Latin Dance History

Salsa is a Cuban dance that emerged in the 1960s, combining elements of Cuban son, mambo, and other Afro-Cuban rhythms.

Samba is the national dance of Brazil, originating in the African-Brazilian communities of Rio de Janeiro in the early 20th century.

Tango originated in the late 19th century in the working-class neighborhoods of Buenos Aires and Montevideo, combining elements of African and European dance.

Jarabe Tapatío, also known as the Mexican Hat Dance, is a traditional Mexican folk dance that originated in the state of Jalisco.

Merengue originated in the Dominican Republic in the 19th century and is known for its lively tempo and energetic dance moves.

Cumbia is a Colombian dance that originated in the Caribbean coast in the 19th century, combining elements of African, Indigenous, and European dance.

Cha-Cha-Cha originated in Cuba in the 1950s and is known for its lively tempo and energetic dance moves.

Plena is a traditional Puerto Rican dance that originated in the 19th century, combining elements of African, Spanish, and Indigenous dance.

Bachata originated in the Dominican Republic in the 1960s and is known for its slow tempo, romantic lyrics, and close embrace.

Tango originated in the late 19th century in the working-class neighborhoods of Buenos Aires and Montevideo, combining elements of African and European dance.

Salsa originated in Cuba in the 1960s, combining elements of Cuban son, mambo, and other Afro-Cuban rhythms.

Cueca is a traditional Chilean dance that originated in the 19th century, combining elements of Spanish, Indigenous, and African dance.

Tango originated in the late 19th century in the working-class neighborhoods of Buenos Aires and Montevideo, combining elements of African and European dance.

Marinera is a traditional Peruvian dance that originated in the 19th century, combining elements of Spanish, Indigenous, and African dance.

Salsa originated in Cuba in the 1960s, combining elements of Cuban son, mambo, and other Afro-Cuban rhythms.