The History of African American Social Dance: From Enslavement to Freedom

Introduction

Dancing and music are an integral part of the cultural heritage of many African tribes. These traditions were brought over to America through the unimaginable and nefarious transatlantic slave trade, where enslaved Africans were brought to the Americas against their will. Despite the brutality and hardships they faced, enslaved people managed to preserve and develop their cultural expressions, including social dances. This article explores the history of African American social dance, the cultural significance it held, and the connection between music and dance as a means of resistance and survival.

Bringing Culture Over the Atlantic

Enslaved People Came Empty-Handed but Not Empty-Headed

While many scholars refer to the enslaved African people as having “come empty-handed” from Africa, it is important to emphasize that they brought a rich cultural heritage with them. “Enslaved people came empty-handed but not empty-headed,” as historians commonly say, referring to the wealth of culture, music, and dance that they carried with them. Despite the inhumane conditions of enslavement, these cultural elements played a vital role in their lives, serving as a means of community, emotional support, and resistance. The preservation of these traditions was essential for maintaining a sense of identity and connection to their ancestral homelands.

Cultural Integration and Innovation

The Influence of African Cultural Practices

Upon their arrival in the Americas, Africans brought with them various forms of dance and music, which blended with the cultural practices of their new environments. For instance, bambarra dances, featuring complex movements and storytelling, evolved into dances such as the grapevine and corn-shirt dances seen in African American communities today. Musical instruments like the drum, which were integral to many African ceremonies, adapted to the American context, leading to new forms of percussion in blues, jazz, and RB music.

Integration with Native American and European Traditions

As African American communities developed, they also began to integrate with Native American and European traditions, leading to the creation of unique and diverse dance forms. For example, the Golden Ring and Pinch Point waltzes from Europe were adapted to fit the rhythms and movements of African dances. Similarly, the work songs and field hollers of enslaved Africans melded with Native American song traditions, resulting in the creation of spirituals, an important genre of African American music that played a significant role in the abolition movement and civil rights struggle.

The Role of Dance in Resistance and Survival

Rituals and Ceremonies

Dance and music were not merely decorative; they held significant ritual and ceremonial importance. Enslaved people used these cultural expressions to honor their ancestors, celebrate religious and social events, and challenge the oppressive power structures that sought to dehumanize them. Dance and music were also used as a form of communication among enslaved individuals, helping them to share information and plan escape routes.

Dance as a Form of Resistance

Furthermore, dance served as a means of resistance against the dehumanizing practices of the slave masters. The common dance practice of the high-step, for instance, involved standing on one foot while the other was held high, which was seen as mocking the white elite's pretentious gait. Similarly, the cherry dobby was a dance that mocked the social conventions of the slave master, showcasing African American resilience and humor in the face of oppression.

Preservation and Advancement

The Legacy of African American Social Dance

Post-enslavement, African American social dance continued to evolve, contributing significantly to American cultural life. The Blind Lemon Jefferson blues, for example, incorporated the rhythms and movements of African dance into their unique style. The Watermelon Dance, with its African-inspired movements and music, became a symbol of African American community gatherings and celebrations.

Today, African American social dance continues to thrive, with styles such as tap dance, tap and jazz dance, and hip-hop all drawing on their rich heritage. These dance forms have not only enriched American culture but have also become fundamental to the understanding of African American history and identity.

Conclusion

African American social dance is a testament to the resilience and creativity of African Americans during and after enslavement. Through the preservation and adaptation of their cultural traditions, enslaved Africans and their descendants have left an indelible mark on American culture, ensuring that the stories and struggles of their ancestors are remembered and celebrated.