Trust me on this one... I worked for the Org. as a Coach and examiner for many yrs ( from late 50s and as recently as '02.. also F/A and indies ).

The " magic" step, was A/Murrays secret to his franchise success .

It emenates from how he began in the profession ( by mail ) using that term to convey his message .

And , you are correct .. the Amer.style was originally intended to fill a gap in the social network that was sadly lacking in the 20s .

At its peak, the Org. had over 600 studios world wide ( and a TV program ! )

the current "medal " system was adopted and adapted from the English format, with slight alterations, and additional dances more suited to that environment.

It was put in place by Archie Dixon who was brought over from the U.K. , to implement same.

It has been my understanding that the quickstep is similar in origin to foxtrot but diverged fantastically from its original social origin.

I have read that it was originally a foxtrot with Charleston elements done to a faster tempo. The tempo and the Charleston remains but I see very little foxtrot there. You know there are Chasse's etc. beyond that I don't think at current time they are very similar.

The Ft to which you are refering, is indeed a hybrid of an older dance ( as most dances are )

And, the term " magic " is a trademarked name for the A/ Murray org. and it is not in common usage outside of that Org.

As to Q/ step.. it has links to a dance called the Peabody ( still taught in the NYC area )and also the " up " tempo old style f/trot.

Box rhythm generally refers to " straight " bar..in 2/4 and 4/4timing