African-American dance

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Slave dance to banjo, 1780s

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Dance Theatre of Harlem in Carré, repetitie, Bestanddeelnr 924-7624

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Katherine Dunham in "Tropical Revue" Martin Beck Theatre

African-American dance has evolved within African-American culture in the United States, encompassing a wide range of dance forms and styles. This rich dance heritage stems from African cultural dances and has been significantly influenced by social, economic, and historical contexts in the United States. African-American dance forms are a vital expression of cultural identity and have contributed significantly to the global dance scene.

History

The history of African-American dance begins with the Transatlantic Slave Trade, where enslaved Africans were brought to the Americas and used their dance as a form of resistance, communication, and cultural preservation. Over time, these African dance traditions blended with European dance forms, giving rise to unique dance styles. During the Harlem Renaissance, African-American dance saw a significant transformation, with the emergence of new dance forms that reflected the creativity and resilience of the African-American community.

Styles and Forms

African-American dance encompasses a variety of styles, including:

• Spirituals and Ring Shouts - Early forms that combined African dance elements with Christian themes.
• Jazz Dance - Originating from African-American vernacular dance, jazz dance evolved alongside jazz music and became popular in the early 20th century.
• Tap Dance - Influenced by African rhythmic patterns and Irish step dancing, tap dance became a distinctive African-American art form.
• Hip-Hop Dance - Emerging in the 1970s, hip-hop dance includes various styles such as breaking, locking, and popping, reflecting the culture and experiences of urban African-American youth.
• Swing Dance - Including the Lindy Hop, swing dance developed in the 1920s and 1930s in Harlem and became a worldwide phenomenon.

Cultural Significance

African-American dance serves as a vehicle for expressing cultural identity, social issues, and political resistance. It has played a crucial role in shaping American popular culture and has influenced global dance trends. Through dance, African-Americans have been able to preserve their cultural heritage, tell their stories, and contribute to the cultural mosaic of the United States.

Influence and Legacy

The influence of African-American dance can be seen in various aspects of society, including theater, film, and education. African-American choreographers and dancers, such as Alvin Ailey and Katherine Dunham, have made significant contributions to the dance world, creating works that reflect the African-American experience. The legacy of African-American dance continues to inspire new generations of dancers and choreographers around the world.

See Also

• African-American culture
• History of dance
• Modern dance
• Contemporary dance