What is the relationship between Stepping or Step Dancing to Slavery?
Step dancing(also known as Stepping) is an ancient form of dance that has been around for centuries. It has evolved over time and is still popular today, appearing in movies, TV shows, music videos, and other performances.
From its African roots to modern-day interpretations, step dancing is a powerful and mesmerizing art form that can captivate audiences of all ages. Let’s take a look back at the history of step dancing.
Step is a centuries-old dance style that combines sounds and movements to create a powerful performance. We don’t know exactly when step dancing began, but we do know step has origins in West Africa. Hand clapping and foot stomping have been documented as elements of African folk dances from as early as the 15th century. These hand claps and foot stomps were incorporated into European culture during the slave trade era, eventually leading to the development of what we now know as step dancing.
Some historians believe that stepping gained its distinctive percussive style in the aftermath of the 1739 Stono Rebellion, where lawmakers in South Carolina outlawed drumming to eliminate it as a source of communication between enslaved people. Following the ban, percussive dance (stepping) emerged as they replaced the drums with their bodies.
The African gumboot dance, born in the gold mines of South Africa during the Apartheid, is also said to be one of stepping’s biggest influences. They believe coal miners used specific patterns of stomping and clapping to communicate with other workers throughout the flooded mines.
Step was first introduced to America in the late 19th century when freed slaves brought their traditions with them from Africa. Over time, these traditional steps began to be combined with more modern moves like tap and jazz. This combination created a unique style that was known for its intricate rhythms and eye-catching movements.
Step was first introduced to America in the late 19th century when freed slaves brought their traditions with them from Africa. Over time, these traditional steps began to be combined with more modern moves like tap and jazz. This combination created a unique style that was known for its intricate rhythms and eye-catching movements.
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