American Sideshow

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This book offers a captivating exploration of the American sideshow and its remarkable performers, revealing the truth behind what is real, fake, and bizarre. While figures like Tom Thumb and the Elephant Man are well-known, the lives of lesser-known stars such as Eli Bowen, Myrtle Corbin, and Prince Randian are also examined. Covering the period from 1840 to 1950, it chronicles the extraordinary lives of these performers, highlighting their resilience and triumph over their physical differences. The narrative discusses the rise and decline of traditional sideshows and their evolution into today’s self-made freaks. As modern medicine advances, many physical abnormalities are being treated or prevented, leading to a paradox where technology also enables body modifications, such as tongue forking or horn implantation. The book features contemporary performers like giants, fire-eaters, and sword swallowers, celebrating their unique talents through intimate biographies and stunning photographs. With around 200 performers showcased, it provides a comprehensive and astonishing view of the history of the American sideshow, emphasizing both the spectacle and the humanity of its stars.