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What dances the South do?

The South is renowned for its vibrant dance culture. Here are some popular dances that originated or are widely practiced in the Southern United States:

1. Square Dance: Square dancing is a traditional folk dance that originated in the 18th century. It involves four couples arranged in a square formation, executing choreographed steps and figures to music.

2. Line Dance: Line dancing involves a group of dancers standing in a line and performing synchronized dance moves together. Popular line dances include the Electric Slide, the Macarena, and the Cha-Cha Slide.

3. Clogging: Clogging is a percussive dance style in which dancers wear shoes with hard taps on the soles. Cloggers use their feet to create rhythmic beats and patterns on a wooden floor.

4. Round Dance: Round dancing is a social dance performed by couples in a circle formation. It involves a series of choreographed steps and patterns that follow specific dance routines.

5. Country-Western Dance: Country-western dance encompasses various partner and group dances popular in the country music scene. These dances include the Two-Step, the Waltz, the Polka, and the Texas Two-Step.

6. Zydeco: Zydeco is a lively dance genre that originated in Louisiana's Creole communities. It combines elements of African, Caribbean, and French dance traditions. Zydeco dancers move to the fast-paced rhythms of the zydeco accordion and other instruments.

7. Jitterbug: The Jitterbug, which includes the Lindy Hop and the Balboa, is an energetic swing dance from the 1930s and 1940s. It features improvisational footwork and athletic moves, often performed to jazz music.

8. Shag: Shag dancing originated in the Carolinas during the early 20th century. It involves fast, syncopated footwork and hip movements to the rhythm of upbeat music.

9. Charleston: The Charleston is a high-energy dance craze from the 1920s. It is known for its fast tapping and dynamic movements, often performed to jazz music.

10. Salsa: While Salsa is not specific to the South, it has a significant following in the Southern states. Salsa dancing involves sensual partner dancing, characterized by complex footwork, hip movements, and rhythmic turns.

These dances are just a few examples of the rich dance heritage of the South, each contributing to the region's cultural diversity and vibrant atmosphere.

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