Cakewalk

/ˈkeɪkwɔːk/ noun

Definition

A dance that originated in African American communities, or something that is very easy to do.

Etymology

From 19th-century minstrel shows where enslaved dancers competed in increasingly elaborate dances for a prize cake. The term evolved from the literal dance to mean any simple accomplishment.

Kelly Says

The cakewalk is a perfect example of how African American culture created art forms under oppressive conditions—the dance was a clever way enslaved people could showcase artistry while appearing to mock their oppressors, turning pain into performance.

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