In fact, the word 'martial' derives from the name Mars, who was the Roman god of war.
History of Martial Arts: Ancient peoples of all types engaged in fighting, war, and hunting.
Thus, each and every civilization subscribed to a version of martial arts or combat all their own. Still, most people think of Asia when they hear the term martial arts. Along with this, around the year 600 BC trade between India and China flourished. It is believed that during this time information regarding the Indian martial arts was passed onto the Chinese and vica versa.