This two volume set relates the history of the most popular social dances, where they began, which dances survived the test of time and why, and what attracted American men and women to social dancing in these periods. Unlike other books on social dancing that taught people How to Dance, this books not only describes the dances, but also WHY Americans danced. This two volume companion set is the most comprehensive collection of American social dance from the first settlements in 1607 through the birth of the nation in 1776 and into the beginning of the 21st century. Social Dancing in America encompasses the global nature of the ethnic contributions to the formation of many unique American social dances. Those influences included the Native American Indian, Spanish, Caribbean, African, European, and other ethnic cultures that created original American social dances such as the Lindy Hop, Rock n' Roll, the Twist, Disco, Breakdancing, and Hip Hop. The book is also a celebration of the American spirit embodied among everyday individuals as they danced for fun, recreation, and family celebrations such as weddings.
This book places social dancing in a historical, social, cultural, and political context. A History of American Social Dancing, is about the integral part that social dancing played in the lives of every individual in America from the first settlements in 1607 through the birth of the nation in 1776 and through the 19th century. The reader will be surprised to learn that George Washington was not only the most famous American of his time, but also a well-known aficionado of social dancing. He incorporated the etiquette and manners of dances such as the Minuet as a means of diplomacy to secure European allies such as France during the Revolutionary War of Independence. During his presidency he toured the country and was honored at each occurrence with a dance in his honor. After his death, Americans continued to celebrate his birthday with a grand ball that included dancing.