100 Entrepreneurs Who Changed The World
47. Barnum, PT (1810-1891)
“Every crowd has a silver lining.”
Phineas Taylor Barnum was an American author, businessman, promoter and showman best known for his role is the Barnum & Bailey Circus. Born in Bethel, Connecticut, Barnum made a living out of promoting hoaxes and entertainers. He offered people glimpses at such hoaxes as the Feejee Mermaid and General Tom Thumb. He also promoted entertainers like Jenny Lind, who would become one of the highest regarded signers of the 19th century. Barnum served two terms on Ct’s legislature and was even elected Mayor of the city of Bridgeport, and by most accounts he did a good job, improving the city’s infrastructure and curbing crime. However, it was his circus he is remembered for, a roadshow of freaks, hoaxes, daring performances, and plenty of clowns.
