The Surprising History of the "High Five"

The high five, a seemingly ubiquitous gesture of celebration and camaraderie, has become so ingrained in modern culture that it's hard to imagine a world without it. Yet, its origins are surprisingly recent and shrouded in some mystery. While its exact birthplace remains debated, the high five's journey from niche celebration to global phenomenon is a fascinating story that reflects broader shifts in social interaction and the rise of a more casual, expressive culture.

The most widely accepted origin story credits the high five to the late 1970s, specifically to the 1977 Major League Baseball season. In a game between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Cincinnati Reds, high-flying outfielder Dusty Baker of the Dodgers, after a particularly impressive catch, raised his hand high in the air as his teammate, Glenn Burke, slapped it with gusto. This joyous act of spontaneous camaraderie quickly became a regular occurrence, not just between teammates but also between opposing players, signifying mutual respect and a shared love for the game.

While the Baker-Burke encounter is often cited as the high five's "birth," it's important to note that similar gestures existed before. In the 1950s, fraternity hazing rituals involved a hand-slapping gesture known as the "slap five," but this ritual was more about dominance and humiliation than celebration. Moreover, there's evidence of early forms of the high five in the 1960s, particularly in African American communities. The "high ten," a ritualistic hand slap between friends, was commonly seen, suggesting a deeper cultural history that predates the Baker-Burke incident.

The high five's rise to widespread popularity coincided with a cultural shift toward a more casual and expressive society. The 1970s saw the rise of counterculture movements, a loosening of social norms, and a greater emphasis on individual expression. The high five, with its simplicity and unpretentious nature, resonated with this changing spirit. It became a way for people to express joy, celebrate accomplishments, and forge connections, transcending age, gender, and social status.

Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, the high five cemented its place in pop culture. Movies, TV shows, and music videos routinely featured the gesture, amplifying its presence and significance. Its use extended beyond sports to encompass everyday interactions, becoming a symbol of shared excitement, success, and friendship. The high five became so ubiquitous that it even found its way into professional settings, albeit with a more reserved, subtle approach.

In the 21st century, the high five continues to thrive in the digital age. Social media platforms have turned it into a virtual phenomenon, with users expressing their emotions and celebrating accomplishments through emojis and GIFs depicting the high five. While its meaning may evolve and adapt over time, the high five remains a powerful symbol of human connection, camaraderie, and shared joy.

The high five's journey from niche celebration to global phenomenon is a testament to the power of seemingly simple gestures to capture the essence of human experience. It's a reminder that even in a world increasingly defined by technology and complexity, the urge to connect, celebrate, and share joy remains a fundamental part of who we are.