of the swords valuable as national treasures were made during this period.
During the year 1337 to 1570 (Muromachi period), japanese samurai required long and heavy swords more suitable for one on one fights. Some of the swords were longer than 3ft. (90cm).
At the end of Sengoku period, many tachis were cut shorter, and the concept of "tachi wearing" (tachi koshirae) changed into "katana wearing" (katana koshirae). This caused the loss of many good swords.
Swords made during Momoyama period to Keicho-Nenkan (1596 to 1614), are known as kotou or furui katana. Katanas produced after this period are called shin-katana.
During 1868 to 1926 (in the beginning of Showa period), shin-shintou swords were made, and showa-katana swords with machine-made blade followed.
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