Tap dance originated in the United States in the early 19th century at the crossroads of African and Irish American dance forms. When slave owners took away traditional African percussion instruments, slaves turned to percussive dancing to express themselves and retain their cultural identities.

When was the first dance invented?

Origins. Archaeological evidence for early dance includes 9,000-year-old paintings in India at the Rock Shelters of Bhimbetka, and Egyptian tomb paintings depicting dancing figures, dated c. 3300 BC.

Is tap dancing bad for your back?

Dancers place so much focus on their tap shoes, such as selecting the brand and colors, but they neglect their daily shoe wear. Wearing unsupportive shoes, such as flip-flops, can put extra stress on the feet, ankles, and legs and make them more susceptible to injuries.