The Dada art movement began in Zurich in the early 20th century and was characterized by absurdist works that challenged prevailing artistic and social values. Key figures included Francis Picabia, Man Ray, and Marcel Duchamp, who created provocative pieces like "Portrait of an American Girl in a State of Nudity," "The Woman," "Fountain," and "Nude Descending a Staircase" that broke conventions. The movement spread to other cities like Berlin and commented on the social and political climate of the time through works embracing themes of opulence, misery, and the spirit of the era.