History:
The Rumba was at the beginning of the Cuban and Latin
American crazes. Danced to music inspired by African rhythms and Spanish
melodies, the Americanized Rumba was the basis for the Mambo and Cha Cha in the
U.S. Rumba rhythms have found their way into Country Western, Blues, Rock &
Roll and other popular forms of music.
Characteristics:
The distinctive hip movement of Rumba, called the
Cuban Motion, is on of the most important elements of this dance. Introduced in
the Rumba, it is an important styling element in a number of popular Latin
American dances.