The True Origins of Tango: Unveiling the African Influences

Many assume the tango originated from European cultural exchanges. However, the truth is much deeper and more complex, rooted in the vibrant African slave culture of early Buenos Aires. It is disheartening to see both foreigners and fellow Argentinians perpetuate misconceptions about the tango's true heritage.

Early Use of the Word "Tango"

The term "tango" has deep historical roots, dating back to the early documentation in Buenos Aires. The word was initially used among African slaves, well before its formal adoption as a term for a specific dance or music genre. In fact, the origin can be traced to a deformation of "tocá tambó," which translates to "play the drum" in colloquial Spanish and Portuguese. For many years, the words "tambó" and "tango" were used interchangeably, indicating a strong connection to drumming and musicality.

Etymology and Early Dance Spaces

The word "tango" also referred to gathering spaces where African slaves could socialize, dance, and celebrate their cultural heritage. These places were likely named after the act of drumming, with slaves using this term to initiate dance gatherings. A well-known early mention of a tango, "Dame La Lata," was written around 1889, shortly after the first written tangos began to appear.

Tango as a Form of Resistance

During the 1880s, sailors and street thugs began to incorporate the tango into their lives. This dance served as a means of expression and resistance in the late 19th century. It was characterized by strong African rhythmic influences, particularly through the use of percussion instruments. Interestingly, by the 20th century, the tango evolved, largely abandoning traditional percussion instruments in favor of the subtle bowing techniques of the violin and double bass.

Racism and Cultural Ignorance

The prevalence of ignorance and racism in the homeland of tango is indeed troubling. Many Argentinians, especially those of European descent, still choose to ignore the African influences, much like how many Americans deny the black origins of rock 'n' roll. This cultural erasure can be attributed to a deep-seated belief that the most celebrated cultural product should originate from their European ancestors, rather than acknowledging the rich contributions of African slaves.

The Role of Slaves in Tango's Evolution

Slaves played a pivotal role in the development of tango alongside their European counterparts. The rhythmic structures and musical styles they brought with them became integral to the dance. The distinctive use of percussion and the dynamic relationship between melody and rhythm were deeply influenced by African traditions.

A Journey Through Cultural Misconceptions

Despite the rich historical documentation, many porte?o sources continue to ignore or downplay the African origins of tango. This is an echo of a wider phenomenon in many societies, where dominant groups often seek to claim cultural achievements as their own. It is essential to recognize and celebrate the diverse influences that shaped the tango, including the vibrant musical and cultural heritage of African slaves in Buenos Aires.

Understanding the true origins of the tango is crucial for appreciating its full complexity. It is a dance that reflects the collective history and creativity of multiple cultures, particularly the contributions of enslaved Africans who brought their musical traditions to Buenos Aires.