The Charleston: The Dance Sensation of the Roaring Twenties
Sent shockwaves throughout the coew articles have sparked as much debate, criticism, and ultimately vindication in the history of investigative journalism as Gary Webb's "Dark Alliance" series. The 1996 San Jose Mercury News series, which connected the CIA to drug smugglers and the Los Angeles.
The Roaring Twenties saw a creative explosion in many industries during a period of economic prosperity, cultural change, and a boom in entertainment options in the West. Dance was no exception, as a fresh, upbeat dance movement evolved that perfectly encapsulated the mood of the time. The Charleston is a well-known dance that not only epitomized the 1920s but also influenced later generations and dance forms.
Origins and Characteristics and Increase in Popularity
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The Charleston, which was called after Charleston, South Carolina, is said to have sprung from the early 20th century African American community in the South. Its origins may be found in West African folk dances like the "Juba" dance. The Charleston was known for its quick tempo and was distinguished by its lively footwork, waving arms, and unmistakable tapping heels and toes that gave it an ecstatic air.
By the middle of the 1920s, the Charleston had made a strong entrance into American popular culture, partly as a result of its debut and frequent use in Broadway productions, particularly the 1923 play "Runnin' Wild." Jazz became the ideal musical accompaniment for the Charleston as it gained in popularity. With young ladies wanting more freedom and self-expression during the flapper era, the Charleston was the perfect outlet. The audacity of the dance and the flapper's spirit of disobedience were a marriage made in heaven.
Symbol of the era, the Charleston was more than simply a dance; it had an impact on society. It embodied the Roaring Twenties' willingness to reject the ordinary in favor of the novel. old society norms and values underwent a tremendous change throughout this decade, and the Charleston, with its uninhibited exuberance, was often perceived as a challenge to the old societal conventions of earlier decades. Speakeasies and dance halls flourished, as did the Charleston, which often drew condemnation from conservative groups and older generations for being too controversial.
Conclusion:
The Charleston is more than just a dance; it also captures a time in history. The Charleston was a symbol of the Roaring Twenties, a time marked for tremendous cultural upheavals. Even while the dance saw its fair share of setbacks and difficulties, its enormous popularity revealed a culture that was willing to advance and accept change. The Charleston has cemented its position as the signature dance of a memorable decade, and when we think of the 1920s today, one of the first images that comes to mind is of flappers dancing to dazzling jazz music.
References:
- L. A. Erenberg (1981). Steppin' Out: The Evolution of American Culture and New York Nightlife. Press Westview.
- 2008 Flandrin, C. The History of American Folk Dance: Jazz Dance. Press, Da Capo.
- L. Emery (1988). The History of Black Dance in America Told Through Its People. Twayne.
- T. Giduz (1985). Was Charleston Actually the Start of the Charleston? 86(2), 104–110, South Carolina Historical Magazine.
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The Charleston: The Dance Sensation of the Roaring Twenties. (2023, Aug 22). Retrieved from https://phdessay.com/the-charleston-the-dance-sensation-of-the-roaring-twenties/
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