The Early Showmanship of P.T. Barnum

This chapter explores the beginnings of P.T. Barnum's career, examining how his early experiences and strategic showmanship laid the groundwork for his later fame. It highlights his transformation from individual acts to creating a centralized spectacle, alongside his complex relationship with public perception. The chapter also delves into the bizarre case of Joyce Heth, showcasing the interplay of truth and sensationalism in entertainment during Barnum's era.