Stuff You Should Know SYSK Selects: How Human Cannonballs Work
Jul 27, 2019
Explore the whimsical world of human cannonballs, where daredevils launch themselves into the air. Discover the history behind this circus act, from its quirky origins to the rigorous preparations for safe performances. Learn about iconic performers and the risks they face, including tragic accidents and the physics of aerial stunts. Delve into personal anecdotes, the legacy of circus families, and even how modern business innovations intertwine with this thrilling art. It's a captivating mix of history, humor, and high-flying antics!
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Zazzle's Tragic Debut
- Rosa Marie Richter, aka Zazzle, was the first human cannonball in a modern-style cannon, debuting in 1880 at age 14.
- Sadly, she soon broke her back, becoming the first human cannonball casualty, highlighting the inherent risks.
Loyal's Trapeze Catch
- George Loyal was another early human cannonball, notably caught by a woman on a trapeze.
- This act, performed at the Yankee Robinson Circus, demonstrated the immense skill and precision involved.
Extreme Forces and Rigidity
- Human cannonballs experience extreme forces: 3,000-6,000 psi of pressure during launch and 9 Gs upon launch.
- They must maintain rigidity to withstand these forces, which is why they can't be limp during the launch.