Nightclub Argentine Tango

History of the Argentine Tango

The Argentine Tango is one of the oldest dances still danced today. It originated in the 17th century in both Buenes Aires, Argentina and Montevideo, Uruguay. Gatherings of ‘tango’ or ‘tambo,’ musical and dance gatherings of slaves, became popular in the basin of the River Plata. By 1789, the term tango could be found in official political and social documents. Of course, these gatherings were frowned upon by the colonizers and elite of the era and area. 

It is widely accepted that during this time, there were two versions of Tango. First, the Spanish Andalusian Tango, a solo dance for women, and the Argentine Tango, and dance for couples. Unfortunately, we do not know much about either of these early dances. Even though there are mentions of them recorded, there are no visual depictions that help us understand the dance.

However, by the 1850s, port cities in Argentina underwent a massive flux of immigration from Poland, Russia, Africa, Spain, Italy, and England. The influence of these cultures, certainly helped to create the modern Argentine Tango we know today. Minuet dances from Europe, the polka, and African music influenced the original dances. By 1900, the Argentine Tango was widely accepted amongst all classes and was danced in private gatherings called “conventillos,” and in performances halls and theaters.

Two instruments became essential to tango music. The first is the solo guitar, and the second is the bandoneon, an accordion-like instrument originating in Germany. by 1910, there were over 5,000 gramophone recordings of Argentine Tango. By 1911, Veron and Irene Castle brought Argentine Tango to the world by giving performances and lessons. Their influence gave way to the American Tango in North America, and the International Tango, found mostly in Europe.