This kind of dance originated in Europe in the 17th Century, but by about 1815, it became the most popular dance in the ballrooms of Europe. What was it?

The ballrooms of early 19th-century Europe were swept by a dance craze that was faster, more intimate, and more thrilling than anything that had come before. This dance, which evolved from German and Austrian folk traditions dating back to the 17th century, truly exploded in popularity following the Napoleonic Wars. At grand events like the Congress of Vienna in 1815, its whirling, gliding steps captivated high society and cemented its status as the new king of the ballroom.

This new dance stood in stark contrast to its predecessor, the stately and formal minuet. While both dances share a 3/4 time signature, their character is completely different. The minuet was slow, graceful, and involved intricate footwork with dancers keeping a polite distance. The waltz, however, was defined by a strong, propulsive accent on the first beat of each measure. This rhythmic drive, combined with a scandalous new "close hold" where partners faced each other in an embrace, gave the dance an energy and romantic appeal that made the old formalities seem instantly outdated.