Rumba is a Slow,Sensual,Romantic Dance of Cuba The word “rumba” comes from the verb “rumbear” which means going to parties, dancing, and having a good time. Rumba is the spirit and soul of Latin American music and dance. The fascinating rhythms and bodily expressions make the Rumba one of the most popular ballroom dances. The word Rumba is a generic term, covering a variety of names (i.e., Son, Danzon, Guagira, Guaracha, Naningo), for a type of West Indian music or dancing. The “rumba influence” came in the 16th century with the black slaves imported from Africa. In Europe, the introduction of Latin American dancing (Rumba in particular) owed much to the enthusiasm and interpretive ability of Monsieur Pierre (London’s leading teacher in this dance form). In the 1930’s with his partner, Doris Lavelle, he demonstrated and popularized Latin American dancing in London. Pierre and Lavelle introduced the true “Cuban Rumba” which was finally established after much argument, as the official recognized version in 1955.