It is thought that shelf defence was founded by Benedictine monks who without any other weapons were able to repel large invading forces of invading Vikings using only the structures they kept their books on. Over the years it has been taught as a martial art to those who are in short supply of traditional weaponry, but have an abundance of certain types of household fixtures. It has been subject to many developments and changes, including the additional use of worktops, hanging baskets and more recently and more controversially traditional English sideboards.