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Polka (Bohemian)
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Polka (Bohemian)
Polka means half-step in Czech, and this step which took first the dance halls and then the ballrooms of Europe by storm, scandalising many, is of Bohemian origin
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 612388
© Mary Evans Picture Library 2015 - https://copyrighthub.org/s0/hub1/creation/maryevans/MaryEvansPictureID/10107069
1840 Bohemian Czech Means Named Origin Polka Step Storm Ballrooms
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Polka: A Scandalous Dance of Bohemian Origin that Swept Europe in the Mid-19th Century This image showcases the lively and spirited Polka dance, a Bohemian tradition that took Europe by storm in the mid-19th century. The Polka, which means 'half-step' in Czech, was a radical departure from the formal and rigid ballroom dances of the time. Its origins can be traced back to the Bohemian regions of Europe, where it first gained popularity in the 1830s and 1840s. The Polka dance was characterized by its quick, energetic steps and lively rhythm, which were considered shocking and even scandalous by some. The dance was performed in a closed position, with partners holding each other closely, and the quick steps and spins often left dancers out of breath. The dance craze soon spread from the Bohemian dance halls to the grand ballrooms of Europe, where it continued to scandalize and delight in equal measure. The Polka's popularity was further fueled by the composition of its music, which often featured lively, upbeat rhythms and catchy melodies. The dance became a symbol of the Romantic era, with its emphasis on passion, excitement, and the breaking of social norms. This photograph, taken circa 1840, captures the essence of the Polka dance and its infectious energy. The dancers, dressed in the fashionable attire of the time, are lost in the moment, their faces expressing the joy and excitement of the dance. The Polka remained a popular dance well into the 20th century, and its influence can still be seen in many modern dance styles.
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