The Unique History Of The Dap Handshake

Source: Patrick Lane / Getty

Handshakes have long served as symbols of greeting, agreement, and camaraderie across cultures. However, within certain communities, particularly in African American culture, a unique handshake known as the “dap” has emerged as more than just a greeting—it’s a gesture rich in history and meaning. In honor of National Handshake Day, let’s take a look at the unique history of the dap.

The dap’s history.

During the 1960s and 1970s, amidst the Civil Rights Movement and the Vietnam War...