Dance African-American culture

african-american dance, other aspects of african-american culture, finds earliest roots in dances of hundreds of african ethnic groups made african slaves in americas influences european sources in united states. dance in african tradition, , in tradition of slaves, part of both everyday life , special occasions. many of these traditions such down, ring shouts, , other elements of african body language survive elements of modern dance.

in 19th century, african-american dance began appear in minstrel shows. these shows presented african americans caricatures ridicule large audiences. first african-american dance become popular white dancers cakewalk in 1891. later dances follow in tradition include charleston, lindy hop, jitterbug , swing.

during harlem renaissance, african-american broadway shows such shuffle along helped establish , legitimize african-american dancers. african-american dance forms such tap, combination of african , european influences, gained widespread popularity dancers such bill robinson , used leading white choreographers, hired african-american dancers.

contemporary african-american dance descended these earlier forms , draws influence african , caribbean dance forms. groups such alvin ailey american dance theater have continued contribute growth of form. modern popular dance in america influenced african-american dance. american popular dance has drawn many influences african-american dance notably in hip-hop genre.