The Circus 1870s-1950s

Spectacular, spectacular!The history and legacy of the circusIn its heyday, the American circus was the largest showbiz industry the world had ever seen. The spectacle of death-defying daredevils, strapping superheroes, and scantily clad starlets, fearless animal trainers, and startling "freaks" gripped the American imagination, outshining theater, vaudeville, comedy, and minstrel shows.This book sheds fresh light on the circus phenomenon. With photographic gems of early circus performers, as well as original posters, lithographs, sideshow banners, and engravings from the 16th to 19th centuries illustrating the worldwide roots of the circus, readers are transported to a world of thrill and skill, grit and glamor.