Merengue is a Latin music and dance that originated in the Dominican Republic and that has strong African roots. It has become one of the most popular genres throughout Latin America and major cities in the United States. The name “Merengue” is derived from the French dessert “meringue,” which means whipped egg whites and sugar in Spanish. The name appears to have been given to the music in a fashion similar to the use of salsa as the name of the music. Merengue has its origins from the mid-1800s when it took over as the island’s most favorite music. The music was promoted by Rafael Trujillo, the Dominican Republic dictator from 1932 to 1961, who turned it into the country’s national music and dance. Its longevity as popular music is remarkable
