Dancing history

This web site is about different Latin Dances and their origins. Latin dances are generally faster-paced, more sensual, and have more rhythmic expression. The first meaning is to denote dances originated in Latin America. Typically these are Cha cha, Rumba, Samba, Salsa, Mambo, Merengue, Bachata, Cumbia, Bolero.

Origins of Jive Dance
Origins of Paso Doble Dance

The second, a more formal usage, is the name of a category of International style ballroom dances, also called Latin American dances or International Latin.Compared to typical ballroom dances, Latin dances are generally faster-paced, more sensual, and have more rhythmic expression. Time is 4/4 straight rhythm or related. Couples in the basic position stand face-to-face. Music may be Latin American traditional or contemporary popular music.

In Dance Sport competitions, with their formal classification of dance programs, the International Latin class is subdivided into Professional Latin and Amateur Latin categories, as may bee seen in competition listings. This is because formal dance competitions are carried out separately for professionals and for amateurs. In United States, the Pro-Am category is also used, when competing couples consist of one professional and one amateur.

In the early 20th century, the on-screen dance pairing of Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers greatly influenced ballroom dancing in the USA. Although both actors had separate projects and careers, they are associated for their filmed dance sequences together, which included portrayals of early 20th century dancers Vernon and Irene Castle and have reached iconic status. Much of Astaire and Rogers' work portrayed social dancing, although the performances were highly choreographed (often by Astaire or Hermes Pan), and meticulously staged and rehearsed.