Prcis

The subject that I chose to write about is called The story of American
social dance and its development. The goal of this project is to raise
awareness regarding the importance that social dancing has had in the
American history and culture from the early nineteenth century until
today.

Early Americans were significantly restricted in their forms of

communication. Because it was considerably inaccessible,
communication was very valuable to nineteenth century Americans.
Social dancing came as a need for people to communicate with each
other through the use of non-verbal movements and gestures.

As a cultural meeting point, America welcomed a variety of dances. The

ceremonial minuet came from France, country-dances arrived from
England, and lively hornpipes and reels came in from Scotland and
Ireland. Countless other dances were the products of cultural mixing.

Dancing was not always received openly by society as a whole. Certain

conservative and religious groups objected to the practice of dance, and
delivered criticisms to prevent recklessness and disorder. These
obstacles diminished over time as changing cultural circumstances
gave rise to an era in which dance was not only as an amusement but
also a powerful social tool.

My project will get you though the various phases of development of

social dancing and present you the history and origins of some of the
most famous American social dances.
SUMARRY
1. Precis

2. Origins
3. Development
4. Present day