Aikido, by and large, is considered to be a modern development of traditional Japanese martial arts with its roots stamping from Aiki-Jiujitsu. 

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It's founder, Morihei Ueshiba development Aikido (loosely translated as the "Way of Harmony") as a martial way of self-preservation. With the aim of the practitioner to defend themselves while at the same time protecting their attacker from injury.   

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Much of Aikido's techniques are developed from traditional sword and spear movements and techniques. Consisting mainly of turning, blending and redirecting of an opponents "energy" or force, finishing off with a pin or a throw.

 

Today Aikido is found all over the world in a number of styles, with broad ranges of interpretation and emphasis. However, they all share techniques formulated by Ueshiba and most have concern for the well-being of the attacker.