
Salsa history
Salsa is a vibrant dance and musical style that originated in the Caribbean, particularly Cuba and Puerto Rico, in the early 20th century. It evolved from a mix of Latin rhythms like son, mambo, and jazz, influenced by African, Indigenous, and European musical traditions. In the 1960s and 1970s, it gained popularity in New York City’s Latin communities, blending various styles into the energetic, danceable genre known as salsa. Over time, salsa spread globally, becoming a symbol of Latin culture and a favorite social dance worldwide. Its history reflects cultural fusion and the dynamic evolution of Latin music and dance.