Social dance

Italian courts danced balli, with a wide array of choreographed rhythms, steps and positions for the dancers.

According to Richard Powers, courtiers in the late 16th century continually had to "prove themselves through their social skills, especially through dance."

Thoinot Arbeau's book Orchésographie describes peasant branles as well as the 16th century basse danse and la volta.

France gained a pre-eminence in dance, but the French Revolution created a shift away from formality.

The Quadrille consisted of a large variety of steps that skimmed the ground, such as chassé and jeté.

In the early 20th century, Americans began pairing Victorian dances such as the Two-Step with Ragtime music.

The dance consisted of couples taking one step on each beat of the music, so even beginners could participate.