Goth (subculture)

Goth is a term often given to a style of music, a type of dress, and a subculture; all of which were originally derived from bands such as Siouxsie & The Banshees in the 1980's. Goth fashion typically consists of a conspicuous affection for black clothing, black hair dye, pale skin, and striking application of cosmetics, though this general fashion style is not exclusive to goths nor necessarily used by all goths. It is often labeled as Satanic or anti-Christian in nature, although a large Christian Goth community exists, and Goths are not necessarily anti-Christian.

Historically, a Goth was a member of a Germanic tribe, which invaded the Roman Empire from the east between the third and fifth centuries AD. The eastern half of the tribe, the Ostrogoths eventually founded the kingdom of Italy, while the Visigoths, their western cousins, founded the kingdom of Spain.