Final answer:
The claim that 19th-century group dances were always danced in a closed position by couples is false, as there were a variety of dance styles, some of which, like the tango, had more open and intricate movements.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that group dances of the 19th century were danced in a closed position by couples is false. During the 19th century, a variety of dances, including group dances, existed with differing styles and social contexts. Many dances, such as the tango, emerged from working-class environments and involved intricate steps and movements that did not always adhere to a strictly closed couple position.
The dance halls where these dances flourished would attract a diverse array of people, including working-class men and women seeking entertainment after long days of work.
Additionally, dancing during the early development of Black colleges, as well as in mining communities, often served as a collaborative form of expression, suggesting a range of dance forms and styles. The correct option is B.