Techniques for initialization of Java classes are disclosed. As such, the techniques can be implemented in a Java virtual machine to initialize Java classes represented in Java class files. A Java class loader suitable for loading class files into the Java virtual machine is disclosed. As will be appreciated, the Java class loader facilitates loading and execution of the Java initialization methods that need to be executed in order to initialize Java classes. Moreover, the Java class loader operates to remove the Java initialization methods after they have been executed and no longer serve a useful purpose. This means that the virtual machine can utilize its memory space more efficiently. As a result, the performance of virtual machines, especially those operating with limited resources is improved.