Introduction
The high five is a universal gesture used to celebrate success or express joy, appreciation, and solidarity. But when was the high five invented? Who came up with this popular handshake? To answer these questions, we must trace its origins and explore its development over time.
History of the High Five: Tracing its Origins
The exact origin of the high five is difficult to pin down, but it may have roots in ancient cultures. According to some historians, the gesture can be traced back to Ancient Greece and Rome, where soldiers celebrated victories by clasping hands in the air. This type of handclasp evolved into a variety of different gestures, such as the “dap” used by African-American servicemen during World War II.
The High Five: A Look at its Inception and Rise to Popularity
The high five as we know it today first began to gain popularity in the 1970s, particularly in the world of sports. In 1977, the Los Angeles Dodgers’ Dusty Baker and Glenn Burke celebrated a home run with a high five, cementing the move’s place in baseball. From there, the gesture spread across other sports, including basketball and football, becoming an integral part of the game.
The high five also began to appear in pop culture, appearing in films such as “National Lampoon’s Animal House” (1978) and “Fast Times at Ridgemont High” (1982). By the 1980s, the gesture had become a ubiquitous symbol of camaraderie and celebration.
Who Invented the High Five? The Search for Its Originator
While it is unclear exactly who invented the high five, many believe that Lafayette College in Easton, Pennsylvania holds the key to the mystery. According to legend, two Lafayette football players, Mike Pistorio and Bill Wittles, devised the move as a way to celebrate touchdowns. The college has since adopted the high five as its official greeting.
However, other claims to the invention exist. Some credit the move to professional basketball players Derek Smith and Wiley Brown, while others cite Los Angeles Dodgers’ players Dusty Baker and Glenn Burke. Whatever the case, the high five is now firmly entrenched in popular culture.
From Slap to High Five: How the Handshake Evolved
The high five is a variation of the traditional handshake, which dates back centuries. In the past, the handshake was often accompanied by a slap on the back or shoulder. Over time, this evolved into a more formalized gesture, with the palm slap becoming a full-fledged pat on the back.
Today, the high five is a common form of greeting and celebration, with different variations being used around the world. In Japan, for example, the “low five” is popular, while in France, the “cheek kiss” is often used instead.
The High Five: An Analysis of its Development Over Time
The high five has had a profound impact on society. It has become a way to show support and unity, as well as a sign of friendship and mutual respect. Over the years, the form and usage of the high five has changed, with some people using it as a way to express joy or excitement, while others use it to show solidarity.
In addition, the high five has become a symbol of empowerment, with people using it to break down social barriers and build bridges between different communities.
Celebrating the High Five: Examining its Impact on Pop Culture
The high five has also become a prominent part of pop culture, appearing in TV shows, films, music, and other forms of artistic expression. The gesture has been featured in iconic films such as “Forrest Gump” (1994) and “Happy Gilmore” (1996), as well as TV shows like “Friends” (1994-2004) and “How I Met Your Mother” (2005-2014).
In addition, the high five has been immortalized in music, with songs such as “High Five” by Train (2009) and “Highfive” by U2 (2017). The gesture has also been used in art, with artists such as Keith Haring and Shepard Fairey creating pieces inspired by the high five.
Conclusion
The high five is a universal gesture used to celebrate success and express joy, appreciation, and solidarity. While its exact origin is unclear, its impact on society is undeniable. Through its presence in sports, pop culture, and art, the high five has become a symbol of unity, friendship, and empowerment.
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