The Surprising Origin of the High Five—Who Really Created It?

Uncovering the Fun Story Behind One of Sports and Celebration’s Favorite Gestures

 

Summary

 

The high five is a celebrated gesture with roots traced back to sports in the 1970s, though its exact origin remains debated. It symbolizes connection, success, and fun, making it a timeless part of human interaction.

 

Introduction What Exactly Is a High Five?

 

Ever wonder where that iconic slap of hands came from? The high five is more than just a fun way to celebrate success. It’s a universal gesture that’s instantly recognizable. Whether it’s after a home run, a winning goal, or just a good day, the high five makes us feel connected and triumphant. 

 

But here’s the kicker—its origins are surprisingly debated, with stories that are as lively as the gesture itself. So, how did this universal celebration come to be? 

 

Let’s dig into the fascinating history behind the high five, and maybe even discover who really invented it.

 

The Birth of the High Five: A Closer Look

 

You might think that a simple hand slap would’ve been around forever, but surprisingly, the high five is a relatively modern invention. Most accounts trace its roots back to the early 1970s. The story goes that it all started in the world of sports, where athletes wanted to celebrate their wins in a more energetic way.

 

One popular tale points to the Los Angeles Dodgers, a Major League Baseball team, during the 1970s. Players like Dusty Baker and Glenn Burke are often credited with popularizing the move. According to reports, Burke and Baker exchanged the first recorded high five during a game in 1977. The story goes that Baker hit a home run, and Burke greeted him at home plate with an enthusiastic hand slap that turned into a full high five. That moment, it’s said, sparked the trend that quickly caught on across sports and beyond.

 

Who Really Invented It? The Debate Continues

 

But hold on—things aren’t quite that cut and dry. Some historians suggest the high five might have been around before the '70s, possibly even earlier in African-American basketball circles or other sports communities. Some claim that similar hand gestures were used in African-American sports culture as far back as the 1950s or 1960s.

 

You see, the story of who invented the high five is part legend and part fact. The truth is, it’s hard to pinpoint exactly who threw that first hand slap that turned into a celebration. What’s clear is that once it hit the mainstream, it became a cultural phenomenon. From sports fields to offices, and even family gatherings, the high five became a symbol of success and camaraderie.

 

Why the High Five Still Matters Today

 

Even decades later, the high five remains a powerful way to connect with others. It’s spontaneous, energetic, and simple—perfect for sharing a quick burst of joy. Plus, it’s a reminder that sometimes, a little gesture can say a lot. Think about your own experiences: Maybe it’s the moment you nailed a project or just shared a laugh with a friend. That’s the magic of the high five—universal, unifying, and fun.

 

The Bottom Line: A Celebration That’s Here to Stay

 

So, next time you’re celebrating something worth a high five, remember—you’re part of a tradition that’s over 40 years old, with roots that stretch even further back. Whether it was Dusty Baker, Glenn Burke, or someone else entirely, one thing’s for sure: the high five has become a symbol of joy, achievement, and human connection.

 

Your Turn: Share Your High Five Moment!

 

Have you ever had a memorable high five moment? Maybe it was during a game, at work, or even just with friends. Share your story and keep the tradition alive. After all, it’s not just about the hand slap—it’s about celebrating life’s small victories together.

     

 

Lew Corcoran Licensed Massachusetts Real Estate Agent Certified Listing Expert Certified Real Estate Negotiator RESA Certified Home Stager Professional Real Estate Photographer FAA Licensed Drone Pilot Chair-Elect, National Board of Directors, Real Estate Staging Association (RESA)

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