Germany: In Germany, the traditional dance is known as the polka. It originated from a group of people known as the Danube-Swabians. They came from many parts of Germany, primarily Wurtemberg and the Palatinate. They settled in a place that was known as the Austro-Hugarian Empire, back in the 18th century. They were extremely hard workers and always aimed to work to the best of their ability at creating the land profitable. The Danube-Swabians were definatley among the working class people, they were peasants, craftsmen, blacksmiths etc. Their culture was very important to them, so they respected the traditions and beliefs of their ancestors, which were faith in God and the Church. Loyalty and strength were elements needed to be apart of this group. These people had many celebrations and a love for costumes and make-up. One polka dance takes its origin from the Danube-Swabians' s efforts to chase away demons and ghosts from going into their church and stealing their ancestors's souls.

http://learn.sdstate.edu/melissa_mork/German.html