The highlight of the sideshow was the “freak,” or person who was considered to be physically different. The performers of these “freak shows” were often marginalized by society and had few choices to make a living outside of the circus. The “freak show” evolved into one of the most popular attractions at circuses. It featured people and animals who were born different, alongside performers who could do marvelous tricks, like sword swallowing, fire breathing, or “human pincushion” acts.

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