(1) Kendo is a traditional Japanese sword-fighting technique that was originally practiced by warriors known as samurai. Scholars estimate that the sword was first introduced to Japan in 200 B. C. The sword went through many transitions from its original form, and in the middle of the 11th century, it emerged as an elegant weapon with a curved and slightly arched blade. (2) The years passed, and kendo began to take on a new form. In the late 1800s, bamboo swords called shinai took the place of iron swords, and warriors began to wear protective armor to protect themselves from injury. When the samurai class was abolished in 1868, the practice of kendo began to decline. A few years later, the practice was revived and was used to train police officers.
(3) By the end of the 12th century, unrest in the government led to the development of a warrior class. The samurai elevated sword making into a revered art form. From the 14th to the 16th centuries, prestigious sword fighting schools developed to help warriors hone their skills.
(4) The Dai Nippon Butoku Kai, a martial arts organization, was established in 1895. More than a decade later, kendo was added to the physical education curriculum in Japanese middle schools. Kendo again suffered a decline after World War II. It wasn't until 1952 that a new form of kendo called "Shinai Kyogi" was created and introduced into public schools. Today, kendo is growing in popularity around the world.
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What is the best order for paragraphs 2, 3, and 4?
A.
no change
B.
2, 4, 3
C.
3, 2, 4
D.
4, 3, 2