99% Invisible

100 Objects #10: Nunchaku

July 24, 2026·36 min·5-min readnarrativehistory
Podzilla Summary (5 min)
TLDR
The nunchaku, popularized by Bruce Lee in 1970s kung fu films, became far more than a martial arts weapon — it transformed into a cultural symbol of resistance, uniting marginalized communities in America and catalyzing a new Asian American identity. The episode reveals how a simple weapo

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Guest

J

Jeff Chang

narrative on 99% Invisible

Mentions

Books, people, and resources mentioned in this episode.

People

Bruce LeeJeff ChangRoman MarsYuji IchiokaEmma GeeEd Parker

Books

Can't Stop, Won't Stopby Jeff ChangWater Mirror Echo, Bruce Lee, and the Making of Asian Americaby Jeff Chang

Topics

American HistoryCivil Rights HistoryLong Form JournalismMoviesPop CultureRacial Justice

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