Human: What is the history of folk music? Assistant: 
Folk music has a long and varied history, spanning centuries and crossing multiple cultures. It is believed to have originated in the rural areas of Europe during the Middle Ages, and even traditional songs from this era still exist today. Folk music evolved over time, with elements like instrumentation, melodies, and lyrics being shaped by the geography and cultural affinity of a particular region. In more recent years, folk music has seen a revival with artists taking traditional tunes and spinning them into something new. The genre has also been used to convey messages of social, political, and religious significance, an effect that still continues today.