A Brief Overview of Latin American Dancing

By Ivana Rodal Fernandez

Latin American dancing is a broad term that encompasses a wide range of dance styles originating from the cultures of Mexico, Central America, and the portions of South America and the Caribbean colonized by the Spanish and the Portuguese. Many of the traditional Latin American dances reflect mixtures of Indigenous, African, and Spanish influences that have spread throughout the region. Many of these dances are characterized by lively rhythms, colorful dressing, and passionate themes. Due to the general broadness of the term, Latin American dance can be broken down into various regional styles and ‘types’ of dance.

A good example of the cultural blend in dance is the Baile Folklorico Mexicano, or Mexican Folkloric Dance, which began in central Mexico during the Pre-Hispanic era as a ritualistic and celebratory dance integral to religious and societal practice. These dances usually paid respects or homage to gods, celebrated agricultural cycles and milestones, and marked significant events such as wars, eclipses, or an especially good harvest. With the arrival of Spanish conquistadors in the early 16th century, Spanish beliefs and traditions merged with indigenous practices. Dance, then, became a tool for religious conversion and cultural assimilation, with traditional dances adapted to incorporate Roman-Catholic themes and rhythms. By the early 20th century, Folkloric dance styles had been well-established, such as EL Jarabe Tapatío, El Huapango, or La Danza de Los Viejitos. The Mexican Revolution and the independence of Mexico from Spain brought a renewed interest in indigenous and folkloric traditions. Artists, intellectuals, and government officials saw the value of preserving and promoting Mexican culture as a source of national identity.

In the wider region of Latin America, many typical and popular dance styles include Salsa and Rumba (Cuba), Bachata and Merengue (Dominican Republic), Cumbia (Colombia), Tango (Argentina and Uruguay), Samba (Brazil), Flamenco (Spain and Mexico), and many others; and they are all characterized by unique rhythm, themes, and a special, independent vibrancy to the movement.

To say dancing is an integral part of Latin American culture is an understatement, as dancing has been a medium for cultural expression for centuries. It serves as a means to showcase the rich and diverse heritage of each region, and is also a huge part of social gatherings and celebrations in Latin America, such as weddings, religious festivals, fiestas, local fairs, or parades; with dancing often at the heart of these events. It is also tied to a sense of national identity in Latin American countries, seen as symbols of cultural pride of the country’s lineage. People come together to dance, share joy, and strengthen bonds, making dance a special and important center of our cultures.

In this Hispanic and Latine Heritage month, I encourage everyone to familiarize themselves with the different practices and traditions that make up our cultures, and to appreciate their beauty, utility, and what they provide for Hispanic and Latine individuals as a whole. Happy Hispanic and Latine Heritage Month!