Argentine Tango began in the late 1800s in Buenos Aires and Montevideo, born from a mix of African, European, and local influences in poor, immigrant neighborhoods. Initially danced by the lower classes, it spread to Europe in the 1910s, gaining respect and popularity. It thrived during the Golden Age (1930s–1950s), declined during political unrest, and saw a global revival in the 1980s.
Improvisation: Unlike ballroom tango, Argentine Tango is mostly improvised. Dancers communicate through a silent dialogue based on subtle cues (called the lead and follow technique).
Connection: Central to the dance is the embrace — which can be open or close — emphasizing intimacy and connection between partners.
Musicality: Dancers interpret the music expressively, often pausing, accelerating, or embellishing movements based on the rhythm and emotion of the music.
Walking and Pivots: The basic movement is a stylized walk, often incorporating ochos (figure-eight steps), ganchos (hooks), boleos (leg flicks), and sacadas (displacements).