The Roaring 20's was the start of the Swing Era and new dance styles. It was an era that bought us the power of women and booze and nightclubs and SpeakEasy's It was an era that would be one of it's own with Jazz, Big Bands and the famous Ballroom dances that we have today in competitions as well a dance clubs. The Foxtrot,Tango and The Waltz were born as well as The Charleston, The Balimore and Jitterbug. The Lindy Hop, named after Charles Lindburgh, was a popular basic dance step that had many variations upon it including the Charleston. Everyone was hopping on the dance floor. This was the era when the upper body started moving in dance.  In many ways it was a release from the pressures and strain the war had taken.

The Charleston was later replaced by the Black Bottom which orginated in New Orleans.  Later this was replaced by The Lindy Hop.

The Shimmy was brought on by the Haitians and the voodoo as it entailed the shaking of the upper body and the hips. It was danced by celebrities such as Gilda Gray, Mae West and used in the Zeigfield Follies.

Many other dances that were in the era were:The Castle Walk, Camel Walk, Bunny Hop, Quick Step and Turkey Trot.  Square Dancing became a big hit that was popularized by Henry Ford.

You can learn how to do some of these dances below on the various videos that I have included here.

The first two videos are a sampling of what they did and how they lived in that era.  Don't be too shocked at some of the things that they did back then. What the kids are doing today is really not as bad as what they were doing back then.

Having a great time on the dance floor with friends is the best way to lose weight and release tensions. Come on out and have a party! They really are a great way to have fun and I know you will want to try them out! 

Visti my other article about Dancing Through The 40's

I have another article full of LINE DANCING VIDEO'S to which you can learn from the privacy of your own home and at your own pace.  Be prepared for the parties you will attend with these!