Interested in how the American institution of prom began? Here are some amusing facts about our favorite teen tradition. Review this brief history lesson before hitting the dancefloor!
Did you know...
- prom has been around since 1811?
- the term “prom” is derived from the late nineteenth century “promenade ball?”
- proms are inspired by debutante balls, which are events that formally debut teenagers from prestigious families?
- in the United Kingdom, “prom” is actually an entire season of classical concerts, held between July and September since 1811?
- in the early 1900s, prom was just a simple tea dance for high school seniors?
- proms thrived in the 1950s due to a post-war economy boom?
- if you don’t get your fill of prom in high school, some universities have proms?
- the very first reference to prom is from the journal of an Amherst College student who gave a lengthy description about his experience?
- that girls never purchased new clothing for proms—dress codes found on invitations simply called for “your Sunday best?”