The birth of the blues is rooted in the African American experience in the southern United States during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It emerged from a blend of African musical traditions, spirituals, work songs, and folk music. The genre often expresses themes of sorrow, hardship, and resilience, reflecting the struggles faced by African Americans. Key figures in the development of the blues include W.C. Handy, known as the "Father of the Blues," who helped popularize the genre through his compositions. The blues laid the foundation for many other music styles, including jazz, rock and roll, and rhythm and blues.