2.2. Tango

Year of appearance: 1910

Homeland dance: Argentina/Spain (arguably)

Tango is earthy and dramatic. Although walking movements dominate, Tango walks, having a "stalking" or "sneaking" character, are unlike the walks of other ballroom dances. Movements are sometimes slow and slithery, and other times sharp and staccato, such as a quick foot flick or a sharp head snap to promenade position. Tango has the same counter clockwise flow of movement around the dance floor, but with a lesser sense of urgency in comparison to the smoother and more continuous ballroom dances. American Style Tango, especially at highly-developed skill levels, makes great use of open and alternate dance positions to further showcase Tango's dramatic nature.

Late 19th century Buenos Aires teemed with immigrants from Europe and Africa, many of whom found themselves lonely and looking for companionship in their new home. These forlorn people found their way to the salons, seeking drinks to drown their sorrows, temporary friendship, and any entertainment to help ease their depression. The mix of cultures combined to bring about a new style of music, formed from African beats, Indian rhythms, Latin influences, and the popular music of the pampas (flatlands) in Argentina. This new music was dubbed Tango.

Some historians believe that Tango gets its name from the African candombl drum beat known as "tan-go", while others argue that it is derived from Latin word tangere (to touch).

The dance that began as a pantomime of communication between prostitute and pimp was filled with emotions, sexual energy and suggestive gyrations. This choreography was accented by the melancholy drone of the bandoneon, a German instrument very similar to the accordion. In the early 1900s, a less vulgar form of tango was exported to France, where it was further refined and quickly gained popularity with the Parisian high society. Adding classy clothes, ballrooms, lyrics, and an orchestra, the Tango was revolutionized for the rich and became popular all over Europe, the USA, and was even embraced by the upper class of Argentina---the same people who once shunned its odious beginnings.

A simplified version of the Tango, intended for mass consumption, was adapted by Arthur Murray. Although criticized by Tango enthusiasts for its lack of authenticity and character, it was this version that introduced many Americans to the world of ballroom dancing. Before long, the American style Tango was being influenced by famous dancers of the stage and screen. It was this influence which contributed the most to its flamboyant and theatrical character.

The American Style Tango continues to evolve. Among those influences, the technical International (English) style Tango, the dramatic Paso Doble, and even the orginal Argentine style continue to contribute to its evolution. But American is still best known as both the simplest and the showiest of all Tangos

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