Breakdancing is generally considered to have originated in the Bronx borough of New York City in the 1970s. It is believed to have grown out of the African American and Latino street cultures of the era, particularly the gang culture. Many of the early breakdancers were gang members who used dance to settle disputes and show off their skills. Breakdancing was often done in large circles called "battles," and it quickly became a popular form of entertainment in the Bronx.
James Brown
Another key influence on breakdancing was the music of James Brown. Brown was known for his energetic, fast-paced music, which was perfect for breakdancing. His song "Get Up (I Feel Like Being a) Sex Machine" is considered to be one of the first songs that was used for breakdancing.
The media
Breakdancing gained widespread popularity in the United States in the early 1980s, thanks in large part to the media. The film Flashdance (1983) featured a breakdancing scene that was widely imitated, and the music video for Michael Jackson's song "Thriller" (1984) also featured breakdancing. These two events helped to bring breakdancing to a mainstream audience, and it soon became one of the most popular dance forms in the world.
Today
Breakdancing remains a popular dance form today. It is practiced in countries all over the world, and there are even breakdancing competitions held on a regular basis. Breakdancing is also an Olympic sport, and it was first included in the program at the 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo.