Origins 
Belly dance is a Western name for an Arabic style of dance developed in the Middle East. Some American devotees refer to it simply as "Middle Eastern Dance". In the Arabic language it is known as Raqs Sharqi.
Many believe that belly dance was the original childbirth preparation. The undulating movements of the pelvis and abdomen, involving muscular control, were symbolic enactments of both conception and birth.
The United States got its first taste of
Belly Dance in 1893 at the Chicago World's Fair when legendary dancer 'Little
Egypt' shocked the Victorian era with vivacious dance moves and hip and stomach
gyrations. During Victorian standards at the time, women wore long, full skirts,
corsets, hair covering hats and bonnets, and bustles. “Little Egypt” stole the show, and popularized this form of
dancing.“Little Egypt”
