Final answer:
The early part of the 20th century was marked by a period of "dance fever," highlighted by the popularity of dances like the tango and the explosive dance and jazz music scene of the 1920s, embodying a significant societal shift in entertainment and cultural expression.
Step-by-step explanation:
The early part of the 20th century is widely recognized as a period of "dance fever" which saw a surge in popularity of dance as a form of entertainment and expression. During this era, dances like the tango became popular among working-class men and women, serving as an evening retreat after long working hours. The 1920s, often referred to as the "Roaring Twenties" or the "Jazz Age," further saw an explosion of dance culture with the advent of jazz music, flappers, speakeasies, and new dance crazes that rippled through American society and beyond.
Jazz music significantly influenced the dance scene with its unique sound that blended blues and ragtime, contributing to the emergence of many new dances. New York's Jazz clubs, such as the Cotton Club, became hotspots for young people to enjoy this invigorating music and dance scene. Despite societal challenges and conflicts, artistic expression in dance continued to evolve, reflecting societal shifts and the dynamic nature of the times.