What Were Human Zoos?

Human zoos were troubling spectacles that showcased people from distant cultures, allowing society to gawk and objectify them. The tragic story of Ota Benga highlights the exploitation and racism endured by individuals in these exhibitions. The discussion navigates the shift from ethnographic displays to modern cultural representations, scrutinizing the moral implications of such portrayals. Additionally, it contrasts cultural practices of the Igorot people with their exploitation during events like the 1904 World's Fair, revealing a legacy of colonial attitudes that persist today.