How was dance invented?

There is no one definitive answer to how dance was invented, as it is believed to have developed independently in different parts of the world. Some early dances may have derived from ritualistic movements around a fire or during hunting, as means of self-expression, communication, or courtship. As cultures evolved, dance increasingly took on forms associated with ceremonies, religious or spiritual practice, entertainment, courtship, social gatherings, or artistic pursuits. The specific steps, styles, and forms of dance have varied vastly throughout history due to cultural nuances, interactions between social groups, and artistic innovations in each respective location.