The history of BJJ can actually trace it's roots back Mitsuyo Maeda.
Maeda was a member of the Kodokan and an expert judoka. Because
of his prominence in ground fighting, Maeda was sent overseas to
spread the art to other areas in 1904. Finally arriving in Brazil
in 1914.
Jiu-Jitsu met the Gracie family through a prominent business
man named Gastão Gracie, who was the father of Carlos, Osvaldo,
Gastão, Jorge, and Helio. In 1917, Carlos Gracie who was 14 at
the time, became a student of Maeda and learned the art. He eventually
passed on his newly learned art to his brothers when the
family moved in 1921 to Rio De Janeiro.
Helio continued to study the art and competed in several competitions. One of which gave rise to the familiar term "kimura". This came into prominence when Helio was defeated by a joint-lock by Masahiko Kimura. The technique that was used was evenutally named after this opponent.
BJJ's now world wide popularity didn't come until many decades later however. In the 1990's, the famous UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championships) featured martial artsist from around the world competing in no-holds-barred fighting competetions. Royce Gracie, son of Helio, won the first, second, and fourth UFC tournaments, forever solidifying himself in the minds of fighters across the globe.
Today, brazilian jiu-jitsu is likely the fastest growing
martial art in the world. Schools and students are growing
in shocking numbers. Part of the continued popularity is
due to MMA and the UFC's continued and growing success
that emphasizes BJJ as a necessary component of a total
fighting system.
Here are some popular Brazilian jiu-jitsu books on the market. Whether you are looking to supplement your training, or are looking for some additional reading material, these should help you out.
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu: Theory and Technique (Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu series)
...while most martial arts deal only with the initial punching and kicking stages of combat, Brazilian jiu-jitsu concentrates
on ground combat. This guide shows how to use Brazilian jiu-jitsu to increase combat effectiveness. Photographs and step-by-step
instructions show how to master the techniques used in this exciting new form of combat.
X-Guard: For Brazilian Jiu-jitsu, No Gi Grappling, and Mixed Martial Arts
(from a customer review)...Marcelo Garcia is probably the best grappler in the world and his system is unique
and effective and works for all body types, and unlike Eddie Bravo's very good system doesn't require crazy
flexibility. The book provides info on gi and no gi Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. It's comparable to Eddie Bravo's Rubber
guard book in terms of quality and production value. It has a color coded easy to use system that makes it very
easy to quickly find sections and whether the technique is appropriate for gi and no gi competition.
Gracie Jiu-Jitsu
(from product review)...this collector quality first edition will be one of the most sought-after books in the
martial arts world for years to come. Get in on the ground floor and be one of the few to own the first edition
of GRACIE JIU-JITSU - THE MASTER TEXT. In a clear and easy-to-follow format, Grand Master Helio Gracie addresses
different aspects of the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu method that bears his name. From the first page to the last, you'll
get a simple break down of how to systematically progress and technically improve your mat game regardless of your
background or grappling ability. Now over 90 years old, still training and teaching, Helio Gracie has left an
enduring worldwide legacy that can only be found in GRACIE JIU-JITSU - THE MASTER TEXT
More BJJ and instructional books...
Ultimate Fighting Techniques (Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu series) (v. 1)
Guerrilla Jiu-Jitsu: Revolutionizing Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Strategic Guard: Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu - Details and Techniques
Encyclopedia of Leg Locks (Encyclopedia of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu)

Helio Gracie has contributed so much to Brazilian Jiu Jitsu that he is recognized as the facilitator for modern day BJJ.
Although, he did not create the martial art, he was unequivocably the catalyst that drove the sport to where it is today. Because of his teachings, and dedication to the sport, millions are now able to participate in this unique fighting style.
This video is great for learning BJJ history. A good documentary about Gracie Jiu-Jitsu techniques, heritage, and lineage.
