Tango

The tango has a unique and complicated history in Argentina. Many are not sure of what are the exact origins of the dance but many see it as a fusion of European, Latin, and African roots. It combines European polkas and waltzes, Cuban habanera, and candome rhythms from Africa. The tango originated around the time Argentina received a massive influx of immigrants from Europe around the late 1800's and early 1900's. The dance originated in the slums and brothels of Buenos Aires where many of the immigrants, mostly men, would go because of the lack of women in the area. Some say that the dance acted the relationship between the prostitute and her pimp. Others say that the dance reflects the loss and longings of the immigrants. Many in the upper classes in society frown down upon the tango dance. Actually, tango became famous in Paris because of the sons of Argentina's wealthy introduced the dance in Europe were it became a dance craze in the continent. Many of the wealthy had now accepted the Tango during the spread of it in the 1920's and 30's. Around 1950, however, the political repression of the dance has begun and rock & roll has become to replace the tango and declined in popularity until the 80's. Only underground groups would dance or play the tango. The reason this artifact is important is because the tango has shown the diversity of Argentina and provided the people the ability to express themselves. This dance has become important to the culture and history of Argentina. Many now can not think of the tango without having Buenos Aires in mind. Many are now dancing the tango for the sensuality and beautiful music. What better way to add the tango as an important artifact of Argentina.