The tambourine is thought to have originated in Central Asia, likely originating in ancient Mesopotamia (modern-day Iraq and Syria). It spread to other regions such as Egypt, Greece, and Rome and eventually to Europe and the Americas.
Tambourines have been found in archaeological sites in the Middle East, and are depicted in ancient Egyptian art and literature. They were also used in ancient Greek, Roman, and Jewish cultures.
Over the centuries, the tambourine has undergone various modifications and variations in different parts of the world. In the Middle East, it is often called the "riq" or "duff" and is played with hand movements and finger techniques. In Western music, it is commonly used as a percussion instrument, particularly in folk, pop, and rock music.