Useful Information:
What is The Difference Between International Style and American Style Dancing?

Ballroom dancing is generally described as when two people dance together with one as a leader and the other as a follower. The leader determines what steps the couple will dance, and in theory, the follower responds accordingly.

There are two different styles of ballroom dancing: International and American. Ballroom dancing can also be classified as either Ballroom/Standard/Smooth dancing and Latin or Rhythm dances. American style is danced primarily in America and tends to be more social. International style is recognized all over the world and is more predominantly competitive. However, this does not mean that you cannot compete in American style or are unable to dance International style socially. Knowing both styles makes you a more versatile dancer and international instructors tend to focus on technique...which makes you a more sound and visually-appealing dancer.

International Style Dances

International Style is danced in closed position for the entirety of the dance for the Standard dances where the Lady's right hand is in the gentleman's left, her left hand is on his right shoulder, and his right hand is on her shoulder blade. During Latin the partners may separate.
Below is a list of the 10 International Competitive Dances:

Standard -- Waltz (W), Tango (T), Viennese Waltz (VW), Foxtrot (F), Quickstep (Q)

Latin -- Cha Cha (C), Samba (S), Rumba (R), Paso Doble (PD), Jive (J)

American Style Dances

American style is danced in closed and open position. The dancers are free to separate from each other.
Below is a list of the 9 American Competitive Dances:

Smooth -- Waltz (W), Tango (T), Foxtrot (F), Viennese Waltz (VW)

Rhythm -- Cha Cha (C), Rumba (R), East Coast Swing (Sw), Bolero (B), Mambo (Ma)

Other Dances

There are many other dances that are danced socially, competitively, or in a club. Some of them are: Salsa, Merengue, Bachata, West Coast Swing, Hustle, Argentine Tango, and Two Step

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