The document provides a history of modern dance, outlining its origins in expressionist dance in late 19th century Europe. It describes how pioneers like Isadora Duncan, Ruth St. Denis, and Ted Shawn developed new techniques focused on natural movement and expression over tradition. Modern dance grew in the early 20th century with the contributions of innovators such as Martha Graham, Doris Humphrey, Charles Weidman, Merce Cunningham, and Alvin Ailey. Their new styles and schools of modern dance gained recognition in the 1920s-1930s and had lasting influence on subsequent dance forms.