History & Cultural Context
Syncretic dance blending pre-Hispanic and Christian elements; performed since early colonial period with feathered regalia.
More in Global Americas Indigenous & Colonial Fusion
Baile Conquista
Dance-drama depicting Spanish conquest; performed in Guatemala and other Maya regions.
Capoeira
Martial art / dance / game combining kicks, acrobatics, and Kongo dance movements; blends African and Brazilian traditions.
Samba
Urban Rio dance form emphasizing individual expression and body isolation; syncopated African-influenced rhythms.
Tumba Francesa
Dance/music tradition brought by French Haitians of African descent; continues in Eastern Cuba.
Rumba (Yambú, Columbia, Guaguancó)
Three main styles with distinct rhythms and dance movements; originated from African slave traditions.
Son Cubano
Folk style blending Spanish guitar with African percussion; bedrock of Salsa music and Latin jazz.
Changüí
Eastern Cuban form of Son rooted in African music brought by slaves.
Haitian Rara
Lenten celebration with mobile musical bands, religious rituals, and dance; synthesis of carnival and religious practice.
Mambo
Energetic dance with African-Cuban rhythms; major influence on Latin jazz and Salsa.
Cha-Cha-Cha
Cuban dance style with African influence; ballroom competition form.