The Gracie family refers to the lineage of Brazilian businessman an politician Gastão Gracie. They are known as the founders of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and for their success in mixed martial arts, vale tudo, and submission wrestling competitions. As a family, they uphold the Gracie challenge. The Gracie family name comes from their Scottish heritage, although the family was originally of both Scottish and Portuguese ancestry. Today, the family is incredibly large and of mixed Brazilian heritage.