The oldest form of Mexican folk dances, the danza has its roots in Mesoamerican days, during the time of the Mayans and Aztecs. The dances are ritualistic and often have ties to a religious aspect. One example of this is the Aztec-influenced Tlacolorerosis in the state of Guerrero, performed during harvest season.
After the arrival of the Spanish, European dance soon influenced native culture. These dances, called Mestizo, are a combination of indigenous and European aspects. The Spanish Flamenco most notably affected the development of Mexican dance with its dramatic steps and movements performed in brightly colored clothing. Aspects of ballet, the waltz and polka can also be seen in mestizo dances.
Bailes Regionales are generally presented in theatrical performances or community celebrations. The dances have many ballet characteristics, like pointed toes and highly choreographed movements, and they emphasize a particular region's folk culture. Amalia Hernandez, a Mexican ballet choreographer, popularized these dances in the 1950s and helped make them internationally recognized.