The first circuses were quite different from the ones we are all familiar with. It is very surprised and unbelievable that circus didn't exist always. Circuses were taken place in ancient Rome and were held in a huge arena, called "the circus maximus". The main attractions were chariot races, acrobats, tightrope walkers and horse riding. In the early 18th century from the van shows held in England the circus came as it is known today. They used their vans as dressing room and conveyance. They gave their performance at fairs and markets, but in that time no admission was charged.
In the late 18th century the first United States circus was presented by Rickets in Philadelphia and in New York City. It was not very big in size but quite popular. George Washington attended some of their shows. In the first half of 19th century many circuses were born up in the United States. They travelled the country in wagons. About 1860, circuses started to start up with the kind we know it today. Tents came into use, candles on a frame around the centre pole made it possible to perform at night and the fresh attractions were always being added. P.T.Barnum started to take his troupe around the country by rail and "the greatest show on earth" was begun.
In the late 18th century the first United States circus was presented by Rickets in Philadelphia and in New York City. It was not very big in size but quite popular. George Washington attended some of their shows. In the first half of 19th century many circuses were born up in the United States. They travelled the country in wagons. About 1860, circuses started to start up with the kind we know it today. Tents came into use, candles on a frame around the centre pole made it possible to perform at night and the fresh attractions were always being added. P.T.Barnum started to take his troupe around the country by rail and "the greatest show on earth" was begun.
