Modern dance emerged in the United States in the early 20th century as a uniquely American art form, rejecting the rigid conventions of classical ballet. Early pioneers like Isadora Duncan championed natural, unstructured movement, while the partnership of Ruth St. Denis and Ted Shawn explored diverse cultural themes. Martha Graham became highly influential for expressing inward passion in works such as "Appalachian Spring" (with Aaron Copland), and Doris Humphrey explored societal conflicts through dance.

The Bennington College Summer School of Dance, established in 1934, played a crucial role in formalizing the genre and shaping university-level dance education. Later innovators like Merce Cunningham introduced chance procedures into composition, and choreographers such as Mark Morris and Liz Lerman challenged norms by celebrating dancers of all ages and body types. A distinct African American modern dance also developed, blending techniques with African and Caribbean movements, notably led by Katherine Dunham, who founded Ballet Negre in 1936, and Pearl Primus, known for addressing racial issues through her powerful works.