Tap Dancing

Tap is truly an American dance, reflecting influences from many different lands but in a form entirely unique to the American experience. Its roots are as diverse as the steps of Scottish, Irish and African dancing. In the 1840s and 50s, William Henry Lane, known by the stage name "Juba" chosen for the African derived dance step of that name, popularized a fusion of African-American movements with the steps of the jig and clog. This innovation, whether truly Juba's or not, is undoubtedly the basis of modern tap. Tap dance in minstrel shows reached a peak in the 1880s. After this, tap was seen in vaudeville shows and the musical comedy theater, as well as in nightclub acts and as a popular form of street entertainment.