A Brief History of the Dap
The dap is a gesture of solidarity, respect and friendship that involves bumping fists with another person. It can also be used as a greeting, a celebration or a sign of defiance. But where did the dap come from and what does it mean?
The origin of the dap is not clear, but some historians trace it back to the Vietnam War, when Black soldiers used it as a way to express their identity and solidarity in a hostile environment. The dap was also a form of resistance against the military's strict rules on handshakes and salutes, which were seen as symbols of white supremacy and oppression. The dap was a way for Black soldiers to create their own culture and language, and to show support for each other in the face of racism and violence.
“During the Vietnam War, Black service members developed the ‘Dap’, this included a series of hand and body gestures as a non-verbal form of communication.
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The dap soon spread to other communities of color and became a part of the Black Power movement in the 1960s and 1970s. The dap was also adopted by athletes, musicians, activists and celebrities, who used it to celebrate their achievements and connect with their fans. The dap became a global phenomenon, crossing cultural and geographical boundaries.
Dap has stood for ‘Dignity and Pride’, this symbolized solidarity and survival, an expression of brotherhood and commitment to look after each other on the battlefield or camp and, frequently seen in sports or befriended entertainment performers - overall today it’s used by the general public for greeting and to show friendship.
Today, the dap is still a popular gesture that can convey different meanings depending on the context and the relationship between the people involved. The dap can be simple or complex, involving different variations and combinations of fist bumps, hand slaps, finger snaps and hugs. The dap can also be personalized and customized, reflecting the individual's style and personality.
The dap is more than just a gesture. It is a symbol of community, identity and empowerment. It is a way of saying "I see you; I respect you; I support you". It is a way of expressing oneself and connecting with others. It is a way of celebrating life and overcoming challenges. It is a way of making history.
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