Embedded within the dances of Africa are repositories of historical narratives, invaluable insights on the mindset of ancient and contemporary peoples, and revelations andbudding hints of developing cultural phenomena. Such information greatly contributes to and facilitates deeper understanding of undeciphered African artifacts. It informs diverse disciplines, including African history, African studies, world history, archaeology, cultural studies, performance studies, and dance history, among other fields. Uncovering previously unknown artifacts is futile if their meaning continues to be a mystery. Historical Perspectives on Dance in Africa introduces students, scholars, and the general public to previously under-researched African dances and their meanings, and the cultural history that gave birth to them.